The Spoke

Meeting Minutes

Meeting called to order by Ron at 7:28 AM.

Guests

Andy Lewis, guest of Scott Brink. Recently moved to Minnetonka and is friends with several members.

Meg, from My Very Own Bed, joined to receive a donation check.

Becca Trum, from the Loppet Foundation, also joined as today’s guest speaker.

Invocation

Invocation by Ryan R. — expressed gratitude for the world around us and encouraged finding strength in ourselves and our communities.

Pledge

Everyone.

4-Way Test

Everyone.

International Theme

Unite for Good. [No banner yet.  Ed.]

Paul Harris Awards

None this week.

Announcements

Jerald S. - Golf Fundraiser. Provided an update on the golf event. Goal was to raise $55,000. Although the event initially fell short, a generous donor helped cover the difference. The full amount of $55,000 was successfully raised and will be distributed in three years to charities selected by the club.

Glen J. - Free Bikes 4 Kidz. A bike drop-off event this Saturday at Hy-Vee. All types of bikes are accepted—even broken ones, as parts are reused. Rotary will also volunteer at the Brooklyn Park warehouse sometime in October or November.

Mark Magney - Highway Cleanup. Highway cleanup is scheduled for this Saturday at 8:30 AM on Highway 7. Currently, 5 people have signed up; 8 are needed to finish in about an hour.

Bob H. - Blood Drive. Bob reminded members: Blood Drive on November 4 at The Marsh, from 8 AM–3 PM.

The blood supply is critically low—only 1–2 days’ worth available (compared to the former 3-week supply).

Please encourage friends and family to donate.

Annika - Women’s Happy Hour. Annika announced a Women’s Happy Hour on November 6 at Ike’s.

New Member Induction      

None this week.

Rotary Minute

None this week.

Raffle

Raffle conducted by James.  [Jim M.'s ticket pulled, but no joker. The pot grows. Ed.]

Foundation Award Checks or Thank You's

Glen J. presented a $1,500 check to Meg of My Very Own Bed.

This donation will provide beds for three children in the community, including dream kits with bedding and small gifts.

Meg explained that a good night’s sleep helps kids be healthier, happier, and better able to focus and engage in their lives.

Happy Bucks

Happy Bucks led by Sarah:

Bill S. – Happy to be hosting friends and spouses up north. Grateful Annika is going to be dog-sitting. Forgot his belt and is using his dog’s leash instead.

Annika – Participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s with a group of 15.

Frank B. – Happy to see his friend Andy visiting. Also recognized Mark Magney’s feature article in the Pioneer Press.

Ann W. – Just returned from a work event in San Francisco. Grateful for the success of the golf event.

Scott Brink. – Happy to have Andy visiting and for a great college reunion and football game.

Mike G. – Thanked everyone who attended the golf wrap-up meeting. Golf planning meetings for next year will begin in January via Zoom.

Pete G.  – Happy to see Andy and celebrating 40 years of marriage.

Cathy C. – Her daughter returned safely from Ireland and attended a Vikings game.

Bob H. – Congratulated Pete, joking about nominating his wife for sainthood. Also shared that his daughter is pregnant and he’ll be out the next few weeks with family.

Scott Nagel – Will be traveling with his wife for the next few weeks.

Jim M. – Celebrated his daughter’s birthday and his son moving out.

Alexa R. – Thanked Jerald and Mike for their work on Links & Libations. Shared a story about her child giving Legos to Sarah’s child. Also glad that softball season is over.

Mark Magney – Discussed the article about his business.

Ron U. – Gave 10 happy bucks in thanks to Alexa for her tech help. Celebrated Mary’s 91st birthday, which they honored all weekend. The group sang Happy Birthday to Mary.

Program  

Guest Speaker – Becca Trum, The Loppet Foundation
Introduced by: Alexa R. 

Mission: Connect people to the outdoors through community-building experiences.

Key Highlights: “Loppet” is a Scandinavian word meaning journey or race over uneven terrain.

Founded 23 years ago as a single ski race through Uptown Minneapolis.

Now includes year-round events and programs focused on outdoor access, recreation, and equity.

Facilities & Programs:
The Trailhead at Theodore Wirth Park – Headquarters offering snowmaking, trail grooming, gear rentals, fitness classes, and more.

Signature Events: City of Lakes Loppet and Luminary Loppet on February 6 – 1,600 ice luminaries around Lake of the Isles.

Youth Programs:

Trail Kids – Teaches cross-country skiing, mountain biking, and outdoor skills to kids 7+.

Adventures Program – Removes barriers to outdoor access for underserved youth in North Minneapolis (provides transportation, gear, and instruction).

Closing Message: Becca emphasized the Loppet’s focus on play, stewardship, community, and accessibility. Shared a powerful video showing the joy and impact of the youth programs.

Encouraged Rotarians to get involved by volunteering, donating equipment or funds, or attending events.

Kudos to Becca for her engaging and inspiring presentation!

Adjournment

Happy Bucks + ½ Raffle Total: $61 (approximate; may need confirmation due to Zoom audio)

Ron U. adjourned the meeting at 8:28 AM.

Respectfully Submitted by Alissa S. 

Member Submissions