Weekly Newsletter
Week of January 29, 2026
Community Update — Ice Storm Recovery
The recent ice storm brought freezing temperatures and power outages to many in our community. Events like this remind us how important it is to look out for one another—especially those who may be older, living alone, or without reliable heat or water.
While the storm has passed, the cleanup is just beginning. We encourage all Rotarians to check on a neighbor, reach out to a fellow member, and notify club leadership if you are aware of anyone in need. Service Above Self is never more meaningful than in moments like these.
Please note:
- Tuesday Impact Club meeting is canceled
- Fifth Thursday Comfort Crawl Social is still ON
Recap from Last Week’s Meeting
Last week’s meeting highlighted Rotary fellowship, service, and our strong connection to Rotary’s global impact.
Reminders & Upcoming Opportunities
Members were reminded to sign up for several important upcoming events and programs, including:
- Comfort Crawl Social
- District Conference
- RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards)
- RLI (Rotary Leadership Institute)
- Peace Building Seminar
These opportunities offer excellent ways to deepen engagement, leadership development, and Rotary fellowship at both the club and district levels.
Club Superlative
This week’s Club Superlative recognition goes to the outstanding participation of 13 Rotary Club of Clayton members, joined by additional Interact members, who volunteered at the recent Food Distribution. Their teamwork and commitment were a wonderful example of Service Above Self in action.
Program Highlight — GRSP
Our guest speaker was Gustaf Aili, our Georgia Rotary Student Program (GRSP) student from Stockholm, Sweden. Gustaf shared insights into his background and his experience as a GRSP student.
He was warmly introduced by our own Big Bob Watt, who noted that his great uncle founded the GRSP program—making the presentation especially meaningful and a proud reminder of Rotary’s long-standing commitment to international understanding.
Looking ahead, next year is our turn to serve as the Host Club. We already have two volunteers—Scott Thompson and Jef Fincher—who have stepped forward to serve as host families. We look forward to welcoming our new GRSP student and making them feel at home.
See our Facebook post:
https://www.facebook.com/
Our Next Meeting — Rotary Around the World
Thursday, February 5 | 11:45 AM
Food Bank of Northeast Georgia – Clayton
Program
Come and hear how Rotarians travel the world while building friendships and advancing Rotary’s mission.
- Amy & Gerald Hulett — Italy
- Elizabeth Gill — Switzerland
- Laura Seberg — Rotary International Convention (Calgary)
Impact Club Update
Next Meeting: Tuesday, February 10 | 6:00 PM
Food Bank of Northeast Georgia – Clayton
Upcoming Service Events
Meal Packing — Immediately following this week’s meeting
Foxfire Cleanup
Wednesday, February 11 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Foxfire Museum
Help us keep one of Rabun County’s treasured landmarks beautiful. Please wear work clothes and bring gloves if you have them.
Upcoming Social Events
Comfort Crawl — Fifth Thursday Social
Thursday, January 29 | 5:30 – 8:30 PM
Rabun County Civic Center Diner
Sign up: https://forms.gle/
Service Above Self
The Rotary Club of Clayton once again demonstrated Service Above Self by packing 80 meals to be distributed to youth in need within our community. Fifteen Rotarians stayed after the regular meeting and made quick work of the task—thank you for your dedication!
Important Dates
- January 29 — Comfort Crawl
- February 11 — Foxfire Cleanup
- February 29 — District Governor Visit
- April 2 — Rabun County Special Olympics
- April 25 — Murder Mystery Gala Fundraiser
- April 30 – May 3 — District 6910 Conference
- May 28 – May 31 — RYLA
- June 25 — End-of-Year Celebration
Announcements
2026 Rotary Club of Clayton Annual Fundraiser Gala
Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
Location: Rabun County Civic Center Ballroom
Theme: Roaring 20’s Murder Mystery
Fundraiser: $10,000 Reverse Raffle
Committees Needed:
- Marketing / Promotions
- Donors / Sponsors
- Decorations
- Auction
- Logistics
- Finance
All Rotarians are expected to participate in what is always our biggest event of the year.
Contact: Laura Seberg — 941-799-9393
Sign up:
https://docs.google.com/forms/
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA)
May 28 – 31
Tallulah Falls School
RYLA is one of Rotary’s signature youth programs, helping high school students develop leadership, teamwork, and a service mindset through hands-on activities, outdoor experiences, and meaningful conversations rooted in Rotary values.
We are seeking Rotarian volunteers as counselors, support leaders, and activity helpers. Whether you can serve a few hours or all four days, meals, lodging, and activities are provided.
Email: RYLA6910@gmail.com
Learn more: www.ryla6910.com
District 6910 Conference
April 30 – May 3
Harrah’s Cherokee
Service projects are now available for sign-up:
https://myrotaryconference.
Food Bank Donations
Most-needed items:
Peanut butter & jelly • Cereal • Soups • Crackers • Rice • Chili & beans • Pasta • Spaghetti sauce • Beef stew • Canned meats • Fruits & vegetables
Cash donations welcome
Checks payable to: Food Bank of Northeast Georgia
Memo: For Rabun County
