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.
Visit Our Club
Jacob Hahn - Deputy City Engineer (Marion)
Oct 06, 2026
Marion Street Construction and Road Closures
Sydney Wright - Community Risk Reduction Manager
Oct 27, 2026
Cedar Rapids Fire Department | City of Cedar Rapids
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DINE OUT NIGHT - SHOES FOR KIDS
ChipotleSep. 22, 2026
4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. -
DINE OUT NIGHT - SHOES FOR KIDS
Zio Johno'sNov. 10, 2026
5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
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Welcome to Marion-East Cedar Rapids Rotary
Rotary Meeting Preview: Big Brothers Big Sisters Empowering Youth Campaign
Tuesday, September 15 | Noon
Indian Creek Country Club
Join us on Tuesday, September 15, as we welcome Stephanie Hartson, President & CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cedar Rapids & East Central Iowa, and Lexi Coberly, Development Officer, for an inspiring presentation on the organization's Empowering Youth Campaign and the vital role mentorship plays in shaping the future of local young people.
For more than a century, Big Brothers Big Sisters has helped children achieve their full potential through the power of one-to-one mentoring relationships. Locally, the organization continues to connect caring adult mentors with youth who can benefit from guidance, encouragement, and positive role models, creating lasting impacts for both participants and the community.
During their presentation, Stephanie and Lexi will share the story behind the Empowering Youth Campaign, an initiative designed to strengthen Big Brothers Big Sisters for years to come. Attendees will learn about the growing demand for mentoring services in our community, the measurable benefits mentoring provides for youth, and how the campaign will support program operations, long-term financial sustainability, and the organization's endowment.
Members will gain insight into how mentorship helps young people build confidence, improve academic performance, develop positive relationships, and navigate life's challenges. Stephanie and Lexi will also discuss the increasing need for community investment to ensure that every child who could benefit from a mentor has the opportunity to be matched with one.
Stephanie Hartson has served Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cedar Rapids & East Central Iowa for more than a decade and currently leads the organization as President & CEO. Known for her collaborative leadership style and passion for building meaningful relationships, Stephanie is dedicated to expanding the organization's impact throughout Eastern Iowa. Outside of work, she enjoys road biking, reading, and spending time with her husband and two children.
Lexi Coberly serves as Development Officer and leads the organization's fundraising and development efforts. She works closely with donors, businesses, and community leaders to ensure the resources are in place to help more youth experience the life-changing benefits of mentorship. Lexi enjoys traveling, reading, volunteering, and cheering on the Iowa Hawkeyes alongside her husband and two adult children.
In addition to sharing the impact of the Empowering Youth Campaign, Stephanie and Lexi will highlight ways Rotarians can become involved through financial support, volunteerism, advocacy, and community connections.
Please join us for what promises to be an informative and uplifting program focused on empowering the next generation and strengthening our community through mentorship.
Lunch RSVP Reminder
Please use the RSVP link below and respond no later than 9:00 a.m. Monday morning:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/14x9DlMgcOmPbABGY3tDukBI2dfUZK7rTY_gYHTbx0e0/edit?usp=sharing
Reminder:
- If you are on the alternative dues plan and wish to purchase lunch, replace "NO LUNCH" with an X and pay $15 at the door.
- If a blue X already appears after your name, you are counted unless you remove it.
- If bringing guests, enter the total number attending, including yourself.
- After updating your attendance, simply close the spreadsheet.
If you do not RSVP, you will not be able to receive a meal until everyone on the RSVP list has been served.
$75 for new hole Sponsorship
$60 for returning Sponsorship
If we get more than 9 sponsors, we will double up and
cost will be $50 per Sponsorship
$60 for returning Sponsorship
If we get more than 9 sponsors, we will double up and
cost will be $50 per Sponsorship
Rotary Program Recap: Dallas Miller Discusses Moving Beyond AI Experimentation
Rotarians welcomed Dallas Miller, founder and owner of SigmaEra.ai, for a timely and thought-provoking presentation on artificial intelligence, organizational knowledge management, and the opportunities and challenges AI presents for businesses and organizations.
Drawing on more than 20 years of experience in enterprise technology leadership, product management, infrastructure, and consulting, Miller shared insights gained from his work with organizations including HP, Dell Technologies, Collins Aerospace, ACT, and Transamerica. He explained how his experiences led him to found SigmaEra.ai with the goal of helping small and medium-sized organizations leverage AI in practical, secure, and meaningful ways.
A central theme of the presentation was the distinction between simply experimenting with AI and creating real organizational value. Miller described AI as a major technological shift, comparing traditional software that follows programmed instructions with modern AI systems that can interpret intent and generate solutions. He emphasized that AI is particularly effective at summarizing information, generating first drafts, identifying patterns across large datasets, and quickly answering questions.
Miller encouraged members to think about one common challenge nearly every organization faces: onboarding new employees. He illustrated how AI can help organizations preserve institutional knowledge, document processes, identify key contacts, and significantly reduce the time it takes for new team members to become productive.
At the same time, Miller cautioned against viewing AI as a perfect or autonomous solution. He noted that AI systems are influenced by the context and information provided to them, can produce inaccurate results, and require human oversight and verification. He stressed the importance of governance, security, source citation, and establishing appropriate guardrails to ensure AI is used responsibly.
Miller also discussed the importance of protecting sensitive business information when using public AI tools. He encouraged organizations to develop policies governing AI use just as they do for financial decisions and other operational risks.
During the presentation, Miller highlighted the work underway at SigmaEra.ai. The company's platform is designed to connect information across emails, files, calendars, phone records, project data, and other business systems. By organizing and classifying information while maintaining appropriate security controls, the platform seeks to help organizations capture decisions, monitor commitments and deadlines, and make institutional knowledge more accessible.
In the question-and-answer session, members asked about reducing political or religious bias in AI systems, keeping sensitive information within an organization's control, and the affordability of AI solutions for smaller businesses. Miller explained that AI systems can be configured with restrictions and governance controls and reiterated his belief that advanced AI capabilities should be accessible to organizations of all sizes.
The presentation provided Rotary members with a practical look at how AI is reshaping the workplace and offered valuable guidance on how organizations can move from curiosity and experimentation toward responsible, results-driven implementation.
Thank you to Dallas Miller for sharing his expertise and insights with the club.
Marion Farmers Market & Council Office Hours
8-11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 19, Willowood Park
Oktoberfest sponsored by Club Pilates
11 a.m. (VIP hour), Noon-3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, Uptown Marion
Mission Marion to Connect Volunteers with Those in Need of Assistance
We’re pleased to share the launch of Mission Marion, the City’s new volunteer-matching service. Through a partnership with students enrolled in last year’s Linn-Mar High School Venture Academics program, this new service will help vulnerable residents find the help they need to complete tasks such as shoveling, raking, or mowing. United Way of East Central Iowa’s VolunteerNow portal will connect volunteers with those in need of assistance. Residents are encouraged to visit www.cityofmarion.org/MissionMarion to sign up for volunteer opportunities or request assistance.
September is Suicide Prevention Month
Mental health is a community concern and during last week's City Council meeting, a proclamation was issued to recognize Suicide Prevention Month and to bring awareness and promote hope, connection and community support. In Marion, the Police Department partners with Foundation 2 to connect those in need with resources and support. The department employs a mental health liaison through this partnership, and a crisis canine recently joined the department. Last year, the City also added 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline decals to 18 vehicles across the Police, Fire, and Public Works departments. Together, we can build a compassionate community where everyone knows they matter. If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - available 24/7, free and confidential.
A Forum on Aging Happening at Marion Public Library
On Tuesday, Sept. 15, Bickford Senior Living, St. Croix Hospice and Right at Home will host a Forum on Aging: Resources for Your Journey. This free event will take place at the Marion Public Library from 5-7:30 p.m. Hear from a panel of experts and gain guidance on Medicare plans, funeral planning, selling your home and more! All are welcome and refreshments will be provided.
Oktoberfest Returns on September 19
Oktoberfest, presented by Club Pilates, returns for the fifth year on Saturday, Sept. 19. It will feature the best breweries in Iowa and surrounding areas, sampling a wide variety of styles. Each brewery will have representatives on hand to visit with and educate fans on their beers. Attendees will also enjoy live music and traditional and non-traditional German games. The event will benefit the Winter Lights program. Tickets are available at givebutter.com/MarionOktoberfest. Participants must be 21+ years of age. Tickets and IDs will be scanned at the entrance to the event.
Red Cedar Chamber Music Returns to the Uptown Artway
Visit the Uptown Artway on Tuesday, Sept. 22, to hear Red Cedar Chamber Music present “Cactus Quintet”. This special performance, beginning at noon, features Clarinet Quintet by Christine Bellomy and dances from Gumboots by David Bruce, inspired by the gumboot dance of oppressed miners in South African gold mines. The event will wrap up with a Gershwin medley arranged by Steve Shanley.
Marion Police Department Hosting Stuffed Animal Drive
The Marion Police Department is partnering with the Child Protection Center to collect new stuffed animals for children who may be experiencing a difficult or traumatic time. Donations of new stuffed animals can be brought to the Marion Police Department on Highway 151 for collection between now and Sept. 30.
On August 29, the Skunk Works at Tom Barnes' Garage was the scene of a rebuild of the Club's "Shoes for Kids" parade float from Tom's truck to a new trailer that can be pulled behind a vehicle.
The Marion "Fall Into Marion Parade" is coming up on Sept. 12 and the refreshed float will take part. Below are some pictures of the transition:
On August 20th, the Marion-East Cedar Rapids Rotary Club held its board retreat, where members worked together on strategic planning for the year ahead. The group also spent time volunteering at the Children’s Discovery Garden, helping freshen up the space and install a new garden kaleidoscope for visitors to enjoy.
It was a great afternoon of teamwork, service and planning for another impactful Rotary year!
District Rotary Foundation Chair Michelle Bell recently shared several updates and opportunities from around District 5970.
Celebrating Local Impact
Michelle noted how inspiring it has been to review final District Grant reports and see the many ways Rotary clubs are making a difference in their communities. She thanked Rotarians throughout the district for their service and encouraged members to continue reaching out with questions or interest in volunteering.
New Sister Club Initiative
A new Sister Club Program will be introduced at the upcoming Zone Conference in Cancun. The program is designed to help Rotary clubs build relationships with clubs in other countries and expand opportunities for international service projects. Initial participation requirements will be minimal, making it easy for clubs to get involved. Sister Club Brochure
World's Largest Polio Walk
As part of this year's efforts to raise awareness about Rotary's mission to eradicate polio, Rotarians are encouraged to participate in the World's Largest Polio Walk. The event is gaining global participation and serves as a reminder that Rotary remains committed to eliminating polio worldwide. World's Largest Polio Walk
Global Scholars Update
District 5970's Global Scholars studying in the United Kingdom continue to share updates about their experiences and work abroad. Members interested in learning more can view the latest reports from Ashton and Kate through the district's communications.
Thank you to Michelle Bell for her leadership and continued dedication to The Rotary Foundation and District 5970.
Rotary is much more than service. It is also a pathway to personal and professional growth. Through club involvement, leadership opportunities, and meaningful projects, members often discover new strengths, develop valuable skills, and build lasting relationships.
Whether you are leading a committee, participating in a service project, or connecting with fellow Rotarians from around the world, Rotary provides opportunities to expand your network, strengthen communication and leadership abilities, and explore interests you may never have pursued otherwise.
Members like Linda Low have transformed personal passions into action by chartering Global Partners in Peace, an online Rotary club that connects peacebuilders worldwide. Others, like Nicole Peña, have found Rotary to be a welcoming space to explore new interests, build confidence, and connect with like-minded individuals.
Rotary also offers extensive learning resources through its Learning Center, where members can access hundreds of self-paced courses covering leadership, facilitation, Rotary's Areas of Focus, and more. These tools help members continue learning and increase their impact both within Rotary and in their communities. Learning Center
Every Rotary journey is unique. By embracing new experiences and following your curiosity, you may discover unexpected opportunities for growth, connection, and service. The next opportunity you say "yes" to could open the door to a new passion, a new friendship, or a new way to make a difference.
Marion Cares celebrated a successful summer through its SHINE Summer Connection program, which provided local children with opportunities for learning, friendship, physical activity, and faith-based growth in a safe and supportive environment. Thanks to the support of local churches, businesses, and community organizations, students enjoyed enriching activities, healthy meals, and memorable field trips. As the school year begins, SHINE is preparing for another year of after-school programming that offers educational support, mentoring, relationship-building, and positive experiences for neighborhood children. Marion Cares is seeking volunteers, mentors, financial supporters, and applicants for a SHINE Program Coordinator position. Support a SHINE Student
Become a SHINE Mentor- Adult or High School
Looking ahead, Marion Cares will host its annual Trunk or Treat & Winter Essentials event on October 19, providing a fun community celebration while helping families access winter clothing and other essential items. View the Sponsorship Proposal
Sign Up to Host a Trunk or Volunteer
Make a Donation
The organization is also recruiting volunteers for its Crockpot Family Meal Program, which provides freezer meals to local families facing food insecurity and other challenges. Sign up here.
Through the generosity of volunteers, donors, and community partners, Marion Cares continues to strengthen families and help children thrive throughout the Marion community.
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 Program Spotlight
July 28, 2026 Speakers: Keith Rippy and Kimberly Bramley, Owners of Midwest Safety Partners
Our club was pleased to welcome Keith Rippy and Kimberly Bramley, co-owners of Midwest Safety Partners, for our July 28, 2026 program.
Keith and Kimberly are passionate advocates for workplace safety, emergency preparedness, and lifesaving education. Together, they lead Midwest Safety Partners, a Cedar Rapids-based company dedicated to helping businesses, organizations, and individuals develop the skills and confidence needed to respond effectively in emergency situations. The company specializes in CPR, AED, first aid, and other safety training programs designed to protect employees, customers, families, and communities.
Keith Rippy brings decades of leadership and emergency services experience to the organization. He served as CEO of Area Ambulance Service in Cedar Rapids for 19 years before partnering with Kimberly in the acquisition of the company in 2024. His extensive background in emergency medical services has given him firsthand insight into the critical importance of rapid response and preparedness when medical emergencies occur. Keith is committed to expanding access to lifesaving training across the Midwest and helping organizations build a culture of safety.
Kimberly Bramley is a local entrepreneur, safety instructor, and co-owner of Midwest Safety Partners. She is actively involved in delivering training programs and works closely with businesses to ensure they remain compliant with safety requirements while equipping their teams with practical emergency response skills. Kimberly's approach emphasizes long-term partnerships with clients, helping organizations create safer workplaces and better-prepared teams.
Midwest Safety Partners was formerly known as National Safety Training Service (NSTS), a respected provider of health and safety training for more than 30 years. Founded in 1991, the organization built a strong reputation throughout Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin for CPR, AED, and first aid instruction. Following the ownership transition, the company rebranded as Midwest Safety Partners to reflect its broader mission of providing comprehensive workplace safety training, blended online and in-person learning opportunities, and compliance support services for employers.
Today, Midwest Safety Partners offers a full range of safety and emergency response education designed to ensure that employees, bystanders, and community members are prepared to act when seconds matter most. Their commitment to "Training for Life" helps organizations protect their people while meeting state and federal safety requirements.
Thank you to Keith and Kimberly for sharing information about their organization and the important role safety training plays in creating safer workplaces and communities. Their presentation was a reminder of how preparation and education can make a meaningful difference when emergencies occur.
On June 23, 2026, we officially welcomed
our newest members,
Kimberly Bramley and Lisa Anthofer.
If you haven’t already, please take a moment
to introduce yourself and give them a
warm welcome to our club!
🎉 End of Year Celebration
Marion–East Cedar Rapids Rotary Celebrates a Year of Impact and Leadership
The Marion–East Cedar Rapids Rotary Club gathered for its End of Year celebration with a spirit of gratitude, reflection, and excitement for the future. The evening highlighted not only the accomplishments of the past year, but also the people and values that continue to drive the club forward.
A Year of Learning and Impact
Outgoing President Alex Chalk reflected on three key takeaways from the year—beginning with the breadth of Rotary’s impact. From local initiatives like Shoes for Kids, to district-level projects, to global efforts like polio eradication and providing clean drinking water, Rotary continues to make a difference at every level.
Members were reminded that the Rotary Foundation directs more than 90% of its expenditures toward charitable initiatives and has consistently earned top ratings from Charity Navigator—underscoring the organization’s commitment to service and accountability.
A Growing and Evolving Club
The club has also experienced meaningful growth and change. With new members bringing fresh ideas and energy, the Marion–East Cedar Rapids Rotary Club is evolving alongside Rotary International’s broader trend of increasing younger membership.
This growth presents an exciting opportunity: how to harness that momentum to expand both membership and impact within the community.
The answer, shared during the evening, came from a simple but powerful idea:
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
This message resonated with members, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, support, and shared leadership in achieving long-term success.
Recognizing Outstanding Members
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of annual awards, recognizing individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the club.
Rookie of the Year: Kelly Artley
A new member who has already made a significant impact, Kelly shared her inspiring journey back to Iowa and her passion for community involvement. In just a short time, she has embraced service opportunities and exemplified Rotary’s spirit.
Above and Beyond Award: Zach Schmit
Recognized for his behind-the-scenes efforts in coordinating speakers and strengthening connections, Zach has played a key role in enhancing weekly meetings and bringing value to the club.
Rotarian of the Year: Katie Powell
Honored for her leadership and dedication, Katie has gone above and beyond—organizing events, boosting engagement, and leading fundraising initiatives like the club’s waffle breakfast. Her commitment to service and passion for helping children stood out as a cornerstone of the club’s success this year.
Leadership Transition
The evening also marked the transition of leadership, as the outgoing president Alex Chalk passed the torch to the incoming president Seth Staashelm in a lighthearted and meaningful ceremony. With gratitude, members recognized the dedication, time, and effort required to lead the club—much of which happens behind the scenes.
In presenting a token of appreciation, members expressed their thanks for a year defined by vision, service, and a strong commitment to Rotary’s core values.
Looking Ahead
As the club enters a new Rotary year, the message is clear: the strength of Marion–East Cedar Rapids Rotary lies in its people and their willingness to serve together.
Guided by the Four-Way Test and a shared passion for making a difference, the club is well-positioned to continue building goodwill, strengthening friendships, and creating lasting impact in the community and beyond.
Rotary Meeting Summary
June 16, 2026 | Noon
Indian Creek Country Club
Program: Rotary Sarcophagus Extravaganza – Unearthing Our Club’s History
The June 16th meeting delivered on its promise of a “one-of-a-kind Rotary experience,” as members gathered for the Rotary Sarcophagus Extravaganza—a lively, story-filled look at the history, traditions, and impact of our club.
Program Highlights
As previewed, the meeting served as a “Rotary archaeology” session, blending history, storytelling, and humor. Longtime members Tom Barnes and Erik Miles opened the club’s metaphorical “sarcophagus” to share artifacts, traditions, and memorable stories.
A Deep Dive into Club History
- The Marion Rotary Club, chartered in April 1969, evolved from a “makeup club” into a vibrant, independent service organization.
- Earlier Rotary expectations included strict attendance requirements and traveling to other clubs to maintain participation.
- Growth in the region expanded Rotary from just a few clubs to many across the Cedar Rapids metro area.
Signature Service Projects
- About 25 years ago, the club was challenged to create a hands-on service initiative.
- This led to the long-running “Shoes for Kids” program, which remains one of the club’s most visible and impactful community efforts.
Rotary Cart Drop Fundraiser
- Members shared the origins and evolution of the club’s Cart Drop fundraiser:
- A creative ticket-based guessing game
- Community participation
- The event continues to thrive, with support from groups like the Marion girls soccer team, who assist as part of a team-building experience.
Artifacts, Memories & “You Had to Be There” Moments
True to the meeting preview, members brought forward:
- Historical photos and charter member connections
- Old Rotary memorabilia, including pins, flags, and awards
- Stories from international Rotary travel and conferences
- Lighthearted and humorous anecdotes that captured the spirit of the club
These moments reinforced how the club’s personality has been shaped by both service and fellowship.
Additional Projects & Contributions
- Installation of bike racks and park amenities through Rotary grants
- Participation in community events and parades
- Ongoing creative and social traditions that strengthen member engagement
Rotary Traditions & Recognition
- Discussion of Rotary honors, including the Paul Harris Fellowship and “Service Above Self” recognition
- Celebration of long-standing traditions such as attendance milestones
- The Rotary Four-Way Test, along with the club’s unofficial “5th test”:
- “Is it fun?” — a sentiment that clearly defines the club’s culture
Closing Reflection
The meeting successfully delivered what was promised:
- A history lesson,
- A storytelling session, and
- A fun, engaging look at the people and projects that have shaped the club.
For newer members, it provided valuable insight into the club’s legacy. For longtime members, it was a chance to reconnect with shared experiences and pass along Rotary traditions.
The meeting concluded with the recitation of the Four-Way Test, reinforcing Rotary’s core values and the strong foundation guiding the club’s future.
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!
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.
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.”
Tribute to Roger Flink
Honoring a Legacy of Service, Leadership, and Community Impact
The Marion-East Cedar Rapids Rotary Club proudly honors the life and legacy of Roger Allan Flink, a devoted Rotarian, community leader, and compassionate advocate for youth and families. Roger passed away on June 20, 2023, at the age of 77, leaving behind a legacy of service that continues to inspire.
Rotary Leadership and Service
Roger was a long-standing and deeply engaged member of the Marion-East Cedar Rapids Rotary Club, where he exemplified Rotary’s motto of Service Above Self. His contributions included:
- Serving in various leadership roles within the club and district.
- Being recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow, a testament to his commitment to Rotary’s mission.
- Championing youth programs and community outreach initiatives.
- Supporting Rotary’s civic engagement efforts through mentorship and collaboration.
Professional Excellence
Roger’s professional career was rooted in real estate, where he worked as a manager and broker associate at Skogman Realty. His dedication to the field earned him the prestigious Realtor Emeritus status from the National Association of Realtors. He was known not only for his business acumen but also for his integrity and generosity in helping families navigate important life transitions.
Community Involvement
Roger’s passion for helping children and families extended far beyond his professional life. He was:
- Co-founder and board member of Marion Cares, a nonprofit focused on supporting underserved youth and families.
- President and coach for Metro Youth Football, where he mentored countless young athletes.
- Board member and president of Foundation 2, a crisis intervention and mental health support organization.
- An active contributor to the Variety Club, supporting children with special needs.
- A dedicated member and elder at First Presbyterian Church of Marion, where he also served as a deacon.
Personal Legacy
Born on August 27, 1945, in Carroll, Iowa, Roger was a devoted husband to Marian Flink, and a loving father, grandfather, brother, and friend. His warmth, humor, and unwavering faith touched everyone who knew him. He was known for his humility, his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and his tireless efforts to make his community a better place.
A Lasting Impact
Roger’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched—through Rotary, through his professional work, and through his deep commitment to service. His example reminds us that leadership is not about titles, but about the lives we uplift and the communities we strengthen.
We invite Rotary members and community partners to honor Roger’s memory by continuing the work he cared so deeply about: supporting youth, building community, and living with purpose.
In Memoriam: Honoring Greg Hapgood’s Legacy of Service
At our 7.15.25 Marion-East Cedar Rapids Rotary meeting, we took time to honor the remarkable life and civic impact of Greg Hapgood, a founding member whose legacy continues to inspire our community.
Greg was a charter member of our club and served as president in 1979, holding 50 years of perfect attendance, a feat that spoke volumes about his steadfast dedication. His influence extended far beyond Rotary:
- He served as Mayor of Marion (1969–1972)
- Presided over the Marion Chamber of Commerce (1984)
- Chaired the Sesquicentennial Committee, leading to the creation of the Swamp Fox Festival
- Founded the Marion Independent School Foundation in 1988
- Spent six years on the Marion School Board, championing youth and education
- Played national leadership roles as a U.S. Jaycees Director
- Introduced Dairy Days in Marion, adding flavor and fun to civic life
- Was a Paul Harris Fellow and served as Rotary District Governor
Greg’s quirky wit matched his civic heart — as a charter member of the Flat Earth Society, he reminded us that service doesn’t always wear a suit and tie.
In 2023, his contributions were honored with a commemorative tree and plaque at Marion Stadium, a living tribute to a man who planted seeds of change wherever he went.
Though he passed away in 2021, Greg’s legacy endures in the programs, traditions, and community spirit he helped shape. We are grateful for his lifetime of service and the lasting example he leaves behind.
Thanks to the Marion Girls Soccer Team for Removing the golf cart from the pool!
The golf cart has dropped!
The winner is Christine Landa!
Payout = $755!
On Saturday, September 23rd, our club participated in a service project that used awarded district grant money. We planted 20 trees at Prairie Hill Park in Marion. The city dug the holes, and we helped put the trees in the holes and spread mulch around the trees.
Thanks to City Staff for showing us the right way to plant the trees!
Thank you to everyone that came out and helped plant trees! We had them all planted in about two hours.
And thanks to Seth for making sure we had the "temporary" grill ready for us to use. We got to break-in the new grill at the pavilion. Although it was windy, Cindy did manage to get a fire going, so that we could enjoy some hamburgers and hot dogs and a little bit of social time.
Seth Staashelm
2026-2027 President
Hello Rotarians and Friends!
My name is Seth Staashelm, and I'm honored to serve as the President of the Marion East Cedar Rapids Rotary Club.
I joined Rotary in 2024 and have enjoyed getting to know so many passionate people who are committed to making our communities stronger through service.
A little about me: I currently serve as the Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Marion. Parks and recreation have given me the opportunity to help create places and experiences that bring people together, and that same passion for community is what drew me to Rotary. My wife, Morgan, and I have five-year-old twin boys, Asher and Sawyer, who keep us on our toes and remind us every day how important it is to invest in the future of our community. When I'm not at work or with Rotary, you'll usually find me spending time with my family, traveling, running, playing basketball, or enjoying the outdoors.
I'm excited for the year ahead and the opportunity to continue building on the strong foundation our club has established. I look forward to serving alongside each of you as we grow our impact, strengthen our friendships, and continue living out Rotary's motto of Service Above Self.
Seth Staashelm
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
Treasurer
Secretary
Rotary Foundation
Immediate Past President
Director
Director
Director
Marion, IA 52302
United States of America