Ian Riseley, Rotary International president from 2017-18, adopted the theme "Rotary: Making a Difference" for his year as president. He challenged all Rotary clubs worldwide to plant a tree for each of their members.

The Rotary Club of Tehachapi decided to participate in this initiative and started working with TVRPD on the plan to plant trees at Brite Valley Aquatic Recreation Area last year. After a few changes to the plan, the Rotary Club was very happy to complete this service project on May 18.

TVRPD has been extremely helpful with this project. They provided the irrigation system for the trees, dug the holes for each tree and provided the stakes that will protect the trees from the wind. The area of Brite Lake where the trees are planted has been designated, "Rotary Grove" and a sign with this name will be erected soon.

The Rotary Club of Tehachapi ordered maple trees for this project about two months ago. At the time of the order, the club had 35 members. JDB Nursery provided 35 superb trees at a substantial discount to show their support for this Rotary Project.

The tree planting was accomplished by a group of people, including members of the Rotary Club of Tehachapi, members of the Boy Scouts, several employees of TVRPD and members of the Interact Club, which is comprised of local high school students and sponsored by the Rotary Club.

Chris Naftel, Rotary Club of Tehachapi president, expressed his gratitude to everyone who participated in this project. He also talked about the welcome shade these maple trees will bring in the summer, as well as beautiful colors in the fall.

The Rotary Club of Tehachapi meets at noon on Thursdays at The Shed, 333 E. Tehachapi Blvd. If you are interested in learning more about the club, please check out http://www.portal.clubrunner.ca/2866 or contact Tim Trujillo, membership chair, at (661) 821-0086.