106th National Convention

The National Exchange Club Convention took place in San Antonio last month. This 106th annual gathering brought together approximately 500 guests. Attendees had the opportunity to celebrate successes, learn from nationally known speakers, and network with fellow members. It was a weekend to anticipate, fostering camaraderie and inspiring future opportunities.

Congratulations to Mike Reichek (left, XC of Fort Bend, TX) on officially taking the helm as National President as well as Joe Dudek (XC of Bristol, CT) as National President-Elect. We can expect strong, committed leadership for the next two years from Mike and Joe.

By all reports, it was one of the best Conventions ever. Our Las Vegas Club Club President JP attended and urges everyone to put next year’s convention on your calendar now!

100th California Nevada District Convention

Our District Convention was held at the end of June at the Hilton Hotel San Bernardino with an excited crowd renewing friendships, learning about Exchange, and kicking off our new year. Taking the reins as District President this year will be Ken DuFour, Newport Harbor Club, and President-Elect is our own Jean-Pierre (JP) Fallou! Ken promises to work diligently to re-unite all the Clubs in the Spirit of Exchange and will be striving to help Division Directors be come more engaged with the Clubs in their charge. Please reach out to Ken with any ideas or suggestions you may have at: 949-231-9090 or kendufour44@gmail.com

From the President

Inspiring Voices at the National Exchange Club Convention in San Antonio. The San Antonio Convention last month was a resounding success, thanks to an exceptional lineup of speakers. Their stories of resilience, courage, and determination left a lasting impression on all attendees.
Christina Meredith: A Journey from Ashes to Hope Christina’s remarkable journey is one of triumph over adversity. Surviving sexual, mental, and emotional abuse, she emerged from the depths of trauma, foster care, poverty, and homelessness.

Rhonda Kuykendall: A Survivor’s Story Her experience as a survivor of human trafficking is both heartbreaking and inspiring. By sharing her journey, she raises awareness about the urgent need to combat trafficking and protect vulnerable individuals. Douglas Taurel, Actor: Mr. Taurel performed his unforgettable one man award-winning play “The American Soldier”. Through his portrayal of soldiers from the Revolutionary War to the Iraq War, Taurel brought attention to the struggles faced by veterans, particularly posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Our own Exchange heroes were also celebrated for the work they do. Past National President Russ Finney was selected as Exchange Club Member of the Year and Past District Presidents Shirley Lashmett (CA/NV) and Linda Carlson (Northern California) were elected to the Court of Honor, the highest recognition within Exchange.

Closer to home, your club has been working with Because We Care Las Vegas, feeding and supplying homeless persons in the Las Vegas area. The current urgent need is water and Gatorade type drinks for keeping people hydrated in the dangerous summer heat. More on the Because We Care program will be coming soon. And finally, we need your input and ideas for making our little club a bigger, bigger club! Give me a call at (425) 785-3093 or eMail me.