Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that shines a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich community service, leadership, and dedication history. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” In this episode, host Tom Fox speaks with Rotary Club Program Chair Clint Morse about his professional career and longstanding involvement with the Rotary Club.

Clint shares his journey from attending the University of Texas Law School and joining the Navy’s JAG program during the Vietnam War to practicing labor law at prestigious law firms such as Andrews Kurth and Ogletree Deakins. Clint also discusses his move to Kerrville, Texas, in 2015 and his impactful work with the local Rotary Club, including his role as program chair and his efforts to bring diverse speakers to the club. Clint emphasizes the importance of community service over business networking in Rotary and reflects on some meaningful projects, including basketball tournaments and Salvation Army fundraising. He also discusses the balance required in inviting speakers and maintaining non-political stances within the Rotary Club. The conversation concludes with Clint sharing what Rotary means to him, highlighting the community service opportunities and the lasting friendships formed.

Highlights include:

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that shines a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich community service, leadership, and dedication history. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” Host Tom Fox speaks with former Club President George Eychner in this episode.

George reflects on his Rotary journey, which began in 1989 after retiring from the Air Force and transitioning to a role as Executive Director of the Mount Wesley Conference Center. He shares how joining Rotary helped him get acquainted with the local community, foster personal relationships, and engage with city leaders. George details significant changes in the club over the years, such as the admission of women, evolving meeting formats, and notable initiatives like the First Responders’ luncheon and downtown Christmas decorations. He also provides insights into social and civic groups’ challenges post-COVID and emphasizes the importance of network building for young professionals. Closing on a reflective note, George discusses his role as the club’s songmaster and his thoughts on the future direction of Rotary.

Highlights include:

Resources

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that spotlights the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich history of community service, leadership, and dedication. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” In this episode, host Tom Fox speaks with Ashley Phillips about finding a home in the Rotary Club of Kerrville after moving from east Texas.

In this episode, Tom hosts Ashley Phillips, who shares her inspiring journey from graduating with a Business Management and Marketing degree to becoming a community outreach specialist and active Rotary member. Ashley elaborates on her various career transitions, emphasizing the pivotal role of relationships and community engagement in her professional growth. From environmental code enforcement in deep East Texas to spearheading nonprofit efforts and finally finding her niche in Rotary, Ashley’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and relentless community service. Listen as she discusses Rotary’s invaluable network and support, bridging generations and professions, and the impactful projects and initiatives that foster personal and community growth.

Highlights include:

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that shines a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich community service, leadership, and dedication history. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” In this episode, host Tom Fox speaks with Jeff Wendling, immediate past president of the Kerrville Rotary Club, to discuss his journey and experiences within the organization.

Jeff shares his initial involvement with Rotary in 2008, his leadership roles, and his perspectives on stewardship in organizational settings. He highlights the club’s numerous community-focused events, including the First Responders Award Luncheon and Blue Santa. Jeff also touches on significant initiatives such as fundraising for polio vaccines, youth engagement programs, and upcoming plans for the club’s 100th anniversary in 2026. This episode offers valuable insights into the impact of community service and leadership in fostering local and global change.

Highlights include:

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that shines a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich community service, leadership, and dedication history. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” In this episode, host Tom Fox speaks with Judy Eychner, who shares her experiences and journey with the Rotary Club. This is the first of a two-part husband and wife series, as Judy’s husband, George Eychner, will join us for our next episode.

Judy’s Rotary journey started with her invitation to join by Sherry Cunningham in the early 2000s. Judy reflects on her professional background in real estate and her initial attraction to Rotary due to its inclusivity and the values it stands for. She elaborates on her involvement in various Rotary initiatives, such as the ”Josh the Otter’ water safety program, highway cleanup, and fundraising events like ”Pints for Polio.” Judy highlights key aspects like friendships, community work, and the role of women in Rotary, which have significantly enriched her professional and personal life.

We discuss Rotary’s impact on fostering community bonds and providing networking opportunities. Judy discusses her public service in Kerrville, emphasizing how civic life and Rotary involvement complement each other. This episode provides valuable insights for young professional women considering joining Rotary, emphasizing the dual benefits of community service and personal growth.

Highlights include:

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that spotlights the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with rich history of community service, leadership, and dedication. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” In this episode, host Tom Fox speaks with Marta Diffen to discuss her journey with the Rotary Club in Kerrville.

Marta shares how she initially got involved and her subsequent rise to the board and presidency. She highlights the Rotary Club’s critical role in community service projects, such as supporting local robotics initiatives, organizing district-wide service days, and awarding college scholarships. Marta also emphasizes the transformative power of collective action and the Rotary’s focus on inclusivity and adaptability to attract younger members. Finally, she discusses her ongoing role to aid incoming leadership and ways for interested individuals to get involved.

Highlights include:

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that shines a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich community service, leadership, and dedication history. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” In this episode, host Tom Fox speaks with Kenneth O’Neal about his extensive journey with Rotary since joining in 1998.

Kenneth discusses his early experiences with the Rotary Club in Kerrville, Texas, where he was deeply involved in organizing programs and securing notable speakers, including a corporate governance expert and a renowned barbecue author. Highlighting his leadership roles, Kenneth talks about his tenure as president of the Morning Rotary and the significant projects undertaken, including international service work. He also emphasizes the value of relationships, community involvement, and leadership skills developed through Rotary, underscoring its global reputation for dedicated service and impact.

Highlights include:

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that shines a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich community service, leadership, and dedication history. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll explore the club’s incredible projects, hear from its inspiring members, and learn about the values driving their commitment to “Service Above Self.” In this episode, host Tom Fox visits Kerrville City Manager Dalton Rice, a relatively new Rotary member.

Mayor Judy Eychner inspired Dalton Rice, Rotary Club membership. He views Rotary community involvement as a unique opportunity to engage with the community while networking with diverse leaders and influencers. Since joining just over a year ago, Dalton has immersed himself in various service opportunities, ranging from fundraising events to tree-watering efforts, which he believes reflect the values of Kerrville. He appreciates the platform Rotary provides to stay informed and connected, allowing him to address community concerns and questions effectively. Despite a busy schedule balancing commitments on local boards, Dalton finds fulfillment in these service opportunities, underscoring the importance of Rotary in fostering meaningful community engagement.

Highlights include:

Resources:

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that shines a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich history of community service, leadership, and dedication. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference, both locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll be exploring the club’s incredible projects, hearing from its inspiring members, and learning about the values that drive their commitment to "Service Above Self." In this episode, host Tom Fox visits Dr. Robert 'Bobby' Templeton, superintendent of Ingram ISD, to discuss the importance of community involvement and leadership. 

Dr. Templeton emphasizes the need for leaders to actively engage in their communities, setting an example for students and teachers through actions such as participating in local events and projects. He shares his long-term commitment to Rotary, which he joined 18 years ago, and highlights the organization's community and global service work, particularly their efforts to eradicate polio. Dr. Templeton connects Rotary's large-scale ambitions to his school district's own focus on ending generational poverty, underscoring the significance of Big Hairy Audacious Goals in creating meaningful change. The conversation also touches upon the pressing issue of school safety, reflecting on recent events and the responsibility of schools to protect their students.

Highlights Include

·      Community Involvement and Leadership

·      Rotary Club Experience

·      Big Goals and Global Impact

·      Personal Connections and Projects

Resources

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Welcome to Rotary Voices of Kerrville, the podcast series that shines a spotlight on the Rotary Club of Kerrville, Texas—a club with a rich history of community service, leadership, and dedication. For nearly 100 years, the Rotary Club of Kerrville has been at the heart of initiatives that make a real difference, both locally and globally. Through this podcast, we’ll be exploring the club’s incredible projects, hearing from its inspiring members, and learning about the values that drive their commitment to "Service Above Self." In this inaugural episode, host Tom Fox visits with Kristy Vandenberg about her leadership in Rotary’s fight against the international scourge of polio. 

The discussion focuses on the Rotary Club of Kerrville’s part in the Rotary International’s fight to help eradicate polio from the globe. Kristy underlines the significance of vaccines in preventing viral diseases, noting that many people might not be aware of their continued relevance due to the effectiveness of the vaccines. We discuss our concerns about the virus, suggesting a broader need for awareness as it remains a pressing issue globally. The Pints, Pumpkins and Pies event is at the Dietrich Center, on September 24, 2024 from 5-7 PM. It aims to address these ongoing considerations and educate people on the subject.

Highlights Include

·      Introduction and Contact Information

·      Event Details and Venue

·      Public Awareness and Vaccines 

·      Participating in the Fight

Resources

Rotary Club of Kerrville

Rotary District 5840

Rotary International

Pints, Pumpkins and Pies