Kitchen Packs Donated to BridgingShakopee Rotary Club created 50 kitchen packs for Bridging, which contain basics for cooking including spatulas, towels, oven mitts, pizza cutter and more! We heard from Joel Bissner, Community Engagement Coordinator for Bridging about the impact they have on families. District Governor Jewelie Grape joined us in this service project.      |
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Shakopee Rotary Club Auction Held |
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Shakopee Rotary Club Donates to Polio PlusOn August 22, Shakopee Rotary club presented Tim Mulcrone a BIG Check for $2000 to help eradicate Polio. Rotary has been working to eradicate polio for more than 35 years, and the goal of ridding the world of this disease is closer than ever.  |
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Shakopee Rotary Club Says Hello and Goodbye to Exchange Students for 2023-24 School Year!Shakopee Rotary Club has welcomed inbound Exchange Student Kanon, who arrived from Japan on Thursday, August 17. She will be staying with a host family in Shakopee and will be attending Shakopee Public Schools for the 2023-24 school year!   Shakopee Rotary Club also sent off Exchange Student Maia to Chile on Friday, August 18. She will be staying with host families in Chile for the 2023-24 school year.  |
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Shakopee Rotary Helps North Karati Primary School in Naivasha, KenyaShakopee Rotary wrote and submitted a Global Grant to build a water harvesting system in at North Karati Primary School, outside Naivasha, Kenya. In cooperation with Kikuyu Rotary (Naivasha) and with funds donated by partner District Rotary Clubs, the grant was submitted to District 5950 and Rotary International for matching funds to support the construction. Seed money of $15,000 donated by Shakopee Rotary and partner Rotary clubs was matched by District 5950 Designated Funds and Rotary International World Fund. With matching funds, the total funding for the project is $89,000. The new 200,000-liter tank water harvesting system will enable the primary school, sister high school, and the surrounding community to get clean drinking water from a public water kiosk.
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Shakopee Celebrates Reading!Each year Shakopee Rotary Club celebrates reading! Every 1st grade student in all of the public and private schools receive a book along with a bag filled with gifts items donated by community organizations and local businesses. Books were specifically chosen by the students. It is heartwarming to see the enthusiasm generated when they receive their bags filled with all the goodies. Thank you Shakopee Community for helping our Rotary make this a successful event again this year!
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Living Hope School Accepts DonationMr. Brohn, principal of Living Hope School, was presented a donation of $1152 from Shakopee Rotary Club to purchase playground equipment to keep the students active while outside.
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Shakopee Rotary Receives Global Grant FundingShakopee Rotary Club is pleased to announce that we have received a Global Grant for Light of Hope Water Project in Nakuru, Kenya. Light of Hope children's home Naivasha is located in Nakuru, Kenya. Light of Hope provides boarding school that seeks to equip orphaned girls and financially challenged girls with basic life skills while still giving them a home. The grant supports an underground water tank to harvest rain water in a 200,000 liter tank that would help the children's home and school in meeting clean water needs. A special thank you to Libby Bergen for over 2 years of work on this grant! The grant was for $89,000 and construction will begin in the next 2 months.  |
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Shakopee Celebrates Reading It is that time of year again for the "SHAKOPEE CELEBRATES READING" event when the Shakopee Rotary Club prepares to hand out a brand new book and backpacks to every first grade child in Shakopee Public and Private schools. This is a wonderful event and is always a much loved and well received program by all involved from our community. This year we are looking to accumulate enough items to fill 600 backpacks. Items with your organization name, logo and/or contact information are welcome and can include things like pencils, erasers, bookmarks, stickers, bracelets, notepads, etc. Food and candy are not accepted. We need these items no later than April 30. Please plan your orders to allow enough time to get them to us. We are happy to arrange for someone to come and pick up the items from your business or they can be dropped off at the Chamber of Commerce offices c/o Tim Zunker as well. This is really a great way for companies and organizations to reach 600 households and to give back to their community at the same time. A "win win" for all! Any questions please feel free to email Shakopee Rotary Club organizer, Sheila McNeill at sheilamcneill.mn@gmail.com Thank you for your consideration and help in this worthwhile endeavor. |
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Shakopee Rotarians Donate to Hope for the HolidaysThe Shakopee Rotarians were very generous with toys, gifts for teens, and gift cards for gas/groceries for parents. The CAP Agency was very appreciative of the gifts from the Shakopee Rotary Club, which will be given to persons in the community who are experiencing financial hardship.   |
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District 5950 Governor VisitWe had Rotary District 5950 Governor Lloyd Campbell and former District Governor Tom Gump at our November 29 meeting. We discussed Rotary and how taking action creates lasting change in our communities and around the world. Mr. Campbell also lead a discussion on potential areas of improvement for Rotary.   |
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November 1 Club Auction was a SuccessOn November 1 Shakopee Rotary held the Club Auction. It was hosted by longtime member Lee Hennen and former member Jim Cook, who was a Shakopee Rotarian for over 40 years! The auction brought in $1300 to support the Shakopee Rotary shelter at Memorial Park. Thank you to all the donors and bidders. A special thank you to Jim Cook for returning to Shakopee to help with the auction, he received a very *thank you* gift!    .  |
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Shakopee Rotary donates to Scott County Sheriff DepartmentShakopee Rotary donated $1500 to support the purchase of infant car seats. Luke Hennen was very happy to accept the "big check".
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The Auction is Coming!Our Rotary Auction is Tuesday, November 1 at our regularly scheduled meeting. The auction will raise money for special projects, this year the proceeds will cover the cost of rebuilding and refreshing the Rotary Rest Stop Map/structure in Memorial Park.
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2022 W. Adair Muralt Service Award Recipient is Art QuinnShakopee Rotary Club is pleased to announce that Honorary Shakopee Rotarian Art Quinn was selected as recipient of the 2022 W. Adair Muralt Service Award. Art was a valued member of Shakopee Rotary for 32 years. He was Club President 1997-98 and served as Chair of the club's Rotary Foundation commitment for many years. Art received the award at Stonebrooke Country Club on Sept. 20. Rotarian Joe Schmidt was the emcee of the event. Tim Whitcomb talked about the Foundation and Erin Quinn spoke about projects the Foundation has funded and the impact of those donations. Tammy Laurent talked about The Million Dollar Dinner. Gary Laurent presented Art with the award. Congratulations Art! Service before self!     |
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Ukraine Youth Visit ValleyfairOn Saturday, Aug. 27 Shakopee Rotary partnered with ValleyFair (thanks to rotary member and Valleyfair general manager Raul Rehnborg) to help welcome these youth from Ukraine and chaperones. Rotary provided free meal tickets for all, and Raul and his staff provided the park entrance tickets. These youth range in age from 13-18 years of age and are from all parts of their home country. They are visiting Minnesota for 5 weeks on a cultural and leadership tour. Here is the link to learn more about them https://www.globalsynergygroup.org/youth-leadership    |
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Welcome to New Teachers at Shakopee Public SchoolsShakopee Rotary helped to welcome over 100 new teachers to Shakopee Public Schools! Libby Bergen shared the mission of Rotary, and Kathy Busch let the new teachers know about grant opportunities with SEEF. A warm welcome to all the new staff!    |
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Eagle Club ProjectShakopee Rotary Club made a donation to Braden Burger's Eagle Project to create a Gaga Ball Pit at Sun Path Elementary. The students will be very excited to return to school and see this!   |
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New Member WelcomeOn June 14 we welcomed new Rotary member Rob Whitcomb! Stephen Huber did the induction. Congratulations Rob!  |
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Meet the New Board Members for 2022-23Tim Whitcomb inducted our new Board for the fiscal year 2022-23 which began July 1. Libby Bergen will be our president again this year, President Elect and International Committee Chair - Kathy Busch, Treasurer - Miles Lahr, Youth Programs Committee Chair - Sheila McNeill. Not pictured: Secretary - Holly Halloran, Membership Chair - Stephen Huber, Public Relations/Social Media Chair - Lisa Rahn. Thank you to all our volunteers who have taken on these leadership positions for this upcoming year.  |
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Master Falconer Ben Ohlander PresentsMaster Falconer, and former Rotary member Ben Ohlander brought his Siberian hawk to our July 12 meeting.
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Little Chicago Speakeasy & Casino NightFriends of Shakopee Rotary, we regret to inform you that due to COVID-19, our Little Chicago Speakeasy and Casino night has been canceled for 2020. Plans are being made for ticket refunds. Thank you for your continued support of Shakopee Rotary. |
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Little Chicago Speakeasy and CasinoRegister today for Shakopee Rotary's Little Chicago Speakeasy and Casino on Saturday March 21 from 7 pm to 11 pm at Canterbury Park/Mezzanine Level. Take a trip back in time to the roaring 20's, when the Gin was cold and the Jazz was hot. Put on your fringe, feathers and fedoras, 1920's and 1930's style. Your ticket includes dinner buffet, $1500 in casino chips, photo booth, music by Jeff Carver, cash bar, silent auction and prizes. Buy your tickets from a Rotary member or at https://littlechicagoshakopee.eventbrite.com  |
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Shakopee Rotary Donates A1C Diabetes Machine to River Valley Health ServicesThe Shakopee Rotary Club recently donated $1000 for the purchase of an A1C Diabetes test machine and supplies for use by River Valley Health Services. River Valley Health Services is dedicated to promoting community wellness through serving vulnerable individuals and ensuring access to health resources in our community. The Shakopee Rotary Club is excited to help River Valley Health Services.  |
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Loaves & Fishes - October 2019It was another great night at Loaves & Fishes on October 29th, 2019 with our crew! The first group prepared the food and the second group served and cleaned up. What a great organization and opportunity to give back to our community directly. We always enjoy the people and our time there. http://www.loavesandfishesmn.org/index.html .jpg) |
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In Search of Host Families for 2019/2020 Youth Exchange StudentThe Shakopee Rotary is looking for three families to host our next Youth Exchange Student for the 2019/2020 school year. Each family will host the student for around 3.5 months, before he then transitions to the next family. This year's student is a 17 year old male from Italy. He will arrive in mid-August 2019 and attend the Shakopee High School. Please contact a current Shakopee Rotarian for more information, or click on the "Contact Us" button on the Home Page.
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Shakopee Celebrates Reading 2019 a Success!Our club's annual Shakopee Celebrates Reading event was another fun and successful one!
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Bridging 2019 - Saturday, April 27th
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Shakopee Rotarian Jack Cole
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Speakeasy & Casino Night Schedule of EventsThe Shakopee Rotary is looking forward to hosting our 2nd large fundraising event! Here is what you can expect on the 23rd.  |
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Shakopee Rotary's 2nd Annual Speakeasy & Casino Night.jpg) The planning for our 2nd Speakeasy & Casino Night is underway! Canterbury Park's Mezzanine level is the place to be, on March 23, 2019, in your 1920's and 1930's attire. Our first event in 2018 was amazing and almost 400 guests attended! You won't want to miss this year. Take a peak at this flier for more event details! This year we will have the Twin Cities Jazz Cats to entertain you as well, so wear your dancing shoes! Tickets can be purchased online or in person from a Shakopee Rotarian. All proceeds will again be used for the various projects the Shakopee Rotary is involved in throughout the year. The projects and donation requests we receive, are all within our community and the surrounding area.We appreciate you helping us, help our community! Service above self! Thank you to our event sponsors!  |
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Rotary Youth ExchangeAt our Tuesday meeting, September 16, 2018, we had the privilege of hearing from our current Youth Exchange Student, Juul Wallraf. He shared with us a little about himself and where he is from in Belgium. We are looking forward to having him here for the school year and the opportunity to share our traditions and fun, Minnesota experiences with him. Thank you to the three families who will be hosting him this 2018/2019 school year. During that meeting, we also got to hear from Carl Mattfeld, the German exchange student who was in Shakopee during the 2004-2005 school year. Carl now lives and works in New York, for a thriving young company, and enjoys being a part of the United States culture, while still keeping his citizenship in Germany. Carl shared how much the Rotary Youth Exchange Program made a difference in his life. He is grateful for the experience. So much so, that he donated $500 to the Rotary Foundation! We are also appreciative of him and the difference he is making both locally and internationally.
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Loaves & Fishes - August 2018It was another great night at Loaves & Fishes on August 7th, 2018, with our crew! The first group prepared the food and the second group served and cleaned up. What a great organization and opportunity to give back to our community directly. We always enjoy the people and our time there. http://www.loavesandfishesmn.org/index.html   |
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2nd Annual Summer PicnicOur 2nd annual, summer family picnic was a success on Tuesday, August 21, 2018! It was a beautiful night to play games, make balloon creatures, get your caricature done and have root beer floats. Thanks to Libby Bergen, Deb Erickson and their able assistants for planning such a fun event! .jpg) |
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BridgingThe Shakopee Rotary is preparing to sponsor it's 20th year of the Bridging Project. This will be done the same day as the Shakopee Clean Up Day, April 28, 2018, from 7:30 am to 12:00 pm. Take a look at this list to see what is needed and can be donated from your homes. You can either deliver your items to the Shakopee Public Works building, the day of the event, or contact Tim Whitcomb at 952-445-6170, to set up a free pick up on the day of the event. https://www.bridging.org/  |
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Bridging 2018 Please start collecting items for our 20th year collecting slightly used items to help our neighbors. |
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Prospective New Member Open HousePlease plan on joining us on October 12th for an informal/social Prospective New Members Open House at Stonebrooke ! We will have a short presentation at 5:15 about our club, and hear some testimonials. October 12th 4:30-6:00 pm Stonebrooke Golf Club • 2693 County Road 79 Tel: (952) 496-3171 ** Free drink ticket for all prospective members
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Monday to Everyone,
It sure was a great surprise to see the story posted by Sheila McNeill about our President Elect Barb Danielson and Club Secretary Chuck Berg. Their willingness to step into a leadership role with our Club is a sure sign that we are a strong, positive and evolving Rotary Club. It assures each one of us that the Shakopee Rotary Club is in fantastic shape going forward in being the best we can be. Huge thanks go out to both of them (and Tammy as co-Secretary) for their time and commitment to our Club.
After shaking off the winter cobwebs and really seeing the snow yesterday, it let's us all know that winter may stick around for a bit. Yesterday as the snow was coming down pretty heavy, I mentioned to Darcy how beautiful this March snow is. She rolled her eyes and indicated she wasn't quite as excited as I was....I grabbed the shovel and headed outside...
This week's meeting has something a little different in store. Bill Nevin will be our Song Master and Fine Master. Another sure sign that St. Patrick's Day in on Friday. We also we feature the induction of our newest member, Kevin Bonney. Please plan on attending to welcome Kevin into the Club.
Our presenter tomorrow will be Mike Berde with the Jewish Community Relations Council. He will talk about the struggle for peace in the Mid-East. It will be very interesting , so plan on attending and making Mike feel welcomed.
Tomorrow's Meeting:
Song Master - Bill Nevin
Fine aster - Bill Nevin
Greeter's Table- Barb Brekke, Jeff Tate and Joe Vaughan
Have a great rest of the day and I will see everyone tomorrow. As always, please let me know if you have any questions or comments.
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Monday Fellow Rotarians,
I am back in the office today after a week in DC. It is a city I love to visit, but after one week it is good to be back in MN. There were scheduled visits with Rep. Lewis, Rep. Emmer and Rep. McCollum. I was to meet with Sen. Klobuchar and Sen. Franken. I also had some time to spend outside of the political arena. I'll tell a story or two at tomorrow's meeting. Big thanks go to our President Elect Barb Danielson for, once again, filling in for me.
This week our luncheon speaker will be Tom Goetzinger, the General Manager and morning personality for radio station KCHK. Please plan on attending and making Tom feel welcomed by our Club. I am sure it will be an interesting presentation.
Tomorrow's Meeting:
Song Master - Libby Bergen
Fine Master - Chuck Berg
Greeter's Table - Barb Brekke, Jeff Tate and Joe Vaughan
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Morning Everyone,
Nice stretch of February weather that is starting today...sunny and 60 today. I want to let everyone know there has been a change to the program next Tuesday. We will not be having a Club Assembly. Instead we will have a Past President of our Club, Yvonne Anderson joining us. Yvonne will speak on what's new with St. Gertrude's and the Saints Foundation. Please plan on attending and making her feel welcomed as she comes back to our Club. Yvonne is currently a member of the Prior Lake Club.
Next Meeting:
Song Master - Jon McBroom
Fine Master - Tim Whitcomb
Greeter's Table - Kathy Klehr, Tony Spagnolo and Charlie Sunder
Enjoy the great weather this weekend and President's day on Monday.
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Monday Afternoon,
Sunny, warm day for February. I think we are all OK with an early Spring. But, thinking that way typically means cold snowy weather is in our future...Once again, thanks this week goes to President Elect Barb Danielson for finishing the meeting in my absence. If all goes right, I will be able to stay for the entire meeting tomorrow. All kidding aside...I do consider my recent inability to attend entire meetings to be a concern with my membership. I apologize.
It was with great pleasure and privilege to induct our newest member Marilyn Tech to our Club last week. Please let her know how important her membership is to our Rotary Community. Our presenter last week, Vickie Martin, did a great job of informing our Club about the local Toastmaster's Group. Thanks to Barb Brekke for setting that up.
Tomorrow's meeting will have a past member of our Rotary Club speaking to us. Angie Whitcomb was a long standing member of the Shakopee Rotary Club and is the Executive Director of the Shakopee Chamber of Commerce/Visitor's Bureau. She will talk about current initiatives and news from the Shakopee business community. It should be very interesting with all the growth we are noticing in town. Please plan on attending and welcoming our friend and former Club member.
This week's Meeting:
Song Master - Gary Martini
Fine Master - Michele Dahl
Greeter's Table - Charlie Sunder, Kathy Klehr and Tony Spagnolo
Remember that tomorrow is Valentine's Day, remember that our motto is "Service above Self" and remember that everyone of our Club members makes a difference. Stand tall and always be proud to be a Rotarian. See you tomorrow.
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Morning Rotarians,
I hope everyone had a great weekend. We headed north and were surprised by the amount of snow. There was a least 2 feet on the ground at our place so there was lots of plowing and shoveling, which makes for a sore back...
Sorry that I had to leave a little early on Tuesday. I heard that Kay King had a great presentation about a very important topic. I am sure everyone took away some valuable information. Thanks Kathy for wrapping up the meeting for me.
Tomorrow, I again have to leave a bit early due to meetings in Minneapolis at 130p. We are still not sure about the speaker, but am sure it will be interesting. Please plan on attending.
Tomorrow's Meeting:
Song Master - Jason Marschall
Fine Master - Barb Danielson
Greeter's Table - Joe Schmidt, Ron Smith and Bill Reynolds
Have Great Monday and be sure to give a big smile to someone who needs a pick up.
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Morning Everyone,
Yesterday was a great day to be a Rotarian. It was the District 5950 Mid-Term Conference. I was joined by Barb Danielson and Chuck Berg. Barb was able to attend the Pre-President Elect training and Chuck and I attended the different District kiosks. Tons of fellowship and way too much food. Our District, our Club and our members continue to be outstanding. It is so easy to talk to others about the great things the Shakopee Club accomplishes...but there is always room to evolve and grow.
Thanks Barb for filling in for me again as I continue to be obligated by the new SPU Power Plant. It is Sunday and I am at work again, as we were able to run the new plant at full capacity for the first time and just 10 months after the construction of the site began.
This week will welcome Kay King, the older adult program coordinator and community educator for the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) for Minnesota. Please plan on attending the luncheon meeting to learn about a very important issue that faces each one of us, in some way, either directly or indirectly. Let's make Kay feel welcomed by our Club.
Next Week's Meeting:
Song Master - Tammy Laurent
Fine Master - John Crooks
Here's to all of you having a great rest of the weekend and I will see all of you on Tuesday.
Regards,
John
Greeter's table - Joe Schmidt, Bill Reynolds and Ron Smith
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President's Weekly MessageGood Thursday Afternoon to Everyone,
The weekly message guy is back...South Africa is a wonderful place. I'm back, but not for long as I am meeting my other brother in Las Vegas tomorrow morning for the football playoffs. I will be back for the meeting on Tuesday. Thanks to our President Elect Barb Danielson for filling in and practicing the Presidential duties while I was away. The Club has quite a leader in Barb...she takes the helm in just a few months and will do a fantastic job. I know it.
This coming week, we will be honored to host our District Governor Mark Hegstrom. I have met with Mark a few times and he is very easy to like...he has a big personality. Please plan on attending to hear our District Governor. It is important that we show him our Club is strong, growing and ready for the future. I am sure you will be glad that you attend and hear about the future of our District 5950. While you are at it...bring a friend or a potential member.
We will also be inducting our newest Shakopee Rotary member at the meeting, Scott County Sheriff Luke Hennen. Please make Luke feel welcomed.
Next Meeting:
Song Master - the wonderful Kathy Klehr
Fine Master - the ever unfunny John Crooks
Greeter's table ; Doug Scheif, Bill Nevin and Rick Meyer
Once again, please plan on attending our luncheon meeting on Tuesday January 17 at Dangerfield's.
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy New Year to All of You,
It is the last workday of 2016, with New Year's Eve being tomorrow. Has everyone been thinking about their resolutions? How about having one for our Club...Let me know and we can incorporate it into a Club objective for 2017.
I encourage all Rotarians in District 5950, to take a few minutes and respond to an important survey about our Rotary Clubs. It provides very useful information to the District and will surely assist next year's Club Presidents to be great at their jobs. Just go to the District website or use this link:
Barb Danielson, our President Elect will be manning the helm for the next 2 weeks while I am in Africa. Our Speaker for Tuesday will be Kurt Keiser. Kurt is with the River Valley Running Store in Shakopee. I really would like to attend ,as many of you know that I run quite a bit and typically put in 15-20 miles a week. I am not too sure about running in Africa...lions run faster than I can. Please plan on attending the 12:00 Luncheon meeting at Dangerfield's and making Kurt feel welcomed.
Next Meeting:
Song Master - Greg Hoehn
Fine Master - Gary Martini
Greeter's table - Bill Nevin, Doug Schleif and Rick Meyer
Here's to hoping that every one of you, your families and friends...and the Shakopee Rotary Club has a great beginning to 2017.
Regards,
John
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CLUB SECRETARY NEEDEDGood Monday Morning to Everyone,
I have a big request from our membership. It is one that is important to the future of our Club. Both myself and President Elect Barb Danielson are having difficulty in recruiting a Club Secretary. Several of you have been approached and have declined the opportunity to help our Club grow and prosper. We are half way through our 2016-2017 year and it is becoming extremely important to have this position filled. Barb will be stepping into the President's role July 1 and it is the time for her to begin the transition to being our next leader.
Please, please consider accepting a leadership role with our Club. I know you will be happy if you did. Please let me know if I can send you our official Shakopee Rotary Secretary Job Description for you to review. Remember it is not a sacrifice to step up, but a wonderful opportunity and privilege to play a larger role in the best service organization in the world.
If anyone would like to meet and discuss this opportunity, please let me know and I will make myself available. Please give it a bit of thought...
Thanks,
John
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Merry Christmas and Happy HolidaysGood Morning,
Well, lets hope everyone has all their shopping done and that all of you Rotarians have a tremendous weekend with Family and Friends. I wish every single one of you a wonderful Christmas from Darcy and myself.
Remember to spread joy, hope and love all year long and especially the next few days.
Just a reminder...there is NO meeting next week.
Regards,
John
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For the December 20th MeetingFor the Meeting:
Song Master - Jody Herrmann
Fine Master - Barb Danielson
Greeter's Table - Jason Marschall, Ernest Kaehler and Kevin O'Brien
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Friday Afternoon,
I am in the office looking out the window and wondering when the winter storm will arrive. It sure looks like it could begin at any moment. Being a "snow lover" it is never enough, but this -20 below stuff is another matter. I hope every one has most of their Holiday shopping finished so they don't have to venture out this weekend. Well guess what...I have not even started yet, so you know what I am going to be doing tomorrow.
Last night was an absolutely wonderful Rotary Holiday Party at the McNeill's. Great food, cold drinks and fantastic people. The highlight was when Cherynn received her Shakopee High School jacket. It was pretty evident that she really, really liked it. Thanks to everyone who was able to attend and especially Sheila and Mark for inviting us to their beautiful home.
It has been a long time since we have had a luncheon meeting, but one is planned for next Tuesday, December 20th. Our Speaker will be Dr. Ilo Leppick from the University of Minnesota, who will educate us on medical cannabis and its impact on patients using this new type of treatment. Let's all plan on attending and welcoming our speaker to our Club....and no, there will not be samples available.
Stay warm and be careful shoveling snow this weekend. See you Tuesday,
John
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McNeill's Holiday Party - THURSDAYGood Frosty Morning,
Remember when the weekly messages talked about perfect weather...well, at least the sun is shining. But seriously, the snow this past weekend was sooo Christmassy and even more is forecast for Friday.
Thursday night, December 15, is the McNeill's annual Rotary Holiday Party. It is wonderfully hosted by Sheila and Mark in their beautiful home in the Wilds. There will be lots of fun, food and even a cocktail or two. There are already 40 people attending and if you have not yet signed up to attend, please let Sheila know.
BRING - an appetizer and $10/person to cover the cost of the drinks and food.
The party is from 6:30pm until 10:00pm
Their address is 15264 Fairway Heights Road NW in Prior Lake
See you Thursday at the McNeill's,
John
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ROTARY/CAP AGENCY SOCIAL TONIGHTGood Morning Everyone,
Tonight is the night. We are having the CAP Agency Toy/Gift Card Drive at Stonebrooke at 5pm tonight.
Just a reminder, we are asking for a $15/person donation and that all attendees bring an unwrapped toy or gift cards for the CAP Agency "Hope For The Holidays" program.
Your $15 will include one drink ticket and appetizers. Please plan on attending. So far we have about 40 people signed up...If you have not, please let me know.
See you all tonight,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Friday Afternoon,
Its December already and tonight I head to the first of many Holiday gatherings. I am also starting to think there should be a bit of snow on the ground as many have their lights up and Christmas trees set in their home...no, I have not done any decorating yet...
At our last Breakfast meeting (for awhile) we had the pleasure of listening to Tracy Beltz, Warden for the Women's Correction Facility. Her passion for her position and the work that goes into such a facility is amazing. Lots of stories and lots of issues with the state of corrections in MN.
NO MEETING TUESDAY. The meeting is THURSDAY DECEMBER 8th at Stonebrooke, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. It is our "almost" annual toy and gift card drive for the Dakota, Scott and Carver County CAP Agency. The Club is asking for a $15/person , which includes a drink ticket and appetizers. Also plan on bringing an unwrapped gift, toy or a gift card...gift cards from Cub, Target and Walmart are really appreciated. Joe Vaughan will talk a little about the Agency and all they do in Shakopee and surrounding communities. please plan on attending; so far we have about 40 attendees. PLEASE, let me or Barb Danielson know if you are attending so we may order the proper amount of food. See Ya' Thursday.
Have great weekends and try to include a couple of nice gestures to others while you are at it...
Regards,
John
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ROTARY/CAP AGENCY HOLIDAY SOCIAL - DEC 8Good Afternoon Everyone,
For those not able to attend the Breakfast Meetings, I wanted to remind you of our next meeting being held at Stonebrooke Golf Club on THURSDAY, December 8 at 500pm-7pm. So far we have 30 people signed up to attend this wonderful event. Please feel free to invite others, family, friends and potential new members, but we need a reasonable headcount.
ROTARY/CAP AGENCY HOLIDAY SOCIAL "HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS" STONEBROOKE GOLF CLUB THURSDAY DECEMBER 8, 2016 5:00pm TO 7:00pm $15/Person
We will be collecting unwrapped toys and gift cards for those less fortunate this coming holiday. The Scott/Dakota CAP Agency is led by our own Rotary member Joe Vaughan as their Executive Director. Joe will be joining us and speaking on all that the CAP does for Shakopee and surrounding communities.
We are asking for a suggested donation of $15/person at the door, which includes one free drink ticket and Stonebrooke's delicious appetizers. This in addition to bringing a toy or gift card. Please join us in fellowship as we contribute to a better Christmas holiday for others, right here in Shakopee. Any profits from this event will also be given to the CAP Agency. Let's have a great turnout and put a smile on others this season.
Please let me or Barb Danielson know if you are attending, if you have not on the "sign-up" sheet. We need to order the right amount of food...Thanks
See you next Thursday at Stonebrooke,
John
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Poinsettia Pick UpGood Morning,
Jeff Tate has sent me a list of those that may pick up their poinsettias today at the Police Station. The list is as follows:
Tony Spagnolo
Rose Hullett
Joe Schmidt
Jody Herrmann
Barb Danielson
Lee Hennen
Please let me know if you have any questions.
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Monday Morning to Everyone,
Here's a big shout out to everyone that started a diet today from all the food that was eaten over Thanksgiving. I include myself with that group. Besides the feasts, the Holiday was all about family, friends and the many reasons we have to be thankful for all that we have been blessed with. I know everyone of you reflected on your families and smiled with all that we have. This is a great time to remember that service above self is why we are Rotarians. We have lots of opportunities to be just that in the coming days and weeks.
Tomorrow morning is out last Breakfast meeting for awhile as we assess both breakfast and lunch meetings. Tomorrow is also Loaves and Fishes at St. Mark's. If you have signed up, please remember your shifts. Lorri is sending a reminder this afternoon. Next week in place of our regular Tuesday meeting, our Club is having a 5:00pm Social at Stonebrooke on Thursday December 8, as a fundraiser for the CAP Agency. We are calling it "Hope for the Holidays". Please plan on attending and bring a new toy (unwrapped) or gift cards for the older kids and young adults. I will be bringing more information to the meeting tomorrow morning. As a reminder, we are asking for a $15 donation, which includes a drink ticket and appetizers. Any profits from the event will also be sent to the CAP Agency.
A couple things about last weeks Club Assembly...Thanks for the great presentation on Membership...and it all goes to Deb Erickson. The New Member Social will be January 26th at Stonebrooke. Please help our Club meet our goal of adding 10 new members. Our Club has so much to offer.
The Club will also be following up on having every member be on at least one Committee by the first meeting in January. If you are not currently on a Committee please volunteer, before you are volun-told.
As all of you know, our Secretary position is OPEN. Please, please consider being an important part of our Club decision making for the future and begin the process of stepping into a leadership position. Our Club requires that members become part of our team so that we evolve into the best we all can be as Rotarians. I was tentative when I accepted the invitation to be Secretary and I do not regret for one minute the time spent advancing our Club. Think about it and "step up"
Tomorrow morning at 7:00am our speaker will be the Warden of the Shakopee Women's Correctional Facility, Tracl Beltz. Please plan on attending, have some breakfast, spend time with great people and listen to Tracy's fascinating story. Let's make her feel welcomed by our Club.
Tomorrow's Meeting:
Song Master - Lee Hennen
Fine Master - John Bezek
Greeter's Table - Sheila McNeill, Rose Hullett and Jon McBroom
Let's enjoy the rest of our Monday and meet tomorrow for a great breakfast meeting at Dangerfield's.
Regards,
John
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All Inclusive Playground - Rotary Music ParkHappy Friday,
Chuck Berg and myself had the privilege to meet Parks and Recreation Director Jamie Polly at the new All Inclusive Playground yesterday. The reason was to view the installation of our Shakopee Rotary Music. The planning for the Park has been around for several years and was first anticipated to be with the Huber park development. It then shifted to being part of the All Inclusive Playground, with detailed planning beginning early summer.
Great news!! The music portion is complete. The music "pieces" are fantastic. Ask Chuck...I played with them yesterday with the smile of a kid on my face. The City, Jamie Polley, Councilor Mike Luce have all shared that this was a perfect marriage to have the "music park" meld with the Playground. We should be very proud that our Club had the foresight to see something like this would be an asset to any playground in town, but as a part of the All Inclusive Playground was a perfect fit. Thanks to Chuck and all the Club members who supported this idea over time.
It sure is a pleasure to be part of this amazing group of Rotarians. There will be an official "Grand Opening" in the Spring and it would be fantastic to have our entire Club be present. More details to come...along with the proposed Rotary signage.
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Afternoon Everyone,
It goes without saying...but I will say it anyway, the weather right now is quite a change from the last several weeks. I am not really ready for it, even though I love winter. I'll pull out some sweaters, stoke the fireplace tonight and things will all be lovely.
Our Senior Appreciation Luncheon was a huge success. We had 35 senior guests attending. Turtle's did a great job with setting the room up and providing great food. Loren Wolf was excellent as always and as he usually does, had us all singing along with smiles on out faces. This event is something that should happen annually. Big thanks to Lee and Libby for the logistics. Huge thanks to Linda for the beautiful and delicious cookies. Thanks also goes to everyone who attended and the guests they brought to share in a great meal, fellowship and singing. Also need to thank Rick and St. Gertrudes for bringing several guests to the luncheon. What a great event...I know it made me very proud of our Club.
This coming Tuesday, November 22, we are having another Breakfast meeting at Dangerfield's at 7:00am. Please adjust your schedules to attend, have breakfast together and join in our Club Assembly. We are going to concentrate on the growth of our Club. Growth of membership, growth of our Committees and growth of our Board. Please attend and share your thoughts on this great Club of ours.
Next Meeting:
Song Master - Lorri Helkamp
Fine Master - John Crooks
Greeter's Table - Sheila McNeill, Rose Hullett and Jon McBroom
As the snow continues to fall, I will wrap things up...Have great weekends and always remember "life is short, do something good for others"
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Morning to our Club Members, Families and Friends,
It will be a quick message today as we are heading to Canterbury in a bit for our fundraiser at the Fall Craft Show. We have 7 people signed up and that translates into $70/hr for our Club. Please consider participating when our next Canterbury opportunity takes place. I have to say it...nothing but blue sky outside and a high of 63 today and yes it is November 10. Tomorrow is Veteran's Day. Take some time to thank those who have served our armed forces and those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom we all have today.
Great presentation at breakfast Tuesday morning form Stephanie Smith with the Southern Valley Alliance for Battered Women. After the presentation, I spent some time contemplating what our Club can do and Lee Hennen had a great idea for a Bathroom Tissue Drive. I think it sounds better than toilet paper...Lee's idea was to "wipe out violence against women". I will leave it at that.
For our second breakfast meeting our numbers were down a bit on Tuesday and maybe the Election day had people busy. Breakfast meetings will take place on November 22 and 29.
Remember our meeting next week is at Turtles Social Club at 12:00pm. It is our Senior's Appreciation Luncheon. What a great way to celebrate our most experienced and tenured members of our community. It will surely be a fun time with great food, fellowship and entertainment, not to mention Linda Plum's cookies. If you have not yet signed up, please contact Lee Hennen directly so that we can have an accurate head count. We will have a Greeter's table and no Fine Master. Please join us for a wonderful event and plan on putting smiles on everyone's faces.
Off to Canterbury...
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Friday Afternoon,
What a day! What a weekend we have in store! It doesn't get too much better than this. The Cubs winning the World Series...I could go on and on and most of you know that I could, but I will cut myself off.
Breakfast was a pretty good success this week. Everyone was smiling and I did not even notice a yawn. Please join us for the second 700am Breakfast meeting on Tuesday at Dangerfield's. I will make sure that we do not run out of coffee.
Lots of events are on the horizon. Next Thursday is our Canterbury Fundraiser. Please adjust your schedules to pitch in and work the concession areas as we raise funds for our operations budget. So far we have only 7 people signed up and we can add 5 more. I will bring the sign up sheet on Tuesday morning. On November 15th we have our Senior's Appreciation Luncheon at Turtles Social Club. On Thursday Dec 8th, we have our "almost" annual CAP Agency Toy and Gift cCard Drive at Stonebrooke. The following Thursday, December 15th is the Annual McNeills Holiday Party. Wow, lots happening!
Our Club has worked hard in setting up these 4 events, so please plan on making each one a success...it's what we do as Rotarians.
I was able to attend the St Louis Park and Chaska meetings this week and welcomed Jennifer Jones to the area. Great turnouts, but I have to be honest, it was only myself and Tammy that were able to attend. I think we need to support area Clubs more than we do...enough said.
Our next meeting will welcome Stephanie Smith with the Southern Valley Alliance for Battered Women. Please attend to make Stephanie welcomed by our Club and have a great breakfast. Remember we meet at 700am at Dangerfield's.
Next Meeting -
Song Master - Joe Helkamp
Fine Master - Jon McBroom
Greeter's Table - Linda Plum, Kathy Klehr and Tammy Laurent
Here's to everyone having great weekends and spending time with family and friends...its so important. We are Rotarians, we are difference makers, we serve when others do not and our Club's ability to add to the quality of life to others is the most important thing we can do. Never forget the impact that Rotary has had in our lifetimes, it is what we do. Be proud to be a part of this extraordinary group of people.
Please join us for Breakfast and look at your schedules to attend the fantastic events our Club has planned over the next several weeks.
John
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Breakfast Meeting TomorrowHappy Lunch Hour Everybody,
Tomorrow begins our Club's toe-dip into early meetings. At Dangerfield's...at 700am.
Please attend and enjoy a wonderful breakfast with your fellow Club members. Hopefully we can be joined by others who may think an early meeting would work better with their schedule. We won't know unless we try. Remember the November meetings...they are as follows:
November 1 - Breakfast meeting at Dangerfield's at 7:00am
November 8 - Breakfast meeting at Dangerfield's at 7:00am
November 15 - Senior Appreciation Luncheon at Turtles Social Room at 12:00pm
November 22 - Breakfast meeting at Dangerfield's at 7:00am
November 29 - Breakfast meeting at Dangerfield's at 7:00am
See everyone bright and early. I am looking forward to seeing a "full house"
John
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Breakfast Meetings - President's Weekly MessageGood Friday Afternoon,
It may not be sunny out, but the temperature of 70 is a gift this time of year. Is everybody ready for Halloween? In our neighborhood we still get well over 100 kids Trick or Treating. It is a blast seeing the little ones dressed up and their smiles as I pass out handfuls of candy. The dogs would disagree, as they never seem to figure out what's happening...from their vantage point in the laundry room. We just take the front door off its hinges which makes it pretty easy with the non-stop Trick or Treating.
This past meeting was packed with members. That is always great to see and it sure made Kelsey, our speaker, have a great impression of our Club. I hope everyone learned a little about the new Shakopee Energy Park. The feedback received was all positive. I appreciate her schedule accommodation with just a few days notice.
Our next meeting, November 1, will be our first Breakfast Meeting. Having the meeting at 700am is an inconvenience to some members, but others welcome a early Breakfast Meeting. Please plan on inviting someone whose schedule works well with a Breakfast Meeting. We will give it a try during 4 different November meetings. The early meetings are November 1, 8, 22 and 29. Remember the November 15 meeting is a lunch meeting at Turtles, to celebrate our Senior Citizens.
Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, I am not sure who will be our speaker for Tuesday, but as soon as I find out, I will let everyone know. Please plan on attending our first Breakfast Meeting and provide feedback, as it is always welcome as we continue to look into ways to have our Club become assessable to all potential members. Remember will are going back to luncheon meetings, after we give this a try. And speaking of meetings, we have lots of fun planned for December...more details are coming...
Our First Breakfast Meeting:
Song Master - Bob Greeley
Fine Master - Chuck Berg
Greeter's Table - Linda Plum, Tammy Laurent and Kathy Klehr
Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast...Did I forget to mention our next meeting is at Breakfast Meeting. Breakfast at 700am, meeting starts at 717am and the meeting will end at 815am. As always, please let me know if you have any questions or comments. Be proud to be a Rotarian, we do make a difference each and every day.
Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast....have great weekends and GO Cubs!,
John
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Tomorrow's Presentation - Shakopee Energy ParkGood Afternoon,
Tomorrow's presentation will be on the new Shakopee Energy Park being built at the south end of Canterbury Park. Kelsey Dillon, from Avant Energy, will be making the presentation. Please plan on attending to get the up-to-date news on the unique energy producing facility that is an important part of Shakopee's future energy needs.
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Friday Everyone,
The Fall colors are so nice and the weather this weekend will be perfect. Get outside and enjoy this before "ole man" winter visits. Finally, I am back in town for at least a couple months before more travel. I heard lots of great things about the auction with lots of dollars heading into our operations funds. Thanks Tim for filling in, in my absence. And thanks to Jim and Lee for another successful auction, I wish I could have been there.
We have another opportunity to raise funds at Canterbury. We have volunteered for Thursday November 10, for the first day of the Craft Fair. We can use 15 Rotary volunteers to work several shifts. I will bring the sign up sheet on Tuesday and the different times available to volunteer. Please consider helping out, having fun and raising some money for the Club.
Our next meeting, October 25 was to have our new District Governor Mark Hegstrom visit our Club, but last minute scheduling issues have forced Mark to reschedule into January. Soooo...the meeting will have a surprise in store. Maybe a presentation on the new Shakopee Energy Park or a Club Assembly. I will let you know if speakers can confirm.
Next Meeting:
Song Master - Deb Erickson
Fine Master - John Crooks
Greeter's Table - Kathy Klehr, Tammy Laurent and Linda Plum
Here's to a great weekend for everyone and see you all on Tuesday.
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Friday Everyone,
Quick message this week. My daughter had her wisdom teeth extracted today. Things went well and special thanks to Dr. Dave Eckart for recommending the oral surgeon. She had a great experience, as much as possible for someone having 4 teeth yanked out of their head.
Barb Danielson will lead our meeting on Tuesday. I will be attending a Conference at Cragun's all next week. It will surely a "rough" conference ....on the lake.
Our Speaker will be Billy Wermenskirchen and he will talk about the history of Bill's Toggery. Please plan on attending and make Billy feel welcomed.
Next Meeting:
Song Master - Chuck Berg
Fine Master - Barb Danielson
Greeter's Table - Dave Eckart, Gary Martini and Barb Danielson...if she has a minute...
Here's to wonderful weekends,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Monday Afternoon Club Members, Families and Friends,
Running a bit late for the weekly message...I hope everyone had a great weekend. I was able to visit my brother and his family while they vacationed "up north" and then picked up my 3 kids and headed to Illinois to visit my mother. Lots of driving, but was surely time well spent.
On Wednesday, I was able to attend the City Council meeting in which the Council learned of Shakopee Rotary's commitment to fund the Doc Muralt Music Playground that can now be constructed along side the Fun For All Playground at Lion's Park. Our efforts were warmly received. The Park will begin to be constructed in late Fall.
Jamie Polley, Parks and Recreation Director, will be our speaker tomorrow and will bring us up to date on the many projects the City is working on, as well as plans for the future. Jamie will also talk a little about the playground construction schedule. Please plan on attending to hear all that is taking place.
Also there will an exciting announcement regarding the volunteer effort our Club will be participating with Canterbury Park on Thursday September 15. I will make the announcement tomorrow. Be there or be square...
Next Meeting:
Song Master - Linda Plum
Fine Master - Gary Martini
Greeter's Table - Barb Danielson, Dave Eckart and Gary Martini
Let's all plan on attending our meeting tomorrow. By the way, we all have another chance to enjoy a week of summer fun and excitement in Minnesota so lets all break into a huge smile and take advantage of it
See everybody tomorrow,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Friday,
And what a Friday it is!. Perfect weather leading into another summer weekend. I hope everyone has the opportunity to enjoy it with family and friends. On Sunday, we have been invited to spend the day on Minnetonka and plan on having a wonderful time.
But, first of all, do you have plans to attend the Scott County Fair? Jerry Kucera did a great job of motivating the Club into attending and having each of us revisit a bit of our childhood. Take someone along and patronize a great local event. Jerry and his Scott County Fair Board do a fantastic job of having so many things to do and participate in. Spend a few hours in Jordan at the Fair and I bet you will be glad that you did.
Today Chuck Berg and myself, met with Jamie Polley and Councilor Mike Luce on the planning of the Doc Adair Rotary Music Park that will be built in conjunction with the Fun For All Playground at Lion's Park this Fall. What a perfect opportunity for our Club. I will be attending the City Council meeting next week as the Music Park is introduced to the City of Shakopee. Our Club's support for the project is absolutely phenomenal. As always, I am very proud of us as Rotarians. By the way, Jamie is our speaker at the August 9 meeting and she will fill us in on all the details.
Tuesday's speaker is someone we are all familiar with, Scott County Attorney Ron Hochevar. Ron will talk about the new Scott County Drug Court. I read about this unique program in the Star Tribune and Shakopee Valley News. Please attend to hear it straight from the person who has championed its development.
Next Meeting:
Fine Master - Gary Martini
Song Master - Joe Helkamp
Greeter's Table - Barb Danielson, Dave Eckart and Gary Martini
Please enjoy your weekends and spend time with what is truly important; people that you love. Also, as always, please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Hot Humid Thursday Afternoon,
Just returned from the Post Office and thought my clothes would catch on fire. It is most definitely kinda' warm out there. The Utilities set a record for electric usage yesterday and that number will be surpassed in about 2 more hours. Take care of yourself and drinks lots of water.
Well, after my stint as Fine Master on Tuesday, I was told to go jump in a lake. I am taking them up on the offer and am heading north to do just that in the morning. I may stay in the lake for a bit after I jump in...
I think I should comment on Jim Cook and his rousing stint as Song Master. Maybe I will wait and just watch the video on the Shakopee Rotary Facebook page over and over and over.... Everyone should watch it and provide their comments on what a great, fun time we had trying to follow the directions of Jim and his ever lovely assistant, Barb Danielson. Thanks Jim and Barb.
Mallory Glynn is quite a young woman. We are honored to have sponsored her year in Brazil and what a year it was. With her personality it is easy to see how she was and is such a great ambassador for Rotary and our Shakopee Club. Knowing her since she was young and knowing her parents, I am not surprised at all by her level of maturity that she displays as a wonderful young adult. We wish her the best, but you know what...she has just uncovered the tip of the iceberg as to what her life will behold and knowing Mallory, what a wonderful exciting life she has in front of her.
Next meeting we will have Jerry Kucera fill us in on this year's Scott County Fair. It is great to have the small town feeling at the county fair. When the kids were younger we never missed a year, but it has been 3 years since I have attended. I am looking forward to Jerry's presentation and I hope you are too. Please make him feel welcomed by our Club.
Next Meeting:
Song Master - John Crooks
Fine Master - Bob Greeley
Greeter's Table - Michele Dahl, Jim Cook and John Canny
Here's to hoping everyone stays cool and enjoys the heat that a Texas/Minnesota summer can deliver. Thanks to every person in our Club for doing all you do in making a positive difference in our community and in peoples lives. Keep up the great work and please know how proud I am to be a member of our Shakopee Rotary Club.
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Friday Afternoon,
Its a great day, but get ready for some serious heat the beginning of next week. It will surely be AC weather. Last Monday was miserable with the humidity, so naturally my AC broke. That night I just closed my eyes and pretended I was on vacation in the Amazon tropical forest...worst 24 hour pretend vacation ever.
Thanks again to our President Elect Barb Danielson for filling in for me. Ran into Joe Schmidt at Stonebrooke last night and he thought I left the Club....
The gambling numbers were terrific last year and hopefully it keeps up. Ron Solseth continues to do a fantastic job of handling the operations. If you run into him, tell him thanks, because without his efforts many organizations that we support would go empty handed. Thanks Ron.
At the last meeting our Speaker Alan Anderson talked about climate change. No matter where you stand on the issue, you have to agree that there is an effect on many parts of the world. Rotary International is planning for potential changes and is acting accordingly.
Next Tuesday we will have our "back home" outbound student, Mallory Glynn, provide us with her year in review. Please plan to attend and hear about the wonderful time that Mallory had in Brazil. She is just missing the Olympics by a few weeks, which must be just a little disappointing...I am looking forward to Mallory sharing her incredible story with our Club.
This Week's Meeting:
Song Master - Jim Cook
Fine Master - John Crooks
Greeter's table - Michele Dahl, Jim Cook and John Canny
I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend and that you continue to share your Rotary stories with family, friends and interested potential members.
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Monday Morning,
I am back in the office after 10 days up north. The weather was beautiful, great times with family and way too much food. There is no phone, TV or Internet service so I am a bit late on the weekly message. I missed the Fourth here and also a pretty big storm. Well, it just takes an hour or so in the office and I am back to business as usual.
Without the meeting last week, it seems like a long time since I have seen everyone. Speaking of everyone...Please pay your annual dues! We had hoped every member would pay by July 1st. Its a little disappointing that only half of our Club has sent in their checks. Please make an effort to bring your membership up to date. Paying on time alleviates some financial pinch points we have with our Club's dues that are paid to Rotary International. Let me know if there is a hardship with the dues and maybe we can work out a plan. As always, let me know if you have any questions.
Tomorrow our speaker is Alan Anderson. Alan will discuss how climate change threatens the work Rotary International does all over the globe. Plan on attending and learn about how these issues will effect the future.
Tomorrow's Meeting:
Song Master - Chuck Berg
Fine Master - Harold Armstrong...remember him?
Greeter's Table - Michele Dahl, John Canny and Jim Cook
Please enjoy your Monday and get ready for a bit of rain and maybe a storm tonight. See you tomorrow.
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Thursday,
I hope everyone has a fantastic Fourth with family and friends. I will be out of town all next week.
REMEMBER...NO MEETING IS SCHEDULED FOR NEXT TUESDAY, JULY 5TH
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Morning to Everyone,
Summer has begun and what a wonderful time of year in Minnesota. Being outside, sharing times with family and our long days seem to keep people more upbeat than wintertime. Take advantage and take some time away from your career and enjoy life and all it has to offer. Summertime can be fleeting...slow down and take time to enjoy.
Thanks to Barb Danielson for filling in for me as I was called for jury selection on Tuesday. I heard she did great for her first time leading the meeting. Its good practice for next year. Thanks Barb.
John Bezek also had the opportunity to bring our Club up-to-date on the Shakopee School System and the work on Vaughan Field and the High School expansion. The upcoming school year will be as busy as ever. Thanks John for all you do to make this a great School District. Art Quinn also had time during our meeting to honor a few more Paul Harris Fellows. Please consider becoming a Paul Harris Fellow or even better, join the Paul Harris Society...it's a good thing to do.
At our next meeting on June 28, I will again bring the Club up-to-date on our Goals and Vision for the upcoming Rotary year and discuss a couple of outstanding opportunities our Club has been presented with. Please plan on attending and provide feedback on where you think our Club stands today and how we see ourselves in the next 3-5 years. I hope everyone joins in and helps lead our Club in the direction of being stronger, more visible and remaining a significant partner in our Community as its grows and prospers.
Next Meeting:
Song Master - Lou VanHout
Fine Master - John Crooks
Greeter's Table - Kathy Busch, Art Quinn and Harold Armstrong
Remember, Life is Good...take advantage of it.
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Morning Fellow Rotarians, Families and Friends,
I sure am welcoming the temperatures in the 60's this morning. Arrived home from Phoenix at 100am this morning. The weather was cool there according to residents, as highs were in the low 100's. Sunday and Monday they are anticipating breaking the all time high of 122 degrees. OMG, too hot for me. I am participating in the Saints Healthcare Funds golf outing today and leave for my nephew's wedding in Philadelphia in the morning.
Thanks go to Sheila McNeill for filling in for me on Tuesday. She said the Club learned quite a bit for Sandya Gupta. By the way, I messed up in our last weekly message. Sandya is female...
On Tuesday our own Rotarian John Bezek will be presenting an update on the Shakopee School District. Our community has a great school system and a big part of our Club's efforts is to support the education of our children and young adults. Please join me in attendance on Tuesday June 21 to listen to John.
Next Meeting:
Song Master - Jeff Tate
Fine Master - John Crooks
Greeter's table - Art Quinn, Kathy Busch and Harold Armstrong
I'm off to chase golf balls...I hope everyone has great weekends,
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Morning Rotarians, Families and Friends,
Another beautiful Friday morning. I hope there are great plans for everyone's weekend. It was another wonderful week for our Club. having Akina give her presentation...with her tears, listening to the STRIVE students and the 2 amazing stories, serving meals to over 100 people at Loaves and Fishes and it was all topped off by Sheila McNeill and myself awarding almost 30 scholarships from our Rotary Club to High School Seniors at their awards assembly Wednesday evening. Sheila was on stage for the STRIVE and Rotary Scholarship Foundation academic scholarships. What a week for our Club. Be proud to say you are a Rotarian and that you do make a difference. Needless to say, this Club is outstanding in so many ways....Thanks to all of you.
Next week is our annual Club Assembly, where we overview many aspects of our Club. We will hear from Committee Chairs and members. I will review our finances and 2016-2017 proposed budget and kick off the plans to put our visioning process into place for the next year. Please plan on attending to hear about so many things that we usually do not have time for during the regular weekly meetings. Its also a chance to become invigorated and become more active in the many Committees that do so much to make our Club as strong as it is.
Next Week's Meeting
Song Master - Alan Spillers
Fine Master - Barb Danielson
Greeter's Table - Libby Bergen and John Bezek
Once again, a fantastic week for Shakopee Rotary. We made differences in our community, in peoples lives and in our own lives. It is what Rotarians do...and do well!!
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Friday to our Shakopee Club Members, Families and Friends,
Another glorious day as I look out the office window. I am thinking about working a half day and heading up north...we'll see how that works out. Next weekend is Memorial Day already and then June. Holy Cow, June already. Someone said to me that we only have 3 nice months left.....
Having the Tokata students visit our Club on Tuesday was a real treat. The dedication of their Principal Eric Serbius goes without saying. You can look at the students and see the respect he has earned from them. We should be proud of the support our Club gives to the program. Every student said they were going to pursue more education after their graduation. A real difference has been made in their lives.
Next week's presentation will be from Kevin Smith, from the PGA Headquarters. Kevin will be bringing us up to date on the 2016 Ryder Cup that is coming to the Hazeltine Golf Club in Chaska. The worldwide event takes place from September 27 through October 2. What an honor to have this prestigious event just across the Minnesota River. If you are not familiar with the Ryder Cup, it is a bit more "unreserved" than a typical golf tournament. Please plan on attending and listening to Kevin as he educates us on all that goes into preparing for the huge 2016 Ryder Cup.
Next Week's Meeting:
Song Master - Joe Schmidt
Fine Master - Jim Cook
Greeter's Table - Barb Brekke, Tim Whitcomb and Bill W.
Keep up the great work that each and everyone of you do, day in and day out, that truly makes the difference in people's lives that really need our service. One positive thing each day makes us better people and that allows us to provide Service above Self...the true meaning of being a Rotarian. Thank you for all you do. Now back to work to see if I can get away early today....
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Friday to all our Club Members, Families and Friends,
It is another beautiful afternoon, which makes it just a little difficult to concentrate at the office. I hope everyone has great plans for the weekend. I will be planting flowers and working in the gardens. In the past few days a second pair of geese have taken up the yard and the pond and I am thinking another set of goslings will show up soon. Both dogs get a kick out of 10 little goslings putzing around in the water. Now if I could just figure out how to quiet the spring peepers at night. What a great problem to have. Well, enough of me daydreaming while I write this...
It was so nice to have a "full house" to welcome Amy Zellmer to our Club. She showed how just a slip on the ice can change one's life. I empathize with her struggle, but still cannot fathom all she has gone through these past two years. I applaud her effort to educate people on the seriousness of traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
Next Tuesday is our Annual Doc Muralt Awards luncheon. What a great way the celebrate the lifelong efforts of such a figure in Shakopee's history and the Shakopee Rotary Club. His legacy lives on at every weekly meeting as we sing songs to lift our spirits. Some weeks we sing a bit better than others....lol. The meeting will be held at Turtle's 1800 Social Center. Michele Dahl has done a wonderful job of making the arrangements. Thanks Michele. The lunch is $15, so those with punch cards remember to bring 2 extra dollars.
The Muralt Awards Committee is made up of Harold Armstrong, John Canny, Art Quinn, Michele Dahl, Lee Hennen and Tammy Laurent.
Please plan to attend, fill the room, congratulate the Paul Harris Fellows and learn who the recipient is for the 2016 W. Adair Muralt Award. The person selected is someone who is very deserving. Please join us.
For the Tuesday Meeting:
Song Master - Bill W.
Greeter's Table - Tim Whitcomb and Barb Brekke
Take the time this weekend and spend time with someone you love and make an effort to call a friend or relative and tell them what they mean to you. It is so easy to do and it really makes the day of the person you tell. Give it a try, you will be happy you did. Thanks again for being a proud Rotarian a member of this great Club always striving for Service before Self.
Have a wonderful weekend,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Friday to Everyone,
What a day. After the clouds and the rain the past few days it is so nice to see the sun and have another 10 degrees added to the temp. Most of us will be mowing yards the next day or two...the sun, birds singing, smiling neighbors, kids playing outside and freshly mowed grass...maybe Spring will stay this time.
What a great auction. Sorry that I missed attending. I was told it was one of the most enjoyable auctions ever. Thanks to Jim and Lee...what a tag team. We raised $1500 for our Club. Everyone had a great time and laughs filled the air. Thanks to those that donated items and to the winning bidders. It's always a fun time. Let's top this at the Fall auction.
Next Tuesday our speaker will be Amy Zellmer. In an instant her life was changed after a slip on the ice. Amy suffered a traumatic brain injury. She will share the story of her recovery and journey back to normalcy. Please plan on attending Amy's presentation which will be quite educational as well as motivational. Let's fill the room!
Next Meeting:
Song Master - John Crooks, filling in for Art Quinn
Fine Master - Kevin O'Brien
Greeter's Table - Lou VanHout, Jeff Tate and Joe Vaughan
Our Club is strong, financially stable and powerful in the contributions we make in our community. Be proud to be a Rotarian because I am proud of each and everyone of you. Thanks for all you do. We do make a difference.
Regards and have wonderful weekends,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Morning Everyone,
Last night I attended the Friends of the Downtown Annual Banquet at Turtle's. What a nice evening. It was wonderful to see all that is happening downtown and their look into the future. Tuesday's speaker Scott O'Brien sure is a big part of the invigoration taking place in central Shakopee. It is so nice to see investment into our downtown taking place.
Our next meeting is the Spring Auction. Lee and Jim will make sure we have a fun time while we raise dollars for our Club's operations. Please make sure to bring in an item to auction off and Jim will make sure he gets top dollar for it. Once again, I would like to mention the 3 golf outings that will be up for auction. They each are for foursomes for the following:
SACS Golf Tournament at Creek's Bend - Sunday June 12
Saints Healthcare's Tee One For Care at Stonebrooke - Thursday June 16
Dollars For Scholars Golf Play Day at Creek's Bend - Friday June 24
Please plan on attending for a fun time. Lots of items will be up for bid.
Next Meeting:
Song Master - Kevin O'Brien
Fine Master - Bob Greenley
Greeter's Table - Lou VanHout, Jeff Tate and Joe Vaughan
I hope everyone has a great weekend.
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Saturday Morning to all our Club Members, Families and Friends,
What a beautiful day. It's warm, sunny and so relaxing. I've spent some time in the garden this morning and noticed that I will probably start the mowing season this week. Does it get much better than the smell of fresh cut grass, birds singing and hearing kids playing in the neighborhood.
Speaking of children, what a great week for Rotary. Shakopee Celebrates Reading is one of our Club's core events and one that every Club member looks forward to. Thanks to everyone who planned and volunteered for the event. Please visit our webpage to view photos from Tuesday. Also please take the time to read the postings from Past President Yvonne Anderson and former member Angie Whitcomb. It will certainly put a smile on your face. Thanks again everyone.
REMINDER - If you have not already, Please sign up for our District Conference. It will be held May 12 - 13 at Mystic Lake. Our Past District Governor Tammy Laurent has worked very hard in setting up wonderful speakers and presentations for this event "right in our backyard". Please plan on attending. Let me know if you need further information.
At our Spring Auction at the April 26 meeting, we will be auctioning golf foursomes for three different fantastic Golf Play Days. The following events are:
20th Campus Anniversary Tee One For Care for the Saints Healthcare Foundation - Thursday June 16 at Stonebrooke Golf Club
Dollars For Scholars 11th Annual Golf Outing - Friday June 24 at Creek's Bend Golf Course
SACS Golf Tournament - Sunday June 12 at Creek's Bend Golf Course
Please support the outstanding organizations and help out our Club by bidding early, often and in high amounts. Jim and Lee expect these events to quite popular among our members. Plan on attending our auction at our April 26 luncheon meeting.
At our meeting next week, Scott O'Brien will provide a wonderful look at the brand new and very popular O'Brien's Public House. If you have not been there, it is quite an addition to the Shakopee dining scene as well as a great place to meet with friends and enjoy their long list of libations. Please plan on attending and welcoming Scott to out Club. See you there!
Next meeting:
Song Master - Bill Nevin
Fine Master - John Crooks
Greeter's table - Jeff Tate, Lou VanHout and Joe Vaughan
I hope everyone has a perfect weekend with family and friends. Get outside and see what a beautiful Spring Day has to offer you. Thanks for all that each of you do to make our community and world a little bit better each week. It adds up in really making a difference. Thanks.
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Afternoon Everyone,
A little early for the weekly message, but I am heading to Wisconsin this weekend. I am still impacted by our amazing speaker from Tuesday. Suzette Sakakski was able to share the importance of our talents in moving forward in our lives and careers. What a wonderful person she is and what a wonderful story she had to share. Thanks so much to the O'Brien family for sharing Suzette's time with our Club. The cards she made for each of us were so very thoughtful. I have mine directly in front of me at my computer monitor...the sixlets were such a sweet added touch, and they tasted great too.
Next Tuesday will somewhat of a short meeting as to accommodate everyone's schedules, because it is the annual Shakopee Celebrates Reading Event put on by our very own Club. Please plan to attend the Celebration that takes place at the Shakopee High School. It is definitely one of Shakopee Rotary's signature events.
Tuesday's Meeting -
No Song Master
No Fine Master
Greeter's Table - Alan Spillers, Kevin Studnicka and Charlie Sunder
The next meeting on April 19, will have a presentation by Scott O'Brien and he will fill us in on the brand new, and very popular, O'Brien's Public House.
Enjoy the day,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Monday to Everyone,
This is the second attempt for the Weekly Update. I had written one earlier and when I hit the "send" button, ClubRunner said there was a delay in sending it out. Guess what, it disappeared, so I will hastily put another update together.
Thanks for attending last week's meeting. Kate O'Hair presented on wind energy in Minnesota and the changing landscape of renewable energy nationwide, It was very informative. Shakopee is pretty unique, we have the Rahr Malting biomass facility, the Blue Lake solar array, the SPU and SMSC wind turbines all generating energy in and around our community.
It was wonderful working with all our volunteers at Loaves and Fishes on Tuesday. Check out the Shakopee Rotary website for some photos of your favorite Rotarians in aprons and hair nets. Thanks to Lorri Helkamp for all she does for our Club and this organization.
This week our speaker is Suzy Kukakski. She will motivate us in "Using Our Talents". Please plan on attending and making Suzy welcomed.
Tomorrow's Meeting:
Song Master - Rose Hullett
Fine Master - Kathy Klehr
Greeter's Table - Alan Spillers, Kevin Studnicka and Charlie Sunder
Next week is Shakopee Celebrates Reading.
Thanks to every Club Member that helps us in continuing to make our Club all that it can be and that so positively contributes to our community, as well as projects around the world. Pat yourselves on the back, you deserve it.
Hope to see everyone tomorrow,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Morning to all our Club Members, Families and Friends,
I hope everyone had a great Easter weekend. The weather was rather gloomy, but starting today, Spring will be in the air...at least until Friday. Last meeting, Jeremy Geske told us everything in the world about sheep and it was quite interesting. Did anyone have lamb for Easter?
This week Kate O'Hair from EDF Renewable will present information about renewable energy. The energy landscape is changing quite a bit and the industry is very exciting. Come to think of it, I know a little about the topic and am interested to learn even more from our speaker. Please plan time in your busy schedules to attend the meeting and listen to Ms. O'Hair, join in some fellowship and have a bite to eat.
Tomorrow's Meeting:
Song Master - OPEN...if anyone would like to step up and lead us in a song, please let me know.
Fine Master - Deb Erickson
Greeter's Table - Alan Spillers, Kevin Studnicka and Charlie Sunder
Hoping everyone has a wonderful start to the week. I will plan on seeing you all tomorrow at the meeting.
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Morning Everyone,
I do not think I am the only one who was surprised by the blanket of snow this morning. As much as we would all like Spring to be early, the snow was beautiful. Thanks go out to Tim Whitcomb for stepping up on late notice and filling in for me on Tuesday. I will fill in everyone why I was unable to attend. Here's a clue...use SPF 50 when the sun is shining.
Chuck Berg did a absolutely wonderful job as the Chair of this year's NC PETS training in Rochester last weekend. I was unable to attend last year as I was in DC, but this year I came back from DC early to attend the sessions on Friday and Saturday. I networked with so many President -Elects and learned so much. I have so many ideas and Goals for our Club. I am truly invigorated for the future of our Shakopee Club.
I also want to thank our speaker this week, Ben Louwagie from Emerson, one of the large businesses that have recently moved their operations to Shakopee. We wish the company continued success and welcome them as an important community member. Strong business partners continue to keep our community strong and vibrant. Thanks go to Sarah Howe for arranging the presentation.
Our next meeting March 22, will feature a presentation by Jeremy Geske. Jeremy is with the Minnesota Farm Bureau and will speak on "Farming Today" in Minnesota. Please plan on attending and learning about the hard work that goes into providing your families with fresh nutritious foods available each and every single day. Maybe Jeremy can guess what the lunch is for our meeting....
Our Next Meeting:
Song Master - Doug Schleif
Fine Master - John Crooks
Greeter's Table - Joe Schmidt, Ron Smith and Tony Spagnolo
I am looking out the window and most of the snow melted...oh well. I hope everyone has wonderful plans for the weekend. Thanks for all that you do to make our Club as strong as it is and the efforts to make us even stronger as we move forward.
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Snowy Friday Afternoon,
It was a great week for our Rotary Club. Our Visioning Work Session was filled with enthusiasm and positive ideas in making our Club more vibrant, motivated and ultimately stronger. Thanksto everyone that made time in their schedule to be part of the process. More details of the process will be made to the Club when I return from Washington, DC.
Our Speaker this week was our beloved Mayor Bill Mars. He talked of the state of the City and building community support for making Shakopee all that it could be. The ideas for the Community Center are also very positive. Thanks to Mayor Mars for visiting our Club.
While I am out of town next week, Past president Kathy Klehr will "take over the reins" for the March 8 meeting. Please plan on attending. We had the room filled with members on Tuesday, so lets do that every week.
Our Speaker next week will be Dr. Willie Dean and he will speak about the benefits of summer camp for urban youth. Please join us.
For our March 8 meeting:
Song Master - Jon McBroom
Fine Master - Kathy Klehr
Greeter's Table - Joe Schmidt, Ron Smith and Tony Spagnolo
Here's to everyone having great weekends,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Morning Everyone,
The sun is shining today and tomorrow will be in the 50's. It is still February isn't it?
Monday night is our Visioning Workshop. This is a great opportunity for our Club to come together and focus on the next few years in becoming a stronger, more empowered and mission driven Club. I expect some pretty amazing things to come from this effort. Please thank the people who have volunteered their time to be a part of the Visioning Process. Our participating members are:
Rose Hullett
Sarah Howe
Gary Martini
Tim Whitcomb
Libby Bergen
Tony Spagnolo
Chuck Berg
John Crooks
Barb Danielson
Joe Vaughan
Doug Schleif
Deb Erickson
We will be establishing a Visioning Committee to implement both our Goals and Objectives. Please consider being a part of our future planning efforts.
Has anyone gone Curling since our last meeting? I sure learned a ton of information about the sport, the Chaska Curling Center and ice making. There were so many questions asked. Our attendees were really engaged. Thanks Barb for setting it up...
Our next meeting March 1, will have a "State of the City" address by Shakopee's new Mayor, Bill Mars. Many of you know Mayor Mars as being a past Mayor and from his involvement in so many capacities; Planning Commission, Huber Park, Shakopee Public Utilities, are among many of the hats he has worn over the years. Please plan on attending, showing your support and learning about Mayor Mars thoughts on Shakopee's future.
Next Meeting:
Song Master - Joe Vaughan
Fine Master - John Bezek
Greeter's Table - Linda Plum, Bill Reynolds and Doug Scheif
Well, I am off to visit my 84 year old Mother and her best friend in Illinois this weekend. Remember the stories about those 2 ladies from this Fall? I will do my best to keep them out of trouble :-)
Enjoy the beautiful weather this weekend and I look forward to sharing an update on our Visioning Meeting at our next Rotary lunch. Please make the effort and plan on attending.
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Afternoon to all our Club Members, their Families and Friends,
Its still February, but I am pretty sure I heard a clap of thunder this morning. Spring continues to inch closer to Minnesota. Since our speaker was ill on Tuesday, everyone had to sit through my cheerleading for the Distributed Generation Plant being built in Shakopee. This will be a great addition to our community and we are lucky to have such a facility. The Plant will be operational Spring 2017. If interested, we could have a formal presentation, as mine was off the cuff.
Tuesday February 23rd, the day of our next meeting, is also the 111th Anniversary of Rotary. That is 111 years of "Service Above Self". Quite remarkable in this day and age for something so important to last as long as it has and continues to be stronger every year. That is because so many little Clubs like ours make up one huge voice and power to make positive changes in our community and around the world. I am always proud to say that I am a Rotarian.
Speaking of being a Rotarian, please consider being a part of our Club's Visioning Workshop taking place Monday February 29th at 500pm at Shakopee Public Utilities. It is a chance for you to have a direct say in the future of our Club and to set Goals and Objectives for the next few years. Please let me know if you are willing to participate...you will not be disappointed.
Our meeting next Tuesday will have Scott Belvitch, Head Ice Maker for the new Chaska Curling Center, provide a presentation on the unique facility that is next door in Chaska. Please make time in your schedule to welcome Scott to our Club and have the opportunity to learn about this world class Curling Center.
Next Meeting:
Song Master - Club President John Crooks...my first time
Fine Master - Libby Bergen
Greeter's Table - Bill Reynolds, Doug Schleif and Tony Spagnolo
Thanks to all of you for making our Rotary Club as strong as it is. We can continue to make our Club stronger if each of us participates with attending meetings, being part of a Committee, volunteering and being a proud part of Rotary International. I am proud of our Club and proud of each an every member. Thanks for allowing me to be your President.
Regards and Have Wonderful Weekends,
John
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Monday Rotary Update and NewsGood Monday Morning Everyone,
We now have a speaker scheduled for tomorrow. It will be none other than our own Barb Weckman Brekke. She will give a presentation on estate planning. There are a few of us in the Club that can use this type of information...me included. Please plan on attending this informative presentation.
I mentioned restarting the Coffee with Crooks, one on one meetings. This is a great chance for me to get to know you and what your thoughts are concerning Rotary, our Club and what it means to be a Rotarian. The coffee is on me and I will not ask for money...Here are some times that I am available. Always before 730 am and most days after 400 pm and weekends. During business days I will make myself available Wednesday afternoon, Thursday afternoon and anytime Friday. Next week, most any weekday is open. Please let me know what times and locations are convenient for you.
This is a perfect segue to our Visioning Process. It is scheduled for Monday February 29th, Leap Day. We will meet in the Shakopee Public Utilities Commission Room at 500 pm and complete the process by 830 pm. The meeting will be facilitated by Gayle Nokes of our District 5950. Gayle and her team have worked with many Clubs and I am excited this can provide clarity and a renewed sense oif purpose to our Club. We will be looking for volunteers to be part of the process with a mix of Club members. Listed below is the different types of Club members we are looking to participate in our Visioning:
Members with 3 years or less - 3 members
Members with 3-10 years - 3 members
Members with over 10 years - 3 members
Past District Governors - 2 members
Board Members - 5 members
Committee Members - 3 members
Please let me know if you would like to volunteer in helping our Club be all that it can be. This is an unique opportunity for us to build upon the great things we have done over the past 60 years and set the course for the next 60. If this doesn't make you want to volunteer, there is free food....Please give it a thought and participate.
Have a great day and see you tomorrow,
John
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President's Weekly Message - CorrectionGood Saturday Morning to our Club Members, their Families and Friends,
I am starting to prepare for Super Bowl Sunday. Our family decided on roasting a turkey for sandwiches with tons of sides. The house will smell like Thanksgiving...and that's a good thing. Here's to hoping your favorite team wins. I personally like Denver +6. I also have a few "squares" in the company pool. Should be a great game...and great commercials
At our last meeting, we all had the opportunity to learn a little about our wonderful exchange student from Japan, Akina. Her English has improved vastly in such a short amount of time. we are all so proud of her. We also had the chance to listen to Rose Hullett's icebreaker. Once she mentioned Toby's everyone seemed to have known Rose for a long time. She is such a great addition to our Club. Rose is now part of our Club family.
Oops! The speaker for next week is TBD. I incorrectly had our Mayor as the next speaker, but he is the first meeting March. I apologize
Next Meeting - February 9
Song Master - Gregg Hoehn
Fine Master - Deb Erickson
Greeter's Table - Rick Meyer, Bill Nevin and Kevin O'Brien
I hope everyone has wonderful weekends and enjoys Super Bowl Sunday. Thanks to each and every Club member for all that you do in making our community special and believing in "Service Above Self"
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Friday Afternoon,
A big thanks goes to Past President Tim Whitcomb for filling in for Past President Kathy Klehr who was filling in for our current President...I needed to attend 2 different Board meetings and was unavailable. I heard I missed a great meeting and everyone left with a bit of an English accent. Our speaker Richard Lett has had such an interesting career. I wish I could have made the meeting and heard his stories.
This week we have scheduled an icebreaker with our newest member Rose Hullett. I'm sure it will be interesting. Also our exchange student, Akina, will introduce herself to our Club. I am also going to cover a few Club items, such as the annual book sale and our visioning planning process.
Next Meeting:
Song Master - Sheila McNeill
Fine Master - Tony Spagnolo
Greeter's Table - Rick Meyer, Bill Nevin and Kevin O'Brien
Here's to a wonderful weekend with family and friends. As always, please let me know of questions and comments that you may have.
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Friday Afternoon to Everyone,
As much as I love snow, I would not wish 2 feet of the stuff on anyone on the east coast. The storm is starting to create all sorts of issues for residents, businesses and air travelers. Winter-wise things have become tame since the cold snap the past couple of weeks...maybe we are out of the woods. If I were a betting man, and you all know I am a bad one, we will have some really cold snowy weather yet to come.
Learning about all that is going into the Super Bowl 52 preparations was fascinating at our last meeting. I particularly like the "Bold North" branding that the Committee will use. Coupled with our new football stadium, I am sure this will be the best Super Bowl yet. Maybe we could invite Andrea and Lannie back next year and see all that planning being put into place for 2018.
Kathy Klehr will graciously lead our Tuesday meeting. I will be attending some required Board meetings that morning and most likely miss the entire Rotary meeting. Thanks Kathy for stepping in.
That meeting, January 26, will feature a presentation by Richard Lett, a retired Secret Service Agent from Scotland Yard. During his career he was on the detail that protected the Royal Family. It should be so very interesting. Be sure and schedule your time to attend this presentation. You won't be disappointed.
Next Meeting:
Fine Master - Jason Marschall
Song Master - Bill Reynolds
Greeter's Table - Rick Meyers, Bill Nevin and Kevin O'Brien
Once again, thanks to all of our members in making our Club as strong as it is and truly making a difference in our community. My sincere thanks to all of you.
Have great weekends,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Morning Rotary Club Members, Families and Friends,
This week's message is a little earlier than usual. I am taking a weekend trip with my brothers and our sons for the annual football trip to Las Vegas. And since I did not win Powerball last night, I may even risk a few dollars on the Timberwolves making the playoffs...the odds are about the same.. I also asked Chief Tate for a few pointers on how to stay off the weekly taping of "Cops".
Our presentation this week was so very interesting. Most of us had no idea of the life of a young George Washington. Author Steven Yoch did a great job as it was fascinating. By the way, on the History Channel yesterday, there was a program on our founding fathers, and because of Steven's presentation, I was aware of much of what was presented. The TV show did point out that George was a little randy. When Steven's next book is completed, our Club would love to have him back.
Our next meeting on January 19, will feature a presentation by a Super Bowl Host Committee member. It should be so educational as to all that goes in with the planning and preparation of such a world-wide event. Maybe, just maybe, the Vikings will continue to improve and be center stage; we can only hope, except Jim Cook. By the way, good luck to the Packers this weekend.
Next Meeting:
Our Song Master will be none other than Jason Marschall
Our Fine Master will be Tim Whitcomb, so everyone should bring 3 bux
Greeter's Table: Joan Lynch, Sheila McNeill and Jason Marschall
Here's to hoping everyone has wonderful weekends. Stay warm and share special times with families and friends...it's what life is all about.. And as Doc Muralt would say "Smile and the world smiles with you..."
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Snowy Friday to our Club members, families and friends,
Watching the big snowflakes fall this morning hardly portends the freezing weather coming our way. This weekend stay home, stay warm and root for our Minnesota Vikings...and the Packers (there's a plug for Jim). At our meeting last week, we were informed on the behind the scenes State Capital action fro our State Representative Bob Loonan and lobbyist Elaine Love. Just a little disconcerting learning how non-partisan politics plays such a huge role in St. Paul. We are sure Representative Loonan can straighten it all out...
This upcoming Tuesday's presentation will be by author Stephen Yoch. He will discuss his book Becoming George Washington. Lots of great reviews of his work on Amazon. We look forward to his presentation and his take on our founding father. Please attend the meeting to welcome Mr. Yoch.
For the 12:00 pm Tuesday January 12 meeting at Dangerfield's:
Fine Master - Bill Wermerskirchen
Song Master - a mystery guest
Greeter's Table - Loan Lynch, Sheila McNeill and Jason Marschall
The weather will be so cold, you might as well attend and join in the fellowship, have a hot meal and have some fun with us next Tuesday. We will also celebrate the Vikings victory (?) and the Packers victory (there ya' go Jim).
I hope everyone has wonderful weekends and I look forward to seeing everyone next week.
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Morning to our Shakopee Rotary Members , their families and friends,
HAPPY NEW YEAR! There is lots to be thankful for in 2015 and so much to look forward to in 2016. Our Club can stand tall with all that we accomplished and contributed to our community this year.
It seems like such a long time since we have had a luncheon meeting, but that comes to an end next Tuesday, January 4. Please try to fit it into your schedules. We love to see as many members as possible share our fellowship and enjoy the programs. Our program for the meeting is a State legislative update to be give by our own State Representative Bob Loonan and Elaine Love. Let's welcome them to our Club with a good turnout of our members and guests.
For the Meeting:
Song Master - mystery guest
Fine Master - Gary Martini
Greeter's Table - Joan Lynch, Shelia McNeill and Jason Marschall, you know..the guy with a Road named after him
Once again, HAPPY NEW YEAR and may only the best come to you and your families in 2016 !!
Regards,
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Christmas Eve to all of our Rotary Members, their Families and Friends,
I will be short this week....Great meeting with the Rotary Foundation Committee yesterday at Turtles. Thanks Art Quinn, for setting it up and for all you do as our Foundation Chair. Just a reminder, your donation to the Rotary Foundation can be made in time for your 2015 tax deduction. Hint, hint...
Hope everyone has the most blessed Holiday with their friends and families. Remember to keep those less fortunate in your thoughts and prayers. I think Peg Bracken said it best;
Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly Merry Christmas!!
Here's to you and yours,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Friday Morning Everyone,
What a wonderful Holiday Party Celebration last night at the McNeill's beautiful home! It was attended by so many of our Club members, family and friends. Once everyone made it past Lee Hennen, manning the attendance table, you entered a festive home, filled with great people, delicious food and holiday libations. I was so disappointed that I have to leave early, but I still had a fantastic time. Thanks so much for everyone providing food, Linda Plum and her wonderful cookies, Barb Brekke for supplying the libations and especially Sheila and Mark McNeill for opening their home to the Shakopee Rotary Club.
Please visit our Club's Facebook page. Photos of the Party have been uploaded, with many smiling faces.
As I write this, snow has begun to fall and I am really getting into the Christmas spirit...now if I can just finish the shopping part. My sincere hope is that each and everyone of you have a wonderful Holiday Season, filled with family, friends and especially love for one another. This is truly a special time for all.
Here's to wishing everyone a Merry Christmas,
John
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Toy Drive Tomorrow at Dangerfield'sGood Morning Everyone,
Just a reminder...at tomorrow's Club meeting (noon at Dangerfield's) we are asking members to bring an unwrapped toy to donate to the Scott/Carver CAP Agency. The toys that we collect will be given to Joe Vaughan to distribute to families less fortunate. Please consider adding a little happiness to a child that may otherwise not have a new toy to play with during the Holiday season. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to let me know. Let's see how many toys we can donate.
Thanks so much,
John
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President's Weekly MessageDear Shakopee Club Members, Families and Friends,
Happy Friday,
The sun is shining, the weather for the weekend will cooperate with putting up Christmas light's and my stomach isn't as big as last week. Life id good! First, let me again apologize for the complications that caused the CAP Agency/Rotary Annual Toy Drive being canceled. It was also a big mistake to wait so long to cancel. I have heard from several members who showed up for the luncheon meeting that was canceled also. Well, I have certainly learned to not have it happen again. I wonder if it is too early to secure a location for the event next December...seriously, I am considering the possibility. once again I apologize for the inconveniences.
TOY DRIVE at our next meeting
Next Tuesday's meeting (and yes there will be the noon meeting at Dangerfield's) will be our final luncheon meeting of the year. We have planned to have toy donations made at this meeting. Please consider bringing a new toy to the meeting to donate to the CAP Agency. These toys will bring joy and happiness to a child less fortunate. Just think of how big their eyes will be as they receive a new toy for the Holidays. Please be generous and consider bringing two toys. Joe Vaughan will collect the toys and make sure they brighten a child's Holiday season. Thanks!!
Also at the next meeting, Bob Tift, Executive Director of Crescent Cove will make a presentation to our Club. Crescent Cove offers care and support to children and young adults who have a shortened life expectancy. Thanks Barb for setting this up.
We are also going to induct Rose Hullet as our newest fellow Rotarian. Congratulations Rose!
For the Meeting;
Our Song Master will be Dave Esposito, our Club's Song Master Coordinator
Our Fine Master will be me, John Crooks, our Club's Fine Master Coordinator
At our Greeter's Table will be Greg Hoehn, Joe and Lorri Helkamp
Our Club did great work and has lots to be proud of this week. Meals were prepared and served for almost 100 people at Loaves and Fishes on Thursday evening. Our STRIVE Committee visited 2 campuses and provided lunch at Buca di Bepo on Wednesday for the participating High School Seniors. Our Club does make a difference in this Community. Thanks to everyone in our Club that helps, volunteers and has service to others come before themselves.
Put it on your calendars. Our Rotary Holiday Party is at the McNeills, Thursday December 17 and will be our last meeting until January. Sheila, thanks for providing your beautiful home for the event. I hope everyone can attend.
I hope everyone has great weekends and I also hope that my Christmas lights are not as tangled as they were last year...
Regards,
John
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CAP/Rotary Event CanceledGood Morning,
Due to unforeseen circumstances, tonight's event is being canceled and rescheduled. Toy donations can be brought to the December 8 Rotary meeting. I apologize for any inconvenience.
There is also no luncheon meeting today.
John
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President's Weekly MessageHappy Sunday,
I trust all our Rotarian families and friends had a great Thanksgiving. I think I stretched out my stomach muscles because I am still eating 2 pieces of pie everyday. We all have so much to be thankful for, let's be thankful everyday for all that we have and all that we can do in the service of others.
Thanks Kathy for filling in on Tuesday. I appreciate your effort in all you do for our club.
This week we have scheduled our Annual CAP Agency/Rotary Holiday Get-Together. We have been frantically trying to find a place to host the event, and as of Sunday at 230pm, we still are working on the final arrangements. as soon as possible I will send out an email to announce the location. The suspense is killing me...no really, I am thinking we are cutting this pretty darn close to Tuesday. If everything went according to plan, life would be less adventuresome.
As soon as we find out, I will let everyone know. I apologize for the last minute details...
John
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President's Weekly messageHappy Chilly Friday to all of our Club Members, Guests and Friends,
WOW! What a great time we had Tuesday evening at our Shakopee Rotary Club's 60th Anniversary Celebration at Canterbury Park. To be part of the event, attended by over 70 current and past Club members, visiting Rotarians and all the guests, is something that I will hold dear as a Rotarian. The stories, the friends attending, the fellowship and the laughs...what an evening. Thanks to Deb and her Committee for the wonderful planning that made it such a huge success. Thanks to Kathy for the work she did in researching and providing to our rich Club history. Thanks to Harold for the unbelievable slide show. Thanks to Jim and Mary Cook for the special program they put together. And thanks to our Club for being around for 60 years, which makes everything happen. I said it at the celebration and I will say it again, I am so very proud of being a part of this organization and knowing each and every member as I do. Words do not do enough to describe the evening. Lets do it again...in 10-15 years.
Please visit our Facebook page to see pictures taken during the party.
This weeks meeting will have Kathy Klehr act in the President's behalf, as I need to attend a power agency meeting. Thanks for filling in, I bet Kathy misses running the meetings...just a little bit :-)
For the Tuesday November 24 Meeting:
Our Song Master will be the lovely and talented Kathy Klehr.
Our Fine Master will feature the wonderful , loved by all Barb Danielson
Our Greeter's Table will be manned by Deb Erickson, Lee Hennen and Dave Esposito
I hope everyone has a great weekend as they get get ready for Thanksgiving,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Afternoon Everyone,
What a beautiful day, sunny, crisp and its also Friday. Hooray. This coming week our Club will be celebrating 60 years. The celebration will take place at Canterbury Park and is expected to be a great time for everyone attending. Thanks go to Deb Erickson and her Committee that has worked so hard to put this together. I would also like to thank all the members of the 60th Anniversary Committee: Libby Bergen, Jim Cook, Barb Danielson, Michelle Dahl, Lee Hennen, Kathy Klehr, Jason Marschall, Sheila McNeill, Kevin O'Brien, Linda Plum and Tony Spagnolo. I am so fortunate to be in the President position as we celebrate this milestone. And to think 60 years ago I was 9 months away from being born. Now that has me thinking....
Has anyone been fishing since Tuesday? Our presenter, Terry Tuma, got our thoughts to getting out one last time before the ice. One thing for sure, I will use monofiliment line and not "give up" after 2 hours as I usually do. It may be good to have Terry revisit our Club next Spring.
There is no luncheon meeting this Tuesday. We will be celebrating our 60th Tuesday evening. Social hour at 6pm, with Dinner and the Program, hosted by Jim Cook, at 700pm. See You There!
Here's to everyone having great weekends,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Afternoon Shakopee Rotary Club Members and Friends,
It is kind of dreary, grey and chilly outside, but as I always try to do, there are optimistic ways of looking at things. This cooler, slower time of season is meant for families being together, fires being stoked and time to make great meals for family and friends. Last November, I was playing hockey on the pond behind our house days before Thanksgiving and this year has been a string of beautiful 70 degree days. Being pessimistic about things takes too much energy, so I look for silver linings and reasons to be thankful. The thankful list is never ending. I have a good friend who keeps a journal of things she is grateful for and her list is now over 1000 things.
Our meeting on Tuesday was very well attended. Thanks for being there. I am sure we all learned quite a bit about RiverSouth, Land of Big Fun and all this area has to offer. We know their Executive Director, Bill Van Horn (past Shakopee Rotary member) will do a great job driving visitors and tourists to this great area of the Twin Cities.
Our next meeting on November 10 will feature a presentation by the Fishing Professor, Terry Tuma. He will provide some tips on ice fishing in Minnesota. Are we ready for the ice yet?
At our Meeting:
Fine Master - John Crooks. Its been a long time, so bring your dollar bills
Song Master - Lou Van Hout. In 10 years of having Lou as my boss, I don't think I even heard him whistle...let alone sing.
Greeter's Table - Deb Erickson, Lee Hennen and Dave Esposito
Thanks for everyone's efforts to make our Club as strong and vibrant as it can be. Please let me know if you have any questions or comments.
I hope everyone has a great weekend,
John
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President's Weekly MessageGood Monday Morning,
The sun is shining, we had an extra hour of sleep and life is good. There is lots happening in our community and Rotary is right in the middle of all it. Last week our Club donated well over 1000 diapers to SCA. At our last meeting, we raised hundreds of dollars for our general fund and in about 2 weeks on Thursday, November 17, we have our 60th Anniversary Celebration at Canterbury. Please send in your RSVP's to attend this important event. you will be guaranteed to have a wonderful time.
We have Citywide elections being held tomorrow. Elections are for Mayor, City Council and the School Board. Our Club stays apolitical, but I encourage everyone to have their voice heard and head to the polls. Its greats great to have our Club participate in Kid's Voting as it has for many years . The Utilities has also participated for many years. It is wonderful to hear parents explain to their children the importance of being part of the process. It is also fantastic to watch an immigrant family talk about the election process with their young children and take photos of them voting.
Thanks to Jim and Lee for their outstanding work with this Fall's auction. I think they were able to get almost every Club member to bid on an item. Lots of laughs, smiles and good times. Think about stepping up the auction that we have in the Spring; bigger and better items are always a plus.
This week, our presenter will be Bill Von Bank. Bill was recently named the Executive Director of RiverSouth, a marketing strategy to make our area of the metro, a destination for 'tons of fun". With ValleyFair, Canterbury, the Renaissance Festival, Mystic Lake, fantastic Golf Courses and great shopping, why would anyone not want to visit. Bill is going to tell us even more...
For the Meeting:
Our Song Master is Ron Smith
Our Fine Master is Doug Scheif
Our greeters table will be manned by Barb Danielson and Dr. Dave Eckart
Thanks to every member for all they contribute to our Club. Without us working together it would be so difficult to accomplish all the positive opportunities this Club offers to our community. As always, please let me know if you have any questions or comments.
Have a Terrific Day,
John
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President's Weekly MessageDear Shakopee Rotary Club Members and Friends,
Happy Cool Rainy Friday. Thanks Sheila for filling in Tuesday as I was attending an Economic Development Conference in Austin,Texas. What a music city. Loved the downtown area and did not see one single cowboy hat in 5 days. Who would have thought.
Today kicks off Rotary International's World Polio Day awareness celebrations around the country. Tomorrow, our District 5950 will promote our End Polio Now campaign by lighting the I-35W Bridge over the Mississippi River in Minneapolis and France Avenue near Southdale in Edina. Both will be lit in the End Polio Now colors of red and yellow, to bring awareness to Rotary's fight to end polio worldwide.
Our speakers on Tuesday were Keith Chellson and Amy Tasto from SAC. I have had the pleasure of knowing both of them from their work with Loaves and Fishes. Many of our Rotarians have worked with them also.They are two remarkable individuals. Our Club is going to begin a diaper drive for the organization. Please bring in disposable diapers to our next meeting. the sizes most needed are 4,5,6 and pull-ups. Please consider helping us donate more diapers than we can carry. Also, please consider a monetary donation to help out.
Our next meeting October 27 will feature our semi-annual auction, which raises funds for our Club operations. Everyone is to bring in an item for our wonderful auctioneers, Lee and Jim. It is always a fun time and a great way to help our Club.
For the meeting:
Greeters Table - Chuck Berg, Kathy Busch and Barb Danielson
Fine Master - Barb Danielson
Song Master - Kathy Klehr
I hope everyone has a great weekend and that everyone plans on donating a fantastic item for Tuesday's auction. Don't forget to bring your diapers....
John
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President's Weekly MessageDear Shakopee Rotary Club Members and Friends,
Happy Chilly Sunny Friday,
It was great to see everyone at Tuesday's meeting. But, I am afraid I will be missing our next meeting, as I will be attending a Economic Development Conference in Austin, TX .In my absence Sheila McNeill has kindly offered to step in and lead our meeting. Thanks Sheila.
It was amazing to listen to how Bayer Crop Science has an effect on crop seed propagation and manufactures the equipment right here in Shakopee. Along with Beta Seed, the impact this little Minnesota town has on agriculture world wide it mind-blowing. It is great to learn about the companies that we have in our community.
Our next meeting Tuesday, we feature the Shakopee Community Assistance (SCA) Organization. The presenters will be Keith Chellsen and Amy Tasto. SCA provides many opportunities to help families in our community. Shakopee Public Utilities works with their office in assisting folks having difficulties paying their utility bills, so I have worked directly with the organization and the services they provide.
For the meeting:
Our Song Master is scheduled to be musical stylings of Mary Hernandez
Our Fine master is Sarah Howe
The Greeter's Table willed be efficiently coordinated by Dr. Dave Eckart and the lovely Barb Danielson
Have a great meeting, as I will be stuck all next week in conference rooms from morning til night. Our Club is strong, focused and committed to Rotary's mission. Service above Self. Thanks for all you do!
Have a Wonderful Weekend,
John
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President's Weekly MessageDear Shakopee Rotary Club Members and Friends,
Happy Beautiful Friday,
After the wonderful presentation by Willie Rahr, CEO of Rahr and the tour of the facilities, I was thirsty for a cold brew. Haven't had one yet, but since it is Friday, maybe...Thanks Barb for setting up the meeting at their "own pub". I am sure everyone that attended had an educational enlightenment about malt and its role in brewing beer.
Thanks to the volunteers at Loaves and Fishes this week. I feel guilty, as I signed up, but was unable to volunteer (you can ask my 15 son why I could not attend).
Next Tuesday, October 6, Art Quinn will again be our presenter. It is a record? Twice in a month. This time he will discuss the Rotary Foundation and all the work that the Foundation does around the world. Besides our Club's donations, we have many Paul Harris Fellows. Our donations to the Rotary Foundation are our way to "BE A GIFT TO THE WORLD", the theme for this Rotary year. I had the opportunity just 2 weeks ago to become a member of the Paul Harris Society. I am quite proud to have joined. We will bring information on joining at a future meeting.
For the Tuesday meeting:
Our Song Master will be John Bezek
Our Fine Master will be Jon McBroom
The Greeter's Table will be manned by the 3 C's - Canny, Cook and Campion
Thanks for all that you all contribute in making our Club strong. I hope everyone has great weekends,
John
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President's Weekly MessageDear Shakopee Rotary Club Members and Friends,
Happy Rainy Monday Morning,
I am a bit late on the weekly message. As you know I was in Washington DC during the week (no Pope sightings) and arrived back home Friday at 12:30 AM. Then at 8:00 AM I had the privilege to attend the Rotary District 5950 Fall Training at the Arboretum. It was great to have Tammy Laurent and Barb Danielson attend the training also. What a fun meeting. We had a "speed dating" style session that allowed us to learn about 14 different programs that are taking place in our District. I will be bring that information to a future meeting. Late morning break-out sessions were held on 3 issues; membership, fund raising and social media.
Our meeting tomorrow will be held at Rahr Malting. A tour of their facilities and an opportunity to learn about the expansion plans taking place with the Company. I know we are excited about touring such a unique company that has been located in Shakopee for well over 100 years. Our host for the day will be Willie Rahr.
With that being said, we will not have a Song Master, Fine Master or Sgt at Arms for tomorrow's meeting. As always, please let me know if you have any questions or comments.
Enjoy Your Day,
John
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President's Weekly MessageDear Shakopee Rotary Club Members and Friends,
We welcome Friday with open arms. I am leaving this afternoon to pick up my mother and her best friend. As most of you know, I led them north right after the Tuesday meeting to head to our cabin near Bigfork. Well, in continuing the adventure, they were pulled over by a state trooper for speeding. I pulled over along with them. Adeline, my mother's friend, did not have her Driver's License name match her insurance card and along with a VIN # issue, we were stopped for over an hour. I guess two 85 year ladies looked fairly criminal to the trooper. Those two had lots of fun with it. Who knows what has happened at the cabin the past 3 days....
I am a bit behind on the 'Coffee with Crooks" meetings. Several of you should receive an email on Monday to set up a meeting. So far I am almost done with Committee Chairs and beginning to meet with the ladies in our club. It is truly eye opening as to all the that is being learned. Please let me know if you would like to meet before receiving an email invitation.
On Tuesday Art Quinn educated us on all the positives that have taken place in the past 20 years with GMO crops. Just yesterday. I read an article in Audubon magazine that talked about the many myths that are associated with GMO crops. The article reiterated almost everything Art told us...not that I didn't believe him in the first place....
Next Tuesday's September 22 meeting will feature a presentation by Minnesota State Trooper of the Year Joe Dellwo. Trooper Dellwo is from Shakopee, joined the State Patrol in 1999 and is now one of its most recognized and respected members. Joe will share stories, experiences and his insight into being a State Trooper. Maybe he would like to hear the story about my mother and her friend being pulled over....
For the Meeting:
Our Song Master will be Sarah Howe. So far Sarah has been a Fine Master, Sgt at Arms Greeter, a presenter with her Icebreaker, she is such a great new member to our Club.
Our Fine Master will be Amber Kahnke, so have plenty of dollar bills.
Our Greeter's Table will again be the trio of Sarah Howe, Jon McBroom and Joe Schmidt.
Thanks to every member for all they contribute to our Club. Without us working together it would be so difficult to accomplish all the positive things this Club offers to our Community. As always, please let me know if you have any questions or comments.
Have a Wonderful Weekend,
John
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President's Weekly MessageDear Shakopee Rotary Club Members and Friends,
Happy Friday,
Even though Summer does not end for another 10 days, Fall weather has settled in. I, for one, appreciate a little less humidity in the air. Hopefully, everyone had a great Holiday weekend.
"Coffee with Crooks" continues. I have learned so very much from the members I have met with. Some great ideas are being shared. The plan is that after meeting with all members, I will share the findings with the Rotary Board and work on a presentation to share with the entire Club on what has been learned. We may also provide some goals and objectives for the direction of our Club. It is very exciting to hear from each person. Remember, without you, our Club is less than 100% of what it can and should be.
On Tuesday we learned about our STRIVE program, being headed up by Sheila McNeill. By the response to the sign up sheet, I see us as having the best STRIVE year ever. Thanks Sheila, for all you do.
Next was Deb Erickson, Membership Chair and the 60th Anniversary Celebration Chair. Deb filled us in on the planning that has taken place and the work yet to be done for the 60th Anniversary. Quite a few members signed up to assist Deb in the arrangements so that this will be a celebration to remember. We were also brought up to date on the hard work involved in attracting new members and retaining our existing membership. Thanks Deb.
Next week, Art Quinn will provide us with a presentation on GMO, genetically modified crops. As most of you know, Art has spent much of his career working on strains of seeds, particularly sugar beets, that are resistant to many types of crop failures. His work with Beta Seed has made a tremendous difference in world wide sugar beet production. We look forward to having Art educate us on the importance of GMO crops.
For the Meeting:
Our Song Master is the angelic voice of Alan Spillers
Our Fine Master will be smiling face of Bob Greeley
Our Greeter's table will consist of John McBroom, Joe Schmidt and the lovely Sarah Howe
So far this adventure of being your President is working out to be quite an experience...a fantastic experience. Let's all work together to make our Club the best it can be...making a difference with our "Service to Others'. And by the way, it is also a great way to establish wonderful friendships, business relationships and to have lots of fun.
Hope Everyone has a Super Weekend,
John
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President's Weekly MessageDear Shakopee Rotary Club Members and Friend,
Well, with 8 days under my belt as Shakopee Rotary President, things are starting to fall into place. Now I just have to figure out where that place is ...seriously, I am slowly adjusting to the position of leading our Club in a positive direction.
I stated during Tuesday's meeting, one of the first things that I would like to do is meet with each and every member of our Club. i called it "Coffee with Crooks", a bit corny, but it is something to catch your attention. I have already started meeting with a few members and will concentrate on the Committee Chairs first and then reach out with emails, hoping to set times that will be convenient to everyone. I will be able to meet early in the morning, late in the afternoon, into the evening and over lunch. I will make myself available to you, as each of you are the most important part of our Club. Please let me know if you would like to meet before i would send you an email. My goal is to meet with everyone in the next 2 months.
Also last week, we enjoyed a informative presentation from Mary Spiedel of the Good Samaritan Society. We learned about the choices to be made in considering rehabilitation facilities after a loved one's illness or injury. It made me want to consult an insurance professional. There may be someone in our Club to answer those questions...
Next Tuesday's September 8 meeting will feature presentations from some of our own. They will informing us with just some of opportunities we have with our Club. Sheila McNeill will educate us on our very successful STRIVE Program, to be followed by Deb Erickson, our Membership Chair, on the great work the Committee is accomplishing.
For the Meeting:
Our Song Master will be one our newest members, Sarah Howe
Our Fine Master will be one of our oldest members, Chuck Berg
 Our Greeter's Table will be John Canny, Dustin Campion and the ever lovely Jim Cook
I am excited and honored to meet and learn from each of you in the very near future. As always, please let me know if you have any questions or comments.
Have a Great Labor Day Weekend,
John
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President's Weekly MessageDear Shakopee Rotary Club Members and Friends,
Good Friday Morning!
As of the August 26 Board meeting, I have been chosen to serve as your Rotary President for the remainder of the 2015-2016 term. I am extremely honored, humbled and excited to serve. With only a limited time as President-Elect, I am aware of a steep learning curve on the requirments, duties, responsibilities and leadership involved with holding this position. I hope to fulfill the expections of our Club, our District 5950 and Rotary International. Thank you for this opportunity to serve.
During our next meeting, September 1, I will take a few minutes to present a few goals and objectives the Board has discussed going forward. I look forward to meeting, for a cup of coffee, with each and every one of our Club members to see what they value in our organization and to exchange and share ideas in helping our Club grow, prosper and evolvce to the best we can be.
At our last meeting we were honored to have our District 5950 Governor, Tim Murphy, join us and share his views of Rotary and especially our strong District. Tim had a wonderful story to tell about how he became involved in his Club and his evolution as a member of Rotary International. What a pleasure to meet tim and be empowered by his talk. In meeting the Board before that meeting, he offered so much advice and expertise as our Club was transitioning to new leadership. Many times over the next 10 months, I will be reaching out to him as we work together in strengthening our Club.
At next Tuesday's meeting our speaker will be Mary Spiedel, with the Good Samaritan Society. Her talk will focus on choosing rehabilitation facilities after an illness or injury. I think Rick Meyers knows a thing or two about this topic.
For the meeting:
Our Song Master will be Jim Cook...we missed your beautiful voice last week
Our Fine Master will be Tim Whitcomb...I'm still smiling as I remember his last time fining members
Our Greeter's Table will be Art Quinn, Michele Dahl and Tim Whitcomb
Once again, I am excited and honored to be your President. Please let me know if you have any questions or comments.
Have a great Weekend,
John
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President's Weekly MessageRotarian friends, amazing how quick my presidency has gone by. It seems like just a month ago I was accepting the gavel from Past President Kathleen Klehr. Unfortunately is was just over a month and my presidency will come to an end tomorrow. I apologize for the delay getting this out, but things are moving pretty quick on my end of things.
If you were not at the meeting last week you missed an great presentation by Andy Zarras. Using Dr. Seuss, Andy spoke about how customer service is so key to industries and that there are more important things than just numbers. It was a wonderful presentation. Thank you Sheila for bringing him to the club.
This week we will have our Ice Breakers! John Canny and Sarah Howe will share with us about themselves and why they are involved in Rotary. Please plan on attending to support a couple of our newest members.
For the meeting this week:
I look forward to seeing all our you at the meeting tomorrow.
Chris Kost
Shakopee Rotary President 2015/2016
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President's Weekly MessageGreetings from San Francisco! As I sit on the deck overlooking the Golden Gate Park, it comes to me that I better send out my weekly email:-) I don't know about you but I had no idea that the Scott County Library gave those with library cards free access to Lynda.com. That was a great take away from Lisa Motschke's presentation last week about the Scott County Library and what she is doing as the Digital Experience Manager.
This week our special presenter will be Andy Zarras, Andy is at the MSP airport and works in customer service and cargo operations for Delta Airlines.
For the meeting this week:
♦ Songmaster will be Bob Greely
♦ Finemaster is Deb Erickson
♦ Our Greeter's table will be hosted by Bezek, Wermerskirchen and Dahl
Have a great rest of your weekend and see you Tuesday!
Chris Kost
Shakopee Rotary President 2015/2016
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President's Weekly MessageWow, I can't believe that July and my first month as president is almost over. Last week we had an agenda packed meeting.
We also were graced by the vocal talents of Lee Hennen and Sarah Rowe made her debut as finemaster and did a wonderful job. Finally our presenter was Ibrahim Mohamed, who spoke about the Shakopee Diversity alliance (SDA). The SDA is doing amazing things in the community and you will not want to miss the International festival taking place on Friday July 31st at Huber park. You can find out more information on their website: http://shakopeediversityalliance.org/.
This week our special guest will be Lisa Motschke from the Scott County Library. Linda is the Digital Experience Manager for the Scott County Library system and she will talk to us about an exciting new resource called Lynda.com.
For the meeting this week:
Looking forward to seeing all of you on Tuesday!
Chris Kost
Rotary Club President 2015-2016
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President's Weekly MessageGreetings Fellow Rotarians,
What a weekend. I spent Friday and Saturday volunteering for our Prior Lake Rotary club and their Lakefront Music Fest. What an amazing event but most of all it was great time with fellow Rotarians. Last week we learned quite a bit about a little hidden gem of a grocery store called Mazopiya. Store Manager John Langham shared with us helpful information around GMO's, Organics and even left us with gift cards to the store. I know personally I go to their deli and they have some great prepared meal items. If you want to check them out go to http://www.mazopiya.com.
 This week we will have Ibrahim Mohammed, as our presenter. If you don't know Ibrahim, you will not want to miss meeting him and hearing about Shakopee Diversity Alliance. This is one of the organizations that we support as a club and they are doing amazing work in our community.
This Weeks Meeting:
Finemaster: Sarah Howe
Songmaster: Lee Hennen
Our Greeter's table will be hosted once again by Vanhout, Vaughan and Martini. (Hopefully Vaughan and Martini will show up this week)
Finally we will have a special guest with us for our Tuesday meeting. Our outbound Student, Mallory Glynn, will be briefly sharing about her preparation to go to Brazil this upcoming school year. This will be a great way of meeting Mallory and finding out how we can stay up to date will what she is doing while in Brazil.
See you Tuesday!
Chris Kost
President 2015/2016
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President's Weekly MessageHello Rotarian Friends,
I hope everyone had an enjoy week and weekend. I just returned from a weekend in the Danbury area with my family and like many of you preparing for the upcoming week. Last week we had the privilege of handing out donation dollars to Scott County Historical Society and to Scott County Catfish Derby. We also were able to hear first hand from Sandhya Gupta, how our donation dollars are being used in India for their education programs. It was eye opening how many of the items we take for granted are put to use for science projects in India.
  .jpg) This weeks meeting:
Guest presenter: John Langham from Mazopiya Natural Food Store presenting to the club.
Finemaster: John Crooks
Songmaster: Rick Meyer
Our greeters table will be hosted by the trio of VanHout, Vaughan and Martini
I look forward to seeing all of you on Tuesday!
Chris Kost
Shakopee Rotary President
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President's Weekly MessageHi All,
 Fun meeting last week. I know everyone (especially all our golfers), enjoyed hearing about Jon Dobberstein's work testing golf equipment, and the differences in club design. Harold lead us in a good old patriotic song, and Jon McBroom filled the pig as fine master. Jon also gave us a few good laughs with his off-the-cuff quips. Great to see a few faces return, and some new visitors.Next week I end my year and pass the presidential gavel to Chris Kost. It has been my honor and great pleasure to serve as your president this past year. I've learned a great deal about leadership, club membership and myself. Please join me next week to recognize past board members and install the new board. Plus you'll be sure to have a good laugh! REMINDER: we meet at Arizona's for this meeting.
Charlie Sunder, Jeff Tate & Bob Greeley welcome guests & Rotarians, Amber Kahnke takes a turn as song master, and Kevin O'Brien will make us laugh while emptying our wallets as fine master.
The following week we welcome Sandya Gupta, reporting on the impact of our donation - community need in India.
 Now, Get Out There & LIGHT UP ROTARY!Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr
President (one more week!)
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President's Weekly MessageHi All,
 What a wonderful meeting last week! Great speaker - Connie Anderson presenting on her project interviewing polio survivors and resulting book ..."When Polio Came Home: How Ordinary People Overcame Extraordinary Challenges"; we also welcomed special guests including three past Rotary exchange students!
 Congratulations to Gary Laurent for achieving his Paul Harris +5 Award. His lovely wife Tammy was on hand to accept the award on Gsry's behalf from Art Quinn. Big thank you to the club for your contributions to The Rotary Foundation, making it possible for us to achieve our goal of $10,500 in donations this year!
This week we welcome Jon Dobberstein, presenting on GOLF - golf equipment and club test. This is a perfect meeting to learn how to perfect your summer golf swing. Charlie Sunder, Bob Greeley, and Jeff Tate return as greeters to welcome you and your guest. Joe Helkamp takes a turn as song master (FYI: Joe Schmidt should be fined for last week's "da, da, da, da" song :-) ). And Jon McBroom will ply dollars cash from our pockets as fine master.
Next week (June 30), we meet at Arizona's for the transfer of presidency and board installation. As I end my presidential year, I am humbled by the fantastic support and guidance you gave to me so generously. My board worked diligently and loyally to make this year go by so smoothly; they made me look good! My sincere thanks to you all.
Remember: Loaves & Fishes June 30
Light Up Rotary!!
Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr
President 2014/2015
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President's Weekly MessageHi All,
I'm writing this from my back yard, soaking up as much sunshine as I can. I don't know about you but, I was getting pruny from all the rain. It was a
 pleasure to welcome Doug Nathan from Headwaters Relief Organization as our speaker last week. It's so heartwarming to  learn about these organizations. Also good to know that they partner with others for a coordinated response. Thanks Barb Brekke for arranging his talk.We also had the pleasure of awarding two donation. checks; CAP agency & St. Francis.
 This week please join me in welcoming Connie Anderson, speaking on "When Polio Came Home: How Ordinary People Overcame Extraordinary Challenges". I encourage you to invite a friend or colleague to join us for this talk.Theres a changing of the guard at the greeters table. New faces are... Charlie Sunder, Jeff Tate and Bob Greeley. The "just-back-from-a-gig" Joe Schmidt leads us in song, and the Amazing Sheila McNeill will make dollars fly into the pig as finemaster.
Remember:
June16: Rotary Board meeting, 11:15am at Dangerfield's
June 30: Transfer of presidency **NOTE** Meeting is at Arizonia's
June 30: Loaves & Fishes - contact Lorri Helkamp
FYI: Last week I put a few bucks in the pig for Jon McBroom & Joe Schmidt for correctly answering why Bob Greeley & John Blezek's photo was in my weekly message. Both of those guys are masters of Rolling Stones trivia
Keep Lighting Up RotaryCheers,
Kathleen Klehr
President 2014/15
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President's Weekly MessageHi All,
 WOW - what a rowdy and fun crowd we had this week. Cristi gave us a sweet review of her exchange year in Shakopee.
 Special thanks to the Schleif, Armstrong & Canny families for sharing their homes with Cristi. Wonderful to have each family in attendance too! Cristi also celebrated her graduation on Thursday evening - our good wishes go with her as she takes off for the East Coast tour, then travels home to Columbia. Good wishes also to Mallory Glynn as she begins her year abroad in Brazil later this summer. If you missed this week, you missed a lot! Tim "Witty" Whitcomb was a wonder as finemaster - bringing in the cash and fielding plenty of heckling.Next week we welcome Doug Nathan presenting on "Headwaters Relief Organization". The Three Amigos - Spillers, Spagnolo & Studnicka share the greeters table; Harold Armstrong returns with a BANG as song master; and Deb Erickson will work magic to remove cash from our pockets to fill the pig.
REMEMBER:
 If you can guess why these guys are pictured here, I'll put $1 in the pig!
Light Up Rotary!
Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr
President 2014-15
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Copy of President's Weekly Message Hi All, It was a pleasure to attend Rotary this week to honor Paulette Rislund as our W. Adair Muralt Award winner this year. She emulates the Rotary motto of "Service Above Self", and it has been a joy to say that I have had the opportunity to work with her over the past few years for the Shakopee career fair. Thanks Paulette!
Congratulations also to Gary Timm for receiving a Paul Harris award. It's heartwarming to have a non-Rotarian receive this award. Barb Danielson accepted the award on Gary's behalf.
 Thanks to Harold Armstrong, Michele Dahl and Art Quinn for organizing the event, and thanks to Bill Wermerskirchen for sharing Doc. Muralt's background and Jon McBroom for being our master of ceremonies. I am truly grateful to be surrounded by such caring and giving members of our community.
Next week Mary Hernandez offers us a double-treat; sharing a bit of her background as an icebreaker, and giving us a presentation on Esperanza. This would be a wonderful meeting to bring a guest! Just back from the south - Art Quinn will try to keep us in tune as song master this week, and The one-and-only Gary Martini will bring his wit to the podium to coax dollars from our wallets as fine master.
We will also be awarding the Paul Harris awards to those that were not able to attend last week.
Remember:
May 16 - that's tomorrow folks: is the Rotary District Conference at the Mall of America, Radisson Blu - hope to see you there!
Keep on smiling and Lighting Up Rotary!Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr
President 2014/15
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President's Weekly MessageHi All,It was a pleasure to attend Rotary this week to honor Paulette Rislund as our W. Adair Muralt Award winner this year. She emulates the Rotary motto of "Service Above Self", and it has been a joy to say that I have had the opportunity to work with her over the past few years for the Shakopee career fair. Thanks Paulette!
Congratulations also to Gary Timm for receiving a Paul Harris award. It's heartwarming to have a non-Rotarian receive this award. Barb Danielson accepted the award on Gary's behalf.
Thanks to Harold Armstrong, Michele Dahl and Art Quinn for organizing the event, and thanks to Bill Wermerskirchen for sharing Doc. Muralt's background and Jon McBroom for being our master of ceremonies. I am truly grateful to be surrounded by such caring and giving members of our community.
Next week Mary Hernandez offers us a double-treat; sharing a bit of her background as an icebreaker, and giving us a presentation on Esperanza. This would be a wonderful meeting to bring a guest! Just back from the south - Art Quinn will try to keep us in tune as song master this week, and The one-and-only Gary Martini will bring his wit to the podium to coax dollars from our wallets as fine master.
We will also be awarding the Paul Harris awards to those that were not able to attend last week.
Remember:
May 16 - that's tomorrow folks: is the Rotary District Conference at the Mall of America, Radisson Blu - hope to see you there!
Keep on smiling and Lighting Up Rotary!Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr
President 2014/15
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President's Weekly MessageHi All,
.jpg) What a wonderful turnout for our meeting this week! Great to have so many visitors as well. I haven't heard yet how much we took in at the auction, but I'm sure it was a good haul. Thanks to Jim Cook and Lee Hennen for their fine auctioneer talents, and thanks to everyone that brought in or bid on an item.
Special thanks to Lauren Wolf for leading us in one of my favorite Buffalo Springfield songs. It's always a pleasure when we have guest musicians to lead us. Thank Bill Nevin for inviting Lauren.
Hope you all had a great time at this month's Rotary Happy Hour - held this past Thursday at the River Valley YMCA "Discover the Y" event. Thanks to Chris Kost for hosting us!
Next week is our W. Adair Muralt meeting at Canterbury Park. This year we're honoring Paulette Rislund. Please remember the cost is $15 this week (or a punch-card plus $2). Greeters are Ron Smith, Joe Schmidt and Ron Solseth, Songmaster is golden-throat Kevin O'Brien, and Finemaster is Tammy Laurent
 Our semi annual roadside clean up is being handled this spring by Shakopee school student volunteers and is being arranged through our own Rotarian and Shakopee school staff, Mary Hernandez. Charlie Sunder will be meeting the kids and their supervisor in the next week or two to complete the task. Please thank Mary next time you see her. And THANKS to those students for volunteering. (Hey Charlie - you rock in your orange vest!)
 Here is a link to Hannah Chase's (one of our Student of the Month), fundraising page https://www.gofundme.com/tgg3qc Feel free to share this information with others, and direct any other potential donors to this site. Every little bit helps!!!
Her deadline is May 18. Let me know if you have any questions. Have a great weekend.
Libby Bergen -Service Above Self
Remember:
May 12 - meeting at Canterbury Park ($15)
May 16 - District Conference at the Mall of America - Radisson Blu - still time to register!!
We are now into the home stretch for Rotary year 2014-2015 and our campaign for the Annual Fund is reaching a conclusion for this year, and we're behind last year’s Annual Fund donations. Remember that the donations made this year determine the funding that is available for future projects. You can still sign up for automatic monthly deductions - it's easy. My pocket isn't very deep, but I could afford $5/month - and it makes a difference! Please join me in making a contribution - Service Above Self!
Get out there and Light Up Rotary!
Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr
President 2014-15
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President's Weekly MessageHi All,
 What a wonderful meeting last week. It’s such a pleasure to honor one of our own members – Ron Smith - especially when we pull off a surprise! Thanks to Harold Armstrong for putting together the very cool video tribute, Barb Brekke for the cake & Chris Kost for video recording.
Special thanks to everyone involved in the book sale… co-chairs Harold Armstrong & Gary Martini, Sheila McNeill for securing a fantastic space & organizing preview night, Libby Bergan for volunteer coordination, Deb Erickson for promotion & Everyone else. CONGRATULATIONS! We beat our goal and surpassed sales from last year. Well Done!
 It’s the Annual Spring Auction! I look forward to these auctions not only for the great items, but I really enjoy Jim Cook & Lee Hennen’s snarky humor! Please bring an item for the auction next week!! New Greeters are Joe Schmidt, Ron Smith & Ron Solseth. Golden-throat Bill Nevin leads us in song, and the one & only Jim Cook does double duty this week as auction & fine master.
Remember:
Get out there and Light Up Rotary!
Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr
President 2014/15
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President's Weekly MessageHi All,
 Thanks to John Bezak for a very interesting talk on the Shakopee School Referendum. I appreciate learning more about both questions, particularly Question #2 on Technology – these days it is difficult to stay on top of the changes in technology. This week: Surprise!! Legacy Appreciated. You’re going to want to attend this one. Greeters are Linda Plumb and Doug Schleif. The one-and-only Joan Lynch does double duty - leading us in song as song master AND emptying our wallets as fine master
 A special thanks to everyone that attended the Book Sale Preview night last Thursday. Kudos to Gary Martini for rounding up some really great prizes! (I'm a tiny bit jealous of Harold Armstrong for winning the get-away for two to the North Shore.) Thanks to Sheila McNeill for arranging for the tasty pizza and wine/beer. Bonus was finding some good books! *Book Sale* We need people to help break-down & clean up – on Saturday May 2 from 1-3pm. The more muscles we have, the quicker we’re done. PLUS, President Kathy will buy the beers when we’re all done!
Special thanks: to the tag-team of Harold Armstrong & Gary Martini for chairing the book sale committee & to Lee Hennen for yet again arranging for a very successful Bridging event. Please thank them all for doing such a wonderful job!
Mark your calendars:
Light UP Rotary!
Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr President 2014-15
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USED BOOK SALE THIS WEEKEND!
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President's Weekly MessageHi All,
Thanks so much to Chris Kost for filling in for me last week; I picked up one heck of a bug and didn't want to share germs. Sorry I missed the meeting and all the fun sorting books.
Speaking of the book sale - I did get a chance to stop by the sale site on Saturday to drop off books & WOW!! The place is fantastic - plenty of room to set up and peruse books, plus, there's a doorbell!! I don't know if you heard but we received a donation of 5,000 books! This will help us reach our goal of 10,000 books. Please keep collecting, and stop by to help sort - helping hands are always welcome, This year we're adding the option to purchase books with a credit or debit card. Thanks to the committee for all their hard work.
Our speaker on Tuesday is our own John Bezak, presenting on the Shakopee School Referendum. This week's helpful & smiling greeters are Linda Plum, Mary Hernandez and Doug Schleif. Limber up your vocal cords, Jim Mahoney leads us in a rousing song this week as the song master. The fine master name is a bit hard to locate, but I'm sure John Crooks has someone in mind.
Remember:
1) Book Sale - collection, sorting & sales begin April 24
2) Book sale preview & prize drawing - April 23
3) Bridging - April 25
4) Muralt Award meeting - May 12
5) District Conference - May 16 at MOA, Radisson Blu. We enter by club, Olympic style. Please - please register & join me
Get out there & Light Up Rotary!Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr
President 2014/15
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President's Weekly MessageHi All,
 Huge Thanks to Lorri Helkamp and her crew for a fantastic Shakopee Celebrates Reading program this p ast Tuesday. The high school auditorium was packed with excited and attentive first graders. Harold, the Cat-in-the-Hat (Chuck Berg), and the singer (sorry I didn’t catch his name), were very well loved by the audience. I’m so proud to be a member of the Shakopee Rotary Club and to be able to participate in this event. Kudos all around! We also enjoyed a visit from Fran Heitzman and presented him with a $1,000 check in support of Bridging.  Remember – Lee Hennen needs some strong backs to help with Bridging on April 25.Thanks also to everyone that attended Rotary Happy Hour at Arizona’s last evening – I'm sure a fun time was had by all (I was stuck at work & missed it).
Next week: ICEBREAKERS! Amber Kahnke and Rick Meyer will regale us with tales of their backgrounds. New greeters are Linda Plumb and Doug Schleif (p.s. please thank Libby Bergen for updating and organizing the greeter table list and stuff!) The lovely Bob Greeley will teach us how to remove dollars from our wallets as fine master and the lovely Jeff Tate will lead us in a rousing song as song master. This should be a great meeting!!
 *Book Sale* We need boxes – please save your boxes and contact Gary for drop-off/pick-up. There’s still time to get involved in the book sale – collect some books, volunteer to staff a shift – it’s really easy and great fun (plus if you host a bin or collect 100+ books, your name goes into a drawing for some very cool prizes). Be sure to get your name on the Preview Night sign-up list so we can arrange for drinks & treats. Attached is Book Sale information to share with your friends, family & colleagues – let’s promote the heck out of this! This is our major fundraiser for the year and we need all hands on deck.
Gary Martini’s contact gary@martiniandassociates.com
We still need people to take a shift or two on the following dates/times:
Sat. 4/25, 11am to 1pm, 1pm to 3pm, 3pm to 5pm
Sun. 4/26. 11am to 1pm
Fri. 5/1. 4pm to 7pm
Sun. 4/26. 1pm to 3pm
Sat. 5/2. 9am to 11am, 11am to 1pm
Breakdown: 5/2, 1pm to 3pm (this goes really fast)
Mark your calendars:
Light UP Rotary!
Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr President 2014-15
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Bridging Collection Day - April 25th
Accepting Donations for Bridging WHEN: Saturday, April 25, 2015 TIME: 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. WHERE: Shakopee Public Works Building, 400 Gorman Street Furniture pickup available, call Tim Whitcomb at 952-445-6170 |
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President's Weekly Message Hi All, Thanks to Yvonne Anderson for agreeing to move her presentation up a few weeks. It was very interesting to learn about the variety of care that St. Gertrude’s provides. We are very lucky to have  such a wonderful facility in our community. I think Dave Ekart’s idea of “song-master” is a bit different; did anyone remember the words to “Peter Cottontail”? Deb Erickson was a whiz at fine-master, bringing in quite a few dollars for the pig. Next week: Shakopee Celebrates Reading! Remember we share lunch at Dangerfield’s with special guest Fran Heitzman from Bridging – then head to the High School for the celebration event. This is such a great program – the 1st graders excitement spreads to everyone. I can’t wait to see the Cat in the Hat!! Thanks to those Rotarians that volunteered at Loaves & Fishes this week. Your efforts are very much appreciated. Mark your calendars:
April 9 - Rotary Happy Hour at Arizona’s
Now through April 24 – Book collecting! We’re aiming for 100% participation from Club members to collect books. Please contact Gary Martini to be sure your name is on the list as hosting a collection site. PLUS – having your name on the list enters you into a drawing for some very cool prizes! April 25 – Bridging (sign up with Lee Hennen) May 16 – Rotary District Conference at Radisson Blu in Bloomington at the Mall of America. Check out details here http://goo.gl/z3Qn89 Please register now! *HEY* I urge you to become involved in the book sale – collect some books, volunteer to staff a shift – it’s really easy and great fun. This is our major fundraiser for the year and we need all hands on deck. Let’s get the other HALF of the club involved in the book sale. Please contact Gary Martini (gary@martiniandassociates.com) to volunteer.
We need people to take a shift or two on the following dates/times:
Need one person at theses shifts Sat. 4/25, 11am to 1pm, 1pm to 3pm, 3pm to 5pm Sun. 4/26. 11am to 1pm Fri. 5/1. 4pm to 7pm The following shifts have no one signed up: Sun. 4/26. 1pm to 3pm Sat. 5/2. 9am to 11am, 11am to 1pm Breakdown: 5/2, 1pm to 3pm (this goes really fast) Light UP Rotary!
Cheers, Kathleen Klehr President 2014-15 |
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We're Collecting Books - Click for drop off sites
WANTED: Used Books! The Shakopee Rotary Club is holding a Used Book Sale April 24-26 & May 1-2, 2015 at the old Hallmark Bldg by Pizza Ranch
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President's Weekly MessageHi All,
 Thanks to Mary Hernandez for introducing us to Emilia Gonzalez Avalos last week. Her talk was very informative. I’m impressed by the amount of work she undertakes and by our community’s rich cultural diversity.  It was great fun to deliver donations to the Shakopee School district and to Esperanza. The “big check” is proving to be a wonderful prop.
Anyone could have followed along with Jon McBroom’s Shakopee school song – just say “fight” and you’d be right about 98% of the time. Kevin O’Brien’s fines had a sporty theme to g
 o along with March Madness. Next week:
We welcome Youth in Government Participants. This should be a very interesting presentation – I’m always excited to hear from the next generation, particularly those interested in government! Deb Erickson takes her turn as a skilled fine master, and Dave Eckart will try his hand at leading us in song! Say hello to greeters Bill Nevin, Kevin O’Brien and Lynn Pauly. Mark your calendars:
REMEMBER:
We do not have a program on April 7. We will have our usual lunch together with a special guest at Dangerfield’s, then head to our Shakopee Celebrates Reading event at the
Christi, our exchange student participated in the “Battle of the Brushes,” a competition to create the best mural design for the Holmes Street tunnel. The winning design will be chosen through online voting. On Saturday, downtown revitalization organization Main Street Shakopee will open its Kickstarter.com fundraising campaign for the mural. A $10 donation allows anyone to vote for their favorite design. The campaign will run through April 30, after which Main Street will announce the design winner. More information can be found at http://shakopee.org/ or on the Main Street Shakopee Facebook page.
Light UP Rotary!
Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr President 2014-15
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President's Weekly MessageHi All,
 Another fun meeting this week. Great ice breaker by Bob Greeley. I had no idea he was so involved with sports! Thanks for sharing Bob.  Tag-team of Chris Kost and Jason Marschall led us through Club Runner with tips to make using it much easier. Plus they identified some great tabs where we can update our own information and keep tabs on our commitments! Thanks guys for helping to make this less of a mystery and more of a tool.Joe Vaughan ensured we had a Happy St. Pat’s Day by leading us in “Oh Danny Boy” – one of my personal favorites! Joan Lynch was the perfect stand-in for Bill Wermerskirchen as fine master this week. FYI: Bill & Gini were cheering at Target Center.
 Please join me in thanking John Crooks for volunteering to attend the Rotary grant seminar on April 25. Attendance is required at this seminar in order for our club to be eligible for matching grants from the District or RI for the 2015-16 year.
Thanks also to Michelle Dahl and John Canny for agreeing to serve on the Muralt Award committee. It’s great to see new members join in the fun.
Next week:
We welcome speaker Emilia Gonzalez Avalos, Navigate MN – “Current Immigration Topics” This should be a very interesting talk and I encourage you to invite your colleagues, friends and family members to attend. Kevin O’Brien will coax dollars from our pockets as fine master, and Jon McBroom will get us warbleing as song master! New greeters next week are Bill Nevin, Kevin O’Brien and Lynn Pauly. Mark your calendars:
News:
Quick Question:
Our weekly meeting attendance has been low for quite a while. I’d be interested in learning what barriers there are to attending. Please shoot me an email, give me a call – or leave me an anonymous note.
 Light UP Rotary!
Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr President 2014-15
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President's Weekly EmailHi All,
 Another nice turn out this week. I really enjoy ice-breakers! It’s such a pleasure to learn a bit more about our fellow Rotarians. Who knew Gary has such a passion for Rotary, or that John has mascot images from all the schools where he attended or worked.Mark gave his last accompaniment as song master to one of my favorite go-to karaoke songs, “These Boots are Made for Walking” by Nancy Sinatra. I only hope Mark’s boots bring him back for a visit real soon.
Next week:
We welcome speaker Linda Tally, Allina Health Hospice – “Palliative Care – It’s About How You Live!” This should be a very interesting talk. Greg Hoehn is next week’s song master, and John Crooks will regale us with some terribly funny jokes and fines as fine master! Next week’s greeters are Joan Lynch, Jason Marschall and Jim Mahoney. Mark your calendars:
March 5 – Rotary Happy Hour at Turtles Bar & Grill March 31 – Loaves & Fishes May 16 – Rotary District Conference at Radisson Blu in Bloomington at the Mall of America (see the note below for details)
Need:
With the retirement of Ron Smith (sigh), we are looking for a Rotarian to take part in a grant seminar, Saturday, April 25, 2015 (9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Edina). Attendance is required in order for our club to be eligible to participate in matching grants from the District or the Rotary Foundation during the 2015 – 2016 Rotary year. Please contact me if you’re interested or want more information.
News: I sat in on the book sale committee meeting this week and am pleased to say that Harold, Gary and the committee have everything in hand and I’m sure this will be our best sale ever! This District Conference is geared towards sharing with your families what Rotary means to the community. We also wanted to recreate the feel of a Rotary International Conference - with a substantial ceremony and significant friendship hall.
We will start with an Olympic style opening ceremony with all clubs being fully represented. We will then attempt to break a GUINNESS WORLD RECORD. Our lunch keynote speaker is Mark Rosen who will be telling us about his personal experience with the “miracle on ice” and other sporting hero stories. Our friendship hall will represent a multitude of non-profit partners that will be able to relate the true service above self that embodies Rotary. We have a NEW award program – an “Awards Showcase” with some interesting twists! Our evening program will include the one and only Dudley Riggs who will be interviewed on his substantial contribution to the world of improv in the US. The committee has more surprises up its sleeve. This is just for starters
From Sheila McNeill:
"Dear fellow members, I'm writing this note to say my heartfelt thanks to all of you for all the support you have shown to Mark and to me over the past several months. I know we have both been humbled by all the kind words, the attendance at council meetings as show of support and at the farewell party. Mark has received many sincere notes and letters, invitations to lunches, coffee or to dinner and we both have been overwhelmed to say the least. Truly the spirit of the Rotarians in this club is very special and we both will not forget your kindness. Many thanks again for everything."
Light UP Rotary!
Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr President 2014-15
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President's Weekly MessageHi All,
What a fun meeting last week! Sandy Sullivan sure spins a great story “Working for Vince Lombardi”!
 I believe even all our Vikings fans were riveted by her Green Bay Packer stories. Great fun, and I very much liked her parting thoughts to take chances and go on adventures.Deb Erickson had a witty way of prying sawbucks from our wallets! Mark McNeill led us in a rousing rendition of the first song he ever sang as song master over a decade ago. He may have just a touch of OCD, as he has kept a list of all the songs we’ve sung since he first became song master.
 This coming Tuesday is Mark’s last meeting with us. Please join me in sending him off with a HUGE Thank You! His tenure as song master has brought us some very memorable moments and stretched our musical muscles. Thanks Mark!I’m looking forward to next week; Icebreakers from Gray Martini and John Bezek. Sheila McNeill is our song master – wonder what she’s got up her sleeve---hmmm?? Greeters this week are Joan Lynch, Jim Mahoney and Jason Marschall,
Unfortunately I don’t know who is fine master – I’m home ill today and my list is sitting on my computer at work - sorry. Guess we’ll be surprised!
Don’t forget:
Rotary Happy Hour, March 5, at Turtles Bar & Grill
Loaves & Fishes, March 31
Get out there and Light Up Rotary!
Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr
President 2014/5
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President's Weekly emailHi All,
Another nice turn out this week. Let’s fill the room next week! We enjoyed a very interesting talk by John Rubischko on his very personal experience with ethics. I learned that we are faced with ethical decisions on such a frequent basis, and that one decision can snowball into a life-change. It was inspiring to see how he has chosen to change his life around and present himself as an example to others. Jason was surprised to learn he was song master this week. However, he stepped up to the plate with a wonderfully lame song, which we all knew the words
and tune. John Crooks brought in some serious bucks with his fines – and a few off-the-mark jokes to give us a giggle too! Rotary Happy Hour was great at Badger Hill this past Thursday evening. Thanks so much to Joe Vaughan for bringing in the tasty treats and arranging for the social event. It was nice to see lots of Rotary faces joining in the fun.
I stopped by Tokata Learning Center today for the Student of the Month celebration, but was a tiny bit late for the presentation, but in time for an ice-cream treat. Thanks to Libby for spearheading this program. It was a pleasure to get a tour of the center and meet some students.
Next week: We welcome speaker Sandy Sullivan talking on “Working for Vince Lombardi”. I know plenty of our club members will be excited to hear her talk. This is a great opportunity to invite a prospective new member to join us. Mark McNeill returns from sunny climes as next week’s song master, and Deb Erickson will work to remove some sawbucks from our wallets as fine master! Next week’s greeters are Joan Lynch, Jason Marschall and Jim Mahoney. Mark your calendars: March 5 – Rotary Happy Hour at Turtles Bar & Grill March 31 – Loaves & Fishes News: I had the pleasure to meet with Bill & Barb Runge, Jack Cole and Tony Spagnolo this week to talk about our club’s history. What a gas! These guys had so many wonderful stories, but they also have me a bit afraid to open the door to our storage closet. Seems like that closet was crammed with old-stuff. Who wants to join me to inventory the closet? NEEDED:
Volunteers to help plan our 60th Anniversary celebration. The actual anniversary is in March, but we are hosting the celebration at a later date to allow us time to put together a successful event. Please contact Deb Erickson for details. Light UP Rotary!
Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr President 2014-15
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President's Weekly EmailHi All,  Great turn out this week – thanks! I learned quite a bit from our speaker Judith Brumfield regarding all the great work that SC Health & Human Services provides to our community. Mark’s entry into the contest for longest song fell short of Barb D’s, but who’s keeping track. Libby hit a few groaners as fine master and is in the running for the Harold Award. Great fun all around. Next week: We welcome speaker John Rubischko talking on the topic of Ethics. He has quite a story you won’t want to miss. This would be a great time to invite a prospective new member to join us. Loosen up those vocal cords – Jason Marschall is this week’s song master! John Crooks will walk through the bar to bring us some “fine” challenges, and this is the last week for greeters Chris Kost, Chuck Huss and Tammy Laurent. Mark your calendars: February 5 – Rotary Happy Hour at Badger Hill Brewery http://www.badgerhillbrewing.com/ March 31 – Loaves & Fishes News: MAAP STARS needs judges – please see the attachments. Barb Danielson was a judge last year and thought it was very beneficial. NEEDED:
Volunteers to help plan our 60th Anniversary celebration. The actual anniversary is in March, but we are hosting the celebration in May to allow us time to put together a successful event. Please contact Deb Erickson for details. Light UP Rotary!
Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr President 2014-15
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President's Weekly EmailHi All,
 I had a great time at last week's meeting. Thanks Libby for introducing the Jamison & Kaley, Camp Enterprise students. So nice to know that they had a good experience.
 Our speaker, Mary Romansky is a wonder - I was especially moved and inspired by her "Good to Go" story of filling kids backpacks with food to tide them over the weekend. Thanks Barb for teaching me a new song - although my thighs were a bit sore from all the slapping. If you missed this week's meeting - you'll have to guess what that means. :-)
Please make our newest member, Rick Meyer welcome - invite him to join you in a committee!
This coming week (1/27) we welcome Judith Brumfield, Director of the Scott County Health & Human Services Department as our speaker. Mark "guitar-man" McNeill returns as song master and Libby Bergan steps up to the podium as fine master. Greeters this week are Chris Kost, Tammy Laurent and Chuck Huss.
60th ANNIVERSARY UPDATE:
We're putting together a planning committee to develop a celebration party and need some volunteers to help in the following areas. Please contact Deb Erickson to join in the fun.
FYI: Although our actual anniversary is in March, we plan to hold the big celebration in May. This will allow us plenty of time to develop a great party, and ensure that the weather cooperates.
Board members: please send out your board reports prior to our meeting on Wednesday 1/28 next week!
Light UP Rotary!
Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr
President 2014/15
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President's Weekly EmailHi All,
 Winter's blast is here - I'm just hoping we get a mid-January thaw. I thoroughly enjoyed Terry Kerber's presentation on the history of Major Taylor last week. Very cool.
We had a nice turnout for the first Rotary Happy Hour at Arnie's on Thursday evening. However, it was packed due to their annual Banko kickoff event. Bill Wermerskirchen was a big winner of some tasty looking t-bones! Thanks to Joe Vaughan for planning the event and to everyone that turned out on a cold and blustery evening.
Sheila McNeill passed on an update from Noah - our outbound exchange student. - see his email below.
Sheila,
Happy Holidays to all of you! My apologies for not writing sooner, paradise does not always have Wi-Fi! :) I just wanted to wish all of you a Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year! Things are going FANTASTIC for me in Brasil! I have only a few days left before I leave on the legendary Northeast Tour! I wanted to take a second to thank you, especially, along with the entire Shakopee Rotary club for granting me this glorious opportunity. Cultural understanding and my new found love of the language are things I can never repay you for. I hope all is well with you, I am sure the club is doing incredible things as they always do.
I just updated my blog about how I spent the holidays, and about my upcoming Tour! Below I have some photos of over the holidays, the first two are with my first host family the Rudnicks, over Christmas and the third is with my second family, the Fronzas, over New Years! Send my best wishes to your family, and the entire club. (FYI: I had trouble with the photos and send them once I get them downloaded)
Beijos and Carpe Diem,
Noah Estabrooks Next Tuesday is our Assembly - A refresher on why we're Rotarians! We'll 'LIGHT UP ROTARY" with a quick update on the past 6 months, and a discussion on what's planned for the remainder of the year. AND on top of that fun... John Crooks will delight us with his fine master wit, and Greg Hoehn is our greeter.
Remember:
Reception on Tuesday January 14 for Mark McNeill at Turtle's Social Center from 4:30-7:30 pm
January 17 - Rotary Mid-Term Assembly at MN Arboretum. You can still attend, however, without lunch.
January 20 - Speaker Mary Romanski "Good to Go Kids Program and Camp Enterprise"
Light Up Rotary!!
Cheers,
Kathleen Klehr President 2014/15
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Copy of President's MessageHi All, HAPPY NEW YEAR!! I hope you had a chance to celebrate & ring in the new year in style. After a long hiatus, we return to our regular weekly meetings this coming Tuesday - January 6. Our greeter is Greg Hoehn, who I think could use some help as his greeter partners, Joe & Lorri Helkamp, will still be out of town. Jim Cook is sure to entertain us asfinemaster and fill the "pig".
Please join me in giving a warm Rotary welcome to our speaker Terry Kerber as he presents "Major Taylor: The Inspiring Story of a Black Cyclist & the Men Who Helped Him Achieve Worldwide Fame". Major Taylor was a fascinating athlete from 1896-1910 who captivated the attention of millions of people from all over the world. This would be a wonderful opportunity to invite friends, colleagues... to attend too.
Let's Light Up Rotary! Cheers, |
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President's MessageHi All, I wish you all a joyful and memorable holiday season! Thank you for the kind words and the beautiful plant during my recovery from surgery. I'm well on the mend now and itching to get back into Rotary activities. Thanks to the McNeill's for hosting a well attended Rotary holiday party at their home. It was great fun to see so many new and returning Rotarians and meet their significant others. Plus the food was fantastic! I owe a HUGE thank you to Chris Kost for filling in for me this past month. Chris not only covered the regular weekly meetings, he also chaired gambling & board meetings. Thanks Chris - you're a gem! Remember, no weekly meeting December 30. January 6 we welcome Terry Kerber with his talk "Major Taylor:The Inspiring Story of a Black Cyclist & the Men Who Helped Him Achieve Worldwide Fame". Major Taylor was a fascinating athlete from 1896-1910 who captivated the attention of millions of people from all over the world. Our greeters are Joe & Lori Helkamp and Greg Hoehn and Jim Cook will work his magic to fill the finemaster's pig. Let's Light Up Rotary! Cheers, |
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President's Weekly UpdateHi All, What a wonderful meeting this week - so great to see new faces - especially those from the members event last week. I admit, I'm a sucker for John Chris takes the reins for the next couple of weeks while I'm out of commission. I know you'll give him the same respect and support you've all given me. This coming Tuesday please give a hearty Rotary welcome our speaker Don Gorter from Seagate (I'm bummed to miss this talk). Mark will strum a tune to keep us on key as song master, and Barb Danielson will delight us as fine master. The trio of John Crooks, Barb Danielson and Dave Eckart will staff the greeter table with a warm welcome for everyone. Reminders:
Look for an email from Sheila McNeill with a flyer and sign-up for the Holiday Party.
Cheers, Kathy Klehr |
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President's Weekly MessageHi All,
What a great meeting this week! So cool to see so many new faces. I have to admit, I'm a sucker for John Crook's goofy
 fine master jokes - kinda reminds me of Harold (miss ya), and loved the sing-along with Libby. Plus Mike McMahan's talk on Health Care was not only informative, it was very interesting. Thanks everyone.Chris Kost takes the leadership reins the next couple weeks - please offer him the same support you give me. Next week Chris installs Mr. Martini next week (on his 6th meeting??), as our newest member; Mark McNeill lead us in song; Barb Danielson deals out fines; and John Crooks, Barb Danielson & Dave Ekhart staff the greeter's table and welcome all. Please extend a warm welcome to next week's speaker, Don Gorter from Seagate. I am bummed to miss his talk.
Reminders:
I wish you all a safe and warm Thanksgiving!!
 Light Up Rotary
Cheers, Kathy Klehr
President 2014-15
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President's weekly messageHi All, Winter is here! Yippie! Yup, I'm one of those people that like the cold and snow. I was sorry to miss this week's meeting, but understand that Chris had no trouble filling my shoes. Thanks so much to Laura Pecaut from Shakopee Main Street for delivering a very informative program. I'm excited about the momentum to promote and engage with our downtown. Thanks to everyone that participated in the membership event at Stonebrooke last evening. We had a nice group of Rotarians and quite a few new member prospects attend. BIG Thanks to Deb Erickson, Barb Danielson and the membership committee for all their hard work in planning the event. Special thanks to Lee Hennen, Barb Brekke and John Crooks for sharing their personal Rotary stories. I encourage you to warmly welcome these new prospects and all visitors to our club meetings. Next week we welcome Mike McMahan, President of St. Francis Regional Medical Center as our speaker on the topic "Health Care Reform: How Hospitals are dealing with the Change". Libby Bergen is sure to get us warbling in tune as song master, and John Crooks walks into a bar... no wait, he will finish that sentence as fine master. New faces at the greeters table are John Crooks, Barb Danielson and Dave Eckart. REMEMBER: NO NOON Meeting December 2 - We're hosting a Toy Drive for the CAP Agency at Arizona's from 5-7p.m. with a few other Scott County Rotary clubs. Please bring an unwrapped toy (or two...), plus $10 for appetizers for a wonderful evening of fellowship and fun to support a well deserving organization. Loaves & Fishes - December 4 - please sign up with Lorri Helkamp NO NOON Meeting December 16 - instead on Thursday December 18 we'll hold a brief business meeting at our Holiday Party hosted by the McNeill's at their home. Please contact Sheila regarding bringing a dish to share. NO Meetings December 23 & 30 - Holiday Break. Rotary Happy Hour starts on January 8 at Arnie's Bar. This is purely a social time for us to patronize the sites that sell our pull-tabs. These will be held the first Thursday of each month. Watch for time & locations. *** FYI: Mary Hernandez has kindly offered to be our Facebook Guru. Please feed her your Rotary photos and information for posting. Thanks Mary!!! LIGHT UP ROTARY! Cheers, Kathleen Klehr |
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President's weekly messageHi All, BIG thanks to Jim Cook & Lee Hennen for their fantastic job racking up the $bucks$ at our annual fall auction. Pat yourselves on the back for bringing in such great items and for all the bidding! Thanks to you, we brought in over $1,000! I do have to apologize to Libby Bergen for my telling her not to bid on the Jamison Irish whiskey. I needed it to replace the bottle I finally finished (which I got at our auction two years ago) I'm also hoping Tammy Laurent will leave a crumb or two of the beautiful cookies Linda Plum donated; they looked almost too pretty to eat. Everything was so great even our visitors bid and won a few items too. It was so cool to have our new members join in the fun. I'd say it was an all-around success. Thanks everyone! Next Tuesday Chris steps into my shoes to lead the meeting, welcoming Laura Pecaut from the Shakopee Main Street program. There are a lot of great things happening to our downtown, and Laura will give us the inside scoop. Bill Nevin steps up a fine master next week; I'll be sorry to miss that. Loosen up your vocal cords - Mark McNeill returns as song master, and the greeter table is staffed by the smiling faces of Kathy Busch, Dustin Campion and Jim Cook. REMINDER: Please mark your calendars to attend our Membership Open House, Thursday November 13 at Stonebrooke Golf Course Given that we're coming into the holiday season, the board reviewed the calendar and has set the following schedule: Note: More detailed information will be coming regarding events. December 3 - NO NOON MEETING - we're hosting an evening get-together with other Scott County clubs at Arizona's. Please bring The new year also brings a new regular monthly program: First Thursday Rotary Happy Hour (RHH). These are informal social gatherings at the local pubs/restaurants that sell our pull-tabs. The first RHH is January 8 at Arnie's. Light Up Rotary! Cheers, Kathy Klehr |
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President's weekly messageHi All, Hope you had a great Halloween and Day-of-the-Dead, one of my favorite holidays. The crisp weather has me itching to bake. Thanks so much to Barb Brekke for introducing us to Kerry Singh. I had lots of fun with her "mini-
It's finally here - the week you've all been waiting for, yup, it's the LIVE AUCTION!!! Jim & his lovely assistant Lee will showcase all the really cool things brought in by club members (don't forget to bring in an item or two or three). They will dazzle you with their lightning quick tag-team efforts to urge you to BID HIGH! Remember, all proceeds from the auction benefit our club activities, plus you get to bring home some wonderful stuff. Quick reminder: the Membership event is November 13 - have you handed out your invitations? Cheers, Kathy Klehr, President 2014-15 p.s. Chris Kost will cover for me on November 11 - so please cut him some slack. |
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President's weekly messageHi All, What FANTASTIC Fall weather we're having, this must be our reward for surviving last winter. I just spent a couple hours at the Main Street Shakopee Mural kick-off event in downtown and am What a great presentation last Tuesday by NFL line judge Jeff Seeman. I am not one to follow sports at all, but I truly learned a lot about what it takes to be a judge, how involved the rules are, and the journey it takes to become a judge in the NFL. Thanks Bill Wermerskirchen for inviting Jeff to present. Thanks also to Lee Hennen for his witty fine master skills. I don't know how he managed to keep those cool books under wraps for so long. I'm really digging my "World Class Legs" book. ;-) This coming Tuesday Barb Brekke will introduce Kerry Singh, presenting on "Releasing Your Creativity". This will be a very interesting talk and I invite you to bring along a guest. Fine master Joan Lynch will try to finesse a few dollars from our pockets; Mark McNeill returns as song master and encourage us to open our diaphragm to belt out a rousing tune; and the greeters table will be staffed by the lovely Kathy Busch, Dustin Campion and Jim Cook. Remember:
Light UP Rotary! Cheers, Kathy Klehr |
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Presidents Weekly MessageHi All, Hope you had a great weekend - the weather was marvelous!! This is my favorite time of year, crisp air, gorgeous color and no mosquitos! Last week our own Chris Kost gave us an in-depth look at the history of the YMCA. I was surprised by the long history of the "Y" and its influence on starting other great programs. Loved the stories and photos - thanks Chris! This week Bill Wermerskirchen introduces Jeff Seeman, NFL Line Judge! Can't wait to hear some of his hard-hitting stories! Lee Hennen will coax some cash from our wallets as fine master, Sheila McNeill takes the lead as song master, and the cheerful faces of Jon McBroom and Joe Schmidt will greet you at the door. Don't forget:
Cheers, Kathy Klehr |
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Weekly Presidents MessageHi All, I was impressed by Abul Sharah's "Update on International Village Clinic" presentation. The video really brings to life the good work being done in India. I'm a bit bummed out by the fact that you had to put up with me as both song master and fine master. If you don't want me to step in with my terrible songs and fines, then please keep an eye on your calendars or this email for whose responsible for what. That being said, I was very impressed by how many people knew the words to the "Hearse" song - even Chris taught me a new verse. My kids loved it - which is why it's burned into my memory. Next Tuesday Lorri Helkamp brings us Jay Darby speaking on "Gold, Silver and Coins", I feel richer already. This would be a wonderful reason to invite a colleague, business acquaintance, neighbor... to join us. Mark McNeill returns with his golden throat and musical guitar to bring up the standard in singing as song master. John Crooks will entertain us with fun facts while emptying our pockets as fine master. Jon McBroom and Joe Schmidt will staff the greeters table so be sure to flash them a smile when you arrive. Remember:
Have a great weekend - and Light Up Rotary! Cheers, Kathy Klehr |
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I Want to End Polio |
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President's Weekly MessageHi All, Hope you've had a great week and wish you a wonderful weekend. It was a pleasure to learn more about Chrisy's Columbian family. Wasn't her dress beautiful! Did anyone get a photo? I'd like to post it for those that weren't able to attend the meeting. Do you have some upcoming plans that Chrisy might enjoy such as... shopping, taking in a movie or play, a sports game? I know she would enjoy an invitation to join you. Big Thanks to Art Quinn for updating us on the great work of the Rotary Foundation. It is my goal to reach $10,500 for our club donations this year and I want to make donating as easy for you as possible.
If you haven't used your "Lunch is on me" card yet, this Tuesday would be your chance to invite a colleague, friend, business associate, neighbor... Please join me in welcoming Abul Sharah as our guest speaker Tuesday, Oct 7, as he gives us an "Update on International Village Clinic". Abul is a fascinating speaker you won't want to miss! QUICK REMINDERS:
Get out there and LIGHT UP ROTARY! Cheers, Kathleen Klehr, President 2014-15 |
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President's Weekly MessageWhat a wonderful start to Fall! I hope you have a chance to get out and enjoy the fantastic weather this weekend and catch an eyeful of beautiful fall colors & warm breezes. Thanks so much to Allison Lewis, Outreach Coordinator from Hennepin Technical College for her very informative and enjoyable presentation. I was very pleasantly surprised to learn that a few of their programs have 100% job placement! How wonderful! Hennepin Technical College is a great alternative for students who don't intend to pursue college degrees as well as those that wish to keep their college costs under control. Hey Alan, the Shakopee history fine master questions were great fun - I kept my mouth shut because I knew all the answers. :-) Doug - I did give the Shakopee fight song a try, although I went to Regina HS in Mpls. This coming week our new exchange student, Cristi introduces herself and Art Quinn will enlighten us on the Rotary Foundation's great works. Mark McNeill is back with his guitar to lead us in song and Ron Smith will pry a few bucks from our wallets as fine master. Kevin Studnicka and Alan Spillers complete their run at the greeter table - so give them a pat on the back! Hey Joe Schmidt - whose next on the roster?? Keep Smiling! Kathy Klehr - President 2014-15 |
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President' s weekly message |
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Rotary Weekly UpdatesHi All, Break out the sweatshirts and sweaters, fall has arrived. It's supposed to be a beautiful weekend; I hope you get a chance to get outside and enjoy some sunshine & cool breezes. What fun to see Jack Cole's smiling face again - you were missed! David Esposito's master style was a kick, and WOW - Dave Ekhart's astronomical knowledge blew me away! Libby and Tony staffed the greeter's table (and Jason Marschall, didn't I see you welcoming people too!), and I heartily appreciate your willingness to follow me in song. Couple things:
We welcomed District Governor Jim Nelson this past Tuesday. It was a pleasure to hear of his travels and personal connections to Rotary projects in Honduras and beyond. I echo his sentiments and encouragement to support the Rotary Foundation. FYI: Over half of our club did not contribute last year. Please...consider making a contribution this year - every dollar counts! Next week we welcome Tom Pitschneider presenting "Tips and Tidbits from Shakopee's Fire Marshall" - a burning topic (sorry, couldn't help it - must be channeling Harold). Alan Spillers, Charlie Sunder and Kevin Studnicka will be the smiling faces at the greeters table, Tony Spagnolo will try to surgically remove a few bucks from your wallets, and Mark McNeill returns to regale us with his golden throat and ringing guitar. Cheers,
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President's weekly messageHi All, Great to be back in Shakopee. I have to say the Rotary meetings I attended in York were interesting, but not as fun as ours. I missed the jokes and singing! Sounds like quite a few of our members were on vacation in August too as attendance was pretty low. Now That September is here I'm counting on better numbers at our weekly meetings. We did have a good turnout this week. Thanks to Lee Hennen for stepping up to auction off a YMCA golf four-some. Eric Westlund & Dustin Campion gave their ice breakers - so fun to learn more about our new members. Thanks guys for sharing your interests and how you came into your professions. Next week we welcome our District Governor, Jim Nelson. Let's greet him with a full house! Greeters next week are Ron Smitth, Tony Spagnolo and Ron Solseth, songmaster is Me, and finemaster is David Esposito. Just a quick reminder to our board that there will be a brief meeting at 11:45am with Jim Nelson at Dangerfield's. Cheers, Kathy (Sorry for the blurry picture Dustin - you were always on the move!)
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President's Weekly MessageHi All, Thanks to everyone for their flexibility last week. Unfortunately our speaker was unable to make the meeting and I had to pinch-hit. Learned that it's important to have "something in the can" for times like these. The committee updates were interesting (thanks Tim for your long-drawn-out update). I am very grateful to Libby Bergan for bringing a colleague to this meeting, because she gave us a wonderful talk on her background as an elementary school social worker. This week Kevin O'Brien introduces JB Ball who will present "Tee it up for the Troops"! Let's have a great turnout for this speaker! We have a great lineup of volunteers this week: The Laurent's are our smiling greeters, Jim Cook is the fine master. I encourage you to use your "free-lunch" business cards and invite colleagues, other business leaders to join us! Cheers, Kathy p.s. I will be on vacation August 10 - Sept 1. The lovely Chris Kost and Sheila McNeill will fill in for me - please show your support by packing the room. |
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President's weekly messageHi All, I am so digging the weather this week - sunny, warm and not too high humidity, perfect summer days. Hope you've had a chance to get out and enjoy them. Thanks so much to This coming week Abul Sharah gives us an update on the international village clinic we supported through an international grant. He is a really fun guy and I'm excited to welcome him to our club. Hold onto your wallet, Jason Marschall is our finemaster, and songmaster Mark McNeill suggests you loosen up your throat for a fun sing-a-long. The friendly faces of Kevin O'Brien and Joe Schmidt will welcome you at the greeter table. Don't forget to use your "free-lunch" cards and invite a friend to join us! Put on a smile, Kathy President 2014-15 |
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President's Weeky MessageHi All, What a beautiful weekend! I took some time time to walk around Lake of the Isles, with a mandatory stop at Sebastian Joes on the way home. Somehow ice cream just tastes so much better after a walk. It was a delight to see Valerie Huber once more before her journey home. It was a pleasure to have her as our International Exchange Student this year. I hope you're all set for the start of the Scott County Fair - Wednesday - Sunday this week. Thanks so much to Norm Pint and Abby Neu for their presentation about the Fair last week. What's your "Must Do" Fair thing? Hope you've invited friends and colleagues to this week's meeting. Tammy Laurent and Kathy Morales will share their experiences traveling in Peru, "Hike of the Inca Trail: The Blood, The Sweat and The Tears." I just love travel and adventure stories. Our songbird is a surprise. Harold Armstrong will regale us with his wit as he aims to collect a few bucks as fine master. The greeter table is staffed by three amigos, Kevin O'Brien, Joe Schmidt & Bill Runge this week - thanks guys.
It's going to be a scorcher of a week, so please be careful out there. Cheers, Kathy Klehr President 2014-15 |
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President's Weekly Message |
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President's Weekly MessagePresident Kathy's Weekly Message |
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June 30 - President's Weekly MessageTomorrow: Board investiture & Special ice breakers. |
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Incoming President - My First Story |
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, May 27, 2014 at Dangerfield's
Happy Memorial Day weekend! I hope you are all enjoying this beautiful weekend weather and the extra day off of work tomorrow too! Last week we had Barb Brekke present to us a survey about community service activities. If you have not filled out a survey yet, please see Barb and get it completed so she can update us soon with her final results. Thanks Barb for taking time to create and document the results of this survey. I am sure it will be useful to our new chairperson of community services committee, Lorri Helkamp as she takes the reins for next year. This week, Barb Brekke will introduce Cathy Maes. Cathy will be speaking to us about the Loaves and Fishes program. Please come and hear this interesting presentation about a very worthwhile program in our community. You will be greeted again this week by the dynamic duo of Libby Bergen and Lynn Pauly. Our Songmaster and Finemaster this week will be done by the one and only "Mr. Ed" Shukle. Thanks Ed for taking on both tasks for us this week! REMINDERS: Saturday, June 6 Graduation Party for Valerie Huber, Exhange Student - more details to follow Saturday and Sunday June 14-15 Hosting Valley Fair event for International Exchange Students In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill |
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Rotary Book Sale This Weekend
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Bridging Collection April 26th
Accepting Donations for Bridging When: Saturday, April 26, 2014 Time: 7:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Where: Shakopee Public Works Building, 400 Gorman Street Furniture pickup available, call Tim Whitcomb at 952-445-6170 |
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UPCOMING SERVICE PROJECTS - NEED VOLUNTEERS!The following dates are opportunities for our club service projects. Please see Barb Brekke to sign up now. CAP Agency - help at food shelf Thursday, January, 23 Shift 1 = 1-3PM and Shift 2 = 3-5PM Loaves and Fishes - Thursday, February 6 Shift 1 = 3-5PM and Shift 2 = 5-7PM
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President's Weekly Message for 7/30/13 Meeting Hello and happy almost last day of July. Hard to believe we are two thirds through the summer months. The weather has been so fall-like I am thinking of roasting marshmallows instead of roasting on a warm summer day! Last week we had a great presentation brought to us by our own Ron Solseth. Al Newman, former Twins player and manager gave us a very informative and inspirational talk about his own experiences as player and coach and how he is working with his current non-profit the Al Newman Foundation to help young people get scholarships to further their education and raise their chances for success in life. Thanks to Ron, I think the talk was well received by all who attended. On a totally different note, it is with sadness we learned last week that our own Rotary couple, Rick and Connie Vaillancourt will be leaving the club as they move to their new home in New Bedford, Massachusetts. With their son and his family making yet another job move, this time to Chicago, they have decided it would be better to return to family and friends in the East and they will be departing sometime shortly after the Labor Day holiday. We will miss both of them and certainly all the wonderful contributions they have made to the club over the past 5 years or so. I know they will do well in their new location and they will continue their Rotary life in their new community.
This week Chuck Huss will introduce to the club our outbound exchange student Adam Keesling. Adam spent this past school year as our exchange student in South Korea. We are looking forward to hearing all about his adventures and his experiences. I am sure this is a presentation you won't want to miss! Our Finemaster this week is none other than the master of the pickle industry, our own Jim Cook. Along with Jim we have Songmaster, Mark McNeill to indulge us with his new guitar. "Helpful Hardware Man" Mark also has fixed the Rotary Badge box so it won't be falling apart anytime soon and has constructed a nice tight latch with lock for the podium to avoid future losses of such things as laptops. Thank you Mark for completing these tasks while alone this weekend when your wife was in Chicago. The Greeters desk again this week is to be manned by the likes of Tate, Thompson and Schlief. In Rotary Service, Sheila McNeill |
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Weekly President's Message July 23rd Meeting Greetings to all my fellow Rotarians. I trust you had a good weekend and got out and enjoyed some of this beautiful weather we are having. Last week we welcomed Denise Baerg from the Savage Arts Council who updated us on the many fine activities they engage in our local area and we thank Kathy Klehr for bringing her informative talk to us. I read a note last week we recently received from our long time and devoted member, Bill Runge who has been dealing with recent health issues and as a result has not been able to attend out meetings. Tony Spagnolo and Jack Cole updated us on his status and said he is improving and as Bill said in his note he hopes to join us again in a few weeks. Please remember to keep Bill in your thoughts and we hope to see him real soon. This week we will have our own Ron Solseth introduce our speaker who will be Sara Fischer from the Al Newman Foundation to Support Shakopee Baseball. Ron said I should bring my autograph book too. I will be eager to learn more at this week's presentation. Dave Paradise, whom I think now has functional air conditioning; will return to us cool, calm and collected enough to be our Finemaster this week. The Songmaster will be the one and only "Mr. Ed" Shukle. Finally, just a bit of sadness as we now will say good bye to Mariana Salgar Sarmiento, our Exchange Student from Columbia. She will be "leaving on a jet plane" on Tuesday returning to her family and friends in her home country. I know Mariana has truly loved her stay here and has made many new friends and has been adopted by many new families. Her smiling face, polite manners and maturity for a person of her young age will be missed. We wish her much success as she goes back to continue her education in medicine and we hope to see her back here one day soon. Mariana has told me we are all invited to visit her in Columbia so, now you have an open invitation should you ever wish to travel to this beautiful country. Vaya con Dios, Mariana y hasta conocimos otra vez. (translation: Go with God and Until we meet again) I look forward to seeing many of you at the meeting this week at Dangerfield's. In Rotary Service, Readjust...Renew...Recommit
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Shakopee Reads 2013Over 740 1st graders partook of this wonderful event where Rotary hands out to each of them their own new book and a backpack full of goodies. These are some pics of Harold as the MC and funny man, our own Chuck Berg as Cat in the Hat and of course, Snoopy came to us from Valley Fair. |
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Loaves & Fishes Volunteers Needed
I hope many of you can be involved in our Loaves and Fishes Volunteer Activity next week. Please see the descriptions and need for volunteers below. You may sign-up at the Rotary meeting or send me an email if you are able to participate. Remember -- this is a great opportunity for you to invite your family members and/or friends to join you! Please email or call (952-402-9410) if you have any questions or if you would like me to sign up for one of the shifts described below. Sincerely, Barb BrekkeLoaves and Fishes Volunteer Activity Thursday, August 2, 2012 Shakopee Rotary St. Mark’s School Cafeteria SHIFT ONE – 3:00 – 5:15 p.m. to prepare food and site. Welcome and serve coffee to first visitors (doors officially open at 5:00 p.m.). From 4:45-5:15 p.m. two of shift one workers are need to greet guests and serve beverages. (6-7 volunteers are needed). SHIFT TWO – 5:00-7:15 p.m. to serve the food and clean-up. The meal is served from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Volunteers are expected to also eat with and visit with guests. (12-14 volunteers are needed).
Volunteers must be at least 8 years of age. Volunteers under age 13 must have direct parent supervision. Invite your family members & friends. |
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FMSC at SACS April 3, 2012
The Shakopee Rotary Club will be packing meals at SACS for Feed My Starving Children from 3:00 to 4:30pm.
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District 5950 Annual Conference
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Twins vs. Phillies
Join us for the Twins game against the Phillies on June 13th at Target Field at 7:10 pm. We will carpool to the Mall of America and take the light rail to Target Field. Be sure to save your tickets. For more information see Kathy Klehr. It's currently not scheduled to rain that day.
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Shakopee Rotary- Weekly update
Shakopee Rotary Club
Greetings Shakopee Rotary Club! I hope everyone had a nice and safe weekend. This week we have Ice Breakers from our new members Chris Kost and Alan Spillers. Thanks Kathy Klehr for organizing a great Social with the Prior Lake Club last Wednesday. Great news...Chris Kost and Lynn Pauly our Book Sale Co-Chairs have secured a retail space in Southbridge next to the place we had last year. Have a great week and drive safe! In Rotary service, Tim Whitcomb Shakopee Rotary Club
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Activities With Umbe
Please consider including Umberto in your activities to welcome him to our club and community. A list of approved Rotary Youth Exchange activities is include in the link below. Feel free to present other ideas to the youth exchange committee. |
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New Member Open House
Please join us for a fun, informal open house to learn more about the Shakopee Rotary Club, its Members and our community projects. Thursday, November 10th, 4:30 - 6:00 pm. Stonebrooke Golf Club, 2693 County Road 79 | Shakopee, MN 55379.
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Harlem Ambassadors vs. Shako Dunkers
The internationally-acclaimed HARLEM AMBASSADORS are visiting Shakopee! Shakopee High School - September 22, 2011 at 7:00 pm Join us in cheering on our very own A unique brand of Harlem-style basketball featuring high-flying slam dunks,dazzling ball-handling tricks and hilarious comedy routines, the HarlemAmbassadors are a team of talented male and female basketball players that are drug-free, college-educated and positive in appearance. They are committed to giving their audience quality family entertainment and serving as positive role models for young people.
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Rotary Boat Cruise is ON as planned
The boat leaves at 6:00 sharp. PRIOR LAKE TOURS, INC. |
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Rotary District 5950 Fall Training
Rotary District 5950 Fall Training Friday, September 23, 2011 Golden Valley Country Club (7001 Golden Valley Road,
Golden Valley, MN) 8:00 AM Registration – Session Convenes at 8:30 AM,
Adjourns at 12:55 PM You, your club members, and all District Leaders are invited to the Rotary Fall Training Event on Friday, September 23, 2011 at Golden Valley Country Club, Golden Valley, MN. Our theme for the day will be RI President Kalyan’s second area of emphasis this year; Continuity. There will be four separate breakouts, focusing on Membership, The Rotary Foundation, PR/Communications, and Leadership Development. |
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Shakopee Rotary- Weekly updateHello Shakopee Rotary! I am getting the weekly update out to you now since many of you may be “shuttin down early” and perhaps heading out of town in the next day or two for the 4th. Thanks to Rob Deuth for an outstanding job serving as club president this past year. The more I get a taste of being club president the more respect I have for past club presidents. Congratulations to Chuck Berg as our new District Governor, sixth one from our club and thanks to all those who helped coordinate the event especially Tammy Laurent. Our program for next Tuesday July 5 is “Wiggle your Toes”. Have a great 4th ! Tim Whitcomb Shakopee Rotary Club |
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Chuck Berg - 5950 District Governor
Chuck Berg of our Shakopee Rotary Club was installed as district governor for Rotary International District 5950 on Tuesday at Americas Best Value Inn (formerly Canterbury Inn).
Berg is a past president of the Shakopee Rotary Club and will be the 97th district governor. The ceremony will take place in the ballroom area beginning at noon. Berg will be the sixth member from Shakopee to lead District 5950, joining Dr. Bror Pearson (1960-61), Dr. Paul Nevin (1969-70), Virgil Mears (1985-86), Jack Cole (1991-92), and Tammy Laurent (2007-08). District 5950 covers a geographic area that includes the Minneapolis metro are and extends west to Willmar, north to Alexandria and south to Fairmont. The district includes 62 clubs and about 3,000 members, making it the largest district in the state of Minnesota. |
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHello Shakopee Rotary! I want to say one last thank you again to the entire club for your support and for allowing me the opportunity to serve as club president over this past Rotary year. It was an experience I’ll never forget, and I’m looking forward to our upcoming year with Tim at the helm! REMINDER: This week we the District Governor induction program out at the Canterbury Inn Hotel. Please note: 1. The start time of the program will be at 12:00PM, and we have allotted time for the meeting to run until 1:30PM. 2. The cost for the meal will be $15 (Punch cards with additional $2 will be accepted). |
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New Leader
Please welcome our new President, Tim Whitcomb. |
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Weekly Update - Shakopee RotaryHello Shakopee Rotary! Thank you to Ron Smith for his program last week on the AMCAF School Musical Instrument project in Columbia! Ron has done a tremendous job cultivating and driving many of our international projects to close over the past few years….thank you Ron for your continued dedication and spirit that is a phenomenal representation of what Rotary is all about! This week we have our annual year end club leadership transition program. We will be saying good bye to Rob as our club president (hold your applause please! J ), and inducting Tim Whitcomb as our new club president, along with the board members. |
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHello Shakopee Rotary! I want to say thank you to Emma Udbye for the opportunity to have her as a part of our Rotary club over the past 12 months. It’s been an absolute pleasure to get to know her and for her to share her experiences with us while living here in Shakopee. I also want to thank the host families for taking Emma in, and sharing providing her with all of the wonderful experiences that you shared with her! This week we welcome our very own Ron Smith, who will be sharing with us his program on the AMOAF School Musical Instrument Program!
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHello Shakopee Rotary! I want to thank the STRIVE scholarship winners for joining us last week and sharing with us their amazing journey over this past school year. Thank you as well to our STRIVE team for another successful year and for your continued dedication to these amazing students! This week we welcome Tom Pitschneider who will be sharing with us updates on fire safety…welcome Tom! |
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Weekly Update - Shakopee RotaryHello Shakopee Rotary! I want to thank Carl Swaggert for coming in and sharing his experiences and background while working at the Blue Lake Wastewater Treatment Facility. Thank Carl! This week we welcome our STRIVE team and the STRIVE students who will be recapping their year together and sharing with us their accomplishments! Welcome STRIVE students!! |
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Weekly Update - Shakopee RotaryHello Shakopee Rotary! I want to thank Jim Cook and Lee Hennen for running the annual spring auction last week…and for providing a few laughs in the process! Thank you gentlemen! There were two items that were left off the bid list last week, both are foursomes at upcoming golf tournaments that we will plan to auction off at today’s meeting. This week we welcome Carl Swaggert from the Blue Lake Wastewater Treatment Facility…welcome Carl! |
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHello Shakopee Rotary! I want to thank Jim Cook and Lee Hennen for running the annual spring auction last week…and for providing a few laughs in the process! Thank you gentlemen! There were two items that were left off the bid list last week, both are foursomes at upcoming golf tournaments that we will plan to auction off at today’s meeting. This week we welcome Carl Swaggert from the Blue Lake Wastewater Treatment Facility…welcome Carl! |
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHello Shakopee Rotary! I want to thank Chelsea Smith for joining us for lunch last week, and for sharing with us her experience at This week we have our annual Shakopee Celebrates Reading program. We will meet at our regularly scheduled time at Dangerfields, and then once committee updates are finished and a special fine master presentation, we will move the meeting out to the Shakopee Senior Highschool for the program for all those interested in attending. REMINDER: Next week our meeting will be at Canterbury Inn for the Murault / Paul Harris Fellow Awards program. The meeting will start at regularly scheduled time. |
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHello Shakopee Rotary! I hope you all didn’t put your winter coats and boots away just yet! When I saw the forecast for tomorrow afternoon, into Wednesday, I quickly turned the TV to an old rerun of Saved by the Bell, as it was less painful to watch. (I may have just dated myself there!). I want to thank Tony Spagnolo for his vocational talk and ice breaker. I felt bad we were not able to make time for questions, but fortunately we get to see Tony every week, so feel free to pick his brain the next chance you have! Also, I want to say thank you to Jackie and Ed Olson for joining us for lunch last week. It was an honor to have them with us as we spent some time sharing memories of Dick Mertz. Thank you to all members who shared their heartfelt memories and stories. Finally, thank you also to Fran Heitzman for joining us last week, and getting the group all riled up for Bridging! This week we have two excellent programs. First we welcome Chelsea Smith, one of our two camp enterprise students, who will be sharing her experience with us. Welcome Chelsea! Second, we welcome back to the podium our very own Jon McBroom, who will be giving the second part of his program on the Shakopee School Demographics. |
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHello Shakopee Rotary! I want to thank Tim Murphy from District 5950 for joining us last week and sharing updates on District/International projects and competitive matching grants. Thank you to Chuck Berg for inviting Tim to join us! This week we welcome our very own Tony Spagnolo, who will be giving us a vocational talk, along with Angie Whitcomb, who will be giving her ice breaker to the group! We will also have some very special guests as members of Dick Mertz’s family will be joining us for our meeting. |
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Website Update |
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2010 Photos |
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2009 Photos |
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Summer Photos
Summer Photos
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Award Banquet Photos |
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Literacy Event Photos |
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Twins Game Pix |
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHello Shakopee Rotary! Its official…yesterday was the first day with absolutely zero snow in my yard! Does it count that I shoveled the last pile near my property line into my neighbor’s yard? Thank you to Alana Dunn from the Make A Wish Minnesota organization for coming in to share her message with us last week! Thank you to Kevin Obrien for inviting Alana to join us! This week we welcome Tim Murphy from District 5950, who will be sharing with us an update on the World Community Service International Competitive Grants in |
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHappy Spring Shakopee Rotary! Thank you to everyone who attended our annual book sale kick-off event this past Thursday! It was a lot of fun, and thus far, the entire book sale has been a great success! (Hopefully we’ll have a tallied update to give the group tomorrow). THANK YOU to all members who have helped with the book sale this year…Many Hands Make Light Work! This week for our program, we welcome Kelly Thomas from the Make a Wish Foundation of Minnesota. Welcome Kelly! |
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHello Shakopee Rotary! First I want to say thank you to Tim Whitcomb for stepping in for me at the last minute last week, and running the meeting...I owe you Tim! Also, thank you to Jumpin Joe Johson and our very own Barb Steinhauser for their presentation on skydiving….I’m crushed that I missed this program! REMINDER!!!!! IT’S BOOK SALE WEEK!!! This week we do not have our regularly scheduled club meeting on Tuesday as it is our annual book sale kick off event week! We will be meeting this Thursday, March 24th from 6:00PM to 8:30PM at the Trade Secret Store in |
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Shakopee Reads Rotary Book Sale - THIS WEEK
USED BOOK SALE! The Shakopee Rotary Club is holding a Used Book Sale. All proceeds will go directly back into Shakopee Rotary projects and select area charitable organizations.HOURS Friday, March 25 10:00 am - 7:00 pm Saturday, March 26 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Sunday, March 27 11:00 am - 3:00 pm Saturday, April 2 9:00 am - 5:00 pm LOCATION 8071 Old Carriage Court • Shakopee, MN 55379 (Former Trade Secret location / Southbridgeshopping area between Michaels and Walmart) Most hardcover–$2 & Paperbacks–$1 Fiction, non-fiction, childrens, DVDs, hard covers, paperbacks and more... |
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHello Shakopee Rotary! Thank you to Heidi Keyho for her wonderfully entertaining ice breaker last week and thank you to Jon McBroom for providing us updated statistics on the school district. This week we welcome Jumpin Joe Johnson and our very own Barb Steinhauser to come in and discuss skydiving with our club! I’ve never been so excited to hear about a subject that I will never take part in (yes I have a severe fear of heights!) Welcome Joe! |
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Weekly Update - Shakopee RotaryHello Shakopee Rotary! I’m so happy to be back in Thank you to Tim Whitcomb for filling in for me while I was out…instant upgrade in my opinion. Thank you as well to Lee Hennen for providing a program on make ups, as well as Jim Conway for an impromptu ice breaker! This week we welcome our very own Jon McBroom, who will be giving us an update on the Shakopee School Demographics. |
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHello Shakopee Rotary! I don't know about you, but I was starting to get used to looking at the muddy/brown melting snow and slush. Well, back to square one... I want to thank Jim and Mary Cook for providing from what I heard was second to none entertainment at the annual Valentines Day Dinner Event! I also would like to thank the Laurents for their generosity in hosting the event out at Stonebrooke...I heard the food was excellent! If there are other thank you's to hand out from the event, I will catch you in our meeting, as I was unfortunately unable to attend the dinner. This week we welcome in Kathy Kacher, who will be speaking on "When Work Works". Welcome Kathy! |
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Shakopee Reads Book Sale Kickoff
Book Sale Sort/Drop off Schedule Dropoff and sorting times will be on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 and Saturdays from 9am to 11am. The location is the old Trade Secret store between Michael's and Walmart in the Southbridge Shopping area. WANTED: Used Books! The Shakopee Rotary Club will be holding a Used Book Sale on March 25-27 and April 2, 2011 in the Southbridge shopping area and we are asking for YOUR help in donating gently used books, CD's, and DVD's.
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHappy Valentines Day Shakopee Rotary! I want to thank Tom Laughlin for coming in last week to speak about the Principles and Practices of Servant Leadership. Thank you Tom! Reminder, we have our Valentines Dinner Event tonight at 6:00PM at Stonebrooke in place of our regularly scheduled meeting. |
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHello Shakopee Rotary! |
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Weekly Update - Shakopee RotaryHello Shakopee Rotary!
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHappy Last Full Week of January Shakopee Rotary! |
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateHello Shakopee Rotary! I want to thank Yvonne Anderson for coming in last week and sharing with us updates on the Saints Healthcare Foundation. Thank you to Barb Danielson for inviting Yvonne to join us! I also want to thank those members that attended this years District Mid Term Assembly on Saturday. There were excellent presenters with updates on a variety of District topics and programs. This week we have another excellent program lined up. We welcome, courtesy of Sheila McNeill, Melinda Urzua from the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, with her program titled "Life is for Living". Welcome Melinda! |
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Weekly Update - Shakopee RotaryHello Shakopee Rotary! Incase anyone was wondering, there are 69 more days until the first day of spring...that was meant to bring a ray of hope, not depress you! I want to thank Harold Armstrong for his presentation on his passion for professional football history last week! It's always interesting to see how certaing aspects of our society have evolved over the years....including football! Thank you also to Bill Runge for being present in most of the pictures Harold shared with us! :) This week we welcome a very familiar face, Yvonne Anderson. Yvonne will be giving our club an update on the Saints Healthcare Foundation. I also want to welcome our newest members John Crooks, Heidi Keyho, and Jim Conway....WELCOME!!! |
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Weekly Update - Shakopee RotaryHappy New Year Shakopee Rotary! I hope that each of you brought in the new year with a bang! I've noticed that the "bang" I bring in the new year with gradually gets quieter as the years pass by. I want to thank Connie Valliancourt, Mike Listiak, and Joe & Lorri Helkamp for their entertaining ice breakers last week! I always enjoy learning more about my fellow Rotarians. This week we will have a our very own Harold Armstrong providing us a program titled "Great Times on the Gridiron". We will also be inducting 3 new members into our club! |
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Shakopee Rotary Club - Weekly UpdateMerry Christmas Shakopee Rotary! I hope that each of you had a very safe, relaxing, and Merry Christmas with your family and loved ones. Thanks to the generosity of my family towards my children, my house now holds one quarter of all plastic manufactured in China over this past year! This week we will have a few of our members give Ice Breakers as our club program. Ice Breakers are a great way for our members to share some of their personal background with our club so that we can get to know them better. This week we have two members lined up, however I am going to hold you in suspense as to who these two lucky members are! We will also hear a quick update from Jason Marschall and Mike Schinnick regarding our annual club fundraiser. |
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Shakopee Rotary - Weekly UpdateMerry Christmas Shakopee Rotary! Raise your hand if you were that person who said in November that you would take on one more Minnesota winter with a shovel, and then look to buy a snow blower on discount in the spring.....FYI, I'm raising my hand! Enjoy your white Christmas this year!!! Thank you to Tim Whitcomb for filling in for me last week when I was out. I also want to thank the Shakopee Highschool Vocal Chords Chamber Singers for providing what I heard was an astounding musical program! This week we have our annual Christmas Cabaret lined up out at Stonebrooke! I want to thank Gary and Randy Laurent in advance for hosting our annual event! |
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Weekly Update - Shakopee RotaryHappy Snowy December Shakopee Rotary! I don't know about you, but I can live with 8 inches of snowfall, as long as it's that weightless powdery type that is easy to shovel! Bad for snowballs and building snowmen, good for snow angels and lower back pain for those of us that don't own a snowblower! Thank you to Janice Novak for coming in last week to educate our club on what good posture is, how to acheive it, and the life long benefits! Thank you to Tammy Laurent for inviting Janice to join us! This week we have another exciting program lined up! Courtesy of Lorri Helkamp, we have the honor of having Earl Slack, Associate Dean of Globe University/MBS, join us to give a vocational talk on Media and Graphic Design. Please remember that our meeting will be held at Canterbury Inn! |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly UpdateHappy Thanksgiving Shakopee Rotary! I hope everyone had a Wonderful, Happy Thankgiving this past week. I think I set a new world record for number of calories taken in by one human over a 4 day period! So if you see me passing on lunch at our meeting tomorrow, you'll know I'm still full! Thank you to Cindy Babcock for coming in last week to update our club on the Feed My Starving Children organization! As you all know, we have a wonderful opportunity to participate in their efforts this Tuesday (see details below). Thank you to Barb Brekke for inviting Cindy to join us! |
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Weekly Update - Shakopee Rotary ClubHappy Thanksgiving Shakopee Rotary! I want to say a quick Happy Thanksgiving to all of you, and I hope you all enjoy your time with family and loved ones. Thank you to Tammy Kangas for coming in last week to update our club on the Chanhassen Dinner Theater! It was great to hear "what's new", and it sounds like there are many entertaining shows coming up in 2011! Thank you to Joan Lynch for inviting Tammy to join us!
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly Update (Week of November 14th)Hello Shakopee Rotary! Happy official beginning of Winter! I know the "official" date isn't until December 21st, but in my eyes, the first day of winter is the first day it snows. I've already been sledding 3 times...can anyone beat that?!!! I want to thank Jim Cook and Lee Hennen for another wildly entertaining Fall Auction! That was a great time had by all! Also, thank you to all who donated items for the auction. This week we have an exciting program lined up! Courtesy of Joan Lynch, we have Tammy Kangas from the Chanhassen Dinner Theater coming in to speak to our club. |
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Weekly Shakopee Rotary Update - Week of November 8thHello Shakopee Rotary, I can count on one hand how many times I've been outside in shorts and a tee shirt on November 7th. Wow this weather has been a treat! I want to thank Deb Pierce and Patti Weber for coming in last week to present on their experience in the FBI and CIA. That was a fantastic presentation, and thank you to Lee Larson for arranging that program! I thank you to all members who came out to our annual New Member Open house last Thursday! We had a great turn out from prospective members, and from our club membership! |
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Weekly Club Update - Week of November 1stHappy November Shakopee Rotary Club!
I hope everyone had just as much fun as I did trick or treating last night! Watching kids sprint around neighbor's front yards at 100mph in costumes in the cold to collect candy, then eat 10 times the amount of sugar they normally take in on a daily basis, then watch them fall asleep as soon as their heads hit the pillow.....is a beautiful thing! Thank you to Brad Tabke for his presentation on the upcoming Community Center Referendum. This week we welcome Deb Pierce & Patti Weber to speak on their experiences working for the FBI and CIA. |
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Weekly Update - Week of October 25thHello Shakopee Rotarians! I am past due on a couple thank you's! First, I want to thank Emma, our inbound exchange student for her wonderful presentation two weeks back. Everyone truly enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about your background! Next I want to thank Kathy Klehr for arranging our field trip to the STANS Museum last week. The new WWII exhibit was absolutely amazing, and I know it was enjoyed by all who attended! |
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Weekly Update - Shakopee Rotary
Hello Shakopee Rotarains! I hope everyone had a chance to get out and enjoy the unbeleivable weather we had this weekend. I think in my update last week I said something about turning the heat on...??? I was considering air conditioning on Sunday! I want to thank our District Governor, Larry Zilliox for attending our meeting last week. |
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President's Weekly MessageHi Everyone, It seems a little strange that we haven’t had a meeting in a couple of weeks. The fun part is that we had a really nice turn out for the CAP Agency Toy Drive. I want to thank all of you who were able to make the event and spend some time socializing with each other and members from the Prior Lake and Savage clubs. I would also like to say thank you for once again making a difference for those who benefit from Loaves and Fishes. What a great opportunity for our club members to give back. Overall what a successful week of “Service before Self”. This Tuesday we will hold our regular meeting at Dangerfield’s and our Speaker will be Matt Gerber sharing with us some wonderful information around “Ignite Roteract”. Roteract is a club for adults ages 18-30 that meets twice a month to exchange ideas, plan activities and projects and socialize. Find out more on Tuesday. I would like to let you know that our President Kathy Klehr is feeling better after her surgery but she is still at home. She is not able to drive yet so hopefully we will see her before the end of the year. Reminders:
Hope to see all of you at the meeting on Tuesday! Chris Kost President – Elect 2015-2016 |
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Happy 17th Birthday to Cristi!Featured here with her current host family, Doug and Pam Schleif and her future host family Harold and Carol Armstrong |
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Noah Estabrooks - 2014 Outbound Exchange Student in Brazil
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BADGER HILL BREWERY COMING TO SHAKOPEE!This week we had Michael Koppelman, master brewer of Badger Hill Brewery come and speak to the club along with one of his partners, Broc Krekelberg
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CORRECTION! President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, August 19, 2014 at Dangerfield'sSORRY! I had the wrong name for Finemaster! Make that the ever talented taker of money, MR. JOE VAUGHAN as our Finemaster for tomorrow. Sorry to John and Joe for my confusion. Obviously, I am out of practice as Prez already! Sheila McNeill
Good morning everyone! Yes, a voice from the recent past! I'm back this week as your substitute, filling in for Kathy while she is off enjoying her time with family in England. That said, I am hoping to get you excited to come and join us tomorrow for the meeting. Jason Marschall will introduce Michael Koppelman of Badger Brewery. The Badger Brewery will be bringing their award winning craft beer making company to a location in Shakopee this fall. Come on out and welcome one of our newest businesses to soon join our community and to hear more about their beers. According to my resources, last year during the U.S. Open Beer Championship, Badger HIll won gold in the extra special bitter category for its "Minnesota Special Bitter" and a silver medal for its "High Road Everyday Ale" in the blonde ale category. Please mark your calendars and make a special effort to come and hear them speak to us. Why not bring a friend or business associate too? They might want to hear more about this exciting new addition to Shakopee's business community and find out more about Rotary. You will be greeted by the gregarious Tammy Laurent and the man who hangs around cemeteries a lot, Joe Schmidt. According to the schedule our Finemaster is the lovable builder guy Kevin O'Brien and our Songmaster is the one and only warbler, John Crooks. I hope to see your smiling faces tomorrow at the meeting. I look forward to it!
In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill
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Loaves and Fishes August 7, 2014
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Message from Valerie Huber's DadI am including here an email I received from Valerie's father regarding his gratefulness to our club and some pics of him and Valerie's mom too. I thought I would pass on his kind words to the club. I already forwarded this message on to the Ames family. Dear Sheila Our daughter Valerie has returned to Switzerland 3 days ago and it's the moment to thank you for everything you've done for Valerie. I just read the lines you wrote on the homepage of the rotary-Club of Shakopee, and it is so good to see for me as his daddy (and also responsable of the youth-exchanges of our club) that Valerie has had such a positive and enjoying year in Shakopee. When she came home she had so much to tell about what she lived with the Ames familiy and with your club. And what she told reflects perfectly what I read on your homepage. Thank you for all the support, I think Valerie will stay iin contact with Shakopee, and we are sure to come to vivit you in a year! I think a big thank you must also be given to the Ames familiy. Valerie found a ral family where she felt home and her talkin about the Ames family is so warm and positive! We will take contact with the Ames family and with you as soon as we know the exact time of our visit next year. When Valerie came home we just had the visit of Luke Cady, an exchange-student from Scramento/California who finished his exchange year today. He has spent his last 4 days of his year in our familiy, his last hosting family had left for vacation and Luke returned from a hiking camp in the Alps. So you see Valerie and Luke, my inbound and outbound students of the year. After this fantastic year, Valerie is back home now and it's true, she is a very special young person. We call her our "sunshine", and we hope that she will be shining vor many many people in her life. I wish you a good summer and hope to meet you in one year. Sorry again about my English… kind regards Isidor
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My LAST President's weekly message for the Meeting of Tuesday, Jun 17, 2014 at Dangerfield's
Good evening and Happy Dad's Day to all the fathers in our club! I hope you enjoyed your day and relaxed. Yes, it is hard to believe but this week I will pass the baton to Kathy Klehr as your next President. It has been an exceptional year, and I have much to be proud of as the club did do so many wonderful things this year. I will be summarizing the year for you, including how we spent the donations, thanking many people who supported me this year, and you won't want to miss the killer video I have prepared with a great deal of help from Harold Armstrong. Many of your faces will be featured in the video! So, don't miss this week. I will be inducting Kathy into the Presidency. She will then have a few words to highlight what you can expect as she takes the reins as your new Prez for 2014-15. This week you will be greeted one more time by the team of McBroom, Marschall and McNeill. The man who knows how to build stuff, Kevin O'Brien will be our Finemaster and "Hilarious" Harold Armstrong will lead us in song this week. Just a note about last week. Valerie Huber gave her final summary presentation for her year as an exchange student. She did a wonderful job and the Ames family that hosted her gave such high praise to their experience with her this year. As Barb Brekke noted, "It was the best presentation of the year!" Valerie will be leaving the end of July. She is off on the East Coast trip now with the District Exchange students. You will get to see her one more time at a meeting at the end of July before she bids us goodbye and returns to Switzerland. See you Tuesday, I hope! In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Renew...Recommit |
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Valerie Huber Exchange student - Presentation summary of her year 2013-14
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, June 10, 2014 at Dangerfield's
Good Evening All! A beautiful Sunday today. Mark and I put 30 miles on the tandem and it felt great to just be outdoors and enjoy the day. I hope all of you had a chance to enjoy this weather too! Last week we had Nathan Shenk speak to us about the Burma Rangers and the plight of the people of Burma (A.K.A. Myanmar). He gave us interesting insights into the longest running civil war in history and what is happening there currently to try and help these people. This week we are excited to welcome our own International Exchange Student, Valerie Huber. Valerie will be giving us a presentation summarizing her year in Shakopee and her impressions of life here in the U.S. On Friday, The Busch's, Helkamp's, McNeill's and Chuck Huss attended her grad party at the home of the host family Jenny and Pat Ames. Despite the somewhat rainy weather, it was good to spend time with Valerie and talk to her about her exciting East Coast tour she will be going on next weekend with the other exchange students in the District. She was so excited about graduation which, was yesterday for the Shakopee High School students. Please come out and hear Valerie's presentation and wish her well as she goes on to her next adventure and eventually returns to Switzerland. This week you will be greeted by the 3 M's again, McBroom, Marschall and McNeill. The Finemaster this week is Ron Smith and the Songmaster is the always creative guy, Mark McNeill. The Valley Fair exchange student event is taking place on Saturday to Sunday June 14-15. See Chuck Huss if you can volunteer for one of the shifts. it is a great experience to spend time with these International students and they are so grateful to Rotary for hosting the event too. See you Tuesday! In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Recommit... Renew
NATHAN SHENK Speaker for June 3, 2014
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Valerie Huber Graduation Party at the Ames' home 6-6-2014
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, June 3, 2014 at Dangerfield's
Happy SOGGY Sunday night: I hope you are all staying dry as I write this. Ironically, I just returned from the city known to be wet Seattle, and we didn't have any rain the whole time we traveled out there last week. Minneapolis got Seattle weather it seems! Last week we welcomed the director of Loaves and Fishes, Cathy Maes. She gave us an update on the organization and detailed information about all the people they serve. Thanks to Barb Brekke for bringing her to the club. We also recognized the winners of this year's STRIVE scholarships. Thanks to Nell Bury and Barb Danielson for introducing the students and allowing them to speak to us. It is great to be able recognize their efforts. This week I will introduce our speaker, Nathan Shenk. I think this will be an interesting presentation since Nathan is part of the Burma Rangers.This is an organization which is dedicated to helping the people of Burma and their plight. Nathan has traveled extensively to this area of the world and I believe his pictures and words will be very interesting as we learn more about the Burmese people and their country. So, come on out for an interesting lunch meeting. You will be greeted this week by a new team, Joan Lynch, Jon McBroom and Jason Marschall. They will be ready to smile and take your money too! This week we have the Joe Vaughan show as he will be our Finemaster AND our Songmaster. Way to go Joe! REMINDERS: Valley Fair chaperones needed the weekend of June 14 and 15 for the District International Exchange Student host event. Please see Chuck Huss if you can help with this event. Graduation Party for Valerie Huber of Switzerland on Friday, June 6, 5-8 PM at home of Pat and Jenny Ames 1575 Coventry Lane, Shakopee. Come on out and wish her well. All members are invited. In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill |
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Nell Bury and Barb Danielson introduce 2013-14 STRIVE scholarship winners to club May 27, 2014
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Cathy Maes of Loaves and Fishes our May 27 2014 speaker
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Dollars for Scholars Award winners2014 Dollars for Scholars Award winners sponsored by the Club are Tom Armstrong (son of Harold and Carol Armstrong) and Madalyn Sharp. Congratulations!
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, May 20, 2014 at Dangerfield'sHello and happy Sunday afternoon! Last week we presented our annual W.Adair Muralt winner, "Farmer" Marschall and his wife Sue who received a Paul Harris Fellow Award as well. We also honored our own Linda Plum who received her FIRST Paul Harris Fellow for her contributions to the Rotary foundation this year. Gary Laurent was recognized with a pin for his "Plus 4" cumulative contributions as well, and Tammy Laurent accepted the pin for him. Kathy Klehr was our MC and we had Art Quinn, Bill Wermerskirchen and Jason Marschall all participate in the program. A job well done. I know Farmer and his wife were humbled by the award. Linda was very gracious and proud too. Many thanks to our committee with helping to organize this year's event which includes, Art Quinn, Harold Armstrong, Sandi Wedmann and Jason Marschall. I also want to mention thanks to the Roadside cleanup crew of May 6, 2014. I included pictures in the website of the workers that day, Charlie Sunder(committee chair), Bill Wermerskirchen, Erik Westlund, Lorri Helkamp, Kevin O'Brien, Christ Kost and Art Quinn. We appreciate all your help in making this happen for our club again this year. This week we have our own Barb Brekke leading us in a club survey regarding our Community Service activities. Please try and attend as we want as much input as possible on our current activities and looking at how we can improve or change what we currently do as a club with Community Service. This is valuable information not only for our chairperson, but the leaders of the club as we look forward to our new fiscal year starting July 1 and planning our budget for next year. Please come out and give us your thoughts and help Barb get as many responses as we can from the club membership. You will be greeted this week by Lynn Pauly and whomever else has volunteered to be a substitute greeter this week. Finemaster this week is the one and only Joan Lynch who will find a way to extract a few extra bucks from your wallet! We do not have a Songmaster, but that is OK since we could probalbly use the extra time this week to give people time to complete the survey and for Barb to explain, etc. But if there is a Songmaster I don't know about, then we will go with that. I am flexible. See you Tuesday! In Peace and Service, Readjust...Recommit...Renew |
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Roadside Cleanup May 6, 2014Thanks to Charlie Sunder who organized the crew of Bill Wermerskirchen, Art Quinn, Lorri Helkamp, Kevin O'Brien, Chris Kost and Eric Westlund, to clean up our adopted roadside for the club THANKS TO ALL OF THEM FOR THEIR SERVICE!
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W. Adair Muralt Awards and Paul Harris Fellow AwardsFarmer Marschall and his wife Sue receiving the Muralt Award and Paul Harris Fellow Award and Linda Plum receiving the Paul Harris Fellow Award this year.
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President's Message for Meeting of Tuesday, May 13 at Arizona's/America's Best Value InnHappy Mother's Day to all of you! I am typing this on my daughter's laptop in Chicago where I am spending my special day with both my daughters. So, if there are errors please excuse Last week we had a great meeting and auction. We had our auctioneers Cook and Hennen help lead our auction and we had a lot of fantastic items too. Thanks to everyone who "brought or bought" last week. We also recognized our Tokata Student of the month for April, Shelbi Deutsch and her guest was David Froelich, art teacher. Shelbi was honored for her dedication and tenacity as a student. She said, Mr. Froelich provided a lot of inspiration for her. This week is our annual W. Adair Muralt ceremony and we will recognize our Paul Harris Fellow for their contributions. We will have a nice lunch featuring chicken champagne, baby red potatoes, with veges and roll and cookies for dessert at the America's Best Value Inn (Arizona's). The cost of this week's lunch will be $15 per person. This year's MC will be Kathy Klehr and Jason Marschall will introduce this year's Muralt Award winner. Our Finemaster will be Tony Spagnolo and our Songmaster will be Mark McNeill. Please come and join us for this special meeting and day of recognition. Also, I want to thank all those who helped with the Roadside Cleanup last Tuesday. A special thanks to Charlie Sunder. I will send out separate email with pictures when I return home to my own computer. In Peace and Service Sheila McNeill |
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Valerie Huber - Exchange Student 2014 Prom PictureIsn't she beautiful? |
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, May 6, 2014 at Dangerfield's
Hello and Happy Sunday to all of you! I hope you had a chance to get out and enjoy the weather now that it finally stopped raining! It was another busy week for Rotary. Dick Jonkowski was our speaker last week. Dick was his usual entertaining self with his jokes and promoting laughter as good for your health. He also entertained us with his stories and a sample of his collectables which he brought to Last Friday, Kathy Klehr, Linda Plum, Barb Danielson, Ron Smith, Chuck Berg and myself all attended the annual District 5950 conference held at the Radisson Blu at Mall of America. Congratulations to Barb Danielson who received the Service Above Self award at the Awards Breakfast. This award is certainly well-deserved as Barb has contributed in so many ways to her community with the Rotary club and her other volunteer activities. In addition, our club received the following awards; Honorable Mention for Youth Service, Award of Merit for Community Service and Honorable Mention for International Service. I was proud to be able to accept these awards for our club. The event also showcased all the food that had been collected by members and then in the main atrium of the Mall the Rotarians (550 in attendance) bagged up the food to give out to youth for their backpacks in the summer youth programs. Thanks to all of you for the donation of 135 jars of jelly to this great cause. I was truly proud to be a part of such a great effort to provide another wonderful service to our communities. REMINDER: Tuesday, May 6 we will also be meeting at 5PM at the Faith Lutheran Church parking lot to do our annual Roadside Clean Up. Thanks to Charlie Sunder for organizing this once again. I will pass the sign up sheet again this week for volunteers but even if you didn't sign up, feel free to meet at the church parking lot at 5 ready to help. The address for the church is 150 130th Street West, Shakopee. In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill
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Dick Jonckowski voice of Gopher and Sabers Basketball at Rotary Tuesday, April 29, 2014  
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, April 29, 2014 at Dangerfield's
Happy rainy Sunday to all of you: Well, this was a very busy week for Rotary. Tuesday, we had a brief lunch before we headed over to help hand out almost 800 books to the Shakopee First Graders. What a great day of service and lots of smiles. As I noted in previous emails, we had a lot of our own members and community folk out to help us make this happen. But without the coordination and work of our own Barb Brekke, this event would not have been possible. Thanks again Barb for your terrific efforts again this year. We then had about 20 of us attend on Friday night, "The Crucible" at the high school auditorium starring our own, Valerie Huber. She performed amazingly in this very difficult role. She was quite thrilled to have the support of Rotary and please congratulate her on a job well done when you see her at the meeting. Thank also to Joan and Don Lynch for opening up their home to allow us some pre-theater drinks and munchies. It was all very good and very nice of them too. Then, in addition to all of that, we called upon our wonderful volunteers again on Saturday, as Lee Hennen and his band of caballeros from our club and the community, loaded up another truck for Bridging this year. Thanks so much Lee for all you did to make this another successful event this year. What a great spirit of volunteerism this week. I am proud to say I lead this club when I saw all the many faces that were active in one, some or all of the activities we participated in the past few days. Thanks to so many for all you do for our community. "Service Above Self" was demonstrated for sure! This week we will welcome a familiar Shakopee resident and face and voice! Dick Jonkowski, voice of Gopher basketball and our own Shako Sabers bball games, will join us this week. For those of you who may not know it, Dick has quite an extensive collection of sports history and memorabilia in his home. No doubt his collection is worth a great deal. I asked Dick to bring with him to the meeting some interesting and favorite collectables that he might share with us and tell us a bit more about their significance. REMINDERS: Jars of Jelly last call! OK so if you don't have time to get a jar of jelly to the meeting, no worries! We bought jars for you so just lay down your $5 at the meeting on Tuesday and Linda Plum will take the money and run! Thanks to Linda for her coordination of this effort the past 2 months, and for bringing the 120 plus jars over to the Mall of America this week for the upcoming District Conference on Friday, May 2. CALLING ALL MEMBERS! WE NEED AUCTION ITEMS! The Auction is coming up next week on May 6. We need stuff to sell. We would love to make a few dollars on this annual fundraiser, so please be creative and bring something to sell. Think of services like you will wash someone's car, make meals or desserts, tickets to sporting events, golf outings, concerts, etc. All donations of goods are welcome. Oh yea, and bring your wallet too, to buy stuff! Hennen and Cook Auction Services will lead us again this year. TUESDAY, MAY 6 CLEANUP ROADSIDE CLEANUP DAY! Charlie Sunder is looking for a few good men and women too, to help us clean up the roadside we adopted, CR 78. Please meet at 5 PM over at Faith Lutheran Church in Shakopee, 150 130th Street West. We will pass a sign up sheet at this week's meeting too. |
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Bridging Volunteers Saturday, April 26, 2014   
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"The Crucible" starring Valerie Huber of Switzerland! 
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Shakopee Celebrates Reading EventShakopee Celebrates Reading April 22, 2014
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, April 22, 2014 at Dangerfield's
Happy Easter to all of you! I hope the Easter Bunny was good to you today and that you all enjoyed the blessings of family and friends on this beautiful Easter Sunday. The weather is supposed to continue to be pretty nice this week, so maybe we will finally break free of the Polar Vortex and have a real Spring too! Last week we had a phenomenal speaker in Peter Vodenka. The Czech refugee who told of how he escaped Communistic rule with his young family in the early 80's. What a story! I am including his website if you want to learn more about him and where he is speaking in the future and his book. The website is http://www.journeyforfreedom.com. This week we will have our annual celebration of reading at the high school as we hand out over 800 books to the first graders of Shakopee at the High School. We will meet at Dangerfield's for lunch and then head over about 12:40 to the high school, where at 1:00 PM we will help to hand out the books and see the delight of these kids as they listen to some fun entertainment and music before we begin the handing out of books. If you have not attended this event before you are in for a real treat. If you would like to volunteer to help with this event earlier in the day at 10:30 they are gathering at the high school to help fill bags and set up, please see Barb Brekke. We will not have a Finemaster or Songmaster this week. We may have checks to approve but other than that this will be our only business on Tuesday. I hope many of you can make it to help with the Shakopee Celebrates Reading event. The smiles will be many Tuesday. REMINDER: We are still collecting jars of jelly. Please bring your jars of jelly to the meeting. Spring Play at the high school with Valerie Huber in a leading role. We have about 23 people attending on Friday, April 25 at 7 PM with a pre theater event at Joan Lynch's house before the play. If you are still interested in joining us please let me know by tomorrow, Monday so I can order the tickets. The price is $6 per ticket and I will collect the night of the event. Bridging is Saturday, April 26. Please see Lee Hennen if you would like to volunteer for a shift. They will be collecting from 7:30AM to noon. In Peace and Service, Readjust...Recommit...Renew
Peter Vodenka - Journey For Freedom
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President's Message for Shakopee Rotary Club meeting of April 15 at DangerfieldsHappy Sunday everyone! I'm writing to you from Chicago on my little iPad. Please excuse any grammatical errors. The book sale ended Saturday. Thanks to all who helped out this weekend to sell, tear down, sort books, etc. I don't have final numbers yet, but I believe we had another successful year. Many people I will thank in a separate email. Last week we had an outstanding presentation with Hannah Warren showing us the power one person can have to change many lives. Her message on how she helped impoverished women of India have better lives was really inspiring. We also recognized our March Tokata Student of the month Lizbeth Gutierrez. This week's presentation will be fascinating as we learn how Peter Vodenka managed to escape Communistic rule of Czechosolovakia with his young family. He has an appreciation for freedom from his perspective that I think you will really want to hear, so please join us to hear this interesting tale of escape and starting a new life. You will be greeted again this week by Helkamp, Helkamp and Hoehn. The Finemaster this week is Jim Conway and our Songmaster is Dave Paradise. REMINDERS: BRING YOUR JARS OF JELLY TO THE MEETING! We have a ways to go on our collection this month so buy those jars and bring them to the meeting! BRIDGING: Saturday, April 26 7:30AM to noon. Please see Lee Hennen to sign up as a volunteer SHAKOPEE HIGH SCHOOL SPRING PLAY - "The Crucible" will have Valerie Huber our exchange student in a leading role. Please see Sheila to sign up for tickets to see the play on FRIDAY, APRIL 25 7:00 PM Tickets are $6 a piece. In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Renew...Recommit Book Sale Teardown Team - Saturday, April 12, 2014
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Tokata Student of the Month March, 2014Tokata Student of the month Lizbeth Gutierrez and her mentor Dave Froehlich, art teacher were introduced by Nell Bury at the meeting of April 8
Hannah Warren founder of Jhoole a women's fair trade enterprise for impoverished women in India. Hannah is also a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar and she shared with us her amazing story and beautiful items women of India had woven.
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting of April 8, 2014 at Dangerfield's Good evening to all of you. I hope everyone got out and enjoyed the beautiful weather today! Mark and I went for 26 miles on the tandem and then a walk. Just couldn't stay inside today. I hear it could be 70 degrees by Wednesday. Woo hoo! Last week we had an entertaining and informative discussion about eggs and how they get from farm to table given by Jessica who subbed in for Britta Schnell McGuire, owner of Sparboe Farms. Judging by all the questions I think many were very interested in the subject matter. In addition, last week we also welcomed our newest member Eric Westlund into the club! Eric is in the insurance industry, working for American Family here in Shakopee. Please be sure to welcome him into the Shakopee Rotary Family when you see him. We also had a chance to hear the passionate request for help again this year with Bridging from our honorary member, Fran Heitzman. Lee Hennen introduced Fran who always has a sincere message of just how much happiness and good the collection of all those household goods does for families in the metro area. So, reminder to all; Lee will be looking for more workers on Saturday, April 26 7:30AM to NOON. Please mark your calendars. This week we will have a speaker I think you will really enjoy. Hannah Warren is a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar to Vasanasi, India. She will tell us about how she saw a need to help women in India who were impoverished and single-handedly founded a non-profit fair trade fashion enterprise that helps these Indian women eradicate poverty and create better lives for themselves and their families. I think you should be sure and come out to hear her information. It should be very interesting. REMINDERS: BRING YOUR PLASTIC JELLY JARS TO MEETING. Linda Plum is still helping us collect all through the month of April, the jelly jars for the District Conference. Our goal is 112 and we have a ways to go yet so, please remember to bring them this week. Book Sale final day is Saturday, April 12 from 9-1. We will be giving out plastic bags and charging $5 to fill with all the books they can fit. There are still more books out at some school locations and so we will still get a few more books for the final sale. The sale has been very successful so far and it is in large part due to all your work and help with getting us ready for the weekend. Thanks to all of you who have helped in this effort. This could be our best year yet! Shakopee High School Play - "The Crucible" our Exchange Student, Valerie Huber got a lead role in the Spring play. We are organizing a group of Rotarians to come out on Friday, April 25 for the 7PM performance. Tickets are $6 per person. If you are interested, please see me or send me an email. I will order tickets so we can go as a group and support Valerie. I am sure she will be very pleased to see us there. In Rotary Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Recommit...Renew
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, April 1, 2014 at Dangerfield's Happy Sunday to all! Last week we had Robb Hiller from the Eden Prairie Club and an author speak to us about how his dog "Bentley" inspired him to develop leadership techniques which he gave us during his presentation. We also had a chance to hear from our exchange student Valerie Huber of Switzerland regarding what she has been doing at the high school lately. She announced she got a leading role in the play, "The Crucible" this spring. She seems so excited about her theater work and her experience here in Shakopee. It was This week we will hearing from Britta Schnell McGuire about the "Good Egg Project" having to do with agriculture, eggs and how they are helping people in need. Should be interesting, and I look forward to having Lorri Helkamp introduce her to us. This week we will be greeted by members of the "3H Club." That is, Helkamp, Helkamp and Hoehn will be there to take your money and smile a welcome smile. We will not have a Songmaster this week due to time limitations. Our Finemaster this week is none other than Mr. bar joke humor himself, John Crooks. We are also excited to have our new member induction this week of Eric Westlund! He works for American Family Insurance in Shakopee. Please be sure to welcome him and make him feel part of the Rotary family. Also, Lee Hennen will introduce Fran Heitzman this week. Fran is the founder of Bridging and is incredibly passionate about his work and his organization. If you haven't heard him speak, he can bring tears to your eyes. So, please welcome him as Lee gets us ready for our upcoming Bridging work on Saturday, April 26. A very big thanks to all the members who came out this weekend for the book sale sorting. More sorting yet today from noon to 4 and again tomorrow night, (Monday) 7-9 PM. If you have books to drop off please bring them to the store location during these hours or bring them to the meeting Tuesday. DON'T FORGET TO BRING PLASTIC JELLY JARS. Linda Plum is helping to coordinate our collection of jelly jars for the district service project to help youth. We will be collecting all month. Have a great day and see you Tuesday! Sheila McNeill Readjust...Recommit...Renew
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, Mar. 25, 2014 at Dangerfield's Good day to all of you! If you missed last week's meeting you missed a great and lively presentation with the news team (more like comedy act) of Jack Tomczak and Ben Kruse of Twins Cities Newstalk Radio AM 1130. Tim Whitcomb brought them to us and we had a great time listening to them about what they do on the radio talk show and how they discuss views on politics and other relevant issues of the day. I found a rather "racy" paperback left on the podium by one Mr. Hennen. He found in our book collections and the book became a popular center of the discussion and comic element of the day. Ben and Jack really said they enjoyed being with our club with the sense of humor and good nature they found to be pervasive amongst Rotarians in general. Never met a club like ours they say, and probably won't again, I daresay! Thanks Tim for bringing them to us and making it a very good meeting. This week we have Robb Hiller who is a Rotarian from the Eden Prarie Club. He has recently written a book and used his dog "Bentley" for inspiration. He will be accompanied by "Bentley" and give us a creative and interesting twist on how we can use his leadership advice based on the inspiration he receives from his dog. I wonder if the dog will be talking to us too? Hmmm...Should make for a very interesting presentation. Hopefully, it will not all "go to the dogs" as they say. Please come out and hear this unique presentation with Robb and his sidekick "Bentley." We will be greeted one last time this week before we change the guard, with the likes of the team of Hennen, Esposito and Eckart. The Finemaster this week is Jim Mahoney and the Songmaster is that masterful duo of McNeill and Shukle. Bring plastic jelly jars to the meeting. We will be collecting all this month and next for the District youth summer food collection program for the camps and they youth backpacks. Our goal is at least 110 jars and I am sure our club can make that or exceed it! BOOK SALE SORTING STARTS THIS WEEK! Yes, the book sale will soon be upon us. The book sorting starts this Friday, March 28 and continues through the weekend and whatever more days we need the week of the book sale. We also need volunteers for the Book Sale days, April 4,5,6 and 12. In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Recommit...Renew
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, Mar. 18, 2014 at Dangerfield's  Top 'O the Day to Ya! I hope you are all enjoying the sunshine of today and getting out to do some celebrating of the Green! Congratulations to the Shakopee Boys Basketball team getting 3rd Place at the tournament yesterday! Great win over Cretin-Durham Hall! And the fact Hopkins did not win 1st place was at least some revenge, so good work to Lakeville North! Sorry for the editorializing, just had to do it. Shako deserved that win and we all know it! Last week we had a wonderful history lesson from a local, Dale Swanson who wrote a book on some unknown aspects of history of the Sioux uprising in the Minnesota River Valley. Thanks to Chris Kost for bringing him to our meeting, I think many found the information very enlightening. We also recognized our Tokata student of the month for February, Dantrell Harris and his mentor, Mr. Ryan the Math teacher. Thanks to Nell Bury for bringing this student to our meeting and his guest. Always wonderful to recognize our youth and their good work. This week I am excited to tell you that Tim Whitcomb will be bringing Jack Tomczak, from Twin Cities Talk Radio to speak to you. The title of his presentation, "Up and At 'em" sounds like it will be motivating and interesting. We are all looking forward to hearing Jack speak, so be and sure and get this on your calendar and come on out and hear him speak. You will be greeted again this week by the team of Hennen, Eckart and Esposito. They are always happy to take your money. This week is "Double Dustin" week as Mr. Campion will be not only the Finemaster, but Songmaster too! WOW! Now that's dedication! Looking forward to seeing Dustin in both roles this week. REMINDERS! BRING YOUR PLASTIC JELLY JARS! We are now collecting jelly jars for summer youth programs for District 5950 to distribute. The box will be available at each meeting all this month and next. Thanks Linda Plum for helping to coordinate this effort. DOLCE VITA WINE TASTING! - Wed. March 19 5-7 PM, $15 a person. Please sign up or RSVP to me if you can make it out and bring a guest to our second annual wine tasting and social with Chaska Rotary Club. We will have food and wine and a sharing of Rotarian freiendship. Please feel free to bring a friend, business associate, family member or potential Rotarian member too. We are hoping for a great turnout, and I know Chaska is looking forward to it as well. Please mark it on your calendars for this week. BOOK SALE SIGNUPS! - Don't forget to sign up at the meeting to help out at book sorting and for the sale which is April 4,5,6 and 12 this year. We need all hands to help. Keep up the collections too! See Jeff Tate if you need bins for collection. In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Recommit...Renew |
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March 11, 2014 Meeting recognizes Tokata Student Dantrell Harris
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Dale Swanson "The 39th Man" Sioux uprising in the Minnesota river valley 
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Tokata Student of the Month - February, 2014Dantrell Harris and Mr. Kyle Ryan - Math Teacher
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SIMPSON HOUSE HOMELESS SHELTER
Kathy Klehr, Bill Wermerskirchen, Barb Brekke, Nell and Mark Bury and Dave Paradise serving breakfast.
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, Mar. 11, 2014 at Dangerfield's
Happy Sunday! Finally, a day above 32 degrees. I am grilling today and hoping this is truly the start of a long and glorious grill season! Last week we had one of our own, Dave Paradise give us a very informative and interesting presentation on personal security and identity theft. His tips and ideas on how to avoid security breach of our personal information was really enlightening. I know I will be doing several REMINDERS: Dolce Vita Wine Tasting in Chaska on Wednesday, March 19 5-7 PM $15 per person. We will be passing the sign ups this week. Please come and bring a friend or business associate too! BRING JELLY JARS! Last week Linda Plum announced the collection for use by District 5950 of plastic 22 oz jelly jars for the purposes of helping feed the summer youth programs. We need to reach a goal of 110 jars for our individual club. If we collect more even better! Please bring to the meeting. A basket will be available every week until the end of April. BOOK SALE - Don't forget to sign up to volunteer for the book sale sorting and help on sale dates. The book sale collections are going on now. Book Sale Dates are April 4,5,6 and 12 Thank you for all you do for our club! In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Recommit...Renew
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President's Weekly Message for Tuesday, March 4, 2014 at Dangerfield'sGood afternoon to all! I am writing from my daughter's apt. in Chicago and on a laptop so excuse any errors I might make today in the message! Snowy and cold here just like Minnesota. Can't wait till winter ends! Last week Mayor Tabke came and gave us an update on the city and we received a lot of good iformation. Also, people had a chance to ask questions so we had a lot of good dialogue at the meeting. We were also happy to welcome some potential new members and they felt they received a warm welcome from our club. I have followed up and I expect Pann No and Eric Westlund will be back for more meetings, so be sure and continue to show give them a warm reception and help them learn more about our club. This week we are excited to have our own Dave Paradise speaking to us about Financial and Identity theft and defensive measures. This is particularly relevant given the recent Target breach. Please be sure and come out and hear what Dave has to say. REMINDERS: Barb Brekke is still looking for volunteers for Simpson House this Thursday the 6th at 5-7 AM shift for making breakfast. Dolce Vita in Chaska - Correction! The date is Wednesday, March 19 from 5-7 PM. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend. More details to come. In Peace and Service' Sheila McNeill President 2013-14 |
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Mayor Brad Tabke "State of Shakopee" Message 2/25/2014
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2014 at Dangerfield's Good day to all! I hope you have enjoyed the Olympics and now the final closing ceremonies this evening. Now what will we do for the rest of this winter? Hopefully, no more shoveling? Last week, we got to hear from our Superintendent of schools and fellow Rotarian, Rod Thompson about the "State of the District" and the upcoming referendum on March 11. He brought along many of his experts to answer questions as well. The presentation was informative and welcomed by our members for sure. We also were happy to recognize the January Student of the month for Tokata Learning Center. Cyane Simone was given recognition for her achievements at the Learning Center and a perfect 4.0 GPA was noted by her guest and mentor, Art teacher, David Frolich. This week we are happy to welcome our mayor of Shakopee, Mr. Brad Tabke. Mark McNeill will introduce Brad and we look forward to hearing his "State of Shakopee" address and learn more about all that is currently happening in the City. I am sure it will be a presentation you won't want to miss, so come on out and join us this Tuesday to listen to what Brad has to say. You will be greeted again this week by John Crooks, Deb Erickson and Barb Danielson. Our Finemaster this week is Bill Wermerskirchen and our Songmasters will be the duo of Mark McNeill and Ed Shukle. Reminder: Jeff Tate has bins available for the Book Sale collections. He will bring some to the meeting again this week so make sure you connect with him to get your bins. Libby Bergen has a list of all the bins so be sure your name and number of bins is on her list. In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Recommit...Renew  
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2014 at Dangerfield's
Happy Valentines Weekend to all! I hope you all got to celebrate in some way with the people you love and to do something special this weekend. Even though we love them all the year it is nice to do a little something extra on Valentines. This week we have our fellow club member, Rod Thompson, Shakopee School District Superintendent. He will speak to us in his annual, "State of the Schools" message and I am sure he will have updates on the referendum. So, come out to the meeting and get your questions ready, so that you can ask them of Rod. We look forward to having him present this week. You will be greeted by a new group this week. The team of John Crooks, Barb Danielson, and Deb Erickson are ready and waiting to collect your money from you. Finemaster this week is the man who knows how to build stuff, Mr. Kevin O'Brien and our Songmaster this week, the woman not afraid to throw her voice around, the always funny, Kathy Klehr. Also, if you didn't attend last week, you haven't seen the new badges. There will be a new badge with the magnetic backs for you when you attend your next meeting. I ordered them according to what people wanted on their badges, so I hope they are correct. If any changes, please let me know and I can reorder. If there was not a number on your old badge, then your new badge will be set on the side. Pick a number and we can put it on the badge for the future. I also made note of each member who has held the "President" position in the past. Do you know we have 20 past presidents that are still members of our club? Pretty impressive! Have a great week. See you Tuesday! In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Recommit...Renew
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2014 at America's Best Value Inn Happy Sunday afternoon everyone! As we head in to the middle of February and the week when "love is in the air," I hope you are all handling the continued cold weather and staying active. They say we burn more calories in cold weather, despite our being couch potatoes between watching basketball and now the Winter Olympics! This week we are excited for our annual Valentines Lunch to be held out at America's Best Value Inn (location of Arizona's too). Your Valentines committee has been working hard to get prepared for this event and it should prove to be a great time for the "three F's", Fun, Fellowship and Food. Jim Conway, committee chair and his sidekick Dave Paradise, along with help from Linda Plum and myself will be awaiting your arrival to celebrate the upcoming holiday with your peers. Get ready for many laughs this year. You will be greeted again this week by Chuck Huss and Jim Conway, and they will take your $15(special for Valentines)at the door. Our Finemaster this week will be none other than "Miss Congeniality" herself, Barb Danielson. The Songmaster this week will be our own love-song (love-sick?) Crooner, Mark McNeill. A special note of thanks this week to all the people who volunteered and filled up the time slots for Loaves and Fishes. I know Barb Brekke is grateful for the response and as always, Rotarians show the giving spirit of service to a community in need. See you soon and have a great week. In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Recommit...Renew
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, Feb. 4 , 2014 at Dangerfield's Happy Superbowl Sunday to all! Today is the biggest excuse American's have to eat, drink and watch TV as millions will tune to the annual Superbowl game. The ads are as much or more of the entertainment on this day. Be sure to keep an eye out for the first ever local YMCA ad being aired between first and second quarters Last week, we welcomed the speakers, Sally Stockey and Laura Browers from the early childhood and parent literacy programs in Shakopee. We learned about their programs and the many good things they are doing to embrace literacy for not only our youngest children but their parents as well. This week, we have a special treat I hear with the arrival of Annie Young, whom Tim Whitcomb will introduce. She is an artist who is blind and she will tell us her incredible story and we will get to see how she makes the world a better place through the medium of art. Along with Annie this week, we are excited to meet the three essay winners from the Ethics Workshop. Libby Bergen will be introducing the students to us and handing them their awards at our meeting. You will be greeted again this week by the duo of Conway and Huss. Our finemaster this week is the always happy guy, Joe Vaughan and Songmaster is a mystery at this point. Maybe we will learn of this skilled musician at the meeting? REMINDERS: Tuesday, Feb. 11 Valentines Celebration at America's Best Value Inn/Arizona's. I will be passing the clipboard for signups. We have a great lunch planned and you are welcome to bring that "special someone" with you to the lunch that day. Please sign up! Loaves and Fishes will be this Thursday, Feb. 6, two shifts, 3-5PM and 5-7PM. If you would like to donate your time, please see Barb Brekke. This is really a very worthwhile cause for our club to be involved, so please try to find some time to help if you can. Until Tuesday then, stay warm! In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Renew...Recommit
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2014 at Dangerfield's A "Chilly" Hello to All: Take cover and hide, the cold blast of the arctic vortex strikes again and parents have exhausted all forms of alternative entertainment for their home bound children due to closing of school! Yikes! When will this winter end? Well, last week Barb Brekke and Jean Marschall took us for a brief respite from the cold weather to the sunny land of Spain, as they led a discussion on their recent journey walking the famed "Camino" and reigniting a spiritual bond with their God, each other and themselves. The presentation was very interesting and I invited Barb to bring her CD along again this week so the pics can scroll during part of our meeting and we can get a better look at a journey of a lifetime. If you are looking to fill your bucket list, these are the ladies to see! This week Barb Brekke will introduce us to Kim Latterner and Laura Browers, who will tell us about the very successful early childhood literacy programs, ECFE/PACE. I think they will explain those acronyms when they see us. Our Greeters this week will be the ever popular Jim Conway and Chuck Huss. Our Finemaster this week is Chuck Berg and our Songmasters will be the delightful duo of McNeill and Shukle. If you are scheduled this week for one of these jobs, and can't attend, please see the coordinator of your respective duty so we can be sure to get you a replacement. Also, just a reminder, if you are not sure when you are scheduled for any of the duties such as Finemaster, Songmaster or Greeters Table, you can always check the website, Shakopeerotary.org and on the left hand side all the schedules are listed there. The coordinators keep these updated for you so you can check dates. Mark your Calendars! Feb. 11 this year is our annual Valentine luncheon at Arizona's. This year we will miss Jim Cook's fun-filled performance, but we have Jim Conway's creative genius to replace him. Jim Conway has an idea for a game to entertain and Lorri Helkamp, Linda Plum and I have worked with Arizona's to create a great day of fun and fellowship. Bring your "special someone" to join you and we will be sure to honor all of them at the luncheon. The cost is $15 per person. We will be passing a sign up sheet around at the meetings so we can get an idea of the numbers of attendees. Also, start collecting the used books and CD's/Videos at your home. Our annual fundraiser the Book Sale will be coming up in April. Your committee of Libby Bergen, Lynn Pauly, and Jeff Tate are preparing for the book sale this year. Any and all are welcome to help as we hope for another successful year! In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Renew...Recommit
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CORRECTED! President's Weekly Message meeting Tuesday, Jan. 21 at Dangerfield's
Sorry about the redo and errors. I was typing from my mini ipad and it wasn't easy to make corrections or edit. I have made corrections to my previous post. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow! Hello all! Last week Chuck Berg our membership chair, led us in a very good and relevant discussion regarding improving club membership and attendance. Many ideas were gathered and Chuck will present a summary at the next board meeting. Chuck himself will have to look at other club meeting options he announced, due to his own job schedule conflicts. I will be looking for volunteers to serve on our membership committee to work towards implementing the ideas recently suggested. This week we are excited to hear from Barb Brekke and Jean Marschall and their recent adventures walking the famed Camino in Spain. We look forward to seeing their pictures and hearing their stories. Our greeters again this week will be the team of Thompson, Bury and Busch. Our Finemaster will be the man who knows his pickles, Jim Cook. Our Songmaster will be Barb Danielson who also celebrates her birthday this Tuesday. Reminder: We still need volunteers for this Thursday, Jan. 23 to work at the Cap Agency food shelf. The shifts are 1-3PM and 3-5PM. see Barb Brekke if you can volunteer. In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill President 2013-2014 December's Tokata Learning Center Student of the Month, Lena Malashenko and her guest Brandy Churchill
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2014 at Dangerfield's Hello to all: Everyone is settling back in to your routines and watching the credit card bills come rolling in this time of the month. At least we have a "thaw" in the weather. Lets hope it continues. Last week, Nell Bury introduced Eric Serbus, principal of the Tokata Learning Center. He gave a very interesting presentation on what is the learning center's mission and what population they serve. I think all enjoyed this information very much. It was good to have Harold Armstrong join us at the This week we are asking ALL of our membership to attend. We are having an all-club Assembly and we really need your insight and input regarding important topics membership and meetings of our club. Our own Chuck Berg, Membership Chairperson, is willing to lead a discussion in just how we can plan for future growth and longevity of the club. Recently, the number of members is in decline and meeting attendance has been reduced. We hope these discussions will be the kickstart to finding out how as members, and the lifeblood of this club, can we develop a strong and vibrant vision for the Shakopee Rotary Club. Your ideas and willingness to share are key to making this Assembly a success and to give the Board direction for our future. Please be there! You will be greeted this week by the smiling faces of Rod Thompson, Kathy Busch and Nell Bury. Our Finemaster this week is the happy guy Jason Marschall and our songs will be led by the talented team of Shukle and Mcneill. I look forward to seeing you on Tuesday. In Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Renew...Recommit
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Eric Serbus - Takota Learning CenterEric Serbus, Prinicipal of Takota Learning Center in Shakopee gave our club a very informative presentation on this valuable educational resource in our community.
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2014 at Dangerfield's
Happy New Year to one and all! I hope all of you had a wonderful holiday and that you are facing our freezing temps now with a warm drink and feet up in front of the fireplace. BRRRR its cold outside! The kids and teachers are probably happy to get an extended holiday vacation tomorrow. Time to think Rotary and plan for this week's meeting. This week we have Eric Serbus, principal of the Takota learning Center, as our speaker. Nell Bury will introduce Eric to us and he will tell us about this unique alternative educatonal opportunity afforded students who qualify in our district. I look forward to hearing more about this learning center and about its staff and students. You will be greeted this week by the team of Rod Thompson, Kathy Busch and Nell Bury. Our Finemaster is the effervescent insurance guy, we all know and love, Tim Whitcomb. We do not have a Songmaster scheduled as of this writing. I hope we will have a volunteer by Tuesday. With the new year comes fresh, new ideas and some updating of our club. We will be purchasing a new set of name badges for our club that will be more modern and easier to clip on our apparel with the use of magnetic clips. So, we are looking for everyone to give us their feedback exactly how they wish to have their badges read in terms of name, title and station in life you might say. After looking at all the badges personally, I noted a vast difference in titles and careers. So, we will be looking for your feedback as we pass a sheet around at future meetings and allow you to fill out exactly how you wish your name badge to read. Looking Ahead: PLEASE MARK YOUR CALENDARS! Tuesday, January 14 Rotary Assembly with Chuck Berg. This is an important meeting for all to attend. We will discuss how to increase our membership numbers and enhance the future of our club. We need your honest and relevant feedback to help guide our club and Chuck and his membership team into the future. Please try and be there for this important all-club Assembly. Also, MARK YOUR CALENDARS for Tuesday, January 21 as we hear from Barb Brekke and her friend Jean Marschall tell us about their amazing experience walking the Camino of Spain! A don't miss spiritual travel experience you will want to hear about! In Rotary Service and Peace, Sheila McNeill Readjust, Renew, Recommit |
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Valerie Huber - Christmas Gift
Valerie Huber, our exchange student from Switzerland was really exited and happy with her new Shakopee High School Letter Jacket! Merry Christmas Valerie from the Shakopee Rotary Club |
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STUDENT OF THE MONTH-NOVEMBER Takota Learning Center The Takota Learning Center Student of the Month for November was Michael Lassic pictured here with his special guest, teacher Ms. Kelly Holstine. Thanks to Nell Bury for providing the picture and information. Michael was presented at our Rotary meeting in November. |
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting of Tuesday, Nov. 5, 2013  Hello and Happy November! As the leaves fall and the wind blows I hope you are all settling in and getting ready as soon the snow will fly and winter will truly be upon us! Hopefully, you all had a great Halloween and weren't too spooked! Last week we had Dan Christianson give us a presentation on Credit Card Protection. Dan brought us a lot of good and usable information regarding how to protect our cards and our personal identity. Useful information in today's world of credit card and identity theft. Thanks to Charlie Sunder for bringing this interesting and timely speaker to our meeting. This week Sandi Wedmann will introduce our speaker, Janna Grassel from the Shakopee Crime Prevention Dept. She is a specialist in this area and will provide us with information regarding her area of expertise. Who couldn't use a bit more knowledge on how to avoid crimes and protect ourselves? We will have Joe Vaughan again this week at the Greeters Table and whomever Joe Schmidt found to help him out this week. Thanks to Chris Kost for filling in last week and helping Joe man the Greeters Table for us. Our Finemaster this week is the new, proud "dad," Jim Conway and our Songmaster is the guy who gets us to sing, David Esposito. Thanks to all of you for volunteering your time to help out at our meetings. This week you will be lucky to have the one and only history guru, Kathy Klehr leading your meeting. Kathy has graciously agreed to lead the next three meetings for me, while I take a paternity leave for a Spanish teacher up at the high school. So, you can see if her jokes are better than the ones I come up with each week. My thanks to Kathy for her willingness to replace me in my absence. REMINDER: Next week, November 12, is our annual Auction and we will be meeting at Arizona's. Please be sure to bring an item or two to auction. If you can let me know items of special interest and with dates such as tickets to plays and sporting events, I can let people know in advance of the auction so they can be prepared and check calendars. Also, any other specialty items you would like people to know about in advance so they can prepare their bidding in advance. So far, I have only received notice that Charlie Sunder will be donating 2 of his wonderful "smoked pheasants" this year. What a great idea for your upcoming holiday parties and family gatherings. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, December 3 for our first annual Toy Drive and Social with Prior Lake and Savage Rotary Clubs at Arizona's from 4-7 PM. Bring a toy and $10 will buy you appetizers and a free drink. Beer, wine and rail drinks will be available. We will NOT have our regular Rotary meeting during the noon hour that day. So, plan to bring a spouse, significant other, friend or business associate and help make this Christmas extra special for our needy families and spend some time with your fellow Rotarians and community leaders. In Rotary Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill |
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting of Tuesday, Oct. 29, 2013  Hello to all and Happy Halloween! Last week we were happy to welcome Amy McGarness from the River Vallley Theater Company. She gave us a very informative history and update on the theater company. We auctioned tickets off to their current production, "Blithe Spirit" being shown this weekend and next weekend. We are truly lucky to have such a fine theater production group within out community and I would urge you to get out and see a play when you can. Also, a note of thanks to Chuck Berg for donating yet another laptop to the club, after yours truly managed to drop the previously donated laptop from Chuck in the parking lot of Dangerfield's! Thankfully, we have a computer geek like Chuck to rescue us in our technical needs dept. We are grateful to him for all he has given in time and talent to our club. Also, we want to wish Barb Brekke safe travels as she walks across Spain for the next 30 plus days in her search for spirituality and her life's goals. We can't wait to hear her stories and see her pictures upon her return. We were happy to see the smiling face of Bill Runge at our last meeting, but saddened to hear that Jack Cole had been hospitalized recently. He is back home now and recuperating and the Sunshine committee will be paying a visit soon to let him know we miss his smiling face around the table. Please remember Jack in your thoughts and prayers. We will have as speaker this week Daniel Christianson. He will be speaking to us on Credit Card Protection. According to Chuck Berg, he said last week his surest form of protection is to "tear up his wife's credit card!" Well, lets hope we can all learn other less drastic ways of protecting the plastic we all carry in our wallets. We will have the one and only musical duo of McNeill and Shukle as our Songmaster this week. Our fine President-elect, Kathy Klehr will be our Finemaster. The Greeter Table will have Joe Vaughan at the helm and whomever else Joe Schmidt gets to fill in this week to help out. In Rotary Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Renew...Recommit
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting of Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2013  Happy Sunday to all! Last week Lorri Helkamp introduced Scott Welle who spoke about 10 things we can do to better health, happiness and high performance. Scott had some interesting and helpful tips on a variety of things related to getting us up and out of our chairs and thinking positive thoughts for better mental and physical awareness. Thanks Lorri for bringing Scott to our club. We also want to thank Angie Whitcomb who purchased the Saints Foundation Table of 8 for the upcoming Foundation gala for the hospital. Her bid of $500 will help out our operating funds and various programs that are not supported by donations. I am sure she will find 8 other people willing to share that great table space with her. Also, Jim Conway announced the birth of his first child and daughter "Lucy" at Brag and Share. Congratulations to Jim and his wife, Amy. Also, if you have not picked up your envelope for this year's Rotary Foundation they will be available again this week at the Greeters Table. We are really hopeful this year that the "Every Rotarian Every Year" will resonate with each and every individual in our club. No matter the donation size, it would be awesome if our club could be a leader in the effort to get every member to give "something" to the Foundation. If every Rotarian in District 5950 gave something to the Foundation, we would hit the goal of a million dollars for sure. So, please take a moment to make a donation of some amount to the Shakopee Rotary Foundation. As Art Quinn and Chuck Berg pointed out it goes to so many worthwhile projects at both the local and national level and such an easy way for you to extend your influence and help others that need it. Thank you in advance for your help and cooperation in this year's drive for the Shakopee Rotary Foundation. This week we welcome Amy McGarness who will speak to us about the River Valley Theater Company. Our Songmaster this week is new dad, Jim Conway. Finemaster will be the ultimate Irishman, Bill Nevin. Our Greeters table will be run by two great ladies, Barb Danielson and Angie Whitcomb. REMINDER: Tuesday, November 12 is the auction. Please start thinking of items you can bring so we can have a very successful auction this year. Be creative, and bake, or offer a service or a meal or help to others. Start gathering ideas and bring your donations on the 12th. We will meet at Arizona's on that day too. In Rotary Peace and Service. Sheila McNeill Readjust...Renew...Recommit
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting of Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2013  Hello and Happy Mid October to all! Last week we had our first "student of the Month" from the Takota learning Center introduced to us. Ruben Sandoval and his teacher Mr. Ryan, whom he chose as his guest, attended our Rotary meeting. Ruben told us why he chose Mr. Ryan, his math teacher who has done so much to help him advance his learning of math in school. Nell Bury introduced Ruben to us and we were so happy to publicly acknowledge this recognition of his outstanding performance in school. We look forward to many more students in the coming months to be presented to our club in recognition of their educational achievements at the Takota Learning Center. Art Quinn and Chuck Berg both did a wonderful job describing what is the Rotary Foundation and how the money is used for so many local and international projects. We handed out letters for the foundation annual giving campaign. You can pick yours up at the meeting this week if you didn't get it last week. We hope all of you will see the benefit in giving to this very special foundation in which all Rotarians have a chance to make a difference in their own communities, as well has around the world. "Every Rotarian Every Year" means if all of us give, no matter the amount we can achieve such great progress in the goal of world peace and humanitarian outreach. I am asking you to consider making a donation to the Foundation, no matter the amount, even $25 if that is within your budget, to help our club to achieve a goal of 100 percent participation! What a great way to showcase the dedication of our club if we had every single person that is a member of Shakopee Rotary give something to the Foundation. WOW! Thank you in advance for your consideration and cooperation to achieve this goal. This week we have Lorri Helkamp introducing Scott Welle. He will be bringing a discussion to us on "The 10 things you must know for health, happiness and High Performance." Who couldn't use this information? I look forward to hearing more of what Scott has to say to us at the meeting. Mark and I attended the Pumpkins in the Park Event this last Sat. and thanks to all of you who contributed the bags of candy. We had over 800 kids come through the Trick or Treat trail and it was so fun to see their faces as we gave out the candy. Great community event! One last thing of note, Linda Plum our Sunshine Lady and I visited the home of Bill Runge and his lovely wife, Barbara. We made a Rotary goodwill visit to check in and see how they both were doing. We brought homemade cookies that Linda made and a mum plant to brighten up their day. We had a very nice visit and I know they both really appreciated having us stop by. Bill is looking forward to attending another meeting in the near future. They have such fond memories of all their years in youth exchange with Rotary too and the walls of their home are testimony to the many students they had visit over the years, They both say, "Hello" to all and miss the Shakopee Rotary Club meetings. I told Bill we will be so happy to see him at another meeting in the near future. Also, this week we will be using the services of the mighty auctioneers Hennen and Cook to auction off a table for the Saints Foundation annual gala at Mystic Lake on Saturday, November 9 this year. The table of 8 goes for $150 per person if purchasing directly from the Foundation. The Shakopee Rotary Club is a sponsor this year and purchased a table for the gala and any proceeds from the auction will go to our club's operational funds. Check your calendar, ask friends and buy some tix to attend a great event for a great cause! In Rotary Peace and Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust, Reconfirm, Recommit
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President's Message for meeting of Tuesday, October 8, 2013  Hello everyone. I hope you all had a great weekend despite the rain. Looks like the weather this week will be dry and nice temps so, a good week to enjoy the fall colors I think. Last week we had a wonderful opportunity to get to know our inbound exchange student Valerie Huber of Switzerland. Kathy Busch introduced Valerie and we got a chance to hear more about her town, family, and what she is interested in for hobbies, etc. She comes from a much smaller town than Shakopee (750 people) and of course, we don't have the Alps to climb like she does in her country. However, she seems to be really settling in very nicely to her life in Minnesota. We also were introduced to Jenny Ames her host mother and both Jenny and Valerie agree that they are getting along very well. She loves living here and they love having her live in their home as well. I want to remind all of the Rotarians of Shakopee that Valerie is here to experience as much as possible about life in the U.S. She would welcome the opportunity to an invitation to spend time with any of you with your families doing activities, visiting places or just coming to your home for dinner. She is really delightful, speaks English quite well, and I think you would get as much or more out of an opportunity to spend time with her. Please see Kathy Busch if you would like to make arrangements to spend time with Valerie this year. She will be leaving us in June of 2014 but the time will go by fast, so don't wait too long to get her on your schedule. This week we will be featuring our own Art Quinn who will talk about the Rotary Foundation annual campaign. Please consider a donation to the Rotary Foundation of Shakopee this year. In the past, we have not had full participation and it would be nice to showcase our club as one that can get full support of this very worthwhile endeavor. Remember, no donation is too small and the importance is that we all contribute. I will be talking a bit more about this at the meeting as well. In addition, we will be starting a new program. I have accepted an opportunity for our club to continue its mission of helping recognize the positive things our youth do in our community. We will be starting a "Student of the Month" recognition for the Takota Learning Center of Shakopee. This high school is an alternative setting where students with other challenges for learning are given an opportunity to demonstrate excellence in school and celebrate success. Nell Bury is our liaison for this program and each month she will bring to us a new student and one educator whom the student chooses to attend our Rotary meeting. The student and their guest will be our guests for lunch and the student will have an opportunity to briefly tell us why they won the recognition and why they chose their guest to attend. We will have our first student at this week's meeting. Please be sure to give them both a warm Rotary welcome when you meet them on Tuesday. Thanks to Nell for bringing this program to our club. Our Songmaster this week is the lovable "Mr Ed" Shukle and our Finemaster is Doug Schlief. Our Greeters Table changes this week. Angie Whitcomb and Barb Danielson will greet you with their smiling faces and take your cash this week. REMINDER: Mark your calendars the Ethics Workshop is Tuesday, November 19. Barb Danielson is looking for 5 more table leaders from our club. This is a great program. Please check your calendar and see Barb if you can volunteer some time on Nov. 19. Also, thanks to Linda Plum who delivered an adorable hand crafted "Diaper Cake" to In Rotary Service and Peace, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Renew...Recommit |
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President's Weekly Message Meeting Tues., Sept. 24 at Arizona's Restaurant  Happy Friday Everyone! I am sending this early since I will be leaving town tomorrow and i want to be sure to help out Kathy Klehr who will be your leader for the meeting on Sept. 24. Last week we were delighted to have Merry Mears-Theis, introduced by Tim Whitcomb and she spoke about the interesting concept called "Lifetree Cafe." A relatively new program to Shakopee, she explained how she is the leader of this group which meets on Sunday nights for one hour, (6:30 PM at 909 S. Marschall Road) and has open table discussions on a variety of relevant and current topics which, expand people's knowledge and continue to connect community. We also welcomed her parents who were very active in Rotary and her father, Virgil Mears was a former Shakopee Rotary President and District Governor back in the early 80's. I encourage you to connect with Merry to learn more about this interesting group discussion and a way to make more contacts with the community. Free snacks too! This week we will have Art Quinn introduce our guest speaker, Steve Solbrack who will tell us about the exciting District 5950 Safewater Project in the Honduras. He will bring us many pictures and information so we can learn more about how Rotary continues its mission to help people around the world. Please try to attend as this is our first meeting of the new fiscal year at Arizona's. I am excited because we had a meeting with their catering people and they promise to improve and make better than before our experience at Arizona's. We will meet again as we used to in the upstairs conference room. Kathy Klehr will be leading the meeting AND she will be your Songmaster this week. Way to go Kathy! Your Finemaster this week is Chris Kost and I believe this will be his first time as our Finemaster so, I am sure he will do a great job extracting a few dollars from you guys! Our Greeters table will be hosted by the Chris Aloisio team and Bill Wermerskirchen. Also, Kathy with the help of our auctioneers supreme, Hennen and Koch will be auctioning off a table for 8 to the Scott County Historical Society's Swing Dance Fundraiser on Oct. 12. The event is at Ridges at Sand Creek golf course in Jordan from 7-10:30 and includes the Roseville Big Band orchestra, appetizers, full cash bar and silent auction. So, bring your dollars for bidding and come on out with your fellow Rotarians to have a night of fun and fellowship and help out a good cause. All proceeds of the auction will go to our Club's operation funds. In addition, your Board has decided to help out the event of Oct. 12 sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, "Pumpkins in the Park." A family friendly, non-scary Halloween celebration for children ages 10 and under. We will begin collecting bags of candy at the next couple of meetings.. We will begin collecting these bags at the Sept. 24 meeting. Please remember to bring a bag of Halloween candy. The kids in the community will be grateful for your donations. Have a great weekend. I will see you in two weeks. In Rotary Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Renew...Recommit
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President's Weekly Message for Meeting of Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2013Hello all!
Last week the club got to hear Mark and I give a presentation about our recent trip to Cuba with Tony and Marcia Spagnolo and Lynn Salmi, a resident of Shakopee. Despite the projector and some technical details, I received very positive feedback on the program. I think people were able to learn a great deal more about this place since Americans have not been allowed to travel there for over 50 years. Thanks to all who attended the meeting. Angie Whitcomb also announced that the Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring another trip to Cuba in February, If anyone is interested please see her for information. The club was also very delighted that last week for the first time in quite a while, Bill Runge was able to come to a meeting! It was so wonderful to see Bill's smiling face and we look forward to seeing him at future meetings when he can make it. This week we will have the always smiling face of Tim Whitcomb who will introduce us to this week's speaker. Merry Mears-Theis will be leading a presentation on the Lifetree Cafe which is a community outreach program. I am sure it will be interesting and informative so, please mark your calendars and make your way to Dangerfield's this week. In addition, this week your Greeters will be the likes of Aloisio(Chris and Chris) and Bill Wermerskirchen (now back in the saddle after recent knee surgery). They will be our greeters for the next three meetings now. Mark McNeill and Ed Shukle will lead us in song and the talented Tammy Laurent will be here to extract more money from you as she performs the Finemaster duties. REMINDER: There is a STRIVE meeting this Tuesday, at 11:30AM at Dangerfields for those interested in volunteering in the program. See Nell Bury for more information. Couple of things to note on your calendars for next week. Mark and I will not be attending the meeting of September 24 so, Kathy Klehr has been kind enough to step in and take on this duty of leading the meeting that day. In addition, we will be hosting the first meeting of this fiscal year at Arizona's. Please be sure you drive your car to Arizona's next week for that meeting. I also want to note that I think you will be pleasantly surprised at the menu and welcoming they have planned for our meeting there. Lorri Helkamp and I had a very good meeting with their catering and meeting planner this week, and we have some exciting opportunities to work with Arizona's to hold additional events and possible fundraising activities there this year. I would really like to see this work since they are hosting our pull tabs venue for us. Our attendance is important to them, so please make an effort to be there and attend the meeting at Arizona's on the 24th of September. I will put out more details in my next message at the end of the week. In Rotary Service, Sheila McNeill Readjust...Renew...Recommit |
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Al Newman talks baseball to Shakopee Rotary club
Shakopee Rotary Club welcomed Al Newman who spoke about baseball and how he is helping youth obtain scholarships and succeed in life... |
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Shakopee Rotary welcomes our newest club member Dustin Campion |
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The Changing of the GuardsThe Shakopee Rotary has a New President in place. Harold Armstrong passed the gavel on to our new President Sheila McNeil.
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Shakopee Rotary booksaleThanks for all the help we have received with the booksale. So far it has been a huge success, even with the snow. Our last day of the sale will be this Saturday April 27th from 9-1pm.
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Welcome Jim and Joe!
Shakopee Rotary welcomes two new members to the club. Joe Vaughan is the vice president of development and marketing for the CAP agency and Jim Mahoney is the credit mangager at Paragon bank. Both gentlemen will be excellent additions to the Shakopee Rotary club.
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Willie Nelson (aka Loren Wolf) Special Rotary Songmaster
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Shakopee Rotary and Shakopee StriveStrive is a mentoring program to help motivate eligible Shakopee High School seniors to discover their own strengths and talents so as to increase their personal and academic achievement. Rotary scholarships are awarded to students that fulfill the requirements and demonstrate their desire for success.
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Shakopee Rotary Volunteers at Loaves and Fishes |
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Ziggy Marley teams up with Rotary InternationalRotary International is the world's first service club organization. Its more than 1.2 million members volunteer their time and talent to further the Rotary motto, Service Above Self. |
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New Member Open House |
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Welcome our newest Shakopee Rotary Member - Dave Paradise.
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Shakopee Rotary Welcomes Our Newest Exchange Student Mariana |
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Chuck Berg's Induction Video |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Happy Monday Shakopee Rotary!
I hope everyone had a chance to get out to Shakopee Derby Days this past weekend. I was off making sure my brother said "I do" at his wedding, so I missed the festivities, but I heard that Derby Days was as much fun as it has ever been! A special thank you to our guest speaker Emma Ruthenbeck for coming in last week and sharing with us her excitement and anticipation surrounding her up coming trip abroad thru the Outbound Exchange program. I'm looking forward to the periodic updates from Emma throughout her time overseas. Thank you to Ron Smith for arranging that program! |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Happy August Shakopee Rotary Club!
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Wow is it great to be back! For those of you who don't remember me, I'm that guy who was inducted as the Shakopee Rotary President back in late June......who hasn't been to a meeting since! My sincere apologies to the club for my three week absence, however a more emphatic "thank you" needs to go out to Chuck Berg for running the meeting two weeks back, and then to Deb Erickson and Barb Danielson for hosting Karol's farewell Graduation party. This week we have honor of having Mayor John J. Schmitt, come in to address "The State of the City". We are also in need of a fine master for this week, and the following three weeks. If anyone is interested, please contact me. I'm looking forward to catching up with my friends on Tuesday!
Sincerely, Rob |
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Shakopee Rotary WeeklyI hope everyone is enjoying their summer. Thank you to Chuck for stepping in last week to run the meeting. Remember there will be no Tuesday lunch meeting this week. Deb Erickson will be hosting Karol's Graduation Farewell Party at her home. Details are listed below. Next Tuesday we will be back at Dangerfield's and welcome Mayor John Schmitt for a presentation on the State of the City. Rob will be back in action next week. Have a great week. |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Happy 4th of July Shakopee Rotary Club!
Last night I dontated my driveway to the neighborhood as the location where we set off fireworks. I learned the hard lesson that you must set off the fireworks in order from smallest to largest....or you will be "booed" relentlessly by 3-8 year olds...and some parents.
I want to say another special thank you to every member in our club again for a fantastic 2009 Rotary year. Listening to Jason go down the list of our accomplishments over the past 12 months was an excellent reminder of what great things happen when great people get together to achieve common goals. On that note, I am very excited to get this 2010 year going, and looking forward to keeping the momentum going!
This week we welcome Joel Spies who will be speaking on the topic of Emeral Ash Boerer. In addition, we will be inducting our newest member, Angie Whitcomb.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I hope everyone enjoyed a great first weekend of summer. Thank you to Chuck Berg for arranging the Ecological Learning Center presentation last week. I'm hopeful we're able to contribute to this project as a club. This week is our last meeting of the Rotary year. We'll be recapping our accomplishments and passing the baton to the next group of leadership. It's been a fantastic journey and I'm looking forward to the next year.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
We're nearing the end of a great Rotary year. Thank you to Karol for the recap presentation last week and thank you to everyone who made his experience this past year a success. Karol will leave on the East Coast trip this weekend and return later in July. We'll have a graduation/farewell open house at Deb Erickson's home on July 22nd. More details to follow in the coming weeks. This week we welcom back Jim Murphy and a presentation on the Ecological Learning Center project at the Senior High.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
We're in the home stretch with only four meetings left in this Rotary year. Thank you to Mike Shinnick for arranging the Raceway Pary program last week. This week we welcome Dr. Gary Jonson and a presentation titled "Twice the Soldier". Next week is our Twins game. Remember, the bus leaves at 5:15 sharp from Dangerfield's. If you purchased tickets and are not able to attend, please let us know. There is still a waiting list.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I hope everyone enjoyed a happy and safe Memorial weekend. Thank you to Ron Smith for introducing Amanda Ottman last week. Her efforts are a tribute to the impact Rotary has across the globe. This week we welcome Mick Anderson and a presentation on our local Raceway Park. Tonight we will be packing and moving books from the book sale location. The doors will be open at 4:30. I don't expect this to take very long, but more help would be greatly appreciated.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly.jpg)
I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend and the great weather we've been having. Thank you to Jim Cook and Bill Wermerskirchen for another entertaining Spring Auction. We raised $1000 with was exactly our goal. This money will be used to send Ron Smith to Columbia to help with the next phase of our joint International Project. Also, thank you to all who bid on the auction items. This week we welcome Amanda Ottman who will be presenting on the Rotary Peace Fellowship Scholarship.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Is this what Springtime in Minnesota feels like? Thank you to Jon McBroom for introducing Jim Murphy last week. Our High School is certainly something to be proud of. This week is our Spring Auction. Jim Cook and Bill Wermerskirchen will host what is sure to be an entertaining event. Be sure to bring your auction items. If you have any questions about this, please contact myself or Jim Cook.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Just a few more days and I think winter will be over. Thank you to Harold Armstrong, Art Quinn, Chuck Berg and Gary Laurent for organizing the awards luncheon last week. This event is a true example of how strong we are as a club. This week we welcome the High School Principal, Jim Murphy and a presentation on our High School Programs. We also welcome our Student of the Month.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Barb Brekke and her team did another amazing job with the Celebration of Reading Event. The sight of 700 first graders that excited is quite a spectacle. Thank you to all who helped organize and pull off this event. This week we will be offsite at the Canterbury Inn for our annual W. Adair Muralt and Paul Harris Fellow Award Luncheon. We're going do our best to start a little early, so please be there by Noon on Tuesday. Also, please remind others that we will not be at Dangerfield's for lunch.
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USED BOOK SALE
The Rotary Club Book Sale kicks off on Thursday and runs until Sunday. $2 for Hardcover and $1 for paperback books. DVD's for $2 and CD's for $1. The location is Downtown Shakopee at 201 1st Avenue East (old Tobacco Warehouse) Shop Early - Thursday, April 29th - 7:00 - 8:30 pm - $5 admission HOURS: 10:00 am - 8:00 pm - Friday and Saturday 11:00 am - 3:00 pm - Sunday All proceeds will go directly back into Shakopee Rotary projects and select charitable orgainizations. |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Thank you to Chuck Huss for intruducing our program last week. I thought the part where they ran around the south pole naked was very courageous . This week is our Celebrate Reading Event at the High School. We will have lunch at Dangerfield's during our regular scheduled time, and head up to the High School to help for those who are volunteering. We're making great progress on the book sale, but we still need books. The store will be open from 6:30 to 9:00 each night this week to finish our sorting and prep for the sale. If you have some free time, please stop in to help. Refreshments will be provided. |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I hope everyone ejoyed their weekend. Thank you to Jason Horstman for introducing Paul Schubring and his golf tips last week. This week we welcome Angela Drexler and a program on her South Pole Experience. Thanks to Chuck Huss for aranging this speaker. Remember this Tuesday is our fourth club book collection. The book sale site will be open for drop off at 11:30 prior to our lunch meeting. The location is at the old Tobacco Warehouse in downtown Shakopee. The address is 201 1st Avenue East. Please do not bring your books to Dangerfield's. We need to make a big push to collect as many books as possible for out upcoming sale. Please pass this request onto your neighborhood, office and other groups you're involved in. We're nearing the end of our collection and need more books.
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Roadside Cleanup THIS WEDNESDAY
The roadside clean up is scheduled for this Wednesday, April 21st at 5:00.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I hope everyone ejoyed their weekend. It's amazing how well little kids sleep when they are outside playing all day. Thank you to Amber Kahnke for introducing Dr. Daniel Gatlin and his presentation on colon cancer awareness last week. This week we welcome Paul Schubring from Stonebrooke and a program on how to improve your golf game. I'm going to take a guess and assume I'm not the only one who would benefit from some golf tips. Thank you to Joe Schmidt for taking Karol to a Wild Hockey game. Karol would still like to see a Timberwolves game if we still have any Timberwolves fans in the group. Remember this Tuesday is our third club book collection. The book sale site will be open for drop off at 11:30 prior to our lunch meeting. The location is at the old Tobacco Warehouse in downtown Shakopee. The address is 201 1st Avenue East. Please do not bring your books to Dangerfield's. We need to make a big push to collect as many books as possible for out upcoming sale. Please pass this request onto your neighborhood, office and other groups you're involved in. We need one volunteer to help me with the meat raffle this week. 6:00 at Arnie's. |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I hope everyone ejoyed a Happy Easter weekend. Thank you to Mark McNeill for arranging the speaker last week. Tom Gillaspy answered many questions regarding the 2010 census. This week Amber Kahnke will introduce Dr. Daniel Gatlin and a presentation on colon cancer awareness.
Remember this Tuesday is our second club book collection. The book sale site will be open for drop off at 11:30 prior to our lunch meeting. The location is at the old Tobacco Warehouse in downtown Shakopee. The address is 201 1st Avenue East. Please do not bring your books to Dangerfield's.
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Shakopee Reads Rotary Book Sale
The Shakopee Rotary Club will be holding a Used Book Sale on April 29th - May 2nd in downtown Shakopee, and we are asking for your help in donating any gently used books, CD's, and DVD's. The books we will be collecting could be fiction, non-fiction, cookbooks, children's books, atlas, travel books ... etc. All proceeds will go directly back into Shakopee Rotary projects and select area charitable orginazations. |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I'm either late or early with this bulletin. I'll blame it on the rising river this time. I'd like to thank Carol Schultz for putting together our joint breakfast yesterday morning. Mike Max was nothing short of exceptional. Hopefully everyone who attended took some nuggets away to better your day. Next Tuesday we're back on for our regular lunch schedule at Dangerfield's. We will welcome Tom Gillaspy and a presentation on the 2010 Census. Tonight is cleaning night for the book sale location. If you're able to join us for a while, we will be at the downtown location by 7:00.
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Rotary / Chamber Breakfast Event
We're excited to invite you to a joint breakfast with the Shakopee Chamber of Commerce. |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
The snowman finally took his last breath. I always find it interesting how 50 degrees in the Spring feels so much warmer than 50 degrees in the Fall. Thank you to Lori Helkamp for arranging the speaker last week. Chris did a good job filling in while Dick Day was out sick. This week we welcome Jim Lusk and a presentation on Legacy Planning and Rotary. Next Tuesday, March 23rd is our breakfast meeting at the Canterbury Inn. Mike Max will be our speaker and promises to deliver an entertaining and uplifting mesage. We are hosting this meeting in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and would like to have a full room. Please pass this meeting date on to your friends, family or co-workers. The cost will be $20 and includes breakfast. For more information, please see me or Carol Schultz.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
The snowman in our front yard is on life support. Hopefully we're in for a continued heat wave. I'd like to thank Rob Deuth for stepping up to the podium last week while I was out. Also, thank you to Mary Erickson for hosting out club at the new YMCA. I was told we had a great tour. This week we welcome Dick Day and an update on the Racino initiative. Thanks to Lori Helkamp on arranging this program.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Welcome to March. It's officially the end of snow shoveling season. Even if we get some snow, it usually corrects itself soon after. Thank you to Lee Hennen for introducing the program last week. Kelly Heifort presented an interesting program on the Women's Correctioal Facility in Shakopee. This week we're taking a field trip to the YMCA. Mary Erickson will host our Tuesday lunch with a program and a tour. We will meet at the main entrance of the new YMCA in Shepard's Path.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I can't believe we're almost at the end of February. That means we have only three more months of winter. Thank you to Jim and Mary Cook for another outstanding performance last Tuesday. We were treated to a very fun and entertaining evening at Stonebrooke for the Valentine's Social. This week we welcome Kelly Heifort from the Women's Correctional Facility. We will also have an update from Joan Lynch on a project our club is contributing to in Haiti.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Happy President's Day. Thank you to Barb Brekke for the presentation on the Dollars for Scholars program. Barb has been a integral part of our club's success. Thanks for all you do. Remember, Tuesday's meeting lunch meeting will NOT be at Dangerfield's. We will be at Stonebrooke for our Valentine's Social beginning at 6:00 pm. Dinner will be served at 7:00 and entertainment to follow. Please contact me or Charlie Sunder with any questions.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I hope everyone is getting their snow shoveling exercise in this week. Thank you to Deb Erickson for arranging the program last week. Mr. Driver is another example of the talent and dedication we have in our school district. This week we welcome our very own Barb Brekke with a program on Dollars for Scholars. Tim Whitcomb will be entertaining us as the fine master.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Happy Groundhog's Day. Thank you to Lorri Helkamp for arranging the speaker last week. Carrie Linde spoke about the Underwater Adventures attraction at the MOA. She will be sending some discount coupons if anyone is planning to visit them. This week we welcome a return speaker, David Driver from the Shakopee Junior High Science Department. Thanks to Deb Erickson for setting up our speaker. Our fine master this week will be Joe Schmidt.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
The weekly update is a little late this week. I'm still recovering from a certain football game this weekend. Who's ready for some Twins Baseball? Thank you to Joe Helkamp for arranging Mike Beard to speak last week. I always find it interesting to hear about the never ending soap opera down at the capitol. This week we welcome Carrie Linde and a presentation about Underwater Adventures. Out finemaster this week is the one and only Barb Danielson. |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I hope everyone enjoyed their weekend. Mary Pat and I celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary this past weekend. Thank you to Kathy Busch for arranging the program last week. Dan's presentation was very interesting and informative. This week we welcome Mike Beard with a legislative update. There will be a STRIVE meeting on Wednesday morning during first hour and Jason Horstman will be handing out fines this week.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Thank you to all that helped with the lake project this past weekend. We tried to pick a cold day to make sure there was enough ice and I think we acomplished that. It was 18 below zero when we started! This week we welcome the commissioner of economic development from the state of Minnesota, Dan McElroy. I'm expecting this to be a very interesting program. Thank you to Kathy Busch for arranging this speaker.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I hope everyond enjoyed a safe and happy new years weekend. Now it's time to get back to work. Thank you to Andrea and Barb for sharing their ice breaker last week. This week we welcome Shaun Naya from the Prior Lake Club and thier upcoming Jazz Festival. The O'Dowd Lake project is this Saturday at 9:00 am. We will be meeting at the public access. Please see me on Tuesday for more details. STRIVE meets Jan 6th...2nd hour in the lecture hall. The program will be focused on applying for financial aide...Jon McBroom always gives an outstanding and informative program. Have a great week. Jason-- |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I hope everyone enjoyed their long Christmas weekend. Thank you to Mark for hosting and arranging our Christmas Cabaret last week. I always enjoy Dick's lighthearted view on life. Also, thank you to Ed and his family for putting on a spectacular singing display. This week we will have a some upcoming club project updates as well as a few new member inductions. Barb Steinhauser and Andrea Anderson will also give us their icebreakers.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly.jpg)
Thank you to all involved in last week's meeting at St. Gertrudes. It was great to see Dick Mertz and the singing from the Jr. High Chior was a treat. I thought the finemaster program was very entertaining. This week, we have another off site meeting at Stonebrooke. Mark McNeill will MC our annual Christmas Cabaret. Our speaker will be Shakopee resident and Public Address Announcer for the Basketball Golden Gophers Dick Jonkowski. Our musical talent will be Monica, Emma, and Andy Shukle (children of Rotarian Ed Shukle) All are accomplished musicians:
Monica is a freshman at Mound-Westonka High School; Emma is a junior majoring in vocal music education at St Katherine's University; Andy is studying musical theatre at the American Musical and Dramatics Academy in New York City.
Lunch will be ready at noon, so please try to show up a little early this week. I hope everyone has a safe and happy Christmas.
Jason-- |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Thank you to Tim Whitcomb for inviting Sean & Cari Roberts to share their India experience last week. It's touching to see first hand the impact Rotary has across the globe. This week we will be meeting at St. Gertrudes for lunch. The Jr. High Chior will be our program. We'll also be able to visit with Dick Mertz.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I think our run of warm weather has ended. It's time to admit summer is over and bundle up for the winter. Thank you to Mary and Jeff for their icebreakers last week. It's great to learn more about new members. We'll try to get more new members covered in the near future. Also, congratulations to our perfect attendance recipients. Thank you for your dedication. This week we welcome Sean & Cari Roberts sharing their Rotary trip to India.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I hope everyone enjoyed a nice Thanksgiving weekend. TJ Henderson's program last week is a testament to the strength in our Shakopee school system. The tools available in his department are nothing short of amazing. Thank you to Barb Danielson for arranging this program. This week we have Barb Steinhauser and Jeff Tate delivering an ice breaker introduction to our club. We will also present perfect attendance pins for the 2008-2009 Rotary year.
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DG Newsletter |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Jim and Lee once again brought our auction to a new level. Thank you to all who donated, purchased or participated in this fun program. We raised over $1200 which is a new record. The proceeds will be used to fund a Rotary Foundation donation on behalf of our W. Adair Mauralt award winner this coming Spring. This week we welcome TJ Henderson from the Shakopee High School and a presentation on "The Gateway to Technology". We will also welcome our student of the month, Carter Mulcrone. Finally, we will be inducting our newest member Rochelle Sjulstad. Please be sure to give her a warm welcome. |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Thanks to Mike Shinnick for setting up the pork presentation last week. This week we welcome our very own Jim Cook and our Fall Auction. Don't forget to bring your auction items to Tuesday's meeting. The money raised from this event is used toward a Rotary International donation from our W. Adair Muralt Award Winner this spring. This is always a fun event. Thank you Jim and Lee for hosting.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Thank you to Art Quinn for his presentation on the Rotary Foundation and the amazing work they do. If there are any questions regarding donations, or anything foundation related, please see Art of myself. This week we welcome Kirk Brinks and a talk on the Pork Industry. Mike Shinnick scheduled this program. There is a gambling meeting Tuesday before our regular lunch at 11:30.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Thank you to Nell Bury for setting up the program last week. Chrysanne Manoles presented an informational piece on the Youth Exchange program within Rotary. This is and has been an important element of the Shakopee Rotary Club for many years. This week we welcome our own Art Quinn and the annual Rotary Foundation kickoff.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Thank you to Mike Shinnick for arranging the program last week. Gary Shelton presented an update on the workings of Scott County. This week we welcome Chrysanne Manoles and a presentation on Rotary Youth Exchange. Thank you Nell Bury for scheduling this speaker. We also welcome our first Student of the Month for this school year, Dip Shukla.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I hope everyone enjoyed the warmer weather this past weekend. Thank you to Mike Shinnick for setting up the program last week. Todd Berntson put a nice program together on the importance of communication at home. This week we welcome our Scott County Administrator, Gary Shelton.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Ron Smith portrays a true Rotarian. His service over the past 18 years on the international committee is a testament to his dedication. Thank you Ron for a great presentation. With all of the community centric projects we do, it's nice to see the effects we have outside of Shakopee. This week we welcome Dr. Todd Berntson and a presentation on Improving the Quality of Relationships.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I'd like to thank Harold Armstrong for setting up our annual Valleyfair program. It's always a treat to visit our local attraction. This week we welcome Ron Smith with a program on the projects and visit he made to Columbia this Spring. Our club has supported these projects over the past few years. I'm excited to see some of the progress.
We have a meeting with STRIVE 2nd hour at SHS in the Lecture hall, Wednesday morning.
Be sure to mark your calendar's for our Fall Fling scheduled for Tuesday October 27th at 5:30 pm at Tammy and Gary Laurent's home. Charlie will have more details available this week.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly.JPG)
Thank you for the warm welcome everyone extended to Sandy last week. Our club received a glowing review from the District Governer. I'm very proud to be a part of this club. This week Harold Armstrong brings us to Valley Fair for our annual visit. The meeting will be held at Valley Fair and you can enter the park through the service entrance off Highway 13. If you talk to our members please remind them that we will not be meeting at Dangerfield's this week.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I hope everyone enjoyed another beautiful weekend. We can hope it lasts for a few more weeks to make up for July. Thank you to Karol for a fun introduction. We're looking forward to a great year. The exchange committee is still looking for host families to fill out our school year. If you have a family who may be interested, please contact Kathy Busch or Joe Schmidt. This week we welcome our District Governer Sandy Schley. For those who have not met Sandy, she is a very fun and energetic speaker. Be sure not to miss this meeting. We will also have our monthly board meeting prior to lunch.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I hope everyone enjoyed the weekend. Our weather is more like July than September. Thank you to Mike Shinnick for arranging the program last week. David Mann was a returning guest, but presented new ideas about communication. This week we welcome our new exchange student from Slovakia, Karol Zajac to the podium to introduce himself. There is a Strive meeting this Tuesday at 11:15 for those interested in becoming involved in the program. We will also have a fireside meeting at Joan Lynch's home this Thursday at 7:30.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Thanks to Barb Brekke for introducing the program last week. Angie and Mary presented a touching story about adoption in Minnesota. This week we welcome David Mann with a presentation on Team Communication.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Once again the new teacher luncheon was a success. Thank you for all involved in the coordinating of this event. This week we welcome Mary Mason and Angie Brekke with a program on the MN Adoption Resource Network.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I found the presentation by Albert facinating. The speed and avenues by which we deliver information changes on a daily basis. One of those pieces of information can be seen below. Barb Danielson found a new Rotary video which we posted for your viewing pleasure. This week we welcome our new teachers to the new school year. Remember our meeting is at Turtle's this Tuesday.
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Rotary Video |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
I'm excited to see organizations like the YMCA plant roots in the area. I believe they will be a staple in our community for a long time. Thank you Mark for bringing this presentation to our club. This week we welcome Albert Maruggi and "Social Networks for Businesses". |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Pete Pinske's presentation was very impressive. I found myself noticing barns around the area more and more this week. His knowledge of the past gained an appreciation by those who were able to join us last week. Thank you Pete and thanks to Gary Laurent for setting up this speaker. This week we welcome Mark Ihrke from the new YMCA. There is a gambling meeting this Tuesday at 11:30 prior to our regular lunch meeting for those interested.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
What a great program. Thank you to Dr. Leach for a captivating presentation. Everyone today has been touched by cancer at some point. This week we welcome Pete Pinske and "Old Barns of the Past". Coming from a family farm, I'm looking forward to this program.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Thank you Peggy for not only a great presentation last week, but a remarkable Rotary Exchange year. You will be missed by your host families and the Shakopee Rotary Club. I thought that was a very good quote to sum up your year. "Don't cry because it's over, be happy that it happened. Have a safe trip back home. Our next exchange student, Karol will be arriving next month from Slovakia. The exchange committee has arranged the Duehr family as his first host family. Thank you to this committee for your dedication to this program. |
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Sgt at Arms Schedule
Here is the new Sergeant at Arms Schedule for the current year. You will find it posted on the website on the left side of the home page.
You can also see your upcoming duties by clicking on "Duty Roster" at the center right of the home page. |
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
The Marschall Family made it back from the cabin in one piece. We had a great time even though it felt more like October than July. Thank you to Bill Wermerskirchen for introducing the speaker last week. I heard the presentation was very interesting. I played some cribbage while on vacation last week, but there was no ice on the lake.
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Shakopee Rotary Weekly
Thank you to Bill Runge for our club history program. I always find it interesting that our club still holds many of the same values and fellowship after 50 years. The Relay for Life was a success. Thank you to those Rotarians who helped with this event.
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April 2009 Photos
Recent Pictures
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Pictures of Strive Field Trip |
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Jan-Mar 2009 Photos |
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January Photos |
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Pictures from the Holiday Cabaret |
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Pictures From December Meetings |
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Water Project in Colombia |
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Jeans and Beans Photos 2008 |
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September Photos |
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Summer PhotosPictures from Summer Meetings |
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Major Donor AwardGary and Tammy Laurent Receive the Major Donor Award |
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Paul Harris Banquet Photos |
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District Conference Photos |
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April 2008 Photos |
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March 2008 Photos |
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Feb 2008 Photos
Picture From Feb 5 Meeting
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District Photographer's Photos
Thanks to DG Tammy for sending these photos taken by Randy Tonn, our District Photographer during Tammy's talk to our club.
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What did Gary do on his Fishing Trip? |
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Crook's "a guy walks into a bar" jokes - somehow I'm reminded of Harold (miss ya). Libby's got my vote for a permanent song master position - but then we'd miss out on all the goofy-ness everyone else brings to singing. I very much enjoyed Mike McMahan's talk on the changes in healthcare. He's a great addition to the St. Francis community. Not only was his talk informative, it was very engaging.
Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!
a child's toy for the CAP Agency.
workshop" on "Releasing Your Creativity", and learned a few things to take back to the office. We also welcomed Mary Hernandez into the Shakopee Rotary Club. Please help to make her feel welcome and included. Joan's fines were a blast, and Mark's singing was outstanding. I'm always pleasantly surprised by the topics. 
excited about this project. Given the great day, it was nice to see such a good turnout.
Makes me proud that our club has contributed to this worthwhile project.
Remember - your dues go to directly support our club activities. Donations to the Rotary Foundation do good throughout the world! I'm not a Rockefeller - but I can still give. I've committed to donating $5 a month through my debit card. Please join me in giving what you can to support doing good around the world. Here's my guilt trip - last year we donated around $9,000 and that was from less than half the club participating and includes to non-rotarian donations. We CAN do better. See Art or Gregg Hoehn for pledge forms.
Give a pat-on-the-back to: Mark & Sheila McNeil, Kevin O'Brien, Jim Cook, Chuck 
Huss & Charlie Sunder for taking an hour out of their day to clean trash from the roadside. Those of you that missed it - also missed out on a lovely glass of beer by the fireside at Stonebrook.
Tammy and her sister for the very interesting talk on their journey along the Inca trail. The images of Machu Pichu (sp) were amazing! There is no way I would have made it past the first 1/2 mile - the incline & altitude would have done me in. Very impressive adventure - I especially liked the llama thingy (too small for a rug - wall hanging??), and handmade boots. Thanks also to our members for inviting and bringing visitors - it was so nice to have such a great turnout, and wonderful to see Gary and Lynn in the crowd.
I always have to grab a large bag of kettlecorn at the fair, yum!
