On April 22nd, the local Fair Board highlighted the leadership guiding its efforts to create a vibrant and inclusive community event. At the helm are Chair John Smaelie and Co-Chair Maddi Strong, whose shared vision continues to shape the fair into a meaningful experience for all who attend.
As Chair, John Smaelie brings a steady, thoughtful approach to overseeing board initiatives and ensuring that the fair reflects the values and spirit of the community. Working alongside him, Co-Chair Maddi Strong plays a key role in supporting operations, coordinating efforts among board members, and helping introduce new ideas while honoring long-standing traditions.
Together, Smaelie and Strong lead a dedicated group of board members who volunteer their time and expertise to plan, organize, and support a wide range of fair events. From agricultural showcases and youth exhibits to entertainment and local vendor participation, the fair serves as a vibrant gathering place that highlights the region’s heritage and talent.
Under their leadership, the Fair Board emphasizes teamwork, transparency, and service. Decisions are made with a focus on inclusivity and community benefit, ensuring that the fair remains accessible and welcoming to families, businesses, and participants alike.
Smaelie and Strong both recognize the fair as more than just an annual event—it is a cornerstone of community connection. By fostering partnerships, encouraging participation, and maintaining a strong volunteer base, they are helping to ensure the fair continues to thrive for years to come.
As planning efforts continue, the Fair Board remains committed to creating memorable experiences that celebrate local culture, agriculture, and the traditions that bring the community together.
Today we had the pleasure of welcoming Steve Laflin as our guest speaker, who shared a presentation about Angel Flight West and the remarkable work the organization does for patients and families in need of transportation for critical medical care.
Steve has been volunteering as a pilot with Angel Flight West for nearly 20 years and has personally completed approximately 80 missions — each one representing a person who was able to access lifesaving or life-changing medical treatment because someone cared enough to fly them there.
In addition to his aviation service, Steve is a United States Navy submarine veteran and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physics from Idaho State University. Professionally, he spent 27 years as the CEO of International Isotopes Inc. in Idaho Falls before retiring in 2023.
Outside the cockpit, Steve and his wife Dottie enjoy spending time outdoors and in the mountains, often riding their Tennessee Walking Horses — a perfect reflection of the service, adventure, and love of community that bring him here today.
Rotary would like to thank you, Sam, for your insightful and engaging presentation, “AI: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.” Your ability to break down a complex and rapidly changing topic into clear, relatable ideas gave our members plenty to think about and talk about long after the meeting ended.
We truly appreciate the time and thought you put into your talk, as well as your willingness to answer questions and explore both the opportunities and challenges of AI. Thank you again for sharing your expertise with our club.
Thanks to everyone who attended our Monte Carlo Night 2025 Fundraiser!
On Saturday September 20th the Rotary Club of Teton Valley hosted its second annual Monte Carlo Night fundraiser at the Warbirds Museum hangar in the Teton Aviation Building. A fun time was had by all! Big thanks to everyone who attended and those who helped make the event a success.
Saturday, August 8th, marked Teton Valley Rotary’s 2nd annual Ducks in the Ditch event designed to raise money for civic projects. This year’s funding will be directed toward Rotary’s partnership with the City of Driggs to improve the local City Park with playground equipment that fits ADA guidelines to accommodate access for all children. In honor of the 100th anniversary of the Teton County Fair the event started at the fairgrounds in the ditch north of the pavilion and ended in front of the Valley Shopping Center. Over 1200 ducks competed in the swirling waters, passing under Highway 33, brushing with disaster in the weeds, and getting caught in the eddies as they made their way down the ditch. Final winners toughed it out to cross the finish line ahead of the pack.
Ten prizes were awarded in all. Winners included Dan Taylor, Carrie Mowrey, Cara Barnes, Mike Morey, Sarah Smith, Steve Beres, Jenny Bitner, Lane Steel, and Brent Robson. One little duck, destined to finish 2nd, got caught in a tiny swirl at the finish line and finished 8th as bystanders were urging her on. Rotary thanks Grand Targhee, Teton Valley Lodge, Stillwaters Spa, Sands Whitewater, Izzy’s Oils, the Detail Shop, Fall River Electric, the Links, Action Excavation and MD Nursery for donating prizes. Rotary also extends a major thank you to our 2015-16 sponsors Broulims, Cooke & Kearsley, Headwaters Construction, Teton Valley Health Care, and Teton Valley Lodge. Without the support of local businesses, Rotary could not provide service projects to our community. Thank you sponsors! And a big thank you to Sheriff Tony for providing safe passage for spectators as the ducks crossed under highway 33.
Teton Valley Rotary meets Wednesdays at The Senior Center in the City Building at noon. Visitors are welcome. You can learn more about Teton Valley Rotary at www.tetonvalleyrotary.com. Come join us and serve our valley.
Christi and Patti manning the Rotary booth at the TIn Cup 2015. It was a bit chilly but there was a great turnout in racers and spectators. I would say it was a big success. Well done Dawn Banks and Carrie Mowrey. A big thanks to all the Rotarians who volunteered in this event.
Rotary Club of Teton Valley thanks all of those who donated to our club through the TIn Cup Challenge in 2014. With those funds, our club was able to award $11,500 worth of scholarships to our high school graduates, provide books to every first grader in the district and send 5 high school students to RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards). Please remember us as you consider where to commit your donations this year.
Teton Valley Rotarians introduced Armando Ortiz-Padilla, son of Blanca Gpe. Padilla Tovar and Armando Ortiz-Savcedo, as January Student of the Month at their January 21 meeting. Armando was selected for his strong character, his willingness to serve others and his ability to keep his eye to the future.
Armando returned to Teton High School this year from Mexico where he had been living with his parents. Having been born in the United States, Armando wanted to complete his secondary and post secondary education here. He plans to major in engineering and/or architecture. At Teton High School he is active in the Latino Club, enjoys playing football. His favorite class is math.
Rotary congratulates Armando, January Student of the Month.
Your contribution to Teton Valley Rotary Foundation during the Tin Cup funding drive makes an impact on many students’ lives. Please join us again this year in making a difference! Click here to donate now!
Educational Opportunities Through Scholarships. In May, 2014, Teton Valley Rotary was able to award 13 scholarships to students heading for their first year of college or continuing their education at an advanced institution. Here’s what some had to say:
My freshman year of college was incredibly enlightening, exploratory, and fun. . I participated in the Honors Program at Westminster, applied for and was accepted as RA (resident advisor) on campus for 2014-15 school year, and participated with the slam poetry club as musical support, even being featured at one slam. The Rotary scholarship made a huge impact on my freshman year of college! …Riley Hodgson
Daniela Olivas returned to speak to Rotarians about her research studies in Biochemistry at Boise State University where she was accepted as an intern to INBRE (IdeA Network Research of Biomedical Research Excellence). Her Rotary Phyllis Morey scholarship allowed her to purchase expensive text books to accompany her science major and her leadership experience with Rotary’s Interact while at Teton High School prepared her for further on-campus organizations focused on helping others.
Utah State is a great school, and between exceptional professors, school pride in all athletic events, and meeting people from all over the place, I had a great freshman year! Scholarships allow Teton students the financial advantage of attending school without taking out large loans which is an incredible blessing. I’m looking forward to continuing meeting new people, learning more, and growing as a person.
Funding Focused on Literacy.
Teton Valley Rotary joined with other valley nonprofits, including the Education Association, in kicking off the school year with the annual “back pack” program supplying school supplies to underserved students. (Did you know that over 50% of our students qualify for the reduced lunch program offered by the federal government?)
AND…We initiated a new program to give every first grader a CHOICE in what they read by supplying vouchers to each student allowing them to attend their school’s book fair and select their own books. This program was received enthusiastically by both students and teachers.
Leadership. In 2013 we sent four THS freshmen to RYLA, Rotary’s Youth Leadership Development Program. This year we’re sending five! These students return to school in the fall energized and ready to lead their peers in service and accomplishment.
Spring Teacher Appreciation Luncheon at middle and high school – if only you had been there to see the smiles on their faces, you’d know how valuable this simple luncheon was. Our teachers work so hard!
Your contribution to Teton Valley Rotary Foundation during the Tin Cup funding drive makes an impact on many students’ lives. Please join us again this year in making a difference! Click here to donate now!
Our Kids are Worth it! Support Rotary through Tin Cup!
Rotary is currently recruiting annual sponsors who will be recognized at our events as supporters of all of our great service projects. The sponsorships span from July 2014 to June 2015 and may be billed in 2 installments. Download the sponsorship form from the left bar or contact Aaron Jenkins at 208-399-6711.
Annual Sponsors of Teton Valley Rotary Promoted at Every Event!
This "fun-raiser" will take place July 5th in the canal that runs between Broken Spur and Kings on Hwy 33. All ducks sold will be released into the canal to swim their way to an exciting finish where the owner of the first duck across the line will win $500! We're hoping to have a live stream for those who can't make it to the event. You do not need to be present to win and must buy ducks in advance. To purchase a duck, see any local Rotarian, stop by to see Isabel at Allstate Insurance or email us. Proceeds will help us build part of the stage in the new plaza in front of the City of Driggs community center.
Teton Valley's 1st Annual Ducks in the Ditch Fundraiser
The Rotary Club of Teton Valley recently provided each first grade student at Driggs, Tetonia and Victor Elementary schools a new book as part of a local literacy project, one of the many important areas of focus for Rotarians worldwide.
Rotary International designated March as Literacy Month, encouraging clubs around the world to engage in projects promoting literacy. Teton Valley’s Rotary Club chose to put books into the hands of local children, inspiring them to read at home, to promote a love of reading for years to come. By allowing students to choose their own book, something they were personally interested in, the club hoped to help motivate them to read over the summer and continue building their reading skills. “The 1st graders were absolutely delighted to know someone had bought them a book. Choosing the best book was an exciting adventure for them,” shared Jannifer Cooke, principal at Tetonia and Victor Elementary Schools.
Dues for Teton Valley's Rotary Club are billed quarterly and include District 5440 dues and Rotary International dues. Members are also encouraged to make a voluntary contribution of $100 annually to the Rotary International Annual Programs Fund, making them a Sustaining Member. We have two different dues options, including a discounted option for non-profit organization leaders, retired individuals and spouses of Rotarians.
Membership Dues Including All Lunches: $150/Quarter
Discounted Membership Dues Including All Lunches: $125/Quarter
Membership Dues with Pay As You Go Lunches: $100/Quarter
Discounted Membership Dues with Pay As You Go Lunches: $50/Quarter
* Discounted memberships are available for non-profit organization leaders, retired individuals, and spouses of Rotarians. Weekly lunches are prepared by the Senior Center and are available for $10.
Our club recently donated thirty backpacks valued at $540 to local elementary students through a joint effort with the Teton Valley Education Foundation, Subs for Santa and a grant from Silver Star Communications. The Teton Valley Education Foundation spearheads the program, providing school supplies and backpacks for underprivileged youngsters headed back to school. Diane Temple, Executive Director for TVEF, recently joined Rotarians to celebrate the effort.
Former Teton High student, Daniela Olivas, spoke at Rotary Club of Teton Valley’s luncheon this week about her studies and a research project she worked on the past year. Olivas was a Rotary scholarship recipient and active member in the high school’s Interact club.
Each year Teton Valley’s local Rotary club hosts between 8-10 students throughout the school year, each presenting on their experience in high school, their successes, challenges, involvement in school as well as contribution to their community. Daniela was one of these students who was chosen as a final scholarship recipient. Olivas was a recipient of a $4000 Rotary Phyllis Morey scholarship, available to students of at least fifty percent Hispanic heritage. Rotary has donated over $40,000 in scholarships to Teton Valley senior students since the program began. Olivas is just one of these students, and based on her presentation - she shows a bright and promising future.
Join us for our 12th Annual Golf Tournament at Teton Reserve on September 6th! This major fundraiser for Teton Valley's Rotary Club. Proceeds enable us to continue supporting our local community and international projects - all projects helping others. Register now! There are a limited number of players allowed.
$125 per player or $500 per team. This includes Green Fees, Range Balls, Cart and Lunch. Sponsor for just $100 more! 4 Person Scramble. Shotgun start at 9 a.m. Individuals are welcome and will be placed on teams. Awards and Prizes will follow.
Alyssa Collins, a resident of Teton Valley since 2001, was inducted into Teton Valley's Rotary Club by Past President Wayne Maness on July 24th. Alyssa, originally from New York, moved to Teton Valley after living for a short time in Jackson with her husband, Casey. Alyssa and Casey have 2 young children and enjoy the area's many recreational pursuits.
Alyssa started her career in banking with Jackson State Bank and is currently employed by Wells Fargo as a Home Mortgage Consultant. During her induction, Alyssa shared that she "was ready for additional opportunities to serve in the community." We are excited to welcome her to the club!
Alyssa Collins with Wells Fargo inducted as new member
Rotarians participated in the Victor Independence Day Parade, showing Rotary pride and "Fishing for New Members." Thanks to Patti Burr for organizing the float and to all who rode along!
Local Rotarians, Bob Heneage and Jim Schulz are raising money for the Rotary Club of Teton Valley. Bob and Jim are asking for donations of $0.01 per vertical foot climbed on their upcoming ascent of Mt Rainier in Washington State. From the parking lot to the summit is 9000 vertical feet, so we're asking for donations of $90 in our goal to reach the summit.
We recently celebrated our outgoing 2012-2013 Board of Directors and welcomed the incoming members, we also had the opportunity to recognize one of our new members as Rotarian of the Year. During our annual dinner, we celebrated the board service contributed by Wayne Maness, President; Darla Neeley, Treasurer; and Isabel Waddell, Past President during the 2012-2013 year. We also welcomed the new Board of Directors for 2013-2014:
Teton Valley Rotary celebrated the successes of local students at a recent scholarship luncheon. Five scholarship winners from Teton High School along with their parents attended. Graduating seniors being honored this year included Arely Baez, Karli Breckenridge, Riley Hodgson, Sean Riley, and Megan Woolstenhulme.
All of the Rotary scholarship recipients achieved high academic standings in their class along with contributing hours of volunteer work to their community. Karli Breckenridge, Riley Hodgson, Sean Riley and Megan Woolstenhulme all received $1,000 to begin their freshman year at the college of their choice. Arely was awarded the Phyllis Morey Memorial Scholarship, a renewable $1,000/year award given to students from the Hispanic community who have elected to pursue a 4-yr degree at an accredited college.
In celebration of Rotary International’s Literacy Month, Teton Valley’s Rotary Club is kicking off a book drive for local elementary students in Kindergarten through third grade now through March 22nd. The goal of the project is to promote early literacy by making books part of a healthy childhood, getting more books into the homes of children.
The Rotary Club of Teton Valley is currently accepting applications from incoming sophomore high school students for a youth leadership summer program. Rotary will be sponsoring at least 3 high school students from Teton Valley to attend the 2013 Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) camp held at Luccock Park Camp, south of Livingston, Montana, July 9-13, 2013.
The students who have attended RYLA in the past have expressed great gratitude and felt they made lifelong friends through an experience changed their lives. Applicants who exemplify strong leadership skills or potential are selected by regional Rotary Clubs to attend this 5-day leadership camp. Applicants must currently be in the freshman class. The camp consists of presentations by outstanding motivational speakers, leadership activities and discussion groups directed by adult Rotarian Facilitators.
The Rotary Club of Teton Valley has committed funds to support a local group aiming to improve literacy in Teton Valley, one of Rotary International’s “Areas of Focus.” At a recent Rotary luncheon, the club’s Board voted to donate $600 as seed money to help the group get started.
Several local Teton Valley Rotarians joined as a team to shovel, saw, and shape snow into a giant Peace symbol representing Rotary's mission. The event took place in Downtown Driggs in January, during freezing temps of course, and these hearty volunteers dedicated several chilly hours to promoting Peace and Service. The kids seemed to really enjoy climbing through the structure during the event and hopefully also took in its meaning.
Thanks to Gil Hundley, Executive Director for Teton Valley Foundation for presenting to Rotary today. Gil updated the club on the great progress the non-profit is making at the Kotler Ice Arena, with much of their funding coming from the organization's popular music series, Music on Main.
Gil also spoke on the Teton Adaptive Sports program at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and Grand Targhee Resort, a great program designed to promote and support sports and recreation opportunities for people with disabilities living in and visiting the Greater Teton Area.
The Rotary Club of Teton Valley welcome Patti Burr as our newest member. A nurse at St John's Hospital and resident of Teton Valley of over 18 years with a great interest in humanitarian projects, Patti is a welcome addition to our club.
Pre-register now for the 11th Annual Rotary Golf Tournament at Huntsman Springs! Don't miss out on this great opportunity to play a prestigious, private club in beautiful Driggs, Idaho, while knowing your player fees will help support Rotary's many great causes. From local high school scholarships, youth student exchange programs and backpacks for local children in need to international projects like providing wells and clean water to rural villages in Cambodia, know that your donations and support of this golf tournament are all for worthwhile projects. Click here to register now!
Register NOW for the our Rotary Golf Tournament at Huntsman Springs
My, the year went by so fast! I remember a year ago in May, standing around talking to Past-Presidents Jim Schulz and Bob Heneage, when Jim remarked, "Just think, Isabel, in another 13 months, you'll be a part of the Past-Presidents club." I must say there have been times during the year that I remembered what he said and thought, "Just think, soon I'll be a member of the Past-Presidents club." I join a list of some great club members, both present and past, including John Hansford, Sandy Sites, Bob Heneage, Jennifer Brannen, Melissa Moyer, Pat Butts, Maren Erickson, Brian Gibson, and Jim Schulz. In another year or two, we will add new members Wayne Maness and Aaron Jenkins. Bob Heneage will be turning his hat around to take over the presidency again in 2014 (it will be here before you know it, Bob!).
Each year the district allocates a limited number of dollars in emergency funds to assist other Rotary districts when disaster strikes. We prefer to use these funds as challenge grants so that our individual members can also participate if they choose to do so. As you know, this past year has marked a number of tragic disasters including the devastating March earthquake in Japan and tornado destruction in Joplin, Missouri, which our district sent relief funds to earlier.
These past few weeks in Turkey have been absolutely amazing! I have been so busy I don't remember everything I have done.
For Christmas my fellow exchangers and I went to Kapadokia. It is one of the most exquisite places I have ever visited.
On the way to Kapadokia we were able to stop at the Salt Lake. The weather was really cold but the lake is absolutely amazing. We visited two museums. One was of a really old city, the houses were built into the rock walls.
The Communityof Lougouana in the Regionof Koutiala - Sikasso (Republicof Mali) has 10,000 inhabitants scattered across its compoundof7 villages and distant hamlets. The community faces strong access issues to its health care facilities located in the Capital Villageof Léléni as well as specialized health care services outside the community becauseof distance, bad road conditions and lackof medical vehicle. TheRotary ClubsofTeton Valley (USA) and Bamako Koulouba (Mali) have joined their effort in a District Grant donation of a Motoambulance which will facilitate:
- affordable medical transport;
- better emergency transport handling like difficult pregnancies and birth deliveries;
- Patient transport from distant hamlets and villages to the community health care facilities;
- Patient transport from the community health care facilities to specialized ones: the clinic of Karangasso and the regional hospital of Koutiala.
With the motoambulance in the background, a photo showing from left to right: the community representatives team leader, the President of the Rotaract club Cheick CISSE, President Hélène Assa CAMARA, Assistant Governor Nafanga DEMBELE and future Interactor Matteo DEMBELE.
Interior of the motoambulance allowing for caregiver, patient, and supplies.
International Project with Rotary Club Bamako Koulouba
Our team had a great time creating this piece for the Great Snow Fest snow sculpturing contest. Thanks to Bob & So La MeeHeneage, Dan & Patti Burr, Todd Place and our sponsor Isabel Waddell.
Teton Valley Rotarians introduced Armando Ortiz-Padilla, son of Blanca Gpe. Padilla Tovar and Armando Ortiz-Savcedo, as January Student of the Month at their January 21 meeting. Armando was selected for his strong character, his willingness to serve others and his ability to keep his eye to the future.
Armando returned to Teton High School this year from Mexico where he had been living with his parents. Having been born in the United States, Armando wanted to complete his secondary and post secondary education here. He plans to major in engineering and/or architecture. At Teton High School he is active in the Latino Club, enjoys playing football. His favorite class is math.
Rotary congratulates Armando, January Student of the Month.
Armando Ortiz-Padilla selected as Teton Valley Rotary’s January Student of the Month
The morning of July 5th featured the first “annual” Rotary Ducks in the Ditch race in the irrigation ditch ending in front of Kings. Five hundred eager rubber duckys entered the ditch above the Broken Spur and crossed the finish line a little over 6 minutes later in front of King’s. The race was fast and furious with spectators getting as excited as if it were the Kentucky Derby! Separating from the pack to finish in first and second place were ducks sponsored by Jim Schulz (1st across) and Jenny Child (2nd across). Closer to the pack were third and fourth place finishers sponsored by Taylor Watson and Debbie Hunt. Prizes will be awarded at Wednesday’s Rotary meeting with first place receiving $500, 2nd place a rubber raft donated by King’s, and 3rd and 4th taking home Silverstar back packs. The race was streamed live with energized narrative provided by John Erbou and can be viewed on the Rotary website: www.tetonvalleyrotary.com. Proceeds from the race will go toward building a fund for a community stage in front of the City Center. The spectators and Rotarians are already looking forward to a bigger, faster, and more exciting event next year.
Teton Valley Rotary focuses on service to the community and the world. The Ducks in the Ditch project will be held annually to raise funds for civic projects while Tin Cup donations to Teton Valley Rotary Foundation will be directed to valley youth for scholarships, literacy and leadership. Over $13,500 in scholarships were awarded to this year’s graduating seniors and college scholars.
Rotary meets Wednesdays at noon at the Senior Center. Interested community members and visiting Rotarians are invited to join a Wednesday meeting for a delicious lunch prepared by Chef Sue Cicero.
One of Teton Valley Rotary's greatest contributions to the Teton Valley community is our annual scholarship program. This program was started as one of the Club's first projects and has continued and grown over the years, supporting local students pursuing higher education.
Each year we gift thousands of dollars to local students who apply through our scholarship program. We feature a Student of the Month, invite them to join us for lunch and celebrate their success. These bright, entertaining young men and women present to the club and most often inspire us all.
Scott Anderson, one of our newer members, has taken on the great task of coordinating the scholarship program.
In addition to our local scholarships, we have donated dictionaries to elementary schools, supported both incoming and outgoing foreign exchange students, and sent youngsters to Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (Rotary's leadership training program for young people).
Rotary District Governor 5440, Mike Forney, and Teton Valley Rotary's President, Wayne Manness, welcome new members: Scott Anderson with the Teton Valley News and Dave Houston with Wells Fargo Bank.
Hello! I know ıt has been awhıle sınce you guys have heard from me, and I apologıze!
Turkey ıs stıll absolutely wonderful and beautıful. It has been lıke a year of summer for me. The wınter was raıny but stıll not cold, and Summer ıs pretty much here. Yesterday ıt was 28 degrees Celcıus around noontıme. The weather ıs absolutely beautıful! I was worrıed that I stıll wasn,t goıng to be as ınteractıve wıth my town, Rotary, and school as I had hoped to be. But a lot of dıfferent thıngs came at one tıme. I am stayıng wıth a new famıly, my host mom ıs also the owner of my school. My host dad has hobbıes such as deep sea dıvıng and motorcycle rıdıng, so thıs summer wıll be very enjoyable! I was supposed to leave theır famıly on the 19th of thıs month, but a few days ago they told me that they would lıke me to stay for the rest of my year. There ıs nothıng lıke the feelıng of knowıng that your host famıly lıkes you that much. They are a wonderful famıly and I am very excıted to spend as much tıme wıth them as I can.
Thought you might be interested to know that we have now achieved our aim of riding 10,000 miles on our tandem for ShelterBox. In fact we got to the magic figure two weeks ago as we rode through Northern Ireland - we're now in South Wales with just two weeks of our journey left until we reach ShelterBox HQ in Helston. I reckon our final total will probably be around 10,800 miles (17,280 km) by the time we reach Cornwall.
It's been an amazing journey. Our biggest boast is that after more than 11 months on the road we only ever missed one presentation. And that was in Brisbane when our plane from New Zealand was delayed for five hours!