Bruce Ramsey will discuss “Seattle in the Depression” at the Rotary Club of Mercer Island’s meeting on Jan. 20 at the Mercer Island Community and Event Center, 8236 SE 24th St.

The main meeting begins at 12:30 p.m.; socializing is from noon to 12:30 p.m. Guests are always welcome and there is no fee to attend. A catered lunch is available for $25, or attendees can bring their own meal.

Ramsey is a Washington writer and researcher retired from a 37-year career in newspapers and magazines as a business reporter, editor and columnist in Seattle and Hong Kong. His book, “Seattle in the Great Depression,” offers readers stories they have never heard.

Ramsey will speak about Seattle during the Great Depression — sharing stories beyond his book. He explores how the city faced economic collapse, political upheaval, and radical new ideas, highlighting the leaders, labor battles, and unlikely characters that shaped Seattle in the 1930s.

For more information on the Rotary Club of Mercer Island, visit http://mirotary.org