Jenny Eck, Executive Director of the Helena Friendship Center (right, pictured with club President-Elect, Murray Strong) gave the club an update on the FC's activities and its impact on the lives of individuals and families suffering domestic violence and safety issues.  Usage of the Friendship Center's services continues to grow, unfortunately, and several cases per month must be turned away and referred to alternative, temporary solutions.  A change in FC's planning for 2019 is the decision to not hold an Empty Bowls fundraising event, which Sunrise Rotary has assisted with for the past few years.  Empty Bowls is being evaluated for the significant amount of work required of limited staff (who are needed to provide program services) to put on this fundraiser.

Michele Steele (left) is officially welcomed as member of The Rotary Club of Helena, Sunrise, by District Governor, Rick Moore and Sunrise President, Michelle Vanisko.  Michele brings a rich history in Rotary having been a member of the Rotary Club of Helena (the "noon" club), including service as Past President.  Work scheduling makes Sunrise an option for Michele to continue her Rotary service.  Welcome, Michele!!

Guest Pat Seiler (shown here with club member, Russ Cargo) presented a very informative and entertaining program on "The History of Luggage."  Pat led us through the evolution of the bags we all use for travel, pointing out that we put a man on the moon in 1969, but did not put wheels on suitcases until 1972!  Thanks, Pat!

On November 29, another successful Trivia fundraising night was held in Townsend, MT in partnership with the Townsend Rotary Club.  Over $1,400 was raised to help fund a Townsend Interact trip to Guatemala.  Over 70 community members turned out to share the fun.  Great job, Townsend and Sunrise members, Gary Williams, Greg Duncan, Rick Moore and Carol Wilcox!