On Saturday, October 18, 2025, 92 Rotarians from District 5340—including members from La Mesa Rotary, La Mesa Sunrise Rotary, and Santee Lakeside Rotary—along with spouses and friends, set sail at 6:30 PM aboard the Hornblower ship Inspiration, to commemorate the centennial anniversary of La Mesa Rotary.
Centennial Chair Dale Bailey and Club President Bonnie Welch emceed the evening. Distinguished guests included Mary England, President of the La Mesa Chamber of Commerce, and Moana Alo, Field Representative for California Senator Akilah Faizah Weber Piersen. Moana Alo presented a proclamation on behalf of Senator Weiner, while Mary England delivered a gift from Supervisor Monica Montgomery Steppe a proclamation from the City of La Mesa was presented as well.
District 5340 Governor Luis Carranza congratulated the Club on a century of community service and commitment to the Paul Harris Foundation. The evening’s keynote speaker was Past District Governor Marge Cole.
While the boat traveled around San Diego Harbor, fourteen former club presidents were honored by District Governor Luis Carranza for their leadership and dedication to the club.
Four club members—Kathy Olsen, Bill Ashman, Mary Ellington, and Keith Dindinger—were recognized for their service to the club and the community. Each received a Centennial Award.
The club also celebrated families who have had three generations serve as club presidents. Representatives from these families were Michael Fellows, Dr. James Thompson, and Guy Elam.
Each guest received a commemorative booklet chronicling the Club’s history decade by decade, complete with photos of signature projects. A PowerPoint of the club’s many projects, locally and internationally, was steamed throughout dinner.