Good Morning Rotary Club of Windsor

April 14th, 2026

The meeting was called to order at 7:31 a.m. by President Larry. Boyd led the group in the Four-Way Test, followed by a lively song led by Susan Cole, who entertained members with “It’s My Club,” sung to the tune of “My Guy.”
Michael LeComte offered the morning inspiration, emphasizing the importance of tailoring programs to our audience and highlighting the value of education: “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.”

Student of the Year Recognitions
Randall Neff introduced the program, which featured two Student of the Year honorees.

Caleb McPheil of the BUILD Academy introduced Peyton, describing him as a “go-getter” who ensures everyone is included. Peyton was praised for serving as the “eyes behind his head” as a teacher’s assistant and for his commitment to helping others and giving back to his community—qualities that reflect Rotary values. Peyton expressed gratitude for the recognition and attended with his mother and grandparents.

John Richards from Windsor High School Arts Core introduced Rebecca Herman, a student he has long wanted to honor. Rebecca was described as kind, curious, and driven to change the world. Her teacher noted that her influence encourages other students to believe in themselves. Rebecca shared that she commutes daily from Cloverdale to Windsor High School and initially considered a pre-med path. She highlighted her many accomplishments in school and the community and expressed gratitude to her parents, teachers, and Rotary.

Announcements

• Earth Day activities are this Sunday, including an opportunity to host a table and discuss Simple Gestures and Arundo donax removal.
• May 9: Additional Arundo donax removal opportunity.
• Epic Day of Service will include Adopt-a-Road and morning Arundo removal projects on May 16, 2026.
• Students will participate in a Celebration of Peace at Polly Klaas Theater on May 16 from 4:00–6:30 p.m.
• Maureen announced two front-row tickets available for the Emmylou Harris concert on Friday.
• Leslie recognized members celebrating birthdays. Margaret shared that she is going on a cruise and donated teacher gifts for Teacher Appreciation Day.

Speaker: William Ference
Barbara introduced speaker William Ference, noting shared interests including meeting Temple Grandin, graduating from Sonoma State University, and supporting differently abled individuals.

William shared his personal journey as an individual on the autism spectrum, diagnosed at 18 months due to limited language development. He discussed receiving speech, language, and physical therapy, and the important role of supportive educators and a one-to-one assistant whom he described as a true friend. After experiencing bullying in traditional settings, he attended Anova before continuing to Santa Rosa Junior College and Sonoma State University, where he majored in English.

William spoke about the need for stronger bridges between neurodivergent and neurotypical students and emphasized the importance of social skill development. He reflected on educational interventions that supported his growth and advocated for more individualized, transactional teaching approaches. He highlighted the diversity within the autism spectrum and shared his own hopes of finding meaningful employment, ideally in writing or another white-collar field with opportunities for advancement.

He concluded with a thoughtful message:
“Neurotypical or otherwise, the privilege of living a ‘normal’ life doesn’t define us—our ability to know ourselves and understand what helps us thrive does.”

President Larry closed the meeting by thanking everyone who helped organize the program and those who participated in Meals on Wheels.


Thanks to:
Greeter: Robin Schifando
A/V Setup: John LeCave
Setup: Kurt Mitchter
Song: Susan Cole
Inspitration: Michael LeComte
Scribe: Pam Moulton.
Photography: Sue Nelson