As I write this, I just finished speaking at the Ephrata Rotary Club’s weekly meeting at Country Deli in Ephrata. The banquet room in the back of the restaurant was filled with more than a dozen folks who were there not just to grab a meal, but to share some positivity and talk about the work they can do to make the community an even better place to live.  

Among the attendees were a city administrator, school superintendent, county treasurer, a lady with an immense love for dogs and animals of all sorts and a dentist who is also apparently a “wizard.” Honestly, anyone that can remove a tooth and not have it hurt like heck deserves the title, in my opinion. Those are just examples of well more than a dozen folks who gathered simply to talk about what they can do to contribute to their community. 

Rotary isn’t unique in that regard. Throughout the Columbia Basin, we’ve got a variety of groups that are pulling together just to make sure we all have a high quality of life. Care Moses Lake, ARFS of Grant County, Goodwill, HopeSource and about a bazillion churches are all out there trying to do the right thing and make the Basin an even more wonderful place than it already is.  

I think it’s important to occasionally stop, take a breath, and recognize those groups. I don’t have enough space in this column to name them all, but there are dozens of organizations in the area that contribute to a better life for specific groups like the American Legion posts helping veterans or Grant County Animal Outreach helping pups get a good home. Everyone who is reading this has had their quality of life positively impacted by these groups that work tirelessly without waving virtue signaling flags asking for accolades and applause.  

I think, though, that it’s important that we do give them their accolades and that they do get a round of applause — and that they maybe occasionally get a donation. A few dollars sent to an organization like the Columbia Basin Cancer Foundation — or other area health-focused nonprofits — can make an enormous difference in the lives of someone dealing with an incredibly hard life challenge.  

Take your pick and give where you can. If it isn’t money, try to figure out a time when you can volunteer and help these organizations succeed. You’ll likely make new friends. You’ll probably learn something. You’ll definitely make a difference. 

A special thank you to Ephrata Rotary for having me at their meeting. I appreciate the words of support several of you shared at the gathering and the information I got that will inspire upcoming stories.  

With gratitude for a caring community, 

R. Hans “Rob” Miller
Managing Editor
Columbia Basin Herald
Basin Business Journal