Board meetings of the Club are usually held on the 3rd Thursday of the month from Noon to 1pm. Members are welcome and encouraged to attend and can learn about the innerworkings of the Club, as the rotary year progresses and plans are developed.
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Welcome to Marion-East Cedar Rapids Rotary
Upcoming Rotary Speaker: Greg Smith, Freund Global
Join us on Tuesday, June 9th as we welcome Greg Smith of Freund Global as our featured speaker.
About Our Speaker
Greg Smith brings a wealth of experience in business leadership and global operations through his work with Freund Global, a company known for its innovation and expertise in industrial and manufacturing solutions. Through his role, Greg has developed a strong understanding of industry trends, operational efficiency, and the importance of adapting to a rapidly changing global marketplace.
In addition to his professional background, Greg is passionate about building strong relationships—both within his organization and throughout the communities he serves. His perspective combines practical business insight with a broader understanding of how companies can grow, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to their workforce and community.
About Freund Global
Freund Global is part of a larger international organization recognized for its advanced technologies and solutions within industrial processes. The company focuses on providing high-quality equipment, systems, and services that support manufacturing efficiency and product quality across a variety of industries.
With a global presence and commitment to innovation, Freund Global helps clients improve production capabilities, maintain high standards, and stay competitive in evolving markets. Their work reflects a dedication to precision, reliability, and continuous improvement—values that resonate strongly with today’s business environment.
Meeting Details & RSVP Reminder
- Date: Tuesday, June 9th
- Time: Noon
- Location: Indian Creek Country Club
Please remember to RSVP:
- Let us know by 9:00 AM on Monday if you plan to attend Here is an email link.
- Indicate if you are bringing a guest or prospective member
- If your plans change after RSVP’ing, please notify us so we can adjust meal counts
Important:
If you do not RSVP, you will need to wait until all confirmed attendees have been served before receiving a meal.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation—we look forward to seeing you there for what promises to be an informative and engaging presentation!
🎉 End of Year Celebration – Mark Your Calendars for Wed June 17th @ 6:00 PM and RSVP by June 12th!
Please mark your calendars for Wednesday, June 17th as we come together to celebrate another successful Rotary year!
This year’s End of Year Celebration will be held at Tuscany Grill in Cedar Rapids, with festivities beginning at 6:00 PM. It’s always a special evening to reflect on the past year, recognize accomplishments, and enjoy fellowship with fellow members.
We encourage you to make it a true celebration by bringing your spouses and children to join in the fun. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect outside of our regular meetings and share the Rotary spirit with family.
If you haven't checked already, please check your email regarding the End of Year Celebration invite. It is an electronic invitation from evite. Check your SPAM just in case. RSVPs are due by June 12th. If for some reason, you did not receive it, please respond to Katie Powell ktapowell2012@gmail.com and she will send you a copy.
We look forward to celebrating with all of you!
• Shoes for Kids update: Thanks to the generosity of our members and the success of the Waffle Breakfast, we have raised enough to donate 140 pairs of shoes! Great work, everyone!
• Open board position: The club secretary role will become available as of July 1st, as Jeff Selfridge steps down from the position. Duties include tracking attendance and working with dues. If you are interested, please reach out to Alex or visit with Jeff directly. Dues are paid as part of the role!
Thank you for your continued service with the Rotary Club of Marion-East Cedar Rapids. As part of a global network of over 1.2 million members, you help drive meaningful change in communities near and far.
Through the support of Rotary members and donors, The Rotary Foundation continues to make a powerful impact. In 2025–26, contributions have already helped fund more than 450 district grants, nearly 1,500 global grants, and dozens of disaster response efforts.
These projects are making a difference worldwide—from environmental restoration in New York, to mobile medical clinics in Ukraine, to improved sanitation and hygiene in Papua New Guinea.
Your support makes this work possible. Every contribution helps transform ideas into lasting solutions. Thank you for being part of Rotary’s mission of Doing Good in the World.
Rotary Meeting Recap: Ray Brown, ESCO Group
At our June 2nd Rotary meeting, members had the opportunity to hear from Ray Brown, President and CEO of ESCO Group, who shared both the story behind the company’s success and his perspective on leadership, workforce challenges, and the future of industry.
A Company Built on Values
Ray began by reflecting on his long tenure with ESCO Group—joining the company in 1992 and growing alongside it into a nationally recognized firm. What stood out most in his story was that ESCO’s success has been deeply rooted in its culture from the very beginning. Foundational values like integrity, safety, mutual commitment, and continuous improvement still guide the company today.
He highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit of founder Wayne Engle, whose leadership emphasized innovation, strong relationships, and doing the right thing—principles that continue to shape ESCO’s approach to business and community involvement.
Growth, Evolution, and Innovation
Over the years, ESCO Group has evolved far beyond its origins as an electrical contractor. Today, the company includes multiple business units specializing in electrical construction, automation, and power systems. Their work spans more than 40 states annually and serves industries ranging from manufacturing to utilities.
Ray shared how ESCO has adapted to major industry shifts—such as automation, robotics, and data-driven decision-making. Rather than focusing on single technologies, the company works to deliver complete solutions that improve efficiency, safety, and reliability for clients.
He also noted that many manufacturers are now operating on rapid technology cycles, often updating systems every two to three years to remain competitive.
Workforce Challenges and Opportunities
A key theme of the presentation was the growing demand for skilled labor. Ray emphasized that workforce shortages—particularly in the trades—are one of the biggest challenges facing industry today. With tens of thousands of open electrician positions nationwide, companies are investing heavily in training and apprenticeship programs.
ESCO has leaned into this challenge by expanding its training programs and fostering a culture of continuous learning. Ray stressed that developing talent is not optional—it’s essential to sustaining growth and innovation.
The Power of Employee Ownership
One of the most engaging parts of the discussion centered on ESCO Group’s transition to an employee-owned structure (ESOP). Ray explained that ownership fundamentally changes how employees think about their work, creating a shared sense of purpose and accountability across the organization.
He noted that while it takes time for employees to fully understand the impact of ownership, the results are powerful—stronger engagement, teamwork, and long-term commitment.
Commitment to Community
Ray also highlighted ESCO’s deep ties to the Cedar Rapids and Marion communities. From volunteer efforts during the 2008 flood to ongoing investments in local development and education, the company continues to prioritize giving back.
He shared stories of retired electricians volunteering their time to rewire homes after the flood—an example of the company’s culture extending well beyond the workplace.
Looking Ahead
As ESCO Group continues to grow, Ray’s focus remains on building for the long term—supporting employees, solving complex challenges for clients, and contributing to a strong and resilient community.
His message to Rotarians was clear: success isn’t just about business performance—it’s about people, values, and the impact we make together.
Marion Cares is inviting local businesses and organizations to take part in its“15 for 15” Community Challenge—an initiative designed to prevent homelessness before it begins. Building on a $15,000 Housing Assistance Grant from the Marion Civil Rights Commission, the goal is to recruit 15 partners to contribute $1,000 each, creating a $30,000 fund to support families facing housing instability.
These contributions provide timely assistance for rent, utilities, and other urgent needs—helping families avoid eviction, keep children in their schools, and remain connected to their community. Even small investments at the right time can make a lasting difference, reducing the long-term impacts and costs of homelessness.
Businesses and organizations interested in becoming a “15 for 15” partner can help double the impact of this grant and strengthen housing stability across the Marion community.
To make a Donation, go to Donate Now | Marion Cares
Marion by Moonlight hosted by Farmers State Bank featuring 90s Kid
6-9 p.m., Thursday, June 11, City Square Park
Pop-Up Acts in the Artway featuring Day Ashworth
6-8 p.m., Friday, June 12, Uptown Artway
Moonlit Movie Series featuring Zootopia 2
7 p.m., Friday, June 12, Lowe Park
Uptown Marion Market Returns June 13
The sights, sounds and tastes of summer return as the Uptown Marion Market kicks off its 2026 season on Saturday, June 13, from 8 a.m. to noon along 7th Avenue and in City Square Park in Uptown Marion. Shoppers can explore a selection of over 40 local vendors offering everything from fresh produce and honey to wine, baked goods and handcrafted artisan items. The market, in addition to dozens of local shops, cafés, and eateries, is the perfect reason to spend a Saturday in Marion. Look for Face Painting by Lindsay, balloon creations from The Balloon Buffoons, and live music from steel drum band Pandelirium, all happening from 9 a.m. to noon. The Power of Produce (POP) Club invites kids to dig into the homegrown food scene with hands-on activities, educational games and fresh produce tastings. Offered in partnership with Iowa State University Extension & Outreach Linn County, and sponsored by Revive Family Chiropractic, POP is open to all children while supplies last. The Uptown Marion Market continues throughout the summer and early fall on July 11, Aug. 8, and Sept. 26, from 8 a.m. to noon each day. Vendor information and maps are available at marioncc.org and facebook.com/MarionIAChamber.
Apply to Join a Board or Commission
Do you want to provide input on City policies and help shape our city and its government? Apply to be one of 100+ volunteers who serve on Marion boards and commissions. There are openings on the Civil Rights Commission, Construction Code Review Board or Zoning Board of Adjustment. To be considered, please submit an online application.
Free Outdoor Fitness Programming Offered through the Summer
Be Well Marion and Marion Parks and Recreation are teaming up with area instructors to offer free fitness programming in Marion through the summer. The dates and times for Zumba at Lowe Park, Sunrise Yoga at Lowe Park, Downdogs in Uptown and Pilates in City Square Park are set. All ages and abilities are welcome. Yoga and pilates participants should bring a mat and a water bottle. Participants will need to complete a waiver, which covers all programs for the season. Additional copies will be available on-site.
Marion Police Department to Host Inaugural Civilian Police Academy
The Marion Police Department will launch its first Civilian Police Academy this fall, offering community members a behind-the-scenes look at the department and an opportunity to learn about patrol operations, investigations, traffic enforcement, emergency response, community policing and other law enforcement responsibilities. The nine-week program will meet on consecutive Wednesday evenings from 6-9 p.m. beginning Sept. 2, 2026. Participants must be at least 18 years old and pass a background check. Enrollment is limited to 20 participants, with preference given to Marion residents. Applications are now open at www.cityofmarion.org/employment and will be accepted on a rolling basis until all spots are filled. Apply today!
Marion Public Library Announces "The Big Marion Read"
The Marion Public Library is proud to announce it has been awarded a National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Big Read grant to support The Big Marion Read, a community-wide reading initiative launching this fall. An initiative of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest, the NEA Big Read brings communities together through the shared experience of reading and discussing a book. Learn more at marionpubliclibrary.org/bigread.
Support Marion-East CR Shoes For Kids Program
Help us fund our Shoes for Kids program by donating your cans and bottles! Simply take them to any Can Shed location in the Cedar Rapids or Marion area. When your return is complete and payout is ready, request that the funds be donated to the Marion-East CR Shoes For Kids account. If they have any issues finding the account, please ask them to do a hard copy donation. This will then get the funds to the account, and we will receive the donation for the program.
Once our account reaches $100.00 or more, Can Shed will send a check to us via mail. It's important to mention the account name to ensure the funds are correctly allocated.
This is a fantastic opportunity to support our Shoes for Kids program throughout the year. Spread the word and take your cans and bottles in to make a difference!
Rotary Recap – April 28, 2026
Student Leaders Celebration Luncheon
Last week’s Rotary meeting was a special joint event with the Marion Safe and Drug Free Schools Consortium, celebrating outstanding student leaders from both Linn-Mar and Marion schools. The luncheon recognized students who are making positive choices and serving as role models for their peers.
The program featured remarks from community leaders who reinforced the importance of decision-making and character.
Marion Police Chief Jeremy Sprague spoke about how decisions determine destiny. He shared a simple but powerful framework for making good choices—the “3 R’s”:
- Right choice – choosing what is right over what is easy
- Responsibility of choice – owning the decisions we make
- Results of choice – understanding that every decision has consequences
Mayor Nick AbouAssaly followed with a message centered on character and the long-term impact of smart decisions. He emphasized that substance abuse affects the entire community, and that everyone shares in the cost when poor choices are made.
He also encouraged students to take pride in their roots. Each year, Mayor AbouAssaly personally signs approximately 800 cards for graduating seniors—a small but meaningful gesture to show his support. Drawing from his own experience, he shared that although he moved away after college, he returned to Marion and has never regretted that decision.
Mayor AbouAssaly highlighted the progress Marion has made during his 11 years as mayor, including improved amenities and stronger curb appeal. He spoke about his ongoing efforts to stay connected with students—visiting schools, sitting at lunch tables, and participating in Youth Council meetings. His message to students was clear: don’t rule out Marion. In a community this size, individuals have the opportunity to truly make an impact.
Most importantly, he reminded the students that Marion is proud of them and is cheering them on as they chase their dreams—and he hopes they remain proud of the community they grew up in.
The event was a great reminder of the power of positive leadership, thoughtful choices, and community support in shaping the next generation.
Over the past few weeks, The Marion-East Cedar Rapids Rotary Club has lost some past members and special friends of the Club. Past members who were very active members of the Club are Tont Staab, Mike Sinnot and.Dan Meloan.
Tony worked for the Gazette, Mike was a pharmacist and.Dan was a Realtor by the end of his career
Friends of the Club who passed away recently are Jerry Springston and Jim Wasta. They were regular visitors form Rotary West and Downtown respectively when making-up was a greater part of Rotary.
Jerry was a pastor primarily in Cedar Rapids and Past District Governor. Jim was owner of Pioneer Office Equipment.
These folks all served Rotary and its ideals throughout their lives. Once a Rotarian, always a Rotarian.
Rotary Program Recap – March 31, 2026
Tour of the City of Marion Public Works Facility
Speaker & Host: Michael D. Barkalow, PE
Marion Rotary members enjoyed a behind-the-scenes look at one of the City’s most important assets during our March 31 program: a guided tour of the new City of Marion Public Works Facility, hosted by Public Works Director / City Engineer Michael D. Barkalow, PE. Mike shared the story behind the development of the $28 million, 144,000-square-foot facility and how it supports the City’s mission to provide reliable, safe, and efficient public services.
Constructed by Conlan Construction and funded through special revenue bonds tied to solid waste, sanitary sewer, and stormwater utilities, the facility replaces an undersized and structurally deficient former building. The new campus was designed with functionality, safety, and resilience in mind. Features include a 61-stall parking area, a modern fleet maintenance area with multiple wash bays, specialized concrete floors to accommodate rubber‑tracked vehicles, a fire truck lift, on‑site fuel storage, and a fabrication shop for welding. Members were especially intrigued by the practical design details, including three‑wheel bikes used by mechanics to efficiently move throughout the large building.
Resiliency and sustainability are central to the facility’s design. The building includes geothermal heating (supported by a $2.5 million rebate from Alliant Energy), a one‑megawatt generator, and a 24‑hour battery backup system. A FEMA‑rated safe room doubles as a tornado shelter, designed to withstand 250‑mph winds and missile impacts, and can safely hold up to 398 occupants. The site also incorporates low‑maintenance landscaping with buffalo grass and pollinator‑friendly plantings. Additional features highlighted during the tour included traffic camera monitoring, public safety training space, and environmental and safety systems such as CO₂ monitoring.
Mike also outlined the project timeline, from early design and bidding in 2023 through phased occupancy beginning in late August 2024 following the City’s reorganization into a combined Public Works Department. With 45 employees now based at the facility, Rotarians gained a strong appreciation for the scale of operations and the planning required to keep Marion running smoothly every day. The tour offered a fascinating glimpse into the infrastructure and people that support our community—and reinforced the value of thoughtful investment in public works.
Speaker Recap: District Governor Ward Budweg
March 24, 2026 | Indian Creek Country Club
Rotary District 5970 Governor Ward Budweg brought energy, inspiration, and perspective during his visit to the club on March 24. He opened by celebrating the collective impact of the past year, highlighting service that reached 741 children through backpack programs, supported 552 families with home‑facing needs, and assisted more than 1,300 additional families through other initiatives. His message underscored how local service, when sustained and intentional, creates meaningful change.
Governor Budweg used the image of a bicycle wheel to illustrate how a successful Rotary club functions—pointing out that while some members are out front serving at events, others play equally critical behind‑the‑scenes roles that keep everything moving forward. He encouraged members to share their Rotary stories, mentor future leaders, and actively seek their replacements, noting that membership growth and engagement are essential to long‑term vitality. He also shared a personal and powerful story of receiving a $1,000 loan from the New Hampton Rotary Club that helped him complete college—an act of generosity he considers repaid through 41 years of Rotary service.
Ward closed by inviting members to attend the District Conference on May 1–2 at Ellsworth College in Iowa Falls, featuring engaging speakers, networking opportunities, and a Kentucky Derby watch event. His visit served as a strong reminder that Rotary’s impact is built on connection, continuity, and a shared commitment to service.
🔗 Find & share our Facebook page:
: https://www.facebook.com/p/Marion-East-Cedar-Rapids-Rotary-Club-61579827653865/
Board Meetings Now Available In Person and Remotely
Our club is pleased to announce a new option to make board participation more convenient and accessible. Beginning this month, members will have the opportunity to join the monthly Board meeting remotely, offering added flexibility for those who may be traveling or managing tight schedules.
We also extend a heartfelt thank‑you to Kyle and Ohnward Bank & Trust for graciously continuing to host our in‑person meetings in their Marion conference room. This hybrid approach allows us to maintain valuable face‑to‑face interaction while giving members more ways to stay involved.
While in‑person attendance is still encouraged, members—including those not currently serving on the Board—are welcome to join remotely if that better fits their day.
If you need help connecting to Microsoft Teams or have any questions about remote participation, please reach out. We’re happy to assist.
Next Board Meeting
Thursday, February 19, 2026
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Ohnward Bank & Trust
665 Marion Blvd
Marion, Iowa 52302
🔗 Board Meeting Link:
Microsoft Teams meeting
Meeting ID: 293 535 777 693 94
Passcode: pS6CG2XU
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2025 Community Impact
741 children received backpacks & school supplies
43 children served through Summer Connection
31 children received a free exam and glasses
47 children enrolled in SHINE After-School
52 Families helped with basic needs
1,300+ family freezer meals delivered
238 children, (86 Families) served through Angel Tree
$155,900+ estimated community impact https://secure.givelively.org/donate/marion-cares-inc/25-club |
https://secure.givelively.org/donate/marion-cares-inc |
SHINE is our after-school program. SHINE stands for Seeking Him In Neighborhoods Everywhere.
In SHINE, we seek to meet the social, spiritual, and academic needs of our children.
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As of February 2026, we officially have “affirmation” that Bob Molman and Tom Barnes (and, reluctantly, the rest of us) have been correct in bestowing Rotarianship upon people from the past.
Read more here: https://www.rotary.org/en/abraham-lincoln-rotarian
Lincoln: The First Great Rotarian (Unofficially, of Course)
The Rotary magazine story traces the roots of this idea back to a 1916 Rotary Convention, where Joe Mitchell Chapple delivered a speech calling Lincoln “the first great Rotarian.” His message resonated so strongly that the sentiment stuck, reappearing in Rotary lore for more than a century.
The article also shares a remarkable—and true—story that brings history full circle.
Fleetwood Lindley: The Last to See Lincoln’s Face… and a Rotarian
In 1901, a Springfield teenager named Fleetwood Lindley received a tip that Lincoln’s tomb was being opened one final time. He hopped on his bicycle and raced to Oak Ridge Cemetery, becoming the last living person known to have seen Lincoln’s face.
And in a twist fit for Rotary storytelling, Lindley went on to become… a Rotarian.
This discovery adds unexpected legitimacy to the long-running “Rotary Sarcophagus” tradition—honoring historical figures whose character and service embody Rotary values, even if they never had the chance to attend a meeting.
A Fun Reminder of Rotary’s Long Memory
While Lincoln will never appear in our attendance stats, his legacy of integrity, service, and leadership continues to inspire Rotarians—past, present, and imagined. We can now say we have documentation to back it up.
At our February 3rd 2026 meeting, members received an informative update on the impact of the Rotary Foundation and how our club can continue supporting life‑changing service both locally and globally. The presentation reinforced how every contribution—large or small—creates measurable, lasting change.
What the Rotary Foundation Does
The Rotary Foundation transforms donations into real, tangible service projects that change lives around the world. With more than a century of global impact and over $4 billion invested in sustainable projects, the Foundation supports initiatives that improve health, fight disease, provide clean water, strengthen education, and promote peace.
What One Donation Can Do
Members were reminded that contributions don’t disappear into a general fund—they create specific, meaningful outcomes:
- $3 protects a child from polio
- $50 maintains clean water filtration systems to prevent waterborne illness
- $200 helps replace livestock or tools for families recovering from disaster
These examples highlight the power and efficiency of Rotary Foundation giving.
Why Donors Trust the Foundation
Rotary Foundation giving remains strong because of its transparency and stewardship. The Foundation:
- Operates as a public charity
- Is governed by a dedicated Board of Trustees
- Maintains oversight separate from Rotary International operations
- Consistently receives top charity ratings for financial management and impact
- Is headquartered in Evanston, Illinois, with affiliated foundations worldwide
MECR 2025–2026 Goals
The presentation also reviewed our club’s goals for the year, including:
- Membership growth and participation
- Strengthening support for the Rotary Foundation and PolioPlus
- Continuing the tradition of giving through the Annual Fund
These goals keep our club aligned with Rotary’s larger mission while expanding our local impact.
Donation Matching Opportunity
Members learned about a special Foundation donation matching program, available through Cindy Shipley. This opportunity helps members reach their next Paul Harris Fellow milestone:
Example:
If you need $800 to reach your next Paul Harris Fellow:
- You donate $300
- MECR contributes $100
- The District contributes $400 (matching half)
Total credited: $1,000 — enough to earn your next Paul Harris recognition.
This match is available through February 28, 2026, making now an ideal time to participate.
Quick Donation Option
A slide was shared with a QR code, allowing members to donate quickly. Cindy will follow up with donors to finalize contributions, including the $100 club bonus and district match.
Thanks to all that Joined Us for Salvation Army “Ring the Bell” Volunteer Days!
And Thanks to Tom Padley for organizing!
Rotary Rings in Holiday Cheer for the Salvation Army
Our club proudly supported the Salvation Army Kettle Campaign again this holiday season!
- On Saturday, December 6th, we raised $1,130.31.
- On Friday, December 12th, we added another $904.72.
That brings our two-day total to $2,035.03—a fantastic contribution to help the Salvation Army provide food, shelter, and hope to those in need.
A big thank you to all members who volunteered their time and energy for this meaningful service project. Your efforts truly reflect Rotary’s motto: “Service Above Self.”
Welcome Our New Member: Kelli Artley
At our December 9, 2025 meeting, the Marion East-Cedar Rapids Rotary Club proudly inducted Kelli Artley as our newest member. Kelli brings energy, determination, and a positive outlook to our club—qualities she described herself as “determined, resourceful, and pretty happy!”
Professional Background:
Kelli is a Relationship Banker at BankIowa, where she focuses on building strong connections with clients and supporting small businesses in the Marion area. Her role emphasizes personalized service and community engagement, making her a perfect fit for Rotary’s mission of service above self.
Personal Snapshot:
Beyond her professional life, Kelli values resourcefulness and optimism. Her enthusiasm for helping others and her commitment to personal growth shine through in everything she does. We’re excited to see her bring these strengths to our projects and initiatives.
Please join us in giving Kelli a warm Rotary welcome! We look forward to working alongside her as we continue to make a positive impact in our community.
Have you ever considered applying to be District Governor? District 5970 is now accepting applications for the 2028–2029 Rotary Year. Serving as District Governor is a life-changing experience—one that leaves a lasting impact.
Past District Governor Jill Olsen (2012–2013), a member of our own club, describes it best:
“Being a District Governor opens a window in your life that never closes. I learned so much, especially about servant leadership. I made friends across the world, some of whom have become like second family. If you long to make a difference, then consider challenging yourself with this awesome opportunity.”
As District Governor, you’ll have the chance to champion your passions—whether youth programs, maternal health, or any of Rotary’s focus areas—while meeting incredible Rotarians across our district and beyond.
Key Details & Qualifications
- Must have served a term as President of a Rotary Club
- Completed 7 years of Rotary membership prior to taking office
- Be a current member in good standing
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work with others and speak publicly
- Desire to promote Rotary locally and internationally
Training & Timeline:
- Leadership development in 2026, 2027, and 2028
- Attend International Assembly in January 2028
- Applications due April 5, 2025
- Interviews in late April or early May 2025
Travel and training expenses are reimbursed by District 5970.
Interested? Here’s How to Apply
- Complete the application form (attached) and return to:
Suellen Kolbet, Search Committee Chair
Email: des@district5970.org
Mail: P.O. Box 445, New Hampton, IA 50659
For more information, contact:
- Carole Bernhard – carolebernhard@icloud.com | (515) 320-4294
- Shannon Duncan – sdunc11@gmail.com | (563) 419-4062
- Or reach out to Jill Olsen at jolsendg2012@gmail.com
Take time over the holidays to discuss this opportunity with your family and friends. This is your chance to lead, serve, and make a lasting difference. Will you step through that open window?
Rotary Rush Matching Campaign – Give the Gift of Rotary
District 5970 is offering a Rotary Rush Matching Campaign from December 1, 2025 through February 28, 2026. During this limited-time promotion, your $100–$500 donation to The Rotary Foundation Annual Fund-SHARE will be matched 1-to-1 with Foundation Recognition Points, helping you reach your next Paul Harris Fellow level faster.
Key Details:
- Minimum gift: $100 | Maximum eligible: $500
- One match per donor, first-come, first-served
- Applies only to Annual Fund-SHARE contributions (not PolioPlus or other funds)
- Donations must be processed through District 5970 (not sent directly to TRF)
Your gift powers Rotary projects that provide clean water, fight disease, support education, and more. To participate, complete Form 123-EN and send it with your contribution to David Manning (details at http://www.district5970.org).
Questions? Contact David at DavidBrianManning@gmail.com or Michelle Bell at foundationchair@district5970.org.
Let’s make an impact together—give the gift of Rotary today!
Meeting Summary – November 25, 2025
Speaker: Carl Rathje Topic: From RYLA Student to RYLA Counselor – A Journey of Leadership Growth
Key Highlights
Carl’s Journey
Began as a hesitant Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) student in high school.
Discovered a passion for service and leadership through team-based challenges and daily leadership themes.
Returned as a counselor and now serves as Head Team Leader for the upcoming conference.
His progression from participant to mentor illustrates RYLA’s lasting impact on confidence, communication, and leadership abilities.
About RYLA
Intensive leadership program for ages 14–30, sponsored by Rotary clubs and districts.
Typically runs 3–10 days; locally, it is a week-long, high-energy experience for high school students.
Focus areas include:
Leadership Training: Communication, problem-solving, ethical decision-making.
Team-Building Activities: Outdoor challenges, “team-timed activities” (TTAs), and problem-solving exercises like the “helium stick.”
Personal Growth: Networking with community leaders, career skill development, and lasting friendships.
Unique features include Words of Focus (WAFs): short, personal talks by team leaders that connect daily leadership themes (such as “Live”) to real-life experiences.
Mission: Develop leadership qualities, citizenship, and personal growth while promoting Rotary’s values of service and ethics.
Takeaway: Carl credited RYLA with transforming his own confidence and leadership abilities, while emphasizing the deep friendships formed during the program. His story demonstrates how RYLA fosters lifelong connections and leadership growth. He also encouraged Rotarians to get involved—whether as supportive partners with RYLA teams or by attending visitor days—highlighting the important role Rotarians play as mentors while youth leaders run the program.
👟 Shoes for Kids Fundraiser Update
Our Rotary Club had a fantastic turnout at Zio’s in Marion for our recent fundraiser night! Thanks to the generosity of our members and community supporters, we raised $310.00. Combined with proceeds from our Panera night, we brought in a total of $382.88 for the Shoes for Kids program.
To put this into perspective, with an estimated cost of $30 per pair of shoes, these funds will provide approximately 12 pairs of shoes to children in need. That’s 12 kids who will walk into school with confidence, comfort, and the support of our Rotary family.
This is a wonderful start as we prepare for next year’s event. More fundraising nights are planned after the holidays, and our Waffle Breakfast meetings will begin in February. We’re also seeking sponsors for our May event—if you know of a company or individual who would like to support this cause, please reach out.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has contributed so far. Together, we’re making a real difference, one step at a time.
Congratulations to Erik Miles for his 7th consecutive Paul Harris Fellow award for his incredible support of The Rotary Foundation!
Alex Chalk
2025-26 President
Hello Rotarians and community do-gooders!
My name is Alex Chalk, and I’m honored to serve as the President of the Marion East Cedar Rapids Rotary Club. I joined Rotary in May 2022 and have really enjoyed learning from and working alongside fellow Rotarians in the Marion and Cedar Rapids area.
A little about me: I grew up in Marion and graduated from Linn-Mar High School in 2009. After high school, I continued my education at Kirkwood Community College and eventually found my way into a career in sales. That path has opened doors not only professionally, but also in helping me reconnect with and give back to the community that raised me.
One of my favorite parts of being involved in Rotary is getting to share it with my two daughters, who are 8 and 10. They often tag along for service projects and Rotary events, and it’s been a great way for them to see what it means to give back and live out “Service Above Self.”
I'm looking forward to what we’ll accomplish together this year — let’s keep doing good!
Alex Chalk
President
Marion East Cedar Rapids Rotary Club
Visitors are encouraged and welcome to attend, just be sure to email cindy@classictax.net and let her know to reserve a lunch for you.
President
President Elect
Secretary
Treasurer
Rotary Foundation
Marion, IA 52302
United States of America