.jpg) Last Time We Met 1/30/2025
Today our meeting was held at Rockwoods and 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? The se are our compass and will ensure that our actions are filled with
integrity and genuine care.
Attending
Dirk Barrett, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Molly Hanson, Heather Kliewer, Mark Kuyava, Dr. Laura Mullennex, Cal Portner, Alan Sakry, Theresa Slominski, Joe Stremcha, David Vinje, Nicole Wocjik, Bill Yueill, David Anderson, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler
Guests Attending
No guests today
Program
Today was Club Assembly.
 Theresa Slominski presented information regarding the Rwanda grant that our club is working on with the Kivu Lake Rotary Club in Rwanda The grant is an environmental focus for protection around the Sebeya River, by implementing agriculture techniques that will improve the soil, prevent flooding, and improve economic conditions.
 Four Paul Harris recognitions were made for John Osterman, Cal Portner, Tove Lichty, and Stewart Wilson. John Osterman and Cal were present to receive their pins and a round of applause. Thank you all for your generosity to Rotary!
The Sherburne County Area United Way is hosting a carnival on Saturday, February 1, from 11am-3pm
and they have asked for the wheel to be present. Heather Kliewer delivered the wheel and Theresa
Slominski facilitated the wheel at the carnival.
 Elk River Chamber’s 2nd Annual Sweet Escape Chocolate Tour is Wednesday through Friday, February 5, 6, and 7. Elk River Printing and The Overlook Lounge are participating all three days and CAER Food Shelf
is participating on Thursday, so pick up your passport there or at the Chamber and then go get some chocolate! All participating businesses stamp the passport and once you’ve visited as many stops as
you’d like, fill out your contact information and turn it in at your destination. Each stamp you collect
boosts your chances to win a CASH PRIZE giveaway of $150, $75, or $50. Winners will be announced on
the Chamber’s Facebook page.
Salk STEM Middle School in Elk River is looking for judges for over 400 student History Day projects on February 19, 20, or 21. Students select a topic of personal interest and then learn how to do extensive research. They compile their research into a project that could be an exhibit board, documentary,
performance, paper or website. Students receiving meaningful feedback from somebody who “doesn’t
have to” is the icing on the cake for this experience. There is a Google Form to sign up if you are
interested in helping. https://forms.gle/RpCwsHRgDo77YGce7
 Board & Committee Updates and Reports
Joe Stremcha gave an update on the Donations Committee. The timeline has changed from years past
and are hoping to engage with groups in January and February to submit applications through March 30. The club will be asked to identify five priorities and then a vote will determine the highest priority to allocate funding. Checks would be presented to the funded groups in June.
 Mark Kuyava gave an update on the Service Committee. Our club will be doing an Adopt A Highway for the section of Highway 10 from Main Street to the 169 exit. The application takes a couple of weeks to process and then the sign takes a couple of months to create and post. We are required to have two cleanup days in a calendar year. Mark was thinking we might do three and suggested April, July, and October. Cleanup participants must be 12 and older, age 17 is considered an adult. Those between the ages of 12 and 17 need guardian permission slips signed. The state provides the vests, bags, and instructions for the cleanup. We need to check with Pete Reiner to see if we are still doing the river cleanup as well.
 Julie Fish provided an update for the social committee with some suggested socials of a Squatch game February 7 and/or Chow’s Pizza Pop-ups (dates to be determined for the Pizza Pop-ups) If you have any ideas for Socials let Nicole Wocjik know.
Taste Committee updates will be provided at our meeting on February 6. Some items discussed at the
board meeting were having various committees to cover important areas of The Taste, such as
Marketing, Beverages, Food, Sponsorships, and Ticketing.
Fundraising Opportunities
.jpg) Happy Birthday – We sang happy birthday to Bob Maxwell for his birthday January 31.
 Delights and Dilemmas
Bob Maxwell was delighted to have attended the Squatch game with his grandson and son-in-law. The
place was packed, and they had a great time.
Dirk Barrett was delighted that Heather Kliewer was a TV personality with her interview on WCCO TV
regarding the impact of a funding freeze of federal aid to CAER.
Theresa Slominski was delighted that the sun was shining today, for her adult children, that her car was
being repaired, for the Rwanda grant to be coming together, and for Rotary.
Julie Fish was delighted with the sunshine!
Cal Portner was delighted to be out of prison - Saturday night he and family attended the Folsom Prison Experience. He was also delighted to have Emerson visiting this weekend while his daughter is
performing at Maynards in Minnetonka.
Nicole Wocjik was delighted to have successfully moved her in-laws from Bemidji to St. Cloud and that
they were “adjusting.” She was also delighted with her first rehearsal for band and highly recommends
Main Street Music in Elk River for any instrument repairs.
Heather Kliewer was delighted to have attended the Squatch game and collected 250 pounds of food for
CAER, $100 in cash donations, and an additional $250 donation. She had a dilemma for her son
travelling in Columbia, and another delight for the WCCO CAER promotion.Molly Hanson was delighted to have a new grandson, Theodore, born two weeks ago. She was also
delighted to have had her three-year-old grandson, Gus, for a couple of days, and is very grateful to be
here today.
 Card Draw – Neil Gagnon won - and then gave a happy buck for his win!
 Pearls of Wisdom:
Two unwritten rules for life:
1.
2.
Bruce Tyler
Last Time We Met 1/16/2025
Today our meeting was held at Rockwoods and 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, Melanie Clemons, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Tom Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Tove Lichty, Cal Portner, Alan Sakry, Theresa Slominski, Joe Stremcha, Nicole Wocjik, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler
Guests Attending Jaelynn Mogren, Student of the Month, and parents Kathy and Dustin Mogren; Mike Zeman, Elk River High school Principal; Initiative Foundation employees Britt Poser, Development Officer, and Amy Gray, Community Philanthropy Manager Program
 Mike Zeman introduced Jaelyn Mogren as our Student of the Month. She is a senior at Elk River High school and is heavily involved in the ProStart Program at the high school. She was recently in the Star Tribune and on WCCO for the culinary team at ProStart. After high school, she plans to attend Lake Superior College in Duluth for Radiology Technology. Her mom is her hero for pushing her to do all the amazing things she has accomplished.
Neil Gagnon introduced Britt Poser and Amy Gray  from the Initiative Foundation. Neil has had the opportunity to work with the Initiative Foundation and The Bank of Elk River to help small businesses. Julie Fish interjected that she is a member of the Three Rivers Foundation and stated that they could not do all the amazing things they do without the support of the Initiative Foundation. Britt Poser shared that the Initiative Foundation has been operating since 1986 and is proud that they work with the various communities throughout 14 counties and 2 native nations in the state by getting to know those communities and help them where they are at with their needs. Their mission is to empower people throughout central Minnesota to build thriving economies, vibrant communities, and a lasting culture of generosity. They have three focus pillars of Community, Economy, and Generosity. With the Community and Economy pillars they help with such things as childcare, workforce development, non-profit development, local government feasibility studies, grants, business related training, and gap loans. Amy Gray shared about the generosity pillar of the Initiative Foundation that helps with grants from donor advised funds, enabling resource connections, managing the IF endowment and reinvesting the earnings into the communities, partnering with local funds (such as Three Rivers Foundation), and retaining regional wealth.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports
Next week, January 23, there is the board meeting and the following week, January 30, there will be Club Assembly.
Heather shared a letter from the Rotary Club of Rochester thanking us for our contribution of $500 for their Tanzania project.
Fundraising Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas Heather Kliewer was delighted that last week she had a very bad morning, but she received so much from the club meeting, and it really filled her up and she was so grateful! She was also delighted for the Squatch hockey game on Saturday at 7:15 for the CAER food shelf collection.
Nicole Wocjik was delighted to have her daughter home from college and glad to have her house back in order now that she is gone, and she had a good luck buck for moving her in-laws into a community this weekend.
Julie Fish was delighted to have the Initiative Foundation present today and so grateful for their support with Three Rivers Foundation.
Bob Maxwell was delighted to also feel the Rotary Club is an uplifting experience and loves coming here every week.
Happy Birthday – We sang happy birthday to John Osterman for his birthday on December 26.
Card Draw – There was no winner for the pot of money. John Osterman was the 2nd place winner for a can of BSA popcorn!
Pearls of Wisdom: “The time is always right to do what is right.” Martin Luther King Jr
Last Time We Met 1/9/2025
Today our meeting was held at Rockwoods and 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, Melanie Clemons, Roger Clemons, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Katie Harstad, Heather Kliewer, Mark Kuyava, Tove Lichty, Cal Portner, Garrett Prehatney, Pete Reiner, Debbi Rydberg, Alan Sakry, Theresa Slominski, Joe Stremcha, Nicole Wojcik, Glen Ertel, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler
Guests Attending J. Brian Calva, Sales Manager, Beaudry Oil and Propane
 Program Dirk Barrett introduced J. Brian Calva, newest City Council member, Sales Manager at Beaudry, and a medalist for CAER Trot of Gold. His program was “Speaking Life to Your City – You have more influence than you even know.” He had a slide of two people looking in opposite directions shouting angrily and stated that this is all too common in our world today. Then he talked about his own circle of influence. He has worked at Beaudry for the past seventeen years and was grateful for their culture of speaking life to others and treating others with respect. He is also a Family Life Pastor at Living Waters Church where he and his wife try to interject life-giving support to those families coming forward with various struggles. He also is a proud CAER Board Member and feels that organization speaks a whole lot of life into our community in a fantastic way. He also is a member of TrueHope, an organization in Ukraine where he and his wife felt called to speak life to the people living there who are in extreme circumstances. Approximately one-third of the population has left, and the people left needed to know they were not forgotten. As a City Council representative, he wants to speak life to the community and not participate in negative speak, even when disagreeing with others. In closing, he challenged all of us to speak life in our circles of influence by 1) Challenging yourself to use your influence to change negative conversations to positive ones, 2) Search for the gold in everyone, 3) Leave every room different than you found it, and 4) Speak life over this city. He thought our pledge really embodied this challenge.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports A huge thank you to Julie, Nicole, and Neil for the wonderful Holiday Hoe-Down and Heather shared some pictures from the event.
Next week 1/16 Neil Gagnon will have Britt Poser from the Initiative Foundation, and the following week 1/23 will be the Board Meeting, and 1/30 will be Club Assembly.
Debbi Rydberg gave an update on the Donations Committee and will be shifting the entire process to start in January, taking applications in February and March, making decisions in April, and distributing checks in May. A proposal will be brought forward to the board next week. They are excited to start a database for this project.
Service Project update regarding Shiver Elk River to have non-profits come and set up a table for a carnival for kids February 1, 12:00 noon. We are thinking of having the wheel there for the carnival. More information to come.
Fundraising Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas
Nicole Wojcik had a wonderful time in Florida, delighted having her daughter home for college (although looking forward to her leaving again), delighted for the opportunity to help plan the Holiday Party, and finally delighted to be joining the Delano Community Band to play her flute.
Theresa Slominski had a dilemma with her car and the cement base of a pole in her church parking lot, delighted for her daughter to be home almost two weeks for Christmas, and delighted to just yesterday submit a global grant application for a community in Rwanda!
Bruce Tyler was delighted for a suggestion for back pain from Dr Laura in December of heat and Magnesium that cured him! He was also delighted to have just retired, stating he realized that he doesn’t know what he doesn’t know anymore and that makes him dangerous as an HR person. His new status is “Retired, but Active.”
Glen Ertel was delighted to recognize the write-up in the paper for Katie Harstad and felt honored to have a person of that caliber in our club.
Roger Clemons had a regret that he mis sed our holiday party, was delighted to have taken a holiday family trip to Key Largo and meet up with old friends from Elk River there, and finally delighted he went to the Bob Dylan movie and thought it was very well done.
Alan Sakry was delighted to have survived a stroke thirteen years ago January 10 and thanked God to be alive today!
Katie Harstad was delighted to be in the new year at work because the last two weeks were crazy, delighted that she has three kids in three sports all at the same time with hockey, volleyball, and dance, and delighted to be taking a family trip to Wisconsin Dells with her daughter’s dance team this summer.
Wade Bastian was delighted to have his son from Seattle home for Christmas this year, and his wife has a new-to-her Kia Sorento that is named Betty White because it is white, is a lot of fun, and is going to last a long time!
Julie Fish was delighted for the grant Theresa submitted, and a Happy New Year to everyone!
Debbi Rydberg was delighted to have her new car and had a dilemma that Rob took it to Lake of the Woods ice fishing. She was also delighted that Amanda arrived home for Christmas on 12/20 and just left 1/8 and had a dilemma that she would not see her for a year now.
Joe Stremcha was delighted to have submitted (within a very short window of time) an application with the Minnesota Department of Educational Funds requesting to upgrade the Community Center, and thanks to AI for all the help! He was also delighted to have taken his mom back to Florida with the dogs to see his sister and it was a good road trip with everyone and everything arriving back home just fine!
Happy Birthday – We sang happy birthday to Tove Lichty for her upcoming birthday on January 13.
Card Draw - no winner this week
Pearls of Wisdom: “Learn from yesterday, Live for today, and Hope for tomorrow. The important thing is not to stop questioning.” Albert Einstein
Last Time We Met 12/12/2024
Today our meeting was held at Rockwoods and 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, Melanie Clemons, Roger Clemons, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Tom Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Mark Kuyava, Joe Libor, Dr Laura Mullennex, Cal Portner, Debbi Rydberg, Alan Sakry, Theresa Slominski, Bill Yueill, Glen Ertel, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler
Guests Attending Trisha Mowry, owner Metal Craft; Anna Voigt, Student of the Month; Elise Bengston, Elk River Highschool Assistant Principal
 Program - Elise Bengston introduced our Student of the Month, Anna Voigt. Anna is a very motivated and involved young woman whose interests span fashion, Formula One racing, business, baking, and reading. She is the president of DECA, Vice President of National Honor Society, and runs her own business, among other involvements. When asked about her leadership style, she stated she is an empathetic leader that aspires to be trustworthy and reliable. She is very involved in community service projects and the financial literacy projects are her favorite. She has a financial literacy podcast and hosts a Smart Spending Workshop that is a simulation of adults spending money in the real world exposing them to things like credit scores, budgeting, and buying a house. She thanked Rotary and the school for recognizing her, and as community members that “give back” she is honored for this award.
 Roger Clemons introduced Trisha Mowry from Metal Craft. Trisha is a second-generation owner of the business with her brother, Sean. Their mom also works there doing inventory (and walking around and talking to everyone.) They have a motto to “simply make complex parts”, and her dad’s personal motto to “build it right the first time”. They make medical devices, and parts for aviation and space defense at Metal Craft in Elk River, MN and Riverside in Eau Claire, WI. With the decline in students in manufacturing, machining, and trade technologies, they have partnered with the high school, the chamber office, and local businesses to educate students and parents about the trades. They offer paid internships to expose them to various aspects of the business and if they gravitate towards a special area, they help them continue and develop in that area. They have a very collaborative environment and appreciate the perspective the younger generation can offer. They also are considering career transition opportunities.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports
Next week, December 19, at 5:30 will be our Holiday Hoedown at Cowboy Jacks. Don’t be the last one to arrive! Please RSVP to Julie if you have not already.
Reminder that the meeting schedule will change in 2025, and we will have regular meetings on the first, second, and third Thursdays, board meetings on the fourth Thursday, and Club Assembly on the fifth Thursdays. January 30 will be our first Club Assembly of 2025.
Fundraising Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas Heather Kliewer was delighted for her son’s birthday today and delighted for Alan and Diane Sakry volunteering Thursdays at CAER.
Debbi Rydberg was delighted with the Chamber’s open house today, her new Mazda CX90 car, and David Vinje and Dirk Barrett for helping with the Chamber building renovation.
Cal Portner was delighted for his nephew who was deployed out of the CO air force base to Greenland. If you think it is cold here, it is below zero every day there and the sun doesn’t come up.
Theresa Slominski was delighted to have her daughter home for Christmas.
Wade Bastian was delighted that his son will be home for Christmas this year because he hasn’t been home in several years, and for ice fishing as we are making ice now!
Happy Birthday – We sang happy birthday to Tom Kerber for his upcoming birthday on December 24. John Osterman opted to wait for a song at the Christmas party for his birthday December 26.
Card Draw - no winner this week
Pearls of Wisdom: “You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout, I’m telling you why. Santa Claus is coming to town!”
Last Time We Met 12/5/2024
Today our meeting was held at Rockwoods and 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, Katie Harstad, Tom Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Mark Kuyava, Dr Laura Mullennex, Cal Portner, Garrett Prehatney, Pete Reiner, Debbi Rydberg, Alan Sakry, Theresa Slominski, Joe Stremcha, Glen Ertel, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler
Guests Attending
Chic Pojar, Head Coach of Squatch Junior Hockey Team, and Gigi Clemons, Daughter of Melanie Clemons who was job shadowing her mom today
Program
 Today our program was organized by Mark Kuyava who invited Chic Pojar to present information about
the Squatch junior hockey team. They are based out of the Furniture and Things Event Center and are in
their third season. The junior hockey league is for 18–20-year-olds who are interested in playing hockey
beyond high school and is an intermediary step between high school and college. There are three tiers in
junior hockey and the Squatch are in the second tier which has approximately 100 teams, and there are
9 teams in their division. They are not only developing future hockey players but also young men for
their own personal and professional future. Community involvement is part of this development, and
they participate in events such as collecting teddy bears and distributing at the children’s hospital, Feed
My Starving Children, and visits to the senior living communities. Heather Kliewer stated that the
Squatch is hosting a food drive for CAER on January 18 and maybe Rotary could attend that night to support CAER and the Squatch!
Board and Committee Updates and Reports
A Rotary Moment was provided by Mark Kuyava as he reported on the Literacy Project and book
distribution to the third-grade classrooms in Elk River.
December 19 will be our annual Christmas Party, and it will be at Cowboy Jacks at 5:30pm. Please RSVP to either Nicole, Neil, or Julie. Reminder that there will not be a regular meeting that day.
Starting in 2025, there is a new meeting schedule based on the first, second, and third Thursdays as
regular meetings, and the fourth Thursday board meeting, and fifth Thursday club assemblies.
The first few months of 2025 are as follows:
January 2 no meeting
January 9 and 16 regular meeting
January 23 board meeting
January 30 club assembly
February 6, 13, and 20 regular meeting
February 27 board meeting
Debbi Rydberg provided a District update on the process of selecting the District Governor (DG). It is actually a seven-year process, and she participated with six others in selecting the DG for Rotary year
2026/2027. That is the year that Minneapolis hosts the Rotary International Conference, and so it is a big deal and something for our clubs in Minnesota to be thinking about as there will be expectations from our clubs to help. Lonnie Stormo from the Sunrise Stillwater club will be the 2026/2027 DG.
Debbi also encouraged participation in the mid-terms coming up in January that will have a very good
professional development program.
Fundraising Opportunities
Delights and Dilemmas
Heather Kliewer was delighted for her daughter’s birthday today and her grandson’s birthday tomorrow.
She was also delighted for Bob Maxwell as a rockstar at CAER (in between handing out books last week.)
Bruce Tyler was bored to tears the day after Thanksgiving and put a puzzle together in about six hours and was very pleased with himself because the box said “2-4 years”.
John Osterman was delighted to announce that he will be singing Christmas carols inside the store from
3-5 at Cub Foods tomorrow.
Bob Maxwell was delighted that 23 years ago on December 7 he was "history" but he was brought back
and has been able to live ever since in spite of other hurdles along the way that he should not have
survived either! We are glad he is here too! He also encouraged others to volunteer at CAER as he had a
lot of fun doing it.
Katie Harstad was delighted to have registered her daughter for high school last night, and will be a third
generation Elk River high school student. She was also delighted for Rockwoods that they have 26
events this week that they are catering for and is very proud of them.
Debbi Rydberg was delighted to be with her mom time in Kansas City last weekend. They have planned
an out of state trip in January to go to Texas. She is shopping for a new car after being blown around in
the wind yesterday. And the trailer is gone from the parking lot at the Chamber so they are almost done!
Glen Ertel had an appointment yesterday in St. Cloud for the motor home that is very tall and 36 feet
long with a lot of “exposure” to the wind. He was delighted he was able to arrive there safely.
Julie Fish had a dilemma and a delight for her parents who were T-boned but survived, missing her dad
by about 12 inches, avoiding the ditch, and only a small cut on each parent. She doesn’t have enough
bucks for the safety of her parents but is very grateful they are alive and well!
Alan Sakry was delighted for the four days he was in Kansas to celebrate Thanksgiving with Jordan and
Scott, and a dilemma for the snowstorm on Saturday as they were returning and ended up driving thirty
miles an hour for two hours, and finally thank God for Bob being with us!
Happy Birthday – We sang happy birthday to Alan Sakry who is 21 forever.
Card Draw John Osterman won the card draw this week with a five of spades!
Pearls of Wisdom:
“What I don’t like about office Christmas parties is looking for a job the next day.” Phyillis Diller
Last Time We Met 11/21/2024
Today our meeting was held at Rockwoods and was led by President Heather Kliewer.
We sang the Elk River Fight Song in honor of the football team in the state championship 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 beneficial to all concerned? These are our com pass and will ensure that our actions are filled with
integrity and genuine care.
Attending
Melanie Clemons, Neil Gagnon, Katie Harstad, Heather Kliewer, Tove Lichty, Cal Portner, Pete Reiner, Alan Sakry, Theresa Slominski, Joe Stremcha, Nicole Wojcik, David Anderson, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler
Guests Attending
Shari Ley, Family Resource Coordinator, Main Street Family Services and Steph Page, Executive Director and Co-Founder, Stories Foundation
Program
 Today our program, The Stories Foundation, was introduced by Melaine Clemons. Steph Page is the
Executive Director and Co-Founder of the organization that is anti-human trafficking. They started in 2015 but she has been doing programming since. Human trafficking is a $150 billion industry
worldwide of both labor and sex. In reality, the victims are not typically abducted but are in a relationship driven crime of force, fraud, or coercion. Steph feels there is hope to promote and advocate
for healthy relationships rather than being scared about abduction. The average age of a victim to start
being trafficked in Minnesota is 14 years old and can be as young as 3. An individual becomes a victim
while in a relationship and trust is formed and then there is a “turn” where manipulation begins as a
vulnerability is being met (attention, gifts, etc.). Stories Foundation likes to get out and talk with young
adolescents about healthy and unhealthy relationships, and general presentations like today to talk with
adults. Their organization also works with survivors to meet various needs. They are excited for an
upcoming revenue stream of a social impact business. It will be a café/coffee/retail space, and all
proceeds will go to the foundation to be able to provide resources for their clients and be sustainable.
They are hoping this will be within the next six months.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports
A Rotary Moment was provided by Heather Kliewer as it is Give to The Max Day. She encouraged everyone to go online and support your local nonprofits
 The Literacy project to distribute books to the third-grade classes in Elk River will happen next week and
a sign-up sheet was passed around to have Rotarians volunteer. Four different elementary schools will be attended in three days.
December 19 will be our annual Christmas Party,  and it will be at Cowboy Jacks. Be there at 5:30pm sharp (you won’t want to be late!) The theme is a Christmas Hoedown and there is a prize for the best holiday hoedown outfit. Please RSVP to either Nicole, Neil, or Julie. Reminder that there will not be a regular meeting that day.
Neil Gagnon said invoices will be sent out in December.
 There will be no meeting next week – Happy Thanksgiving!
Fundraising Opportunities
Delights and Dilemmas
Heather Kliewer was delighted with the CAER Foodshelf and Give to the Max Day. Today is better than
election day for Heather as she loves to watch the leaderboard and see how everyone is doing. There
are also multiple opportunities throughout the day to have additional donations matched or provided.
Bruce Tyler had a dilemma of a large oak desk in his house of 40 years that he is free to anyone who
wants to come and get it.
Katie Harstad was delighted to be planning her twenty-year class reunion in 2025 at the Furniture and
Things Event Center.
Joe Stremcha was delighted to be flying to Pittsburgh to finally pick up his car!
Cal Portner was delighted with his son’s marriage celebration, and also a dilemma for his daughter’s 35-
year-old boyfriend who ended up in the hospital but delighted that the granddaughter was able to stay
with them for a few days. He was also delighted to be going to some hockey games with the team his
son coaches.
Alan Sakry was delighted for CAER Food Shelf giving and to be going to Kansas for Thanksgiving with his
daughter and her fiancé.
Pete Reiner had a dilemma that he had put up some Christmas lights and then realized that they are not
matching lights but different brightnesses of whites, so he is going to take them all down.
Nicole Wocjik was delighted to have their “airman” home Tuesday through Saturday, and Haley will be
home for the Elks football game, and then she and Mark will be going to Florida after the holiday for a
week and seeing a Brett Michaels concert while there.
Tove Lichty was delighted to be spending time with family this weekend for her nephew’s 3-year-old
birthday party and her brother’s 40th surprise birthday party. Thanksgiving will be just her and Adam
but they are making the whole meal and will have leftovers for the week!
Theresa Slominski was delighted to be going to Duluth the weekend after Thanksgiving to watch the
Vermont Catamounts play the Duluth Bulldogs in women’s hockey, and that Danielle will be home for
almost two weeks in December for Christmas.
Happy Birthday - no birthdays this week
Card Draw no winner this week
Pearls of Wisdom:
“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” John F. Kennedy
Last Time We Met 11/14/2024
Today our meeting was held at Rockwoods and 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 Wade Bastian, Roger Clemons, Julie Fish, Tom Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Bonnie Koste, Mark Kuyava, Dr. Laura Mullennex, Garrett Prehatney, Debbi Rydberg, Theresa Slominski, Nicole Wojcik, Glen Ertel, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler
Guests Attending Mike Zeman, Principal Elk River High School; Owen Westberg, Student of the Month; Sarah Westberg, mother of Owen; Gerry Granum, Boy Scouts of America; Libby Kubicka, Girl Scout Troop in Foley Student of the Month
Our first Student of the Month for this  school year is Owen Westberg. Principal Mike Zeman introduced senior Owen Westberg and noted that he is a National Merit Semi-Finalist, the only one in the district, which is in the top less than 1% of students. Owen is also in the jazz band and is an accomplished athlete  who plays hockey, track and field and holds the record for the 4x4 100 relay. He plans to study engineering at Texas A&M after high school and in his free time he likes to play piano, read, and play video games with his siblings. His hero is his father and credits his hard work and resiliency to him. His favorite class is Calculus, and his most memorable experience was two years ago when the math team went to state.
Program Today our program, Boys Scouts of  America, was introduced by Wade Bastian. Gerry Granum, the Scout Executive for Boy Scouts of Central Minnesota Council, has served in SD, MI, WA, and OR previously, and is also an Eagle Scout. Wade also introduced Libby Kubicka who is from Elk River and joined the troop in Foley after the troop folded here. She just recently submitted her Eagle Scout application! She shared all of her positive experiences being a scout. The friends she has made, leadership skills, confidence in herself and her teams, survival skills, being able to fail and then learn and grow from that, develop resiliency, and a sense of belonging, all have formed her to be a capable, compassionate, and well rounded young woman. She feels ready to face the challenges of adulthood with confidence and integrity. Gerry then spoke about Scouting around the world. He mentioned that the Rotary Four-Way Test is interwoven in the Scout Law, Scout Oath, and Mission, and James T West (the first Scout Executive) and Paul Harris formed Boy Scout Councils across the country, creating a partnership with scouting and Rotary. He listed some famous Eagle Scouts: Neil Armstrong, Gerald Ford, Robert Gates, Steven Spielberg, Sam Walton (and within our ranks: Garrett Prehatney and Tom Kerber’s son) and of course, soon Libby Kubicka. He talked about the name change from Boy Scouts of America to Scouting America, to include both boys and girls, and was done in response to feedback from parents of scouts. The name officially changes February 8, 2025, on Scouting’s 115th anniversary.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports Heather Kliewer reported on the survey of the club regarding changing the frequency of meetings from every week to 1st, 3rd, and 4th Thursdays, with the 2nd Thursday for board meetings, and 5th Thursday club assemblies. There were 18 responses: 50% were very supportive, 22.2% were somewhat supportive, 22.2% were neutral, and 5.6% were opposed to any changes. Any changes would be implemented starting January 2025. The board will discuss next week.
Mark Kuyava updated on the 3rd grade Literacy Program. He reminded the group that this project focuses on this grade level because they are beginning “reading to learn” versus “learning to read”. Rotary will distribute the books that tell a story about working together and helping others. Julie Fish provided stickers for each book that states the book is donated by Rotary and has a space for the child to write their name claiming the book as their own. We will distribute and read the books to the elementary schools during the week of Thanksgiving, on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. There are four schools, and it takes approximately 1 hour at each school. Mark will provide a signup sheet next week for some time to place the stickers in the books, and to have 4-6 Rotarians at each elementary school.
 December 19 will be our annual Christmas Party, and it will be at Cowboy Jacks. Fundraising
Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas Heather Kliewer was delighted that her son will be married one year from now.
Debbi Rydberg was delighted that the siders were working at the Chamber, she apologized for her phone disturbing the meeting as her family was responding to the Thanksgiving invite just sent out, and a dilemma that Chip and Dale had escaped to the garage unbeknownst to them, and also that Alexandria was playing Owatonna in the state championship and they haven’t won since Rob was a senior in high school.
Nicole Wocjik was delighted to be better since out sick last week, a family wedding, and Thanksgiving will be with her mom and daughter who will be home from college.
Bob Maxwell was delighted to have been a scout but was four badges short of being able to be an Eagle scout.
John Osterman was delighted that the Elk River football team beat Monticello, and they will now play Chanhassen at the US Bank Stadium, and if they win will play a week from Saturday.
Mike Zeman was delighted with the Elk River sports to be 5th in state for girls’ tennis, the boys football team going to state, a swimmer in the state tournament, and hockey and basketball starting soon.
Bonnie Koste was delighted that her brother-in-law and his two boys help coach the Becker football team, and they were also going to state.
Happy Birthday - no birthdays this week
Card Draw no winner this week
Pearls of Wisdom: “Change brings opportunity.”
Last Time We Met 11/7/2024
Today our meeting was held at Rockwoods and was led by President-Elect Cal Portner. 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, Roger Clemons, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Mark Kuyava, Cal Portner, Alan Sakry, Theresa Slominski, Joe Stremcha, Bill Yueill, David Anderson, Glen Ertel, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler
Guests Attending Jess Hartfiel, Board Member HOODLUM, Katie Grabrick, Secretary HOODLUM, Gina Finical, Board Member HOODLUM, Terry Bridges, Board Member HOODLUM (aka Santa Claus), Shahn Dilks, owner UPS in Elk River.
 Program Today our program was HOODLUM. Cal Portner introduced Jess Hartfiel to talk about their organization: Helping Out Others During Life’s Unkind Moments – HOODLUMs. This was the founder’s nickname (Chris Grabrick.) It started when Chris and Katie gave Jess $100 to buy school supplies for her children after her father passed away when she was a single mother and her father had been the one to help out and buy the school supplies in the past. They became a 501(c)3 in 2021 and now have a Christmas Program, Community Service Program, and  Individual Assistance. The Christmas Program is their biggest time of year and has helped 88 families in the past, with a goal of 100 this year. They support the entire family. Families are nominated from the community and poverty isn’t a requirement, just facing a hardship beyond their control. They are accepting nominations now! Their motto is they provide a hand up, not a handout.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports
November 14 program will be the Boy Scouts Association, and we will have our first Student of the Month for this school year.
Cal requested those with December programs to provide bio information to him by 11/25 for the paper publication.
Julie Fish reminded us to save the date December 19 for our annual Christmas Party.
Fundraising Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas
Joe Stremcha had delights and dilemmas for his birthday 10/24 and traveled to Florida for a week with his mother. He went to Pittsburgh to pick up his car that was damaged when he was there the previous month. The car wasn’t ready, so he went to NY, and the car still wasn’t ready so he kept staying. While waiting he made the most of it and attended WILD games, a political rally, a football crowd, golfed, and saw an alligator and dolphins, but still no car. He went to the lot to see what the holdup was and saw his car had not moved from the spot where the tow truck dropped it off, untouched, and then he was mad! He still doesn’t have his car, but they paid for his plane ticket and rental car and will pay for plane ticket when it is finally ready.
Julie Fish was delighted for her great nephews in Monticello to be playing Elk River on Saturday for football championship playoffs.
Alan Sakry was delighted for Shawn to be attending, and Elk River football.
John Osterman was delighted for the upcoming Elk River football game, and told Julie to have Monticello bring their best defensive game.
Neil Gagnon was delighted for his son’s 13th birthday and buying a black Sea Ray boat – his first toy!
Glen Ertel was delighted for his granddaughter who played on the state championship soccer team last Friday night and making the All State team. Her team lost 1-0 and she was the defensive player that held back the big scorer on the other team.
Shahn Dilks was delighted for this fifth grade daughter to be named Student of the Month.
Cal Portner was delighted to pay for his oldest daughter’s family birthday meal, to see his granddaughter, and next week for Veteran’s Day he will be going to a Veteran’s breakfast with his “practice” granddaughter’s school, and his daughter will be singing at the Veteran’s appreciation dinner Tuesday night.
Happy Birthday We sang Happy Birthday to Joe Stremcha for $5, and gave apologies to guests for the song.
Card Draw no winner this week
Pearls of Wisdom: “Democracy is based upon the conviction there are extraordinary possibilities in ordinary people.” Harry Emerson Fosdick
Last Time We Met 10/31/2024
Today our meeting was held at Rockwoods and 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, Mark Kuyava, Tove Lichty, Dr. Laura Mullennex, Cal Portner, Debi Rydberg, Theresa Slominski, David Vinje, Nicole Wojcik, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler
Guests Attending Dr. Jacob from Bodywise Chiropractic; Maddy Caswell, granddaughter of Heather Kliewer; Emily Caswell, Client Intake Specialist at CAER; Jessica Ovall, Operations Manager at CAER; Ashley Hall, Client Program Manager at CAER Program
 Today our program was about CAER. Heather and her staff talked about CAER being a Super Shelf facility (making healthy choices easy choices) that is providing services in three different languages (English, Spanish, and Russian), as well as programs like financial assistance, kids’ weekend, senior deliveries, free farmers market, and youth outreach. Additionally, they provide emergency bags to the county for those families needing immediate help and waiting for county services to complete, and school supplies and winter outerwear to families in need. CAER services have grown in the past several years and year-to date they have served 1,769 households, provided rent help to 63, and utility help to 76. They are in year three of a five-year strategic plan and just yesterday christened their new garage and expanded parking lot! Debi Rydberg, on  behalf of Rotary, was able to present a check to CAER for $8,250 from proceeds of the Taste of Elk River event. Some food donations were also provided.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports November 14 we will have our first Student of the Month for this school year! Debi Rydberg provided a Foundation Moment that our Strike Out Polio event raised $1,786. Thanks to John, Wade, and partners for bowling, and Rotarians for pledging and participating in the poker run. The other push that Rotary has is the annual fund drive in November. This is the fund of money that grants are matched with for local Rotary projects. For every $100 donated, it is matched, and Paul Harris points are awarded. Debi requested members to let her know if interested in serving on a donations committee. She wants to review the whole process and make changes and improvements as necessary.
Julie Fish asked members to save the date of December 19, in the evening, for a Christmas party. More information to come.
Katie Harstad shared that the 2025 Taste of Elk River date will be Wednesday, August 13, 2025. This is another adjustment for the club, but this was the only date available that did not interfere with the Bank of Elk River summer concert series.
 At the board meeting the was discussion around club meetings and the difficulty in having the commitment of 2 hours once a month for the board meeting and regular meeting. The board’s recommendation is to have regular club meetings on the 1st, 3rd, and 4th Thursday of the month, the board meeting on the 2nd Thursday of the month, and the 5th Thursday club assemblies. A survey will be sent out to all members via email to gather members’ input on the suggested change. Members can also talk to Heather or any board member with concerns.
Fundraising Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas Bob Maxwell was delighted to have taken his grandson to the Gopher football homecoming game.
Debi Rydberg was delighted to be feeling better, thank you to Heather and Neil for taking care of the bowling event while she was sick, and thank you to her staff for covering all her Chamber events while she was sick, and finally thank you to David Vinje for the remodeling on the Chamber building.
Katie Harstad was delighted with the upcoming Grand Opening of the Furniture and Things Event Center Lounge on Wednesday, November 13.
Tove Lichty was delighted to announce the upcoming United Way event at Rockwoods Tuesday, November 5 and would like everyone to join her, if available. A percentage of proceeds from the sales that day will be donated to the United Way.
Theresa Slominski was delighted for Maddy to be in attendance today, being able to drop off her husband’s wallet on her way to Rotary, and for how pretty the trees look with the snowfall today.
John Osterman admitted he was not perfect because last Saturday he announced that the next game would be at 7pm, when it is 6pm, November 1 against Andover.
Nicole Wojcik was delighted to have celebrated her second anniversary on Tuesday, and attend a conference in Duluth last week.
Julie Fish was delighted for her great niece, Liv, and the Monticello volleyball team making it to State, and for her great nephews Cameron and Andrew and the Monticello football team making it to playoffs.
Cal Portner was delighted to have gone to British Columbia, Canada, to watch his nephew play hockey. They grow peaches up there and the team, Penticton Vees, is named after three varieties of peaches starting with “V” grown there. Secondly, he will be attending the Gophers’ men’s hockey game with family.
Ashely Hall was delighted to see the snowfall today.
Happy Birthday We sang Happy Birthday to Nicole Wojcik
Card Draw no winner this week
Pearls of Wisdom: “Fortunately, there are good-hearted people living in every corner of our town who don’t need to see the faces or know the names of their neighbors in order to help them.” CAER Recipient
Last Time We Met 10/17/2024
Today our meeting was held at the Furniture and Things Event Center and was led by President-Elect Cal Portner.
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 Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Katie Harstad, Mark Kuyava, Cal Portner, Garrett Prehatney, Pete Reiner, Theresa Slominski, Joe Stremcha, Bill Yueill, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler, Stewart Wilson Guests Attending Lynn Yueill, wife of Bill Yueill, and Rylah Franaschouk, daughter of Katie Harstad
Program Bill Yueill presented the program today “Care For An Old Brain”. He distributed  handouts that had 41 things to do to excite, stimulate and exercise the brain. Some examples are doing scrabble, crosswords puzzles, soduko; sitting in a different place at meetings, church or Rotary; use your nondominant hand for a day; write your name with your nondominant hand. Bill has been learning to play the cello to help stimulate his brain and played Ode to Joy and Moon River for us, beginner style. He talked about the difficulty in playing the cello as there are no frets to mark the notes, and there is a great deal of tuning involved in the placement of your fingers on the strings. The bow is sensitive to the placement on the strings whether it is short or long notes being played, increasing the difficulty. Bill and his wife encouraged everyone to try and learn something new that is totally outside of your comfort zone to keep your brain alert.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports  Next week we will have no noon meeting and will have our Strike Out Polio event at McPete’s at 3:30
P.M. Please RSVP via the email that Heather sent or use the QR code that is here or on the website. This is also the way to pledge for fundraising for the event. There will be another game for those not bowling so be sure to bring a few extra dollars.
 Cal thanked Katie for organizing today’s meeting at the event center and everyone gave her and her staff a round of applause.
Heather was not at the meeting today  because she was helping with the Community Connect event at the Big Lake Middle School. Rotarians John, Bob, and Theresa volunteered at the event with the big wheel, and Melanie helped distribute coats for CAER.
Fundraising Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas
John Osterman was delighted that Elk River beat Alexandria (ranked # number 1 in the state) 44-34, making Elk River the number 1 seed in their section.
Bill Yueill was delighted that he and Lynn became great grandparents to Honey Rosalynn, born Monday 10/14 weighing 5 pounds, six ounces. She was named after her grandmothers on both sides (Honey and Lynn (and her father’s family name (Rose). Julie Fish was delighted with Monticello’s football win where her great nephews are on the team.
Joe Stremcha is delighted to be heading to Florida to see his mom and sister, then picking up his car in Pittsburgh and watching NHL games along the way (crossing some NHL arenas off his bucket list)!
Stewart Wilson was delighted with the Elks win over Alexandria, and for the goalie, Phillip Gustafson, being the first goalie to score a goal in WILD history.
Theresa Slominski was delighted to have returned from Vermont visiting her daughter and “filling up her heart.”
Katie Harstad was delighted that her four-year-old son started hockey, and for her oldest daughter Rylah attending Rotary with her today and hanging out at the rink on MEA weekend.
Cal was delighted that Garrett was now a firefighter for the City of Elk River.
Happy Birthday We sang Happy Birthday to Bill Yueill
Card Draw no winner this week
Pearls of Wisdom: “I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells.” Dr. Suess
Last Time We Met 10/10/2024
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, Heather Kliewer, Joe Libor, Dr. Laura Mullennex, Cal Portner, Garrett Prehatney, Alan Sakry, Marv Sorvala, Joe Stremcha, Nicole Wojcik, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman and Bruce Tyler
Guests Attending
Mike Zeman, ERHS Principal, guest of Terry Bizal, past ERHS Principal. Terry brought Mike today to check us out as Mike will be joining Rotary and will be helping with our Student of the Month program!
HOT NEWS ABOUT NEXT WEEK’S ROTARY MEETING!
PLEASE NOTE: NEXT WEEK WE WILL BE MEETING AT THE FURNITURE & THINGS COMMUNITY EVENT CENTER AT OUR REGULAR TIME WITH OUR REGULAR PROGRAMMING.
Program
 Joe Stremcha arranged our program and we heard from some fine folks from Elk River Liquors. Megan Knopik introduced herself first. She is the Manager at Northbound Liquor since July 2024. She has worked for Elk River Liquors off and on for many years. Next was Brenda Gustafson. Brenda is the Manager at Westbound Liquor since November of 2023 and she comes with many years experience in the liquor store business as she previously worked for the City of Monticello Liquor store! Joe Audette is the Elk River Liquor Operations Manager. He spoke a bit about the new legal sale of THC drinks and that they have a huge variety of them and also have upped their offerings of non-alcoholic beverages. He is curious what the future of cannabis is for Elk River. He shared that there is are a couple of cool new products coming out this month to only Municipal liquor stores. The product is called Munisoda. They are THC drinks for day or night and also come with paring edibles! A couple of flavors are mango marshmallow and blueberry vanilla. They are all good flavors. He participated in the making of these and as a committee, if a flavor wasn’t favorable, they went back to the lab to adjust it until it was good tasting. Rotarian John Osterman shared that the Taste of Elk River committee chose to not have any THC drinks at the event. John asked Joe if he thought people like the THC drinks and if they come back for repeated purchases. Joe laughed and shared that there is still very much, a taboo on THC items. People sort of hang around the THC drink area and check things out, but rarely ask for advise or questions about them. Megan and Brenda shared that the age of THC drink purchasers are a wide range from 21 to 85! They also shared that their sales of THC drinks is up 330%. The Wine Sale is running October 25 – November 3rd so be sure to stock up for the holidays! Elk River Liquors is also going to be launching a Loyalty Program and in 2025, they will have a ton of drawings for great prizes such as a Solo stove, Blackstone griddle, Beats headphones and more! Stay tuned for more to come! This Friday from noon to 3 pm they will be hosting a tasting of Malort, a Swedish liqueur that is usually quite awful. The want to get one second videos of people sampling this awful stuff. Joe is going first.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports
Heather Kliewer reminded us of the Community Connect event 10/17 to distribute coats and coordinate the wheel for prizes.
Don’t forget the Stike Out Polio Bowling event that will be held at McPete’s in Big Lake, October 24 at 3:30 (we will not have a regular meeting that day). John Osterman will be bowling three games, and groups are encouraged to bowl against him. She distributed sheets with a QR code to register and  pledge (included here as well), and then Neil will invoice members after the event. As a reminder, in October, District 5960 will match polio pledges with Paul Harris points dollar for dollar over $100; if you pledge $365 you will be matched with the additional points for a Paul H arris recognition, and our club will also be matching points. Also, you are a member of the Polio Plus Society if you pledge $100 every year to the Polio drive. There will be a poker run game during the bowling event where you can purchase additional cards for $1 based on spares and strikes, and it will be a 50/50 prize. BE SURE TO GET SIGNED UP AND GIVE YOUR PLEDGES! So far, $595 has been raised and a pledge of $.25/pin has been made.
Fundraising Opportunities
Delights and Dilemmas
-Bruce Tyler said he had an “incredibly good” happy buck because the Pohlad family is selling the MN Twins! Bruce said: “Joe Pohlad is an idiot and is out!” Lol!
-Bob Maxwell was with his granddaughter at the doctors office and once again, was referred to as his granddaughters father, not grandfather!
-Marv Sorvala had a happy buck for a postponed trip to Florida to avoid the hurricane! He said that the area that they live, had only 20 MPH winds! He leaves tomorrow for Florida!
-Alan Sakry was happy for 5 days at home alone while Diane his wife, and Jordan his daughter, took a trip to Maine. He enjoyed golf, lunches, 3 cats with too much poop, and a relaxing time alone!
-Cal Portner was happy that both his wife’s parents and his parents were able to meet Cal’s new granddaughter. He was also happy that tonight the MN Wild kick off their hockey season and he shared
a public service announcement about a Highway 10 closing tonight in Ramsey.
-Dr. Laura Mullennex shared with us that in August, she got engaged! The wedding will be in September of 2025! Congratulations!
-Heather Kliewer was happy to have Mike Zeman with us today and to get our Student of the Month program back in action! She was also happy and grateful for our Rotary club and our fiscal responsibilities to the non-profits in our community!
-Julie Fish was happy to have seen past rotarian, Bryan Adams outside of Rockwoods before our meeting; she was happy for the engagement of Dr. Laura and happy for a good pen today as she is acting secretary/bulletin scribe in Theresa’s absence.
-Terry Bizal also had a buck to thank Mike Zeman for answering his text this morning and for joining us for lunch today! Terry was also happy about a couple of recent fishing trips to Lake of the Woods and to the wilderness north of Finland, Minnesota! A lot of walleyes were caught and a fish fry was had!
-Nicole Wojcik has a $10 I.O.U. for us! She was happy that the Vikings are 5-0; happy that Mike Zeman is here as they go way back; happy to see Megan with Elk River Liquors, as she was the assistant manager at the Big Lake Liquor Store, where Nicole and her husband both work part time; happy that the weather has been great and final buck for seeing a doppelganger of Bruce Tyler at Coborns in Big Lake!
Happy Birthday none
Card Draw no winner this week
Pearls of Wisdom:
Heather shared The Four-Way
Beer Test
- Is it ICECOLD?
- Is there ENOUGH for all concerned?
- Will it build GOOD TIMES and MUCH BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
- Can it get any BETTER than this?
Last Time We Met 10/3/2024
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 Melanie Clemons, Roger Clemons, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Tom Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Mark Kuyava, Dr. Laura Mullennex, Cal Portner, Garrett Prehatney, Debbi Rydberg, Theresa Slominski, Marv Sorvala, Nicole Wojcik, David Anderson, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler, Stewart Wilson
Guests Attending Kendra Plaschkov, Development Officer of Ruff Start Rescue and Rob Rydberg, husband of Debbi Rydberg
 Program Adam Stumne was not available and so Julie Fish introduced our Speaker, Kendra Plaschkov, Development Officer of Ruff Start Rescue. Ruff Start Rescue was started by Azure Davis in 2010 with a pitbull dog named “Hope” and since then they have saved 27,000 animal lives. They help dogs, cats,  and critters alike, and are currently involved in helping with hurricane victims. The “difference” of Ruff Start Rescue compared to other animal saving ventures is their location, in urban Princeton, MN, the on-site veterinary clinic, conversation-based adoptions, and educating the public has been part of their mission since inception. Services are provided thanks to 608 active volunteers and 1,000+ foster homes. At any time, they average 500-600 animals in rescue, so all the help is needed. If you are considering fostering, it is free, all you need to do is open your heart and your home and they will provide the food, supplies, and support necessary to foster. There is an online application and then a visit with a volunteer coordinator to match with an animal. Donors are key to the program, and they have a goal of $225,000 on Give to the Max Day in November. They are running out of space and are looking at expanding in the Elk River community in the next 3-5 years. Kendar closed with a quote: “No one can do everything, but everyone can do something.”
Board & Committee Updates and Reports Heather Kliewer asked for help at the Community Connect event 10/17 to distribute coats and coordinate the wheel for prizes. Debbi Rydberg promoted the Stike Out Polio Bowling event that will be held at McPete’s in Big Lake, October 24 at 3:30 (we will not have a regular meeting that day). John Osterman will be bowling three games, and groups are encouraged to bowl against him. She distributed sheets with a QR code to register and pledge, and then Neil will invoice members after the event. As a reminder, in October, District 5960 will match polio pledges with Paul Harris points dollar for dollar over $100; if you pledge $365 you will be matched with the additional points for a Paul Harris recognition, and our club will also be matching points. Also, you are a member of the Polio Plus Society if you pledge $100 every year to the Polio drive. There will be a poker run game during the bowling event where you can purchase additional cards for $1 based on spares and strikes, and it will be a 50/50 prize.
Fundraising Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas Heather Kliewer was delighted the Chrome book and technology worked well today!
Rob Rydberg was delighted to share that 10/10/1978 will be the 46th anniversary of the date that he asked Debbi to marry him.
Debbi Rydberg was delighted that Rob was here and he brought six cans of cat food they had at home, and an additional bag of cat food from Pet Smart he purchased. He also had a car full of food donations for Ruff Start Rescue from Pet Smart! She was also delighted the construction has started on the Chamber office but had a dilemma that mice have been showing up because of it.
Julie Fish was delighted for the speaker today, all the amazing stats of the animals saved and the good that they do, that was heartwarming and heartbreaking all at the same time.
Theresa Slominski was delighted that she will be travelling to Vermont next week to visit her daughter and that Julie Fish will be taking care of the minutes in her absence.
Bob Maxwell was delighted that his kids treated he and his wife to a performance at Orchestra Hall where Star Wars was played on a large movie screen and a live orchestra provided the music. It was awesome!
John Osterman was delighted for the Elk River football game tomorrow against Rogers.
Julie Fish had another delight that Monticello football beat Rogers (her great nephews play for Monticello.) Nicole Wocjik was delighted that Haley had been home for a surprise visit, Mark and she had a great camping trip in Jay Cook Park, their roof project has started, and she was glad to be at Rotary.
Cal Portner was delighted that 9/27 granddaughter Emerson Jo Mueller was born at 6 pounds 8 ounces, 18 inches. (This was also their 39th anniversary!) He was also delighted that he went to Pittsburgh to visit an air force friend he hadn’t seen in 29 years where they tailgated at the Steelers game, went to a Pirates game, and went to a brew pub that was a former church.
Marv Sorvala was delighted to be driving to Florida next week but will miss the nice weather here.
Stewart Wilson was delighted his Florida roof withstood the hurricane, and will be attending the football game with his kids but had a dilemma that they are Rogers fans.
Rob Rydberg had another delight that 50 years ago Alexandria won State Championship football and now a team member’s grandson plays for Elk River.
Roger Clemons was delighted to have a dear friend visit for three days and they went to Minnehaha Falls and had a fun day.
Happy Birthday none
Card Draw no winner this week
Pearls of Wisdom: “Keep your face always toward the sunshine and the shadows will fall behind you.” Walt Whitman
Last Time We Met 9/26/2024
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
Melanie Clemons, Julie Fish, Neil Gagnon, Katie Harstad, Tom Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Mark Kuyava, Cal
Portner, Garrett Prehatney, Debbi Rydberg, Alan Sakry, Theresa Slominski, Bill Yueill, Glen Ertel, Bob Maxwell, John Osterman, Bruce Tyler
Guests Attending
Jeremy Evers, Magnus Veteran’s Foundation
Program
Jeremy Evers from Magnus Veteran's Foundation  showed a video that showcased the property and the
services offered to Veterans. They provide primary care to veterans, taking care of the whole person in
mind, body, heart, and spirit. The services are not free, but they are free to the veterans and their
immediate families, whether they are active, in reserve, national guard, or retired. The President and
Founder, Shawn Alderman, is a 100% volunteer at the facility. There are five pillars the organization is
based upon: Medical, Mental, Physical, Social, and Spiritual. They currently have on staff three physical therapists, four personal trainers, a social director, three physician assistants, a nurse, a medical
assistant, three mental health counselors, a social worker, a doctor of mental health, a doctor of
physical therapy, a therapy assistant, and several administrative staff. The Board is comprised of at least
50% veterans. The average cost per member is $600 but no bill is ever sent to the members. They need
philanthropy and donations to provide these services for free, which is why he is presenting to Rotary. In
2022 they served 53 veterans, in 2023 250 veterans, 2024 started with 585 veterans and currently at
905, and on track to serve 1,000 veterans this year. All services are provided on the campus as
outpatient, and they are quickly outgrowing their spaces and buildings. They have plans for remodeling
to have six medical rooms, a minor surgery space, three mental health rooms, and expanding the barn
for wellness needs. The campus is open to the public Thursdays from 11-12 and Jeremy invited Rotary
out to visit.
Board & Committee Updates and Reports
Heather Kliewer again thanked the Livin’ volunteers Bob, Mark, Garrett, Debbi and her husband Rob.
They would like us back next year and so mark your calendars for September 12 and 13, 2025.
Debbi Rydberg promoted the Polio Bowling event that will be held at McPete’s in Big Lake, October 24 at 3:30 (we will not have a regular meeting that day). She will have pledge sheets next week, and shared she will be facilitating games at the event for the Rotarians who are not bowling. In October, District
5960 will match polio pledges with Paul Harris points dollar for dollar over $100; if you pledge $365 you
will be matched with the additional points for a Paul Harris recognition. Debbi shared that the club will
also be matching points. Finally, Debbi shared that you are a member of the Polio Plus Society if you
pledge $100 every year to the Polio drive.
Membership chair Julie Fish asked for 3-5 volunteers to be on her membership committee so the club can do extraordinary things.
The date for the Taste of Elk River in 2025 has not been identified yet. The City and The Bank of Elk River
are still working out the date.
Fundraising Opportunities
Delights and Dilemmas
Katie Harstad was delighted to be on day four of her new job and has a phenomenal team to work with.
Debbi Rydberg was delighted to have returned from Kansas City visiting her mom and brother, and also
getting to see her son. She was also delighted to have four of the six candidate forums out of the way.
The forums will be recorded and will be posted on the chamber website if you missed them. She was
also delighted that Rob was able to see nephew compete (and win) in an MMA fight while in Kansas, and
to have volunteered at the Livin’ event.
Al Sakry was delighted to have Jeremy here for the Magnus Foundation as it is a fantastic organization.
He was also delighted his wife and Jordan went to Maine to see the fall colors and he was able to golf.
Neil Gagnon was delighted to have celebrated his sixteenth wedding anniversary – he went to Wisconsin
to golf, and she went to the Boundary Waters for a girls’ trip – and then they celebrated together when
they were both back. He was also delighted that his son is student of the month at Spectrum.
Julie Fish was delighted for the Magnus Foundation presentation and her parents celebrating their
seventy-third wedding anniversary on Sunday.
Glen Ertel was delighted for his sixty-seventh wedding anniversary. He said he and his wife have only
had one argument over the years, and it started the day they were married.
Tom Kerber was delighted to host his first networking event at Lupilin, and had a dilemma to be attending a funeral for his thirty-nine-year-old nephew who slipped and fell and died from head trauma.
Happy Birthday none
Card Draw no winner this week
Pearls of Wisdom:
“Keep calm and carry a wand.” A.W. Jantha, Hocus Pocus and The All New Sequel
(Heather brought her own wand after being inspired by The Magic of Rotary presentation last week.)
Last Time We Met 9/19/2024
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 Wade Bastian, Roger Clemons, Julie Fish, Tom Kerber, Heather Kliewer, Joseph Libor, Tove Lichty, Garrett Prehatney, Theresa Slominski, Marvin Sorvala, Bob Maxwell, Bruce Tyler
Guests Attending Ed Boeve, District Governor, and his wife Sue; Mike Spellman, Assistant District Governor; Merrill Binnall, Boy Scout Leader from Becker who will be working with Wade Bastian and Heather Kliewer coordinating a food drive
 Program Mike Spellman introduced District Governor Ed Boeve. Ed had a large banner displaying the theme “The Magic of Rotary” and he even had a wand! He started by asking President Heather Kliewer what her magic Rotary moment was, and she shared about a student of the month moment for her, and she thought “Wow, Rotarians are really great people and I am glad to be a part of that.” Ed Boeve thanked her and presented Heather with a Magic of Rotary flag and two pins, one to keep and one to give away. Ed talked about his magic rotary moment that came after he had been in Rotary nineteen years and his club worked on a Kenya project for a well. That’s when he felt like a true Rotarian by doing good in the world. He talked about the great things Rotary can do globally with grants and encouraged foundation participation. Rotary’s vision is Together we see a world where People unite and take action to Create lasting Change across the globe. The capitalized words are Together People Create Change and that is the real stuff of Rotary. Ed shared the district priorities: increase membership 4%, foundation annual fund giving of at least $500,001, continue to eradicate polio, take care of each other, move food insecurity response forward, and cultural appreciation opportunities.
Upcoming events are 10/12 “Belonging – It’s a Rotary Thing” in Montevideo, World Food Day 10/16 find ways to draw attention to food insecurity, May 1-3, 2025 will be identifying ways to avoid food insecurity in the first place (more information to come), One Summit: 9/21 in Faribault and 9/26 in Stillwater and 10/3 in St Croix Falls, Mid Term 1/11/25 at the Klas Center at Hamline University Kay Fredericks Room. Mike Spellman talked about Zone 25B and 29 Rotary Institute that he recently attended. He stated a lot of Rotarians don’t know about it, but it is a wonderful opportunity to attend great sessions and hear great Rotary success stories. Next year it will be at Mystic Lake Casino in Prior Lake, MN 10/2-4, 2025. He also talked about the 2025 Rotary Convention in Calgary, Alberta. Both are close to us and if you participate in Rotary at this level, you won’t regret it!
Board & Committee Updates and Reports
Heather Kliewer thanked Mark, Garrett, Debbi and husband Rob, and Bob for their volunteering at the Livin Festival. Rotary was able to collect tips and collected $393 Friday and Saturday night. Heather added $6 to make it $399, and then Bob added one more to make it $400 and a few more were added to make it $402! It was a great service opportunity and some fundraising for the club.
Heather passed around a sign-up sheet for helping at the Community Connect event with the big wheel. Heather also passed around information regarding the Wildlife Festival 9/28 for the ribbon cutting event.
Fundraising Opportunities Delights and Dilemmas Tove Lichty shared that Mary Eberley said hello. She was delighted that they now have a new kitten named Phyllis.
Tom Kerber was delighted that his wife found a rudder online for a posting that was six years old, but the rudder was still available!
Happy Birthday none
Card Draw Wade Bastian won this week with a nine of hearts!
Last Time We Met 9/12/2024
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 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.
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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