President Justin Frisco kicked off our January meeting at Elijah's with the Pledge of Allegiance and welcome to guests:

• Karina Sousa brought her new husband Matt
• Brian Krause brought a friend and neighbor Justin

Jim Floros introduced our speaker Doug Constantiner, CEO of Societe Brewing. He spoke about forming his successful brewery, and members were interested in his words and his beer.

Membership chair Wendy Reuben gave an update on recruitment efforts.

Governor Doug Frost and First Lady June Frost spoke about the First Lady's focus on pediatric cancer research.

Karina Sousa described our new Laurels for Leaders format and encouraged support and attendance.

We celebrated January birthdays:

• Will Earley - January 12
• Mike Boland - January 16
• Drue Jordan - January 19

Members generously donated Bill's Bucks in honor of:

• Gordon Boerner was spotted in Giving Back Magazine
• Wendy Reuben was spotted in Giving Back Magazine
• Jim Floros was spotted in the San Diego Business Journal
• Wendy Reuben was excited that she has hot water once again at home
• Brian Krause was pleased with the holiday party turnout at his home and that his daughter passed her driver's exam
• Karina Sousa was inspired by Kiwanis' good works to help all, especially as she has watched the tragedy of the LA fires

After a recap of past events and look forward to upcoming events, President Frisco closed the meeting.