Speaker:Peter Vainauskas, DEA (Fresno & Bakersfield)
Peter’s presentation sparked a lot of “I have a friend…” questions.
Key Points
DEA priorities: fentanyl, meth, marijuana, immigration‑related trafficking
Overdose deaths have declined in Tulare, Fresno, and Bakersfield — likely due to increased education and prevention efforts
Cocaine is making a comeback, often branded by its makers
Fentanyl is trending in powder form, which is more potent than pills
Prevention efforts include billboards with QR codes, TV PSAs, and the National Prescription Take‑Back events
Recommended viewing: ABC’s 3‑part series “Killer High”
Peter also shared something joyful — he is eagerly awaiting the arrival of his first grandchild.
Thank you, Peter, for an eye‑opening and important program.
Meeting Highlights
Greeters:Dave Spalinger & Teresa WallerInvocation:Sally SelbyFlag Salute:Cheryl ScottSong:God Bless America, led by Carol SmithVisiting Rotarians:Ryan Crowl (Bakersfield Downtown Rotary), introduced by Char VegaScribe: (Not listed)
Guests
Ryan Forden, son of Donna Schwartz — joined us to celebrate his birthday!
Michael O’Doherty, a “semi‑visitor” from Spokane, WA.
Family of Rotary
Anniversaries
Tom & Tina Burke — celebrating 40 years, currently traveling in Europe!
Birthdays
John Sabovich — September 4
Sally Selby — September 11
Club Anniversary
Craig Holland, Honorary Member — 35 years of Rotary service
Happy Spots
Time was tight, but John Guerard wasn’t about to miss his moment. He bribed Sandra with Alaskan chocolate to squeeze in his $20 Happy Spot.
Recognitions
Jeff Schwartz was summoned to the front as Sandra officially declared him the new “Snappiest Dresser”, dethroning Frank Wooldridge thanks to his fun socks.
Marti Sanders announced she has successfully raised all required funds for her marathon entry. Now she only needs to run 26.2 miles in one day in 2026 — YIKES! 😊
Community Service
9/11 Memorial – Fire/Police Station (Buena Vista)
Flag placement: September 10 at 10 AM
Flag removal: September 12 at 4 PM
Membership, Foundation & Fundraising
New Member Induction
Dr. Adam Klang was inducted by Willie Gordon.
Willie highlighted Adam as a perfect example of a busy professional who still seeks to give back. Adam has lived in Bakersfield for 30+ years, originally from the Bay Area. He has been married to his wife Julie for 31 years and is a concierge medical practitioner with experience at Kern Medical and Dignity Health. He is also launching a new wellness business.
How did Adam discover Rotary? He’d seen the Rotary gear symbol for years — but it took Char Vega, in a parking lot at a Farmer’s Market, to finally reel him in. Welcome Adam! We’re lucky to have you.
Community Announcements
Sally Selby announced that Wreaths Across America will be held December 19. Sponsor a wreath for $17 to honor veterans at Bakersfield National Cemetery. Deadline: November 20 Website: wreathsacrossamerica.org/CA0801
Jennifer Henry announced the Lace’n It Up Run/Walk — October 3 at 8:30 AM Hosted by Links for Life Events include a 5K run/walk, 1K celebration walk, medals, food trucks, vendor fair, survivor honor station, and age‑group awards. Register: linksforlife.org/linksevents Plus: Buy the Strawberries & Cream at Sequoia Sandwich — $0.50 goes to Links for Life.
Opportunity Drawing
Winner:THE Dave Spalinger — jackpot claimed!
Next Week’s Program
Rotary District Update Speaker: District Governor Margarita Edison
U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)
Greeters: Dave Spalinger & Teresa Waller Invocation: Sally Selby Flag Salute: Cheryl Scott Song: God Bless America, led by Carol Smith Visiting Rotarians: Ryan Crowl (Bakersfield Downtown Rotary), introduced by Char Vega Scribe: (Not listed)
Club Anniversary
Recognitions
Dr. Adam Klang was inducted by Willie Gordon.
Opportunity Drawing