Last Time We Met 9/12/2024
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Today our meeting was led by President Heather Kliewer. We sang and recited the pledge: We pledge ourselves to "Create Hope in the World". We will accomplish this by reaffirming our mission to inspire leaders with passion to serve humanity, strengthen youth for tomorrow's leadership and dedicate ourselves to enhancing lives in our world. Before we speak, act, or make decisions, let us pause and ask ourselves: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? These are our compass and will ensure that our actions are filled with integrity and genuine care.
Attending Melanie Clemons, Roger Clemons, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Katie Harstad, Tom Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Mark Kuyava, Tove Lichty, Laura Mullennex, Cal Portner, Pete Reiner, Debbi Rydberg, Alan Sakry, Theresa Slominski, Marvin Sorvala, Joe Stremcha, Bill Yueill, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler, Stewart Wilson
Guests Attending Sandy Campbell, Anoka Rotary Club and Jessica Stockamp, Otsego Mayor
Heather Kliewer welcomed Sandy Campbell to the meeting and invited her to speak. She was selling travel raffle tickets to their fundraiser “Vacation of a Lifetime” and congratulated our club on another successful Taste event. Sandy talked a little about their club’s district grant project to upgrade the software system at their local food shelf for a better customer experience and better data management for the business.
Program
Bruce Tyler introduced Jessica Stockamp, Mayor 
of Otsego. Jessica gave an update on all the projects and happenings in the City of Otsego. They just completed the Prairie Park masterplan for the next 20 years after a very thorough process of collecting information from their community. They have a new Communications position at the City (Heidi), an online business directory, and Zoom tours through a partnership with Wright County involving interactive maps with updates on upcoming new businesses and projects (including schematics of the buildings.) They are planning for a fire station in 2025, have a DNR grant for the southeast corner of Carrick’s Landing incorporating a gazebo, trail, floating dock, and paddle port locker system for next summer, Friedrich Park improvements, a new treatment plant, and expanding the wastewater treatment plant.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports Community Connect is happening at the Big Lake Middle School Thursday, October 17, from 2:00 6:00pm. Heather is trying to think of some ways that Rotary can participate in this event. Please let Heather know if you are interested in helping.
Wildlife Festival is happening at the Sherburne Wildlife Refuge Saturday, September 28, from 10:00am – 2:00pm. They have a ribbon cutting ceremony for their new amphitheater at 10:15am and would like to have Rotarian representation there since we helped fund the project.
Debbi Rydberg provided a Foundation Minute announcing a Strike Out Polio bowling event again this year. It will be at McPete’s on October 24 at 3:30pm and will be a Rotary Social event as well. It is on a Thursday and so perhaps can have it in lieu of a meeting that day. Stay tuned for more information.
Fundraising Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas
Tove Lichty was delighted to be at
the meeting this week and was excited to have 
mastered navigating a canoe on her Boundary Waters girls’ trip of five days and four nights. They explored ten lakes, did seventeen portages, and had a storm with white cap waters in the first ten minutes of their trip. It was chilly but there were basically no mosquitos, so the chilliness was acceptable.
Pete Reiner was delighted for Tove to have mastered the canoe and thought maybe Adam was the problem after all.
Alan Sakry was delighted for his vacation in Utah, enjoying the hiking and pool.
Bob Maxwell was delighted to have attended the Gopher football game on Saturday for their 48th wedding anniversary, and the score was coincidentally 48-0 Gophers!
Debbi Rydberg was delighted to be heading to Kansas to visit her mother and brother next week.
Katie Harstad was bittersweet to be in her last week at Rockwoods. She is very proud of the team there and feels they have a great contingency plan to operate into the future. She was delighted to have Rockwoods win the big business of the year with the Chamber before she left. She is delighted to be starting as the Furniture and Things Event Center Coordinator in a few weeks, and thanked Rotary for their support as this wouldn’t have been an opportunity had she not joined Rotary. Sandy Campbell was delighted that Casey Mohan is in their Anoka Rotary club now.
Katie Harstad showed some “treasures” she had found from previous Taste events: pictures, newspaper articles, napkins, glasses, etc.
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Happy Birthday none
Card Draw no winner this week
Pearls of Wisdom: “The best way to honor those we lost on 9/11 is to be the people we were on 9/12.”
Last Time We Met 9/5/2024
Today our meeting was led by President Heather Kliewer.
We sang and recited the pledge:
We pledge ourselves to "Create Hope in the World". We will accomplish this by reaffirming our mission to inspire leaders with passion to serve humanity, strengthen youth for tomorrow's leadership and dedicate ourselves to enhancing lives in our world. Before we speak, act, or make decisions, let us pause and ask ourselves: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? These are our compass and will ensure that our actions are filled with integrity and genuine care.
Attending
Leah Atkinson, Wade Bastian, Melanie Clemons, Roger Clemons, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Katie Harstad, Tom Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Mark Kuyava, Cal Portner, Garrett Prehatney, Debbi Rydberg, Theresa Slominski, Marvin Sorvala, Nicole Wocjik, Bill Yueill, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler, Stewart Wilson
Guests Attending
None
Program
Today’s program was a Taste Recap. Katie Harstad led a Taste discussion on the changes in the 2024 Taste of the location, the electronic ticket sales platform, the date, the start and end time, and the ticket cost. Statistics were provided: Games and Raffles brought in $2,140; Ticket Sales $23,682; there were 702 attendees including vendors; some expenses are still 
outstanding with net income estimated to be$32,859. It was noted that numbers were slightly down, and that it was a “springboard” year with all the
changes. The VIP area stated they had their best event ever. Other items were discussed on how we can
make improvements for next year and build upon successes this year. Katie also distributed blank sheets
of paper for people to provide anonymous feedback, if wanted. As far as the horse race, the pink team
won, however 199 ticket purchasers made no choice of a team.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports
Upcoming programs are Otsego Mayor Jessica Stockamp 9/12, and the new District Governor 9/19
Fundraising Opportunities
Delights and Dilemmas
Julie Fish was delighted to have met her great niece who was three weeks old, two of her nephews play
on the Monticello high school football team which has nine sets of siblings, she has a new roof on her
house, she attended a St Cloud concert at Lake George where the St Cloud Rotary sells popcorn andbeverages.
Debbi Rydberg was delighted to have attended the Renaissance Festival over the weekend.
Tom Kerber was delighted that his son surprised them and came home for the weekend from Duluth
and had a dilemma when they went sailing, tipped the sailboat, and lost the rudder.
Theresa Slominski was delighted to have been able to take her mom with two of her sisters to Idaho and
Washington for a family funeral and reconnect with family.
Leah Atkinson was delighted to be here because her assignment was postponed but had a dilemma that
the income is also postponed.
John Osterman was delighted that the Elks beat Chanhassen.
Cal Portner was delighted that his brother-in-law was in town, his wife’s birthday party was fabulous,
they are going to Canterbury Park, his nephew starts hockey Friday, and the Vikings’ season starts this
weekend.
Nicole Wocjik was delighted to have Haley off to college and to attend the State Fair with Mark since
Haley was gone. She was delighted to have a great weekend in Redwood Falls, however had a dilemma
when they came across an accident scene where they were the first responders and, unfortunately, the
individual passed away from the accident. She was delighted that school was off to a successful start,
she went to a great Armadillos and Collective Unconscious concert, and she is getting a new Jeep
Cherokee.
Happy Birthday none
Card Draw no winner this week
Pearls of Wisdom:
“The Most Valuable Player is the one who makes the most players valuable.” Peyton Manning
Last Time We Met 8/29/2024
Today our meeting was led by President Heather Kliewer.
We sang and recited the pledge: We pledge ourselves to "Create Hope in the World". We will accomplish this by reaffirming our mission to inspire leaders with passion to serve humanity, strengthen youth for tomorrow's leadership and dedicate ourselves to enhancing lives in our world. Before we speak, act, or make decisions, let us pause and ask ourselves: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? These are our compass and will ensure that our actions are filled with integrity and genuine care.
Attending Leah Atkinson, Dirk Barrett, Melanie Clemons, Roger Clemons, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Tom Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Mark Kuyava, Cal Portner, Garrett Prehatney, Debbi Rydberg, Theresa Slominski, Joe Stremcha, Bill Yueill, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler
Guests Attending Dr. Daniel Bittman, ISD 728 Superintendent; Jen Katke, Assistant Community Events Center Manager Program
Debbi Rydberg introduced Dr. Daniel Bittman, ISD 728 Superintendent. Dan will 
be retiring soon (December 2024) after serving for eight years to care for his father and his wife as their primary caregiver. ISD 728 has had between 14,000 and 15,000 students in these past eight years and is the eighth largest school district in the state. He gave a “State of the Union” address overview - the entire address from 7/17 is on the school website. He is most proud of the fact that they have improved in every single category across the district this past year and has been in the #1 or #2 spot in all areas compared to the other top eight large schools in all his eight years, except for one year when they were #3 in one area. He can’t claim credit for that – it all goes to the amazing staff that he is privileged to work with. Other highlights were the completion of $100 million in construction projects, with the referendum of 2019 ten-year plan having the first one through five years’ projects all completed and now they are starting on the next five years’ plans. They are living up to their referendum promise that they would not ask for more money. The district has had overall growth in student levels, adding 335 students this year, however, 99% of the growth is in Rogers and Otsego while Elk River and Zimmerman are the same or declining. He fielded some questions from the group and ended by noting that his district is excellent in helping students in crisis, which is consistently at 1% of the student population at any given time. The crisis group is so good they often help other schools out.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports 
Membership Chair, Julie Fish, officially inducted Garrett Prehatney into our Rotary Club. Congratulations Garrett!
President Heather Kliewer gave on update 
on volunteer requests for the LIVIN Music Festival 9/14 with shifts that are much more doable. She had a preview of the volunteer spots today and will pass out a sign-up sheet next week.
Next week we will have a Taste wrap-up at the meeting. There was an awesome article in the newspaper this week highlighting the event! Fundraising Opportunities
Delights and Dilemmas
Neil Gagnon was delighted for his family trip last week to Boyd Lodge with his parents. Theresa Slominski was delighted to be able to take her mom to a cousin’s funeral in Cour d’Alene along with two sisters.
Debbi Rydberg was delighted for Dr. Daniel Bittman to be here today and for having scheduled her six candidate forums over four nights. She had a bit of a dilemma that her 93-year-old mother fell but delighted that she had no injuries other than a concussion. She is grateful for her brother’s help with her mom and that they will be getting together in the middle of September.
Tom Kerber was delighted to have successfully moved his son to college in Duluth and all went well.
Cal Portner was delighted to have had an Air Force friend in town last week and they attended a Twins game (they won!) and the State Fair. He was also delighted for his wife’s upcoming celebration of the 30th anniversary of her 30th birthday, and a radio announcement may have more people attending than they expected!
Bob Maxwell was delighted to have taken his grandson to a dentist appointment that turned out to be in error. The receptionist told his grandson that he will just have to enjoy the day with his dad instead and that made Bob’s day! Leah Atkinson was delighted to have become so accomplished in home repairs lately, and had a dilemma that she will be starting a new assignment September 1 that will continue through February and so she won’t see us for a while. Good luck Leah and we will miss you! John Osterman was delighted for the upcoming football game between Elk River and Chanhassen.
Happy Birthday We sang Happy Birthday to all the August birthdays at once today: Terry Bizal, Theresa Slominski, Neil Gagnon, Mark Kuyava and Katie Harstad. (Terry and Katie were not present but Katie paid last week NOT to be sung to in person!)
Card Draw no winner this week
Pearls of Wisdom: “I just love how my school smells!” Harrison Caswell, 8-year-old grandson of Heather Kliewer
Last Time We Met 8/22/2024
Today our meeting was led by President Heather Kliewer. We sang and recited the pledge: We pledge ourselves to "Create Hope in the World". We will accomplish this by reaffirming our mission to inspire leaders with passion to serve humanity, strengthen youth for tomorrow's leadership and dedicate ourselves to enhancing lives in our world. Before we speak, act, or make decisions, let us pause and ask ourselves: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? These are our compass and will ensure that our actions are filled with integrity and genuine care.
Attending Dirk Barrett, Wade Bastian, Roger Clemons, Katie Harstad, Heather Kliewer, Garrett Prehatney, Pete Reiner, Debbi Rydberg, Theresa Slominski, Marvin Sorvala, Bill Yueill, Glen Ertel, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler, Stewart Wilson
Guests Attending none
Program Pete Reiner presented some historical i
nformation on the performance of the markets during election years. There were some graphs and charts and fun quotes. Basic takeaway, the election doesn’t really affect the markets, peoples’ emotions are affected by the elections.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports Heather had some information for the LIVIN Festival, Saturday, 9/14. They are requesting nine volunteers from 3:00 PM to 10:30 PM to sell canned beers and white claws and prepare vodka drinks. They will do a quick training before pouring drinks. The concern was the length of the shift, and maybe could do two shifts. It was noted that likely 3:00 would be setting up and the gates open at 5:00; music is until 10:00 so clean up until 10:30. The benefit to Rotary would likely be tips made from the event, although unclear at this point. Rotarians and their spouses or friends could help.
Heather is still trying to figure out how many volunteers they can get and would need a point person for the day since she cannot be there.
Fundraising Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas
Wade Bastian was delighted to have returned from Fort McCoy and said they had a good safe training event, and the world is safe. He was also delighted to run into Heather Kliewer at the Little River Band concert in St Cloud.
Katie Harstad is delighted for her four-year-old son to be starting a new daycare on Monday, to be at the fair next week on her birthday, and then travelling to Denver for a few nights with her boyfriend.
Glen Ertel returned home yesterday from a two-week motorcycle trip with his son in Colorado. He had a dilemma while they were in Silverton on the million-dollar highway and his son’s bike started having issues, so they had to have it towed back to the camp site.
Theresa Slominski was delighted with her birthday last Sunday and spending it at the lake. Heather Kliewer was delighted for an upcoming weekend trip to Two Harbors with lots of family. Debbi Rydberg was delighted for a front row “seat” to the railroad track repair happening in front of her office and has been fascinated with all the equipment used. She was also delighted to have a great time at the lake, and she didn’t fall in the water!
Bob Maxwell said his son is doing a fundraiser for Eagle Lake Association by Battle Lake this Saturday. There will be bands and food trucks, and everyone is welcome.
Stewart Wilson had a delight and a dilemma that his college friends are doing an Alaskan cruise the same week he is scheduled to do a Caribbean cruise with his family.
Happy Birthday Heather will do a group birthday recognition for the month next week.
Card Draw No winner today.
Other Items The article on The Taste of Elk River should be in the paper this week.
Pearls of Wisdom: “A computer once beat me at chess, but it was no match for me at kickboxing.” Anonymous
Last Time We Met 8/15/2024
Today our meeting was led by President
Heather Kliewer. We sang and recited the pledge:
We pledge ourselves to "Create Hope in the World". We will accomplish this by reaffirming our mission to inspire leaders with passion to serve humanity, strengthen youth for tomorrow's leadership and dedicate ourselves to enhancing lives in our world. Before we speak, act, or make decisions, let us pause and ask ourselves: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? These are our compass and will ensure that our actions are filled with integrity and genuine care.
Attending Leah Atkinson, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Katie Harstad, Thomas Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Mark Kuyava, Joe Libor, Cal Portner, Debbi Rydberg, Alan Sakry, Theresa Slominski, Marvin Sorvala, Joe Stremcha, David Vinje, Nicole Wojcik, Bill Yueill, Dave Anderson, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler, Stewart Wilson
Guests Attending John Dietz, Mayor of Elk River and representative of Beyond the Yellow Ribbon
Program Heather Kliewer started off by thanking everyone for a successful Taste event.
Cal Portner introduced John Dietz, even 
though he needs no introduction. John stated that he was seeking a donation from the Rotary Club for their organization. The organization was started by Tim Pawlenty to assist military families for those with deployed members, and the City of Elk River was recognized as a Yellow Ribbon City in August of 2012 after two years of trying. The organization has evolved to care for all veterans and their families, providing up to $500 for each “claim”. They are reliant on individuals to reach out to them for support since they cannot obtain names of the enlisted due to privacy concerns. They verify the individuals’ claims through the Sherburne County Veteran Services, and (unfortunately) have been attempted to scam so appreciate the verification. They provide a meal every year during the week of Veteran’s Day at the St Andrews school, coordinating with the Knights of Columbus, and it includes a program of some kind every year. They provide Christmas gifts to veterans at all facilities in Elk River and recognize the graduating seniors enlisting in military services with a $100 gift certificate that they can use at the base store where they are stationed. John provided a long list of the various services provided to the veterans in the area, including things like tree removal, snow plowing, appliance repairs, plumbing and electric repairs, rides to medical appointments, etc. Their current leader is Danita Grell, an extremely dedicated individual, who recently received the Elk River Volunteer of The Year award. John Dietz recognized Joe Libor for saving a seven-year-old boy’s life over the weekend and Joe received a round of applause.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports
Julie Fish officially inducted Joe Libor into our Elk River Rotary Club and presented him with his badge and new member information. Heather Kliewer showed a video of the Taste event. Jim Boyle is doing a huge story for the newspaper on the event. Facebook has a lot of great pictures as well. John Houlton had a great turnout and felt that he had doubled previous attendance, and said it was the best Taste ever. Numbers are still being finalized and will be reported on September 5. Julie Fish shared that ten past Rotarians were at the event. Volunteers for the vendors had a great time helping out.
Fundraising Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas
Nicole Wojcik was delighted and had a dilemma with her daughter getting ready to move to college next week as there are alternating happy and sad emotions. She was delighted for a great bridal shower for her cousin.
Bill Yueill was delighted for his granddaughter Madison’s wedding anniversary on 8/24. The family will be together at a church camp and many of them help with the creative arts program. He shared about the many family weddings over the years and the changes he has seen in wedding venues. He ended by being grateful for his family’s participation at the camp. Leah Atkinson was delighted to have mastered her Ryobi lawnmower and weed eater and can now take care of the yard herself.
Mark Kuyava was delighted to be here!
Theresa Slominski had a dilemma with the recent unexpected passing of her cousin’s husband from an aneurism at age 49. Never take any day for granted!
Bob Maxwell had a dilemma with his granddaughter with a heart defect they thought had been taken care of. She has enjoyed playing basketball and soccer up to her sophomore year, however, it looks like it will be the end of her athletic activities. An additional dollar for a great TASTE.
Cal Portner was delighted to have completed another successful election and shared it is quite an amazing accomplishment with all volunteers. Alan Sakry was delighted to have had time with Jordan for four days, who is now back in Kansas.
Debbi Rydberg was delighted to have a camping trip this weekend with friends, having a great membership picnic, super great Taste of Elk River and kudos to Katie, and for the Chamber’s new parking lot.
Katie Harstad had a dilemma that her baby brother has re-enlisted for eight more years in the Air Force as a pilot, as he and his family will be missed. She had a delight that she will be leaving Rockwoods to take position at the City of Elk River as the Furniture & Things Event Center Manager.
Julie Fish had a dilemma that she lost a great friend and mentor to cancer. He was her choir director and marching band director and is now singing and marching in heaven. She was delighted to be spending the weekend with her mom since her dad will be out fishing with other members of the family and at 92 is still teaching them how to fish!
Heather Kliewer was delighted for Katie’s new position, and a successful Taste, having all six grandchildren together over the weekend, and CAER Food Shelf is having their garage built with a driveway.
Happy Birthday none today, maybe do group birthdays once a month in the future, like we did in July.
Card Draw No winner today.
Other Items Club Assembly will be September 5 and it will be a Taste update. August 29 will be the Board Meeting.
Pearls of Wisdom: “You don’t have to be serious all the time to do a good job.” Simone Biles
Last Time We Met 8/8/2024
Today our meeting was led by President Heather Kliewer.
We sang and recited the pledge: We pledge ourselves to "Create Hope in the World". We will accomplish this by reaffirming our mission to inspire leaders with passion to serve humanity, strengthen youth for tomorrow's leadership and dedicate ourselves to enhancing lives in our world. Before we speak, act, or make decisions, let us pause and ask ourselves: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? These are our compass and will ensure that our actions are filled with integrity and genuine care.
Attending Terry Bizal, Melanie Clemons, Roger Clemons, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Katie Harstad, Thomas Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Tove Lichty, Laura Mullennex, Cal Portner, Garrett Prehatney, Pete Reiner, Debbi Rydberg, Alan Sakry, Theresa Slominski, Marvin Sorvala, Joe Stremcha, Nicole Wojcik, Dave Anderson, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler, Stewart Wilson
Guests Attending - None
Program Today was all about the Taste and final planning, organization, and preparations for the evening event. Heather thanked many for their work to have a successful event this year:
Cal Portner for website support, Neil Gagnon for licenses and expenses, Roger Clemons for the wheel construction, Debbi Rydberg for volunteer coordination and vests, Bob Maxwell for ticket sales, Theresa Slominski for sponsors, Melanie Clemons food vendors, John Osterman for beverage vendors, and Katie Harstad for EVERYTHING!
Board & Committee Updates and Reports The program 8/15 will be John Dietz with Beyond the Yellow Ribbon.
Fundraising Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas Heather Kliewer was delighted for her granddaughter’s baptism at Christ Our Light Church and her brother’s birthday on the same day, dilemma for Doug’s truck’s power steering going out, but Collins Towing showed up and towed the truck away and the grandsons got tattoos so that was a delight, and then another dilemma that the brakes went out in the Jeep, delighted for new carpet and her family visiting for the weekend.
Julie Fish was delighted for her 30th “great”, a girl, born on 8/8, and for this great Elk River Rotary club.
Debbi Rydberg was delighted for the bridal shower for her niece put on successfully by the four aunts who didn’t all know each other, and delighted she talked with her daughter Amanda who was excited for her first week of school to be over, and finally for Katie Harstad and all her work on the Taste event – she is phenomenal!! Nicole Wocjik was delighted for the Taste tonight, her daughter moving in two weeks to Moorhead, and her cousin’s bridal shower. Theresa Slominski was delighted for her anniversary on 8/9 celebrating 33 years, and for her son able to be at the cabin last weekend. Terry Bizal was delighted for his enjoyment of retirement; he highly recommends it!
Happy Birthday - None today
Card Draw - No winner today.
Other Items Joe Stremcha needs to trade with someone for his program on 9/26 as he will be out of town on the East Coast.
Update on Mark Kuyava that he will be there tonight. He has lifting restrictions but has finished his eight weeks of PT and is on the mend!
Pearls of Wisdom: “….and down the stretch they come!” (horse racing lingo in honor of the Taste event)
Last Time We Met 8/1/2024
Today our meeting was led by President Heather Kliewer. We sang and recited the pledge: We pledge ourselves to "Create Hope in the World". We will accomplish this by reaffirming our mission to inspire leaders with passion to serve humanity, strengthen youth for tomorrow's leadership and dedicate ourselves to enhancing lives in our world. Before we speak, act, or make decisions, let us pause and ask ourselves: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? These are our compass and will ensure that our actions are filled with integrity and genuine care.
Attending Leah Atkinson, Melanie Clemons, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Katie Harstad, Thomas Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Tove Lichty, Laura Mullennex, Cal Portner, Garrett Prehatney, Pete Reiner, Debbi Rydberg, Alan Sakry, Theresa Slominski, Joe Stremcha, Nicole Wojcik, Bill Yueill, Dave Anderson, Bob Maxwell, Bruce Tyler
Guests Attending Gavin Clemons, son of Melanie Clemons; Mel Beaudry, past Rotarian and ReMax Realtor here as a stand in for John Osterman; John Houlton, President and CEO of First Bank, and his wife Tanna.
Program John Houlton talked about the VIP room he is hosting at the Taste of Elk River with Ashes for April providing music and POUR providing the food. With the improved venue, they are “upping” the food, beverages and entertainment. Benny James will also be providing music during the intermission for Ashes for April, and on the main level at other times during the event. John brought six bottles of wine to sample and emphasized that there is no perfect wine – if you like it, it is good and you should enjoy drinking it! He is excited for the Taste event and looking forward to a lot of ticket sales to bring a lot of people to the event.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports Taste update – Heather and Debbi did a radio program with BOB FM this morning. Debbi has vests for those that ordered them so please see her to collect yours. The volunteer list was updated and distributed for everyone to review. Katie updated that the entire arena is lined with tables, and we have them all full. She is excited that we have eleven food vendors so far this year. The layout for the event is the raffles, the liquor vendors, the seltzers in the middle and the beer at the end. We have about 200 tickets sold so far and need to SELL MORE TICKETS!
(As I transfer this from Theresa at 7:45 pm Monday we have sold - including sponsor tickets: 278 TASTE and 117 VIP for a total of 395 for $11,995)
Heather Kliewer distributed a survey monkey to see who is able and willing to volunteer at the Livin’ event September 14.
Fundraising Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas
Neil Gagnon was delighted that his three kids are going to camp for a week, and so he and his wife have the week to themselves.
Julie Fish was delighted with Neil Gagnon’s Bank of Elk River argyle socks.
Nicole Wocjik was delighted that in three weeks she will be an empty nester.
Heather Kliewer was delighted that Jackson is moving into an apartment on 9/6 and she will be an empty nester.
Katie Harstad was delighted for her preparations for the Hairball concert coming to fruition this weekend. They have sold 2,000 tickets and expect 4,000 attendees. She was very grateful for the mapping of the grounds done by a friend for her.
Leah Atkinson was delighted that her son has turned around and is doing much better.
Card Draw Nicole Wocjik was the winner for the card draw this week with an Ace of Hearts.
Pearls of Wisdom: “….and down the stretch they come!” (horse racing lingo in honor of the Taste event coming up)
Last Time We Met 7/25/2024
Today our meeting was led by President Heather Kliewer. We sang and recited the pledge: We pledge ourselves to "Create Hope in the World". We will accomplish this by reaffirming our mission to inspire leaders with passion to serve humanity, strengthen youth for tomorrow's leadership and dedicate ourselves to enhancing lives in our world. Before we speak, act, or make decisions, let us pause and ask ourselves: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? These are our compass and will ensure that our actions are filled with integrity and genuine care.
Attending Dirk Barrett, Melanie Clemons, Roger Clemons, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Katie Harstad, Thomas Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Joe Libor, Tove Lichty, Laura Mullennex, Garrett Prehatney, Pete Reiner, Debbi Rydberg, Alan Sakry, Theresa Slominski, Joe Stremcha, Nicole Wojcik, Bill Yueill, Glen Ertel, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler Guests Attending Katie Shatusky, Director of Thumbs Ups, and Colton Hanson, grandson of Bob Maxwell
Program
Club Assembly Laura Mullennex introduced Katie Shatusky from Thumbs Up and recent Paul Harris award recipient. Their mission is bringing awareness to mental health and providing support and resources to all. 50% of all life-time mental health issues begin at age 14 and 75% by age 24. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among children ages 10-14. One in five adults will experience mental health illness in their lifetime, and one in twenty adults experience serious mental health each year. In seniors age 55+, suicide is one of the leading causes of death, men 75+ face the highest overall suicide rate. She lost her own grandfather to suicide in 2010 and decided to do something to bring more awareness to mental health issues since it was generally not talked about and just swept under the rug or ignored. After reading the book Silent Impact by Joe Schmidt she was inspired to have a 5k to remember her grandfather and the beginnings of Thumbs Up was started. They now have nine programs: Adultish for 16–19-year-olds, Bereavement Outreach, Nana’s Calming Corner Spaces, Cheer Bags, No One Sits Solo, Referral Assistance, Smiles for Seniors, Community Outreach Events, and Emotional Support Dogs. Their website allows you to nominate someone anonymously for bereavement gifts, cheer bags, or smiles for seniors at www.thumbsupformentalhealth.org. The most common question she is asked is how to help and her advice was to just be a good listener and offer hope, by just giving seven minutes of your time. If additional support is needed the phone number 988 is crisis support for someone considering suicide and/or for someone trying to support those considering suicide and not sure what to do.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports
Taste update – Katie
shared a Google doc that has all the information in one spot for easy reference. Promote ticket sales! We need ten times the number of tickets sold to date. Many wait until the day before or the day of the event to purchase and we want to be sure we have attendees. Share the tasteofer.com website information and distribute flyers and brochures that are available. The event is two weeks from today! Debbi is working on the volunteer roster for the event and if you cannot be at the event, please let Debbi know as we are counting on everyone to help. A shout out to Roger Clemons for making the wheel and for visiting so many restaurants to be vendors at our event!!
Fundraising Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas
Bruce Tyler – trivia on Joe Mauer that he struck out only one time in his high school career and it was an Elk River pitcher (Paul Miner) who did it.
Tove Lichty was delighted for being in Switzerland and hang gliding – her new favorite thing!
Katie Harstad was delighted about the Hairball event at Rockwoods next Saturday.
Bob Maxwell was delighted to have Colton here, and also for attending another Chicago concert!
Julie Fish was delighted to have Colton here and his wonderful smile, for the sunshine, for fishing with her dad and catching 22 sunfish, and happy to sit by Pete and he didn’t even elbow her! Alan Sakry was delighted for the fireworks on Saturday at the Elk River Fest.
Theresa Slominski was delighted for her daughter to be a D1 hockey coach now at Burlington Vermont.
Nicole Wocjik was in Colorado over the 4th and went four-wheeling up a mountain with Mark on the back and then hiked a 13,200-foot mountain! She would like some luck for her mud run this weekend.
Melanie Clemons was delighted for Katie Shatusky to be here and what her organization does. Her son was hospitalized for suicide prevention and then did a post with Katie on the topic and is a big advocate for the topic and reducing the stigma of it.
Debbi Rydberg was delighted for new sidewalks at the Chamber, and soon a parking lot, and a complete envelope re-wrap of the building. A dilemma that her daughter Amanda is returning to India on Saturday. Debbi said she is suing for custody rights next year as Amanda has stayed with her brothers the past two summers and Debbi wants her to stay with them next year! Pete Reiner was delighted to have attended the Grand Ole Opry and enjoyed it, even though it was a place he never, never thought he would go.
Happy Birthday There were lots of birthdays to catch up on. We sang to Glen Ertel, Pete Reiner, Roger Clemons, and Laura Mullennex today!
Card Draw There was no winner for the card draw this week.
Pearls of Wisdom: “Try not to become a person of success, but rather try to become a person of value.” Albert Einstein
Last Time We Met 7/18/2024
Today our meeting was led by President Heather Kliewer.
We sang and recited the pledge:
We pledge ourselves to "Create Hope in the World". We will accomplish this by reaffirming our mission to
inspire leaders with passion to serve humanity, strengthen youth for tomorrow's leadership and dedicate ourselves to enhancing lives in our world. Before we speak, act, or make decisions, let us pause and ask ourselves: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? These are our compass and will ensure that our actions are filled with
integrity and genuine care.
Attending
Roger Clemons, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Katie Harstad, Thomas Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Laura Mullennex, Cal Portner, Garrett Prehatney, Debbi Rydberg, Theresa Slominski, Joe Stremcha, Nicole
Wojcik, Bill Yueill, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler, Stewart Wilson
Guests Attending
Michael Spellman, Assistant District Governor
Program - Club Assembly
Heather Kliewer broke us up into three different groups and gave each group a recipe for Tater Tot Hotdish. She asked each group for three changes to the recipe to improve it or personalize it. Results were shared and then she asked us to think of ingredients for a great club. We have our own “recipe” already and asked the groups for three changes to improve or personalize our current club. Results were
shared and Heather will use the information to bring back club goal ideas for the year. It was a great exercise to have different members interact with each other and gather great ideas from the group. Heather went over her thoughts on the calendar for the upcoming year, with some key items in most months. She stated that our 65th year anniversary of our club is June 7, 2025, and we should do something special for that anniversary.
Julie Fish shared that she had a dream of having our own Rotary of Elk River Club History Book and would love to maybe have an Eagle Scout project to complete that for
our anniversary.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports
Debbi Rydberg passed around a signup sheet for volunteering at the Farmers Market at a booth 7/25 to promote the Taste of Elk River ticket sales. She also passed around a signup sheet for volunteering at the Taste of Elk River. If you weren’t able to be at the meeting to sign up Debbi will be in contact with you.
Katie Harstad mentioned the website for the Taste event is tasteofer.com and encouraged us to visit the site. Business cards with the QR code for purchasing tickets were distributed, and Katie also has signs for members to post in their businesses to advertise the Taste. She also asked if anyone is able to help visit restaurant sites to request their presence at the Taste event as Melanie is not able to visit all of them herself. The restaurants committed so far are Rockwoods, Pour Cocktail Bar and Bites, Elk River Golf Club (maybe), St. Michael Theater, Cowboy Jacks, and The Edge.
Cal Portner did a horse racing trivia game with the various Rotary teams.
Fundraising Opportunities
Delights and Dilemmas
We didn’t have time today for this.
Pearls of Wisdom:
“The goals we have achieved pale in comparison to the daily commitments it took to get there.”
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