Rotary Club of Bakersfield – March 18, 2026
Off-Site Meeting at Golden Valley High School

 

Rotarians left the usual meeting spot behind this week for a cheerful change of scenery at Golden Valley High School, where our club joined forces with the school’s enthusiastic Interact Club. It was a lively and inspiring gathering, full of youthful energy and plenty of smiles as members connected with Bakersfield’s next generation of community leaders.

Our greeters were David Perkins and Michael Turnipseed, with an invocation by Stephanie Baker and the flag salute led by Ken Quarnberg. Song leader Carol Smith got us all going with her trademark enthusiasm and the ever-spirited Four-Way Test Song—which sounded extra good with young voices joining in!

 

 

 

Interact Co-Presidents Yarell M. and Emelie F. shared a slideshow of their club’s busy year, featuring service projects such as pumpkin unloading, pancake breakfasts, two highway cleanups, and a visit to the Living Center for senior citizens. Their energy and commitment reminded all of us that community service is alive and well among our local students.

During “Tell Us Something Good,” several members shared smiles of their own—Jackie Maxwell praised the students’ cheerful help at our Pancake Breakfast, and John Sabovich said he’s proud to tell Los Angeles friends about the great youth in Bakersfield. Will and Bill Black also chimed in with fond memories of working alongside the students and seeing their dedication firsthand.

The meeting wrapped up with an interactive career panel organized by Erick Bautista. Panelists Cameron Cerda, Jackie Maxwell, Jeff Schwartz, Karen Bonano, and Bill Black each shared how their high school dreams compared to where life actually led them. From citrus farming to engineering, financial advising to business ownership, the panel showed students that career paths are rarely straight lines—and that flexibility, curiosity, and integrity make all the difference.

It was a fun, lighthearted, and meaningful day spent bridging generations, trading stories, and reminding everyone—students and Rotarians alike—that service and learning truly go hand in hand.