Stories

Wen Chen - Forced Organ Harvesting

Please join us Friday, April 10th for breakfast and an informative presentation on forced organ harvesting. Our presenter is Wen Chen, a member of Rotary's End Forced Organ Harvesting Satellite Club.

Wen was born in China at the end of the Great Cultural Revolution. Being victims of the horrific atrocity that killed two million intellectuals and destroyed traditional Chinese culture, Wen's parents had mixed feelings about her education. Despite their discouragement, Wen eventually won a national prize at a science competition when she was 16. Hence, she was accepted into a top university for undergraduate study. In 1994, Wen came to the U.S. for graduate school and received a doctorate in Biology at the California Institute of Technology in 2000. Because of her personal experience of being brainwashed in China, she decided to be a voice for the voiceless. Since 2012, she has given hundreds of presentations to community organizations about Chinese culture, history, and human rights. Wen has been working as a scientific staff member for Caltech since 2000. She has a blog: https://wenchenview.blogspot.com/

This week's meeting will be held in person at the Brewster Place Cultural Arts Building, located at 900-B SW 31st Terrace, Topeka, KS 66611. Click here for Google Map directions.

New Member Spotlight - Rachel Stamm

Get to know one of the newest members of Topeka South Rotary - Rachel Stamm.

I grew up in Topeka and attended Washburn Rural High School where I spent as much time in the music department as possible, playing piano & flute. I still enjoy playing the piano, specifically any type of show tune or jazz standard. I’m an alumna of Grinnell College, in Iowa, where I received a degree in biology. I was a recipient of a Watson Fellowship, for which I traveled abroad for a year, studying the relationship between eco-tourism and marine mammal conservation. In short, I love whales and animals in general. I moved to Seattle in 1995 where I pursued work as a naturalist. The cost of big city living led me to explore real estate as a career, beginning in 2000.

In 2011, I became fascinated by the problem of the lack of housing after natural disasters in the U.S.. I enrolled in an MBA program in Sustainable Systems and studied emergency housing issues and founded “Close to Home”, a marketplace for alternative housing, which led to a tiny house kit design and a seven year adventure with interesting and passionate people.

I returned home to Topeka in 2021, with my partner, after missing family & the midwest way of life. I worked remotely in real estate contract compliance and am now back in sales with eXp Realty. We live out in SW Topeka, on 5 acres where we can throw a ball as far as possible for our two dogs. When not playing with the dogs, reading, listening to a podcast, or doing some sort of puzzle, you’ll find me riding horses at the Topeka Round-Up Club (where I serve as President of the Board) and probably singing “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’”, when I think no one can hear me.

2026 TSR Golf Tournament

It's that time of year again for the "Tradition unlike any other!"

The Topeka South Rotary Golf Tournament will be played on Friday, June 12, 2026. The tournament will be played at Cypress Ridge Golf Course, lunch and registration at 11:30 and a shotgun start at 1 PM.

Click here for more details.

Happy New (Rotary) Year!!!

Join us this Friday to celebrate the NEW YEAR! The Rotary New Year, that is.

Celebrate with Ashley Charest and the 2021-22 TSR Board and welcome Jessica Lehnherr and the 2022-23 TSR Board!

This week's meeting will be held in person at Washburn University Memorial Union, Washburn Room B, or via Zoom.

- Join via Zoom

After this week, Zoom meetings will be discontinued.

Year-End Social at Snyder's Cabin

Let's Celebrate!

Join us this Friday to celebrate outgoing President Jim Ramos. Authentic Mexican food and beverages will be provided. Please RSVP by Thursday at Noon to Jim to let him know you're coming!

When: Friday, June 25 beginning at 5:30 pm

Where: Snyder's Cabin at Gage Park

Doing Good in the World

African Region Declared Free of Wild Polio Virus

According to Rotary International, with the World Health Organization, in August 2020 it was announced that the transmission of the wild poliovirus has officially been stopped in all 47 countries of its African region. This is a historic and vital step toward global eradication of polio, which is Rotary’s top priority.

Membership Updates

Two New Club Members

On June 11, two new members were inducted into the Topeka South Rotary Club. Jennifer Carlock works at Advanced Foot Care as a Billing Specialist, and Trey Carlock works at Hills Pet Nutrition in information technology as a Site Analyst. We are excited to welcome both to our club!

New Membership Application

The Topeka South Board has approved a new member application. This replaces the previous version and streamlines the application so anyone can use it. It will work for new members, transferring members, and service members.

When you invite your guests to apply for membership, now you can direct them to this application on our club website. If you have any questions, please contact Membership Chair Tanya Dorf Brunner at tdorf@oralhealthkansas.org.

Vocational Presentation with Julie Phillips

Join us this Friday to learn about one of Topeka South Rotary's newest members, Julie Phillips. Julie is the Director of Grants for Communities in Schools of Mid-America, Inc. Learn about her passions for equity and safety in schools as a means to improve our community, plus what keeps her entertained outside the office.

This meeting will be held both in-person and online in a hybrid format.

Invited Guests

We are so happy to have so many guests and new members this year! It’s exciting to see this club grow and to welcome new people.

Because we are holding hybrid meetings and everyone doesn’t have the same opportunity to chat with guests and prospective members, it’s more important than ever that we all get to know the new people well. If you bring a guest to a meeting, please be sure you tell the club a little about your guest and his/her occupation when you introduce them. This will be a great way to help us start networking right away!

Monthly Volunteer Opportunity at Harvesters

Harvester's

Join our monthly crew to help package food at the Harvester's distribution center!

If not this month, consider it for next time - TSR typically serves the fourth Tuesday of each month.

Have questions? Feel free to email Cassandra Taylor at cmt@htkarchitects.com.

Donations Needed! Neck Ties

Have old neck ties you're ready to replace? Or, maybe you've fully embraced business casual and just don't wear them anymore. Bring your ties to the TSR meeting this Friday, May 7 to be donated to a good cause.

Your ties will benefit a nonverbal autistic student at WRHS whose calming mechanism is to twirl and tear old neck ties. The student can use up to six ties per day; the teacher is seeking to replenish her stock and prepare for the next school year.

Thanks in advance for your kindness and generosity!

Social @ Brew Bank

Join your fellow Rotarians this Thursday, April 29 from 4-6 pm at Brew Bank for a time to socialize and get ready for the weekend!

This Saturday! THS Interact TK 5K

Time to Lace Up!
The Topeka High Interact Club will be hosting its TK5K run/walk fundraiser on Saturday, May 1, 2021 at Hummer Sports Park to raise money for Fellowship & Faith Ministry Inc. and the YWCA Day Center. Follow the event on Facebook to stay up-to-date with the latest announcements!

Learn more about participating in the TK5K HERE and sign-up HERE.

Email Murray Moore if you're interested in volunteering at the TK5K.

Deadline Extended! TSR Scholarship Opportunities

Deadline extended to April 23. Spread the word!

Topeka South Rotary is pleased to now offer three (3) scholarship opportunities to Topeka and Shawnee County high school students!

View eligibility requirements and qualifications outlined in this online application form. In addition, help spread the word of this new opportunity and share it with students you know!

Zoom Links - Discontinuing after June 24!

After June 24, virtual meetings will be discontinued and all meetings will be held 100% in person!

THURSDAY! Social for Royal's Season Opener

TSR Social

Join your fellow Rotarians on April 1 beginning at 3:00 pm at Johnny's to take in the Kansas City Royal's season opener against the Texas Rangers. Participants must observe local and CDC guidelines regarding social distancing and appropriate wearing of face coverings. The social will take place in the "party room" at the west end of Johnny's to allow ample room to spread out.

Questions or interested in attending? Contact Greg Pert at greg@perthometeam.com.

New Member Spotlight

Introducing Lana Balka

Prior to her retirement in 2019, Lana worked as a Medical Social Worker for Home Health and Hospice in Sidney, Nebraska. Her professional career, which began by obtaining a BA Degree at Valparaiso University and a MSW at the University of Nebraska, took her on an incredible journey that included executive and management positions as a nursing home administrator, low-income housing administrator and Community Action executive.

Lana joined Rotary when she moved back to her hometown of Chappell, Nebraska in 2009. During her 10-year tenure with the club, she served as President-Elect and President, participated on the committee to interview RYLA candidates, was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow, volunteered one summer as a senior RYLA camp counselor, and made and sold numerous burritos at ball games to raise funds for scholarships.

Since moving to Topeka in 2019, Lana has enjoyed spending time with her son who is a Battalion Chief with the Topeka Fire Department, and with grandchildren and a great grandchild. She has also enjoyed re-connecting with the League of Women Voters and the local music fraternity of Sigma Alpha Iota Alumnae.

Music has been Lana's lifetime hobby, as a patron, teacher and performer. Prior to the pandemic, she played with the Topeka Prairie Winds Flute Choir and plans to do so again soon. She also loves to sing!

Her early professional experience working with the Lincoln Action Program and the "War on Poverty Programs" in Lincoln, Nebraska, is responsible for informing Lana of the importance of mobilizing efforts to address critical needs of our fellow human beings, especially in the areas of housing, health and accessible services. Projects and efforts to improve the human condition and the camaraderie of working with others to do so, are why Lana takes pride in being a Rotarian.

Fireside Chats

Not able to make the group Fireside Chat from March 5? No problem, we still want your input, so please consider making one of the below meetings. Most are still virtual, but we do have one in-person meeting if you are interested. Make sure you register in advance for the virtual meeting you choose so you get the meeting link, and email for the in-person one so enough space can be saved.

In anticipation of having engaging conversation, please review the set of questions your facilitator will be posing and consider the feedback and ideas you have to share: Fireside Chat Questions.

Wednesday, March 10, 5:30 pm

Host: Ashley Charest

In-Person @ Brew Bank

Friday, March 12, Noon

Host: Jessica Lehnherr

Tuesday, March 16, Noon

Host: Angela Dailey

Questions? Please don't hesitate to reach out to Ashley Charest if you need anything: (785) 224-8547 | ashleycharest@gmail.com

Volunteer Opportunities

TARC

TARC is looking for people to lead 30-minute Zoom meetings. They are looking for exercise groups, cooking demonstrations or even just a slideshow of vacation pictures. If you have any skills or hobbies (gardening; canning) that you would like to share with others, they would love that as well.

If you are interested in doing this, please reach out to Angela Dailey (adailey@capfed.com – 785.215.3386) and she will get you in touch with the educational coordinator at TARC.

Stormont-Vail Vaccine Clinic

Interested in volunteering to assist others in getting their COVID-19 vaccines? Email VolunteerDept@stormontvail.org to learn more and schedule your activity.

Also, continue to visit Topeka Volunteers for more opportunities you can do from home or in the community.

Education during a Pandemic, with Dr. Tiffany Anderson

How has our education system survived the global pandemic? How do you lead the largest school district in Shawnee County through the pandemic? No one else could tell us better than Superintendent Dr. Tiffany Anderson. Dr. Anderson will discuss the trials and tribulations of adjusting to the ever-changing atmosphere given the pandemic and her work on diversity, equity and inclusion. You won’t want to miss this meeting!

Wear Your Red!

It's Go Time, TSR!!

Wear your red this Friday to support the Chiefs as the team heads to the Super Bowl, again. We're going to recreate this photo taken in 2020, this time on Zoom. We want to see a sea of red on screen!

Kick-off is at 5:30 pm CT on Sunday, February 7.

And, if you equally enjoy the halftime show, here's a taste to get your foot tapping, featuring The Weekend. Click the image below to play.

Jennifer Montgomery Selected for Rotary Intl Peace Fellowship

Rotary International announces that Jennifer Montgomery has been selected as a 2021 Peace Fellow. Montgomery, who was chosen from a pool of global candidates, will take part in the Professional Certificate program at Makerere University in Uganda.

Jennifer Montgomery began working on human trafficking issues in the office of Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt in 2013. She currently leads the attorney general’s anti-human trafficking efforts as Director of Human Trafficking Education and Outreach and serves as Chair of the Kansas Human Trafficking Advisory Board. Jennifer volunteers as a Shawnee County CASA and as a mentor with the Kansas Women’s Leadership Institute at the University of Kansas. She is currently president of the board of directors of Freedom’s Path, an anti-human trafficking non-profit organization affiliated with the Topeka Rescue Mission.

Read the full news release.

Pints for Polio

The 2nd annual Pints for Polio took place on October 28th. 85 Rotarians and friends donated $4,250 towards Polio Plus and 45 people, including three Topeka South members, joined the Zoom happy hour to hear an update on the efforts towards worldwide polio eradication.

Disaster Grant Achievements

District 5710 Disaster Grant

Posted by Patti Mellard

Fear, isolation, and depression. These feelings have affected most of us during the coronavirus pandemic. Members of our community with behavioral and/or mental health illness have been especially affected by COVID-19 and the changes it has brought to their lives.

Many Americans received a stimulus check and those that were laid off were eligible for additional unemployment insurance; however, those suffering from a mental health disorder struggle to receive the same benefits.

Many of these individuals did not receive the economic stimulus check or additional unemployment funds that most citizens received to help alleviate the hardships caused by the coronavirus pandemic. The reasons for these situations vary.

This population may not have filed their tax return, didn’t file electronically, or may be homeless with no address or bank account to receive payments. Many of them were employed in entry-level hospitality jobs. These jobs were among the first jobs to be eliminated when the pandemic hit. Many individuals in these situations were already suffering from poverty and isolation, and job loss as a result of the pandemic has exacerbated mental health issues such as loneliness, fear, food insecurity, and substance abuse.

Rotary District 5710 was awarded a Rotary International Disaster Grant of $25,000 to help this population in our community. With the grant, we were able to provide needed personal protection supplies such as face masks, gloves, and sanitizer, non-perishable food items, and $50 gift cards to purchase additional food to those affected by mental illness. A portion of the grant was also designated to provide personal protection supplies to mental health service agencies whose resources are being stretched because of the increased need of protection for front-line social service workers.

Members of Topeka South Rotary met at Valeo Behavioral Health to assemble 120 boxes of the supplies, each also containing a $50 gift card, which were then distributed by Valeo staff to those in need.

We received very positive feedback from the recipients of the supplies, some of which are shared below.

Tamika Sellars, Valeo Case Manager, giving Logan a disaster kit. Logan is homeless and staying at different peoples’ homes each night. He said, “Wow, thank you! I can really use that!”

Monique Newman, Valeo Case Manager, giving Jeanelle a disaster box as she discharges from The Residence which is a temporary housing facility that Valeo operates. She said, “Thank you very much. God Bless you”.

Lisa Stewart, Case Manager giving a Valeo consumer a disaster box. She is discharging from one of our temporary housing facilities to move into an apartment. She was so grateful to be given a box of supplies and a gift card to buy food for her new apartment. “Oh my, this is so great! The protein bars are so good. Thank you for thinking of me.”

Rotarians socially distanced while safely assembling the Disaster Grant kits! Pictured: Valeo CEO Bill Persinger, Konni Flynn, DG Faron Barr, TSR President Jim Ramos, Patti Mellard, Angela Dailey, Lori Rowe

Pumpkin Run 2020

That's a Wrap!

The 8th annual Pumpkin Run is in the books. We're grateful to our sponsors for their generous support, and for the encouragement and participation of our members and community. Stay tuned for more information on the final event results.

In the meantime, view a photo album of the images submitted by participants across the country.

New Member Spotlight

Kathleen Marker
CEO, YWCA

As a citizen of the world and first-generation American, Kathleen Marker came home to Topeka, Kansas in 2016 as the CEO at the YWCA Northeast Kansas, to lead their mission of eliminating racism, empowering women and standing for social justice for all. With a diverse background in commercial banking, finance, international business development, and higher education, her personal mission was to end her professional life with a career giving back to the community that gave her so much.

As CEO of the YWCA, she oversees a committed staff of over 80 individuals who address the needs of women, children and families via direct services in tandem with strategies of community issue education and public policy advocacy. Her belief is that social transformation requires a spectrum of responses from meeting direct needs to transforming institutional and public policy. She personally facilitates the Emerging Leaders course training women new to leadership to develop their presence, navigate stages of team development and manage conflict.

She is currently Chair of iNCLUDED, Greater Topeka Partnership’s diversity, equity and inclusion initiative and involved with Heartland Visioning’s diversity and inclusion group. She is a member of the United Way of Topeka’s Advocacy committee and active participant in their Covid-19 response team working on the communities’ needs related to housing, early childhood education and hunger.

This Weekend is Rotary District Conference

Rotary Conference, the largest annual gathering of the District 5710 community, is this weekend on Saturday, Nov 7, 2020. Click the link below to learn more and register to attend online via Zoom at no charge.

State of Rotary

presented by special guest, Suzi Howe, Rotary International’s President Representative

PolioPlus, the Opportunity Beyond Eradication
presented by Dana Brewer & Jim Arnett

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
presented by Todd “Bowtie” Jenkins

Where the Door Leads, Anti-Human Trafficking

Rotary Happy
presented by Jenny Stotts

Just Curious!

This Week's Survey: What or where is the highest point in Topeka? CLICK HERE!

Results from last week's survey... Which of the following laws exist in Topeka?
Correct Answer: All of the Above!

It's against the law to sing or whistle in the streets at night, and can be arrested for causing a disturbance.
It’s against the law to scream in a haunted house.
It's illegal to participate in a snowball fight.

2021-2022 Call for Board Interest

It feels like our new Rotary year just started, but already we are looking forward to the 2021-2022 Rotary year. Our first task is to fill our Board of Director slots. If you are interested in serving on the Board, either in a specific position or in general, contact Ashley Charest at ashleycharest@gmail.com or (785) 224-8547.

New Member Spotlight

Tiffany Brubaker

Quality Nurse Manager

Freedom Behavioral Health

Tiffany is a certified hospice and palliative care nurse. She's currently enrolled at MidAmerica Nazarene University for a dual master program, pursuing both an MBA (Master of Business Administration) and MSN (Master of Science in Nursing).

Tiffany and her husband Darren have three boys: Troy, Tyler and Beau. When not working, Tiffany enjoys reading, riding bikes with the boys and vacationing.

She and Darren chaired the Corks and Forks Gala for the American Cancer Society and are proud to be co-chairs of the event again in 2021.

Celebrations: Sole Mates Donation

Many thanks to Gary Lucas and State Farm Insurance for presenting Topeka South Rotary a donation of $500 to benefit Sole Mates.

7/27: RYLA EXPERIENCE WITH FARON BARR AND LEA RAMOS (BRADBURY THOMPSON CENTER)

Don't know what RYLA stands for? Come on Friday when Topeka South Rotary Member, and 2017-2018 RYLA Chair, Faron Barr alongside of Topeka High Senior and 2018 RYLA Graduate, Lea Ramos summarize this year’s RYLA experience at the University of Kansas.

WHATCHA' DOING ON FRIDAY?

OK, we know you are a social butterfly with a million things to do..... or you have an evening planned of PJs and Netflix, but instead join your Rotary friends on Friday, July 27 for the TSR Social. We'll be chillin' at Luis' Place (5th and Kansas) starting at 4:30 pm. Early bird gets the best appetizers, last one there picks up the tab!

JARED HOLROYD RECEIVES PAUL HARRIS+1

Congrats to Jared Holroyd for receiving his Paul Harris+1!

12-8: CARLOS DAVID GARCIA & SONIA LETICIA XIQUIN - KANSAS ROOM

Please join your fellow Topeka South Rotarians in the Kansas Room of the Washburn Union this Friday as we hear first-hand accounts of the impact Topeka South Rotary has in Guatemala from Carlos David Garcia and Sonia Leticia Xiquin. They will share information about the clinic as well as the water purification and cook stove projects the club has helped install. Both are in the area completing programs at the University of Kansas Medical Center. Carlos David is a medical student at the Mariano Galvez University in Guatemala. Sonia is a nurse at the clinic in Patanatic that TSR sponsored.

9-15: VICKIE BROKKE - BRADBURY THOMPSON

Join us at the Bradbury Thompson Alumni Association and hear from one of Topeka South Rotary's own, Vickie Brokke, at Friday's meeting.

Vickie, president and CEO of Topeka Civic Theatre & Academy, will visit with us about the diverse programing at the Topeka Civic Theatre and share some insights on the theatre's new season.

Upcoming Speakers

Brandon Rison

Oddfellows, Rare Book Collecting

8.18.17

Geoff Deman

Free State Brewery

8.25.17

District Gov. Adam Ehlert

Rotary District 5710 Information

9.1.17

Kathleen Marker, CEO NE KS

Eliminating Racism

9.8.17

Offsite

Tour: Harvesters - Sack Lunches Program

9.15.17

Trella Anderson

Topeka Symphony's Frugal House

9.22.17

Tentative Hold for Social

9.28.17

SUPPORT SOLE MATES BY PURCHASING CD

Earlier this year Benjy Zhang (son of TSR member Baili Zhang) presented the fourth check to TSR Sole Mates, bringing the total amount he has donated in the past four years to $2,454. He also bid farewell to TSR as he heads to the University of Pennsylvania this fall.

Benjy plans to continue to raise funds for Sole Mates through the sale of his professionally recorded CD, “Music for the Sole," which will be completed in late August. He suggests a donation of $10 per copy, and all proceeds will go to Sole Mates.

Many thanks to Benjy for sharing his immense talents in selfless service.

8-4: SCOTT GALES and SETH WAGONER - BRADBURY

Get the insider's track on the exciting addition to the continued revitalization of Downtown Topeka – the Cyrus Hotel. Seth Wagoner, AIM Strategies, and Scott Gales, Architect One, will join us to discuss the mission, design and development of the hotel, which is currently under construction. The presentation will include a review of the Cyrus Hotel Experience and a video.

New Blue Badges Earned

We had three Topeka South Rotarians earn their Blue Badge of honor. Congratulations to Zoe Gruber, Patricia Hamilton, and Tyler Levier!

Rotary Freedom Fest Downtown This Weekend

Join the festival sponsored by Downtown Rotary.

Fun and mostly free activities stretch from the Kansas River to the state Capitol, ending with a FREE concert at 9th and Kansas Avenue this Saturday evening starting at 4 PM.

Tickets are required for the concert, but they are free. Visit CitySpin.com to get your tickets and view a complete schedule.

Friday, 6.30 Meeting: Board Transition—Meet in Washburn B

Friday marks the end of the Rotary year. President Paul Bossert will hand off the reins to incoming president Jared Holroyd. Hold on to your seats as we thank outgoing board members and welcome the brave, new incoming volunteers!

6.24 Meeting: Linda Kehres, Let's Help Executive Director—Meet in Bradbury Thompson

Linda is actively involved in every area of the agency and strives to make a positive difference in the lives of people in need. Under her leadership, Let's Help promotes self-sufficiency and breaking the cycle of poverty.

They serve lunch to 350 people every week day and provide emergency assistance with rent, utilities and medical needs to nearly 6,000 individuals each year. Let's Help also offers an adult education and GED program, as well as job readiness training.

6.16 Meeting: Welcome, Brett Ballard—Head Coach, Washburn Men's Basketball

Brett Ballard is a former University of Kansas player and Wake Forest assistant. He was hired to succeed Bob Chipman as head men’s basketball coach.

Ballard has served on Danny Manning’s staff for five seasons—three years at Wake Forest and two at Tulsa. “This is an incredible opportunity and I am excited to come home and coach at a university with an elite basketball program,” Ballard said. “Washburn is a place that has very high standards and also places a value on developing student athletes both on and off the court, and those were very important factors to me coming. Look forward to an exciting program as we welcome Brett's visit to our club.

Greetings from Rotary International Conference

"Hannah and I have been learning a lot and are meeting people from all over the world. We heard from Bill Gates, John Cena, Minda Dentler (polio survivor and first female wheelchair athlete to complete an Ironman) and Ashton Kutcher today.

We witnessed the initial public pledges from Rotary, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and many other organizations toward the remaining fight against polio to the tune of $1.2 billion.

We are sharing this humbling experience with 33,000+ Rotarians from around the world. Tomorrow we look forward to hearing from a number of Polio Eradication Ambassadors including Golf Icon Jack Nicklaus." —Paul

25th Annual Golf Tournament is picking up steam

It's not too late to sign up or sponsor a hole. Thanks to our hole sponsors as of June 2:

K1 Realty LLC • Community Bank • Computer Store • CoreFirst Bank • Eaton Roofing • Glenn Jagodzinski • Higgs Financial Services • Jennie Adams Rose Government Affairs/PR • Kansas Press Association • Key Staffing • Cornerstone Group • State Farm Insurance/Gary Lucas • Beeman, Land, Tinder • Terry Carney, OD PA • T & M Financial, Inc • Wendling, Noe, Nelson & Johnson • All Insurance Access Patricia Hamilton • Johnson Controls

Contact Gary Lucas with questions here.

Welcome, TSR Member Cassandra Taylor—Meet in Washburn B

Cassandra joined Architect One in 2007 and became a principal in 2015. A graduate of Kansas State University, she has 17 years of experience with architecture and development firms in Alaska, Florida, and Kansas.

She's a member of Topeka's Top 20 Under 40 and Leadership Greater Topeka. She's also an active volunteer and athlete. Her vocational talk is sure to be powerful!

Friday, June 2: Offsite Tour—Combat Air Museum

Get ready for a fun, informative tour at the Combat Air Museum this Friday.

The museum is on the grounds of the Topeka Regional Airport/Forbes Field:

7016 SE Forbes Avenue
Forbes Field, Topeka,
Kansas 66619-1444

See the map here.

Let's Help Saturday: A Family Affair

The Saturday Let's Help crew included plenty of Rotarians and their families. What a great way to include kids and spouses in our "Service Above Self!" See our Facebook page for lots more terrific photos.

Our next Saturday service opportunity will be June 24. Thanks to all who served. —Tanya

Welcome, Jared Maag: Assistant United States Attorney—Meet in Washburn B

Jared is an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas and is admitted to practice before the Kansas Supreme Court; U.S. District Court in Kansas; the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit in Denver; and the U.S. Supreme Court. He joined the U.S. Attorney’s office in 2004 as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney while working as a prosecutor for the Kansas Attorney General’s Office. He joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office full time in 2009. (He is also the brother of TSR Member Laura Lutz!)

May 19 Meeting: Dawn McWilliams—Meet in Washburn B

Dawn is the Chief Executive Officer of the Topeka Boys & Girls Club. The club's mission is "to enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens."

We'll hear from Dawn about the importance of nurturing youth, projects underway and Rotary's partnership with the club.

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Photo album

Friday, 4.28 Meeting—Bradbury Thompson

Welcome, Jeff Wagaman—Vocational Talk

Jeff Wagaman is a Reserve Sheriff's Deputy for the Shawnee County Sheriff's Office. He is assigned to the uniformed operations division. In his full time occupation, he serves as the Executive Director of the Division of Crime Victims Compensation in the Office of Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt. Prior to being appointed to this position he served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Attorney General Schmidt.

During his 30 year service career he has worked as the Chief Professional Officer of the Boys & Girls Club of Topeka, the Assistant State Treasurer of Kansas, Executive Director of the Kansas Corporation Commission, Deputy Secretary of the Kansas Department of Administration, Chief of Staff to Governor Bill Graves, Chief of Staff to the Kansas Senate President and the Kansas Senate Majority Leader, and he held several other positions in the Kansas government. Wagaman has a B.A. from Washburn University and MPA from the University of Kansas.

FRIDAY 3.17 MEETING OFFSITE AT VAERUS AVIATION

Thanks to our host, Brooks Pettit, President of Vaerus Aviation! We'll take a tour and learn more about this impressive organization.

Gate opens at 7:00am

Park on the ramp & enter through front hangar doors
Do not park in the parking lot, it is reserved for Wolf Construction only.
Program starts, as usual, 7:30am (sharp) & ends at 8:30am
Breakfast, juice and coffee, will be provided by Vaerus Aviation

Address: 6410 SE Forbes Ave., Suite 2, Topeka, KS 66619

Friday, February 3 Meeting: Washburn B

Welcome, Larry Gawronski—Executive Director, Topeka Performing Arts Center

Larry will speak on the remaining shows for the current season and the wonderful children’s programming (Schooltime Theater Series and Sheffel Theater Clinic) at TPAC.

A man of many talents, he is also a past president of the Rotary Club of Vicksburg, MS.

TSR March Membership Madness—all you need to know is things are going to get crazy!

For the first time ever we’re holding a monthly member recruitment challenge during the month of March.

Here’s where the MADNESS comes into play…for any current TSR member who brings a guest to a social, a Friday meeting or a service project during the month of March, their name will be added to a pool to receive free dues for a year!

Friday, 1.27 Meeting: Bradbury Thompson

Welcome, Dr. Sharon Sullivan—Cofounder and Director of STARS

Dr. Sullivan is cofounder and director of STARS (Stop Trafficking and Reject Slavery).

Hear about her research and activism focus on violence against women, including sexual and domestic violence, human trafficking, and rape as a weapon of war.

She has degrees from Smith College, Washington University and the University of Kansas. She is currently a Professor at Washburn University.

Friday, 1.20 Meeting–Washburn B

Welcome, Mayor Larry Wolgast

It's a great time for the City of Topeka. Mayor Wolgast will update us on the happenings going on within our community; economic development, partnerships, leaderships and revitalization of downtown.

Volunteers Needed for Early Act

Volunteers needed to work with some great kids! Curriculum is scripted and easy.

The dates are:

January 20
January 27
February 24
March 3

We meet from 2:30 to 3:30 at Avondale West. We need 8-10 volunteers for each date. If you can help, please email Mike Morrison.

Friday, 1.13 Meeting—Washburn B

Welcome Jayme Lyons—The Steamboat Arabia Story

Take a look back into the history of the Orphan Trains. Learn about the controversial solution to the overwhelming number of poor orphans in New York in the 1800s. Hear firsthand accounts along with interesting facts.

Jayme Lyons has worked in the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library Bookmobile Department for over 15 years. Her energetic style and deep desire to connect with others helps her bring her subjects to life.

Sole Mates Volunteers Needed 1.24

Volunteers are needed for Sole Mates on January 24 at 1:25pm at the Wanamaker Payless (next to Perkins).

If you can help, please contact Jamie Stafford. It's easy and fun–and makes a big difference for the kids who receive fresh new socks and shoes... and the volunteers, too!

January 6 Meeting: Washburn B

Josh Cooper—International Adoption

Welcome, Josh Cooper, Discipleship & Equipping Pastor at Grace Point Church.

He is originally from Iowa by way of Michigan and has lived in Topeka since 2013. He's a self-described forever Hawkeye living in the heart of Jayhawk country. "In other words, I'm doomed," he says.

Your presence is requested

RSVP by 12.2 for the best party of the year

Get out your dancing shoes and your sparkliest sparkles. The Topeka South Rotary Holiday Party is the undisputed best holiday gathering in town. Be sure to check your email for the invitation.

If you missed it, go to this link and sign up now. You and your guest are invited at no additional cost—it's covered by your dues.

Erika is looking for fun photos of TSR activities from the past year to use during the evening's events. If you have something to share, please email it to her here.

Friday, 12.2 meeting: Bradbury Thompson

Welcome, Topeka High School Madrigal Singers

Even the grumpiest Grinch would be in the holiday spirit after hearing this group of talented students work their magic.

This Friday, we'll have a festive program from the premier choir group at Topeka High School under the direction of Steve Eubank, director of choirs. Don't miss it!

Education Promotes Peace & Justice

Last week's Rotary Peace & Justice presentation by Imam Omar Hazim stressed the importance of education to create peace and understanding. This was the second in a series of events by the multi-club effort toward peace.

The event had excellent media coverage. Read the article in The Topeka Capital-Journal here.

Thanks to Patti Mellard, Peace and Justice Committee Chair, for an excellent program.

Friday, 11/25: No Meeting

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday with family and friends. See you December 2 in Bradbury Thompson.

Resources from Department of Homeland Security

Thanks to Chuck Clanahan and Eric Carlson for an informative presentation on how to make our homes, workplaces and community safer and more secure. They have provided additional information and resources to help our members:

"Thanks again for providing SA Eric Carlson (FBI) and me the opportunity to provide the presentation to your club. As discussed, following are resources available that were discussed during the presentation. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if I can be of any assistance. Thanks again and I look forward to our continued relationship and partnership."

1. DHS Protective Security Advisor (PSA)
2. DHS Daily Open Source Infrastructure Report
3. DHS United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT)

4. FBI InfraGard
5. Active Shooter Preparedness

Friday, 11.11 Meeting: Kansas Room

Welcome, Chuck Clanahan—US Department of Homeland Security

Chuck Clanahan, CPP serves as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Protective Security Advisor (PSA) for the State of Kansas. He has 35 years of experience in security, law enforcement, risk management, and crisis preparedness in a combination of both military and federal service.

Friday, 10/28 Meeting: Kansas Room

Welcome, TSR Membership Chair, Jenalea Randall

Jenalea Randall, MBA manages community relations for Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Kansas. She's also our membership chair extraordinaire. Come hear what she and her committee have underway.

Saturday Let's Help Thank You!

Thanks so much to the wonderful volunteers who prepared and served brunch at Let’s Help on Saturday. We had such energy, and I think the team worked together quite well. We were able to serve 238 trays to lots of appreciative people. Thank you for making a difference for each of them.

Photo: TJ Brown gets meal prep off to a great start.

We’ll be back at Let’s Help on Saturday, November 19 and again on December 17. Hope to see you there! —Tanya

Peace & Justice Speaking Series: First Event November 18

The Rotary Peace Committee has started a speaker’s bureau. First up: Imam Omar Hazim with the Islamic Center of Topeka:

Friday, November 18, 2016

8:45 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

Washburn University Carole Chapel

This event is open to Rotarians and their guests. Please plan to attend our inaugural event!

Clock Dedication at Crossroads to Freedom Pocket Park October 20

The Downtown Rotary Club will dedicate the Rotary Clock in the Rotary Pocket Park at the October 20 noon meeting. TSR is invited!

The meeting will be at Constitution Hall—429 S Kansas Avenue. Mayor Larry Wolgast will speak. RSVP by noon on Monday, October 17 at this link.

Book Donations Honor our Speakers

Hello!

This Rotary year, we honor TSR speakers with a donation to United Way's Junior Leader Reader program. It puts books in the hands of kids who often have to share a book in their household. Our donations represent a bunch of happy kids!

Friday, 9/23 Meeting: Kansas Room

Welcome, District 5710 Governor Chris Ford

Chris Ford has been a member of the Overland Park South Rotary since 2006 during which time he has been awarded the Paul Harris Fellow Award, served in various chairs on the Rotary Board of Directors and served as the Club’s President from 2012-13. Under his leadership, the Overland Park South Rotary Club experienced a 25% growth in membership.

We'll look forward to hearing from Chris!

The Great Pumpkin Run 2016 Update

The 2016 Topeka South Rotary Pumpkin Run is getting closer and our committee members have working vigorously to make this year’s run/walk/stroll as successful as possible.

We have 6 people registered so far and we have received $2,250 in sponsorships. The committee would like to thank the following people and businesses who have already helped sponsor our event.

Friday 9/16 meeting: OFFSITE at Harvesters 215 SE Quincy

Help Hungry Children: Packing Lunches at Harvesters • 215 SE Quincy

This Friday, we'll be at Harvesters packing lunches! Arrive 7:20-7:30am. Continental breakfast will be offered.

Enter through the main entrance with the red awning. Park in either lot across the street. We will pack lunches for Topeka area children in assembly line fashion.

Directions follow:

Sole Mates Schedule 2016-17

Sole Mates Builds Self Esteem

When you volunteer for Sole Mates, you build self esteem in our youngest citizens. It's easy and fun: simply help a child choose new socks and shoes after a Payless professional has determined the right shoe size. You don't even need your wallet: can money and Foundation contributions pay for the shoes and socks.

Meet at the Payless ShoeSource on 3215 SW Topeka Blvd. It takes less than an hour and you'll leave feeling 10 feet tall.

The dates for this school year:

Friday, 9/9 Meeting: Washburn B

Welcome Barbara Ballentine, TSR Member and Development Director at YWCA of Northeast Kansas: Meet in Washburn B

We'll hear from Barbara about her career path, her many creative talents and interests—and what's next!

Polio Resurfaces in Nigeria

Government of Nigeria reports 2 wild polio cases, first since July 2014

New cases come on the two-year anniversary since the last confirmed case of polio was reported in Africa

11 AUGUST 2016 ¦ GENEVA - After more than two years without wild poliovirus in Nigeria, the Government reported today that 2 children have been paralyzed by the disease in the northern Borno state.

NEXT FRIDAY: Impact on Hunger at Harvesters

NEXT FRIDAY AT HARVESTERS: 1,000 lunches in 1 hour

We'll be packing lunches again this year to help fight hunger in Topeka. We'll meet at 215 SE Quincy.

Please shop for serving size items or make a donation. Items needed:

5th Annual Pumpkin Run October 28

Raise funds to fight Polio and have fun with family and friends. Chip timing • family-friendly activities • costume contest

5K walk/run plus a family stroll

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28:

7:30 am registration & packet pickup
8:30 am race begins
9:45 am awards ceremony

WHERE:
Lake Shawnee, Shelter House #1
3400 SE Leisure Lane

EARLY BIRD COST: $25, includes a limited edition spooky T-shirt.

REGISTER ONLINE: here

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: If you would like to volunteer for the Pumpkin Run contact Ken Gorman, Janet Burns or Glenn Jagodzinske.

Friday 8/19: Washburn B

The Honorable Jason Geier: Vocational Presentation

Join us Friday in Washburn B to hear about fellow Rotarian Judge Jason Geier's career and avocations (we know he's a Royals fan). Let's find out what else!

New Approach to Orientation

YOU'RE INVITED

The membership committee will host group orientations on predetermined dates and locations during a regular TSR meeting. The new members will eat breakfast with the group, listen to announcements and then exit the room to go to orientation.

Next opportunities:
February 17, 2017 - Bible room
April 28 - Thomas room
June 16 - Thomas room

Questions? Contact Jenalea

Pumpkin Run 2016

PLANNING FOR OCTOBER 29 EVENT CONTINUES: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Faron and his committee are working hard to make this the biggest, baddest Pumpkin Run yet. We need volunteers for Pumpkin Run help on Saturday, October 29.

First, thank you to Bob Koopman, Jenalea Randall, Doug Anstaett, Dick Tinder, Chuck Engel who have already volunteered!! So, if you'd like to help again this year, let Ken Gorman or Glenn Jag know ASAP, and then we will recruit others as needed.

Thanks for serving at Let's Help!

Let's Help July 30

We had a really successful day at Let’s Help July 30th weekend. Thanks so much to everyone who was able to volunteer! Together, we served 230 trays, and a lot of hungry Topekans left happy. Your donation of time and effort (and eggs!) means so much, and I thank you for it.

International Service Opportunity: Nigeria

Announcing an upcoming trip to Port Harcourt, Nigeria, West Africa in October 2016 to participate in a polio immunization exercise, attend the 11th Annual West Africa Project Fair, and engage in a hands-on work project.

Peace, Justice and Freedom Committee Meets Friday

Plant the seeds of Peace, Justice and Freedom

The four Topeka Rotary clubs are joining together to foster understanding, tolerance and peace. There are lots of ways to get involved! Please come to the next meeting to find out more:

Friday, August 12

9:00 am

Topeka/Shawnee County Public Library

Rotary in Guatemala 2016

Service Above Self Around the World: Guatemala 2016

200 medical checkups • 36 pairs of shoes • 10 water filters • 710 students • 4 schools

During the week of July 17th-24th, members of the Topeka South, Olathe Noon, and Lenexa clubs along with two members from the Washburn University Rotaract club,

Erik Karre Chosen Assistant Governor

Erik joined Rotary in 2003 as a member of the Kearney Noon Rotary Club. In 2008 he and two others help start the Kearney on the Bricks Rotary Club and he served as the charter president. Then in 2013 he joined the Kearney Dawn Rotary Club.

Friday July 8 Meeting: Washburn B

Welcome, Zach Ahrens: Topeka Capital-Journal Publisher

A new face in Topeka last fall, Ahrens has quickly made visible changes in the content and accessibility of the news organization he leads. Friday's meeting is sure to be informative as we hear what's next.

(Photo from Chris Neal, Topeka Capital-Journal)

Hair-Raiser!

Posted on Jul. 05, 2016

This year's golf tournament a hair-raising fundraiser

At left, Gary Lucas shows everyone just how it's done. The 2016 tournament was a huge success, grossing over $13,500. We're thrilled to be able to provide $2,500 each to Valeo Behavioral Health Care and Silverbackks.

Many thanks to all the volunteers, sponsors, prize donors and players. Final results and presentations THIS FRIDAY.

See some of Mark Boranyak's great photos from the event here:

Invite a Friend to Rotary

Posted on Jun. 28, 2016

Enjoy what you get out of being a Rotarian? Invite your non-Rotarian friends to join you at a Friday meeting or volunteer event. Doing so is a great way to connect good people with community service projects, fun and fellowship!

Help our club stay vibrant and healthy by inviting prospective members to a club meeting or event: Download the brochure here.

Friday July 1 Meeting: Washburn B

Welcome Scott Gardner, President of Heartland Park Topeka

We'll hear about the exciting business of racing and what's in store for fans at Heartland Park!

TSR's 2016 Bylaws Approved

Posted by Faron Barr on Jun. 21, 2016

Topeka South Rotary has approved the club's 2016 bylaws HERE.

Questions? Please email President Faron.

Friday's Meeting – Meet in KANSAS ROOM, 3RD FLOOR (updated!)

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 13, 2016

First Tee of Shawnee County – Meet in WASHBURN B

Elmer Robinson

Join us this Friday, June 17 for a presentation about The First Tee of Shawnee County - which gives youth an opportunity to learn the great game of golf. Our speaker will be Elmer Robinson, Program Director.

Rotary Freedom Festival Rescheduled for July 30

427 - 429 S Kansas Avenue, Topeka, KS 66603
Location: Constitution Hall Mural
Dates: July 30, 2016
Time: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Price: Free

More details at Downtown's website

Friday's Meeting – Meet in the Kansas Room

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 01, 2016

Join us this Friday, June 10 in the Kansas Room for a presentation on the Little Free Library Program by Sheyvette Dinkens, Executive Director of Women Empowerment.

Compete in the TSR Facebook Fun Contest

Posted by Renee Varella on May 25, 2016

Share your support of Topeka South Rotary – and win prizes – in the TSR Facebook Fun Contest

Post fun, creative pictures on Topeka South Rotary's Facebook Page (and use hashtags) to increase page engagement.
Earn a variety of points to be eligible to win a $25 Glory Days Pizza gift certificate.
Compete for the Grand Prize: to be named King/Queen of the Annual Holiday Party!

It's easy and fun. Read the details HERE.

Here's the Leaderboard as of 7/6:

241: Martha Bartlett Piland

148: Jim Ramos
145: Karen Lynn
104: Faron Barr
50:    Tanya Dorf Brunner
36:    Patti Mellard

Don't miss your chance to be the Holiday Party Queen or King!

Ken Schmanke Is Our Mr. Clean

Posted by Renee Varella on May 24, 2016

Ken Schmanke accepts his "Scrub Brush" award from Patti and Martha.

Last week, Patti Mellard and Martha Bartlett Piland presented Ken Schmanke with a special award for his dedicated floor-scrubbing efforts during Let's Help kitchen clean-up day!

Grab the Kids and Volunter

Posted by Renee Varella on May 19, 2016

Jared Holroyd reads to third graders at EarlyAct last month.

Now that school is out, it's a good time to bring your kids or grandkids to volunteer with you at a TSR event:

Lunch Bunch

Friday, May 20, 11:20 a.m. to Noon – Last Lunch Bunch of the school year!
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Pizza, drinks and desserts will be provided!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, June 13, 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, June 25, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Friday's Meeting – Meet in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on May 19, 2016

Washburn University Tennis – Meet in WASHBURN B

Lance Lysaught

Join us this Friday, May 20 for a presentation by Lance Lysaught, Tennis Coach of Washburn University.

Golf Tournament Is June 24

Posted by Renee Varella on May 10, 2016

Rick Higgs at TSR's 2015 Golf Tournament.

Topeka South Rotary's Annual Golf Tournament will be here before you know it!

Friday, June 24, 2016

1 p.m. shotgun start

Topeka Country Club

Share the flyer with friends and colleagues!

For sponsorships, registrations and other details, email Doug Barrington.

Who benefits?

Topeka South Rotary has selected Silverbackks, Inc. and Valeo Behavioral Health Care as co-beneficiaries of TSR's annual Golf Tournament. The goal of the tournament is to raise $2,500 each for:

Silverbackks' Silver Pantry, which provides support for families who have recently moved from a shelter into their own homes or who are at risk of losing housing.
Valeo's Supported Education Program, which provides individualized assistance in gaining the academic skills needed to be successful in supporting efforts to receive a GED, receive vocational education and participate in college. (The program serves those who are living below poverty, have Severe and Persistent Mental Illness, and are trying to better themselves through higher education.)

Friday's Meeting – Meet in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on May 09, 2016

Brett Oetting

Join us this Friday, May 13 for a presentation by Brett Oetting, President & CEO of Visit Topeka.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on May 04, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

Bruce Graham
May 4

Roger Underwood
May 4

Scott Hesse
May 6

Murray Moore
May 7

Drawing for Paul Harris Recognition Points This Week!

Posted by Anne Wardner on May 04, 2016

Anne Wardner

This Friday, May 6, President Faron will draw the name of the lucky winner of 800 Paul Harris Recognition Points!

As you've heard for months, our club has the goal to donate $12,000 to the Rotary Foundation's Annual SHARE Program. The Rotary year runs from July 1 to June 30. To date, we are at just 73 percent of our goal.

Don't miss Friday's meeting – you could be the lucky winner!

And you can still give today:
As I mentioned in the eBulletin last week, giving to the SHARE fund is simple and can be done a number of ways:

A one-time contribution online.
A check made payable to: Rotary International - Annual SHARE Program. (Please give the check to me or to Treasurer Adam Feldhausen.)
Through Rotary Direct – which allows the scheduling of automatic withdrawals to make contributions at your discretion. Learn more.

As Club Foundation Chair, I would be happy to assist you in any way to make the contribution process as easy and efficient for you as possible. I also am available at any time to answer any questions.

Thank you to the members who came to me with this proposal – and thank you all for your past donations and consideration to giving in the future.

– Anne Wardner, Club Foundation Chair

Sign up to Volunter Today

Posted by Renee Varella on May 04, 2016

Jared Holroyd reads to third graders at EarlyAct last month.

Now is the perfect time to volunteer for a TSR service opportunity:

Monday, March 14, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

- See more at: http://portal.clubrunner.ca/4261/Stories#sthash.nsnjVjLU.dpuf

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, May 9, 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Let's Help Kitchen Clean Up – 20+ volunteers needed!

Monday, May 9, 3 p.m. to ??
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Martha Bartlett Piland or Patti (Bossert) Mellard to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, May 20, 11:20 a.m. to Noon – Last Lunch Bunch of the school year!
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, May 21, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Our Golf Tournament Is June 24!

Posted by Renee Varella on May 04, 2016

Golfers rev up for TSR's 2015 Golf Tournament.

Topeka South Rotary's Annual Golf Tournament will be here before you know it!

Friday, June 24, 2016

1 p.m. shotgun start

Topeka Country Club

Share the flyer with friends and colleagues!

For sponsorships, registrations and other details, email Doug Barrington.

Who benefits?

Topeka South Rotary has selected Silverbackks, Inc. and Valeo Behavioral Health Care as co-beneficiaries of TSR's annual Golf Tournament. The goal of the tournament is to raise $2,500 each for:

Silverbackks' Silver Pantry, which provides support for families who have recently moved from a shelter into their own homes or who are at risk of losing housing.
Valeo's Supported Education Program, which provides individualized assistance in gaining the academic skills needed to be successful in supporting efforts to receive a GED, receive vocational education and participate in college. (The program serves those who are living below poverty, have Severe and Persistent Mental Illness, and are trying to better themselves through higher education.)

Friday's Meeting – Meet in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on May 04, 2016

Importance of Higher Education – Meet in WASHBURN B

Tim Peterson and Sue Maes

Join us this Friday, May 6 for a presentation on the Importance of Higher Education by Sue Maes, Kansas State University, and Tim Peterson, Washburn University.

Give to SHARE Fund and Win Paul Harris Recognition Points – LAST WEEK!

Posted by Anne Wardner on Apr. 28, 2016

Anne Wardner

You only have until this Saturday, April 30 to donate $100 to the SHARE Fund and get entered into the drawing for 800 Paul Harris Recognition Points!

You've been hearing a lot lately about the Rotary Foundation's Annual SHARE Program and our club's goal to give $12,000. The Rotary year runs from July 1 to June 30. To date, we are significantly behind at just 65 percent of our goal.

For this reason, three of our members have graciously come forward with a very generous "member match." This two-phase offer has the potential to help us make significant progress toward our goal:

PHASE 1: Any member who gives at least $100 to the Annual SHARE Fund between now and May 1 will receive an additional 100 Paul Harris Fellow (PHF) recognition points.*

PHASE 2: Two lucky members from Phase 1 will win an additional 800 PHF recognition points!

Here's how this tremendous member match will work:

Each member who has donated at least $100 between now and May 1 will be entered into a drawing. (You will receive 100 PHF recognition points for your contribution, plus 100 points from Phase 1 of the member match.)
At our general membership meeting on May 6, 2016, President Faron will draw the names of two lucky members.
Each winner will receive an additional 800 points from Phase 2 of the member match, for a grand total of 1,000 PHF recognition points.

Any Rotarian who accumulates 1,000 or more PHF recognition points will earn a distinguished Paul Harris Fellow Award – so you can see why 800 points is such a powerful opportunity for members individually and for our club as a whole! I hope many of you will be encouraged by this match and consider making a commitment.

*Only the first $100 will be matched by this offer; however, contributions of more than $100 are certainly welcome!

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 28, 2016

Doug and Cheri Barrington

Cheri Barrington Nominated for National Realtor Competition

Doug Barrington's wife, Cheri, recently was nominated to compete for the “Kansas (Real Estate) Salesperson of the Year” honor. The area real estate Association selects one Realtor from more than 500 Realtors to compete with all other State Association nominees. Cheri was selected by the 500+ Association Realtors as “Realtor of the Year” (2014).

************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian – and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Let’s Give Let’s Help a Hand!

Posted by Martha Bartlett Piland on Apr. 28, 2016

The Let’s Help kitchen is in great need of a deep cleaning and some TLC. Topeka South Rotary is rising to the challenge!

Monday, May 9 from 3 p.m. – ??: Sign up for a few hours after work, or for the whole time.

Please join us to do a good deed and have fun (and refreshments!) with fellow Rotarians.

We need 20+ volunteers. A sign-up sheet will be passed around at the next meeting. Or you can email Martha Bartlett Piland to get on the list.

Volunteer ... and Get Your Pic in a TSR Photo

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 27, 2016

TSR members help kids get new shoes and socks at Sole Mates last month.

If your photo hasn't shown up in a volunteer pic for TSR in a while, please volunteer soon – and get noticed!

Monday, March 14, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

- See more at: http://portal.clubrunner.ca/4261/Stories#sthash.nsnjVjLU.dpuf

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, April 23, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, May 9, 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Let's Help Kitchen Clean Up – 20+ volunteers needed!

Monday, May 9, 3 p.m. to ??
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Martha Bartlett Piland or Patti (Bossert) Mellard to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, May 20, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 27, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

Chad Wilkins
April 28

Jason Geier
May 2

Jeff Hiestand
May 2

Welcome to TSR, Jenny!

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 22, 2016

President Faron recently inducted Jenny Barricklow into TSR.

Congratulations to Jenny Barricklow, who joined Topeka South Rotary in March.

Jenny is an Assistant Vice President - Financial Advisor for Capital City Bank. Her sponsor is Jared Holroyd.

Welcome to Topeka South Rotary, Jenny!

Friday's Meeting – Meet in BRADBURY THOMPSON

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 22, 2016

Policing in Topeka – Meet in BRADBURY THOMPSON

TPD Chief James L. Brown

Join us this Friday, April 29 for a presentation by James L. Brown, Topeka Police Chief.

Please meet in BRADBURY THOMPSON.

Are You in a TSR Photo?

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 20, 2016

TSR members help kids get new shoes and socks at Sole Mates last month.

If your photo hasn't shown up in a volunteer pic for TSR in a while, please volunteer soon – and get noticed!

Monday, March 14, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

- See more at: http://portal.clubrunner.ca/4261/Stories#sthash.nsnjVjLU.dpuf

Sole Mates

Thursday, April 21, 1:25 p.m. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to help high school students pick out new shoes and socks – 2 more volunteers needed!
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, April 23, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, May 9, 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, May 20, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Friday's Meeting – Meet in KANSAS ROOM, 3RD FLOOR

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 20, 2016

Relay for Life-American Cancer Society – Meet in KANSAS ROOM, 3RD FLOOR

Join us this Friday, April 22 for a presentation about the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life by Rebecca "Becky" Duncan.

Golf Tournament – June 24

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 20, 2016

Angela, Martha, Penny and Jeri show off their style at the 2015 Golf Tournament.

Topeka South Rotary's Annual Golf Tournament will be here before you know it!

Friday, June 24, 2016

1 p.m. shotgun start

Topeka Country Club

Share the flyer with friends and colleagues!

For sponsorships, registrations and other details, email Doug Barrington.

Who benefits?

Topeka South Rotary has selected Silverbackks, Inc. and Valeo Behavioral Health Care as co-beneficiaries of TSR's annual Golf Tournament. The goal of the tournament is to raise $2,500 each for:

Silverbackks' Silver Pantry, which provides support for families who have recently moved from a shelter into their own homes or who are at risk of losing housing.
Valeo's Supported Education Program, which provides individualized assistance in gaining the academic skills needed to be successful in supporting efforts to receive a GED, receive vocational education and participate in college. (The program serves those who are living below poverty, have Severe and Persistent Mental Illness, and are trying to better themselves through higher education.)

Recap of (Feisty!) Rotaract Dodge Ball Tournament

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 20, 2016

Six Topeka South Rotarians participated in this month's social – a Retro Dodge Ball Tournament hosted by our very own Washburn University Rotaract club.

TSR members and Rotaract students played on the blue and red teams that competed in support of the fundraiser. Proceeds from the tournament will go toward sending three Rotaracters to Guatemala with the Rotary team July 17–24.

After the tournament, most of the TSR participants met at Henry T's and got to know the Rotaracters we sponsor a little better.

Everyone had a great time!

Find more photos on TSR's Facebook page.

– President Faron

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 20, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

Rick Higgs
April 20

Luis Guillen
April 22

Jim Ramos
April 26

We Need YOU to Volunteer

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 13, 2016

TSR members enjoy Lunch Bunch with Avondale West students.

Please volunteer for a service opportunity this week – or soon:

Lunch Bunch

Friday, April 15, 11:20 a.m. to Noon – 5 more volunteers needed!
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

EarlyAct

Friday, April 15, 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (second of two sessions)
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St.
Email Dr. Mike Morrison to sign up.

Sole Mates

Wednesday, April 20, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Thursday, April 21, 1:25 p.m. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to help high school students pick out new shoes and socks – 16 more volunteers needed!
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, April 23, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 13, 2016

*Sean Frost (second from L) with Shelly Buhler, Lindsay Freeman and Larry Wolgast.*	Sean Frost Speaks at State of the Community Luncheon Sean Frost shared his perspectives as a young professional in Topeka at the Chamber's State of the Community luncheon on April 11. Sean is development director for the Washburn University Foundation. Read more.
*Jeri Hansen*	Jeri Hansen Receives Paul Harris Fellow + 3 Last week, President Faron presented a Rotary PHF + 3 pin to Jeri Hansen. Jeri recently retired from Capitol Federal.
*Mark Boranyak*	President Faron Awards Sponsorship Pin to Mark Boranyak Mark Boranyak recently received a Rotary Sponsorship Pin for sponsoring a new TSR member.
*Kim Gronniger*	Kim Gronniger Receives Blue Badge Last Friday, President Faron acknowledged Kim Gronniger with a blue badge for meeting all of the requirements of a new member. Kim is vice president of marketing for the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce.

************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian – and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Rockin' the Lunch Line at Let's Help

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 13, 2016

Jeanine, Mark, Jeri, Konni and Brenda served lunch at Let's Help last Monday.

Many thanks to the TSR members who volunteered at Let's Help (Second) Monday on April 11 – serving a record 390 meals:

Mark Boranyak
Brenda Dietrich
Konni Flynn
Jeri Hansen
Jeanine Wells
Joe Beuerlein

Way to go, team!

Welcome to TSR, Aric!

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 13, 2016

President Faron recently inducted Aric Harrington into TSR.

Congratulations to Aric Harrington, who recently joined Topeka South Rotary.

Aric is a Financial Advisor at Waddell & Reed. His sponsor is Keith Drinkard.

Welcome to Topeka South Rotary, Aric!

Golf Tournament Coming Soon – June 24

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 13, 2016

Angela, Martha, Penny and Jeri show off their style at the 2015 Golf Tournament.

Topeka South Rotary's Annual Golf Tournament will be here before you know it!

Friday, June 24, 2016

1 p.m. shotgun start

Topeka Country Club

Share the flyer with friends and colleagues!

For sponsorships, registrations and other details, email Doug Barrington.

Rotaract Dodge Ball Tournament – and Club Social – This Friday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 13, 2016

Meet up with your fellow Rotarians and watch the Rotaract Club at Washburn University compete in a Retro Dodge Ball tournament for students this Friday, April 15 at 6 p.m. (See the flyer.)

Funds raised for the tournament will help to send three students to Guatemala in July with Topeka South Rotarians. The students will help install cook stoves, deliver water filters and distribute school supplies.

The Retro Dodge Ball tournament serves as this month's Club Social – and counts as a makeup session too.

Come show your support!

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 13, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

Dale Warren
April 13

Boyd Johnson
April 18

Friday's Meeting – Meet in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 13, 2016

HOPE Mentoring Program – Meet in WASHBURN B

Mike Seibert

Join us this Friday, April 15 for a presentation on the HOPE Mentoring Program by Mike Siebert, Regional Coordinator, State of Kansas.

Lunch Bunch Gets Kudos

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 06, 2016

Topeka South Rotarians enjoyed Lunch Bunch with Avondale West Elementary students in March.

At Lunch Bunch in March, Doug Barrington heard great feedback about the Topeka South Rotarians who showed up that day:

"Guys, the Librarian told me today after you all had left that it is so amazing and valuable that we have so many men come to Lunch Bunch, because most of these kids don’t have a male role model in their lives. They are so happy to see our guys spend time with their kids – we are the only adult male that many get to talk with!"

A special thanks to the recent Lunch Bunch volunteers:

Neil Dobler
Roger Underwood
Dave Keating
Jeff Hiestand
Keith Drinkard
Jeff Sorensen
Jim Ramos
Doug Barrington

Friday's Meeting – Meet in BRADBURY THOMPSON

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 06, 2016

Vocational Presentation – Meet in BRADBURY THOMPSON

Brenda Dietrich

Join us this Friday, April 8 for a vocational presentation by Brenda Dietrich, Former USD 437 Superintendent.

Volunteer This Spring

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 06, 2016

Joe Beuerlein and a hardy volunteer crew at Let's Help Monday.

Volunteer for one of our club's upcoming service opportunities:

Sole Mates

Wednesday, April 20, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Thursday, April 21, 1:25 p.m. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to help high school students pick out new shoes and socks – 16 more volunteers needed!
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

EarlyAct

Friday, April 8, 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (first of two sessions)
Friday, April 15, 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (second of two sessions)
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St.
Email Dr. Mike Morrison to sign up.

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, April 11, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, April 15, 11:20 a.m. to Noon – 6 more volunteers needed!
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, April 23, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 06, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

Terry Harbert
April 5

Glenn Jagodzinske
April 5

Robert Wood
April 6

Find Board Meeting Minutes Here

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 30, 2016

Ever wonder what the TSR board is up to? Find out – by reading the minutes from the board meetings under the "About Topeka South Rotary" section of the website.

Note: You will need your log-in information to access the minutes.

Questions? Please contact Renee Varella, PR Coordinator.

Help Sponsor Washburn's Rotaract Club!

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 30, 2016

On April 15, the Rotaract Club at Washburn University is holding a Retro Dodge Ball tournament for students. (See the flyer.) Funds raised will help to send three students to Guatemala with Topeka South Rotarians in July. The students will help install cook stoves, deliver water filters and distribute school supplies.

To place your organization's logo in the Rotaract pamphlet is $50. (Logos for the pamphlet can be submitted to Lauren by April 8.)

The money for T-shirt and pamphlet logos can be submitted at the front desk of the International House at Washburn University. (The International House, which is next to the Union, is a house-like building with several flags in the front.) Please place your money in an envelope marked with “Rotaract” and your full name.

Checks can be made out to: Washburn University Rotaract Club.

If you have any questions, please email Lauren.

Thank you for your support!

Friday's Meeting – Meet in BRADBURY THOMPSON

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 30, 2016

Community Action, Inc. – Meet in BRADBURY THOMPSON

Join us this Friday, April 1 for a presentation by Tawny Stottlemire, Executive Director of Community Action, Inc.

Read her bio.

Golf Tournament – June 24

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 30, 2016

Mike Murray (second from R) and his team at TSR's 2015 Golf Tournament.

Topeka South Rotary's Annual Golf Tournament will be here before you know it!

Friday, June 24, 2016

1 p.m. shotgun start

Topeka Country Club

Share the flyer with friends and colleagues!

For sponsorships, registrations and other details, email Doug Barrington.

Board Approves Can Money for Rotary Foundation

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 30, 2016

On March 15, 2016, the TSR board of directors approved designating the fourth-quarter proceeds of our weekly Can Money to the Rotary Foundation's Annual SHARE Fund.

The money will help our club reach its $12,000 annual goal to create positive change in communities at home and around the world. Your contributions help us strengthen peace efforts, provide clean water and sanitation, support education, grow local economies, save mothers and children, and fight disease.

Give Generously of Your Time

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 30, 2016

Topeka South Rotarians enjoyed Lunch Bunch with kids at Avondale West Elementary School last Friday.

Volunteer for one of our club's upcoming service opportunities:

Sole Mates

Tuesday, April 5, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Wednesday, April 20, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

EarlyAct

Friday, April 8, 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (first of two sessions)
Friday, April 15, 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. (second of two sessions)
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St.
Email Dr. Mike Morrison to sign up.

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, April 11, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, April 15, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, April 23, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 30, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

Jeff Wagaman
March 30

Jim Reardon
March 31

Ken Gorman
April 2

Rotarian and U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran Visits TSR

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 24, 2016

U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., visited TSR last week.

After serving seven terms in the United States House of Representatives, Kansans elected Jerry Moran to the United States Senate in 2010. On Capitol Hill, he is a leading advocate for protecting and preserving the special way of life we live in Kansas.

As a Rotarian himself, Sen. Moran shares the Rotary Club’s commitment to service and works to stay connected to the people he represents. Despite the distance of more than 1,000 miles between the nation’s capital and Kansas, he returns home each weekend to meet with Kansans.

Before his election to public office, Jerry Moran attended Fort Hays State University and later the University of Kansas, where he completed a degree in economics. After an early career as a small town banker, he received his J.D. from the University of Kansas School of Law. Jerry and his wife Robba continue to live in Kansas.

Friday's Meeting – Meet in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 24, 2016

Join us this Friday, March 25 for a presentation by Terry Leatherman, President & CEO of Housing and Credit Counseling, Inc.

Read his bio.

Give the Gift of Your Time

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 24, 2016

Kip Slattery helps a youngster try on shoes at Sole Mates.

Volunteer for one of our club's upcoming service opportunities:

Lunch Bunch

Friday, March 25, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, March 26, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 24, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarian celebrating a birthday this week:

http://www.clubrunner.ca/Data/MemberPhotoes/5710%5C4261%5C%5Ca5e80335-6990-4cb0-99cc-44be0afc7999.png

Paul Bossert
March 24

Time Running Out for NCAA Bracket Challenge!

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 17, 2016

Submit your NCAA Bracket for the TSR Foundation Fundraiser! Entries have to be in the system by the start of the first game (around 11 a.m. tomorrow morning)!

Here's how to play:

Each entry is a $10 donation. No limit on the number of entries. (Pay me anytime in the next couple of weeks.)
Open to TSR members, family and friends.
Scoring is progressive (1 point for each win in 1st round, 2 points for win in 2nd round, etc.):
- 50% of proceeds go to the Rotary Foundation SHARE Fund in the name of the winner (or TSR member connected to the winner)
- 35% of proceeds go to the winner
- 15% of proceeds go to Second Place

TSR's NCAA Mens' Basketball Bracket 2016 pool, named "TSR Foundation," can be found at PoolTracker.com.

To join, follow these easy steps:

Click on this link.
Enter this pool credential information:

Pool ID: 120634
Pool Password: foundation

3. Make your picks.

Good luck!!!

– Jahnnie Brake, NCAA Bracket Challenge Coordinator

Deadline for RYLA Applications Is April 8

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 16, 2016

Topeka South Rotary needs your candidates for the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) by Friday, April 8.

Do you know a high school student, relative or friend who would be a good candidate for this spring's RYLA in Lawrence?

RYLA 2016 is a five-day camp for incoming high school sophomores, juniors and seniors interested in developing leadership potential. The students will learn from business and community leaders about strengthening their leadership skills and abilities, promoting ethical behavior, and facilitating personal growth and self-awareness.

If you know of a good candidate for RYLA, please encourage the student to submit his or her application to Murray Moore by April 8. Topeka South Rotary will pay the $300 registration fee of any student selected for participation in the camp.

Welcome Back, Kim!

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 16, 2016

Last week, President Faron re-inducted Kim Gronniger (center) into TSR (with Marlou Wegener).

Congratulations to Kim Gronniger, who on March 11 was re-inducted into Topeka South Rotary after a brief hiatus.

Kim is vice president of marketing for the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce. Her sponsor is Marlou Wegener.

We're so glad you've rejoined Topeka South Rotary, Kim!

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 16, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

Tom Ellis
March 19

Penny Morgan
March 19

Adam Feldhausen
March 23

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 16, 2016

*Allan Towle & Faron Barr*	Allan Towle Named Paul Harris Fellow On March 11, President Faron presented Allan with a Paul Harris Fellow. The recognition acknowledges people who have contributed $1,000 (or who have had a $1,000 contribution made in their name) to the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.
*Neil Dobler*	Neil Dobler Inducted into Topeka Business Hall of Fame Neil was one of four recent laureates inducted into the 2016 Topeka Business Hall of Fame. Neil is vice president in charge of the public works division at Bartlett & West.

************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian – and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

TSR Celebrates Avondale West Teachers

Posted by Jenalea Randall on Mar. 16, 2016

On March 11, Topeka South hosted a Teacher's Lunch Bunch to thank the teachers for their hard work and dedication to Avondale West students. We enjoyed a pizza lunch and gave out bags of goodies to all the classroom teachers. It was a great way to kick off spring break!

– Jenalea Randall, Club Service Chair

June 24: Golf Tournament

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 16, 2016

Dick Tinder (L) and his stellar team at TSR's 2015 Golf Tournament.

Topeka South Rotary's Annual Golf Tournament will be here before you know it!

Friday, June 24, 2016

1 p.m. shotgun start

Topeka Country Club

Share the flyer with friends and colleagues!

For sponsorships, registrations and other details, email Doug Barrington.

Get Your Hands Dirty for a Great Cause

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 16, 2016

Terry Harbert and Kip Slattery on cleanup duty after brunch at Let's Help Saturday.

Volunteer for one of our club's upcoming service opportunities:

Sole Mates

Wednesday, March 23, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, March 25, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, March 26, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Club Social This Friday

Posted by Erika Skinner on Mar. 16, 2016

Join us for our March social – which also counts as a meeting makeup:

Friday, March 18

Glaciers Edge Winery & Vineyard
1636 SE 85th St., Wakarusa

4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.*

The winery has an outdoor patio area with a fireplace. And they're famous for their wine slushy!

RSVP is not required, but I'm encouraging people to let me know if they plan to attend to make sure there's enough wine slushy to go around.

*The hours at Glaciers Edge technically are 4-7 p.m. However, if the owners are free that evening, they sometimes let people stay after close to enjoy their drinks and the patio.

Questions or to RSVP? Please contact me.

– Erika Skinner, Club Social Chair

Friday's Meeting – Meet in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 14, 2016

Bringing the world together through service & music – Meet in WASHBURN B

Join us this Friday, March 18 for a lively presentation by Up With People, a global education organization that aims to bring the world together through service and music.

Annual Golf Tournament – June 24

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 09, 2016

Terry Carney (second from R) and his team at TSR's 2015 Golf Tournament.

Topeka South Rotary's Annual Golf Tournament will be here before you know it!

Friday, June 24, 2016

1 p.m. shotgun start

Topeka Country Club

Share the flyer with friends and colleagues!

For sponsorships, registrations and other details, email Doug Barrington.

One Fireside Chat Left

Posted by Erika Skinner on Mar. 09, 2016

Be part of a great Topeka South Rotary tradition: Fireside Chats. At these fun, one-hour get-togethers scheduled for different times of the day, TSR members discuss such questions as:

Do we, as a club, do enough to support our members?
What is your favorite "hands-on" service project, and why?
Should we "shake things up"?

You can still sign up for the last Fireside Chat by emailing Erika Skinner:

6 p.m. – Monday, March 14
Host: Doug Barrington, KTWU, 1901 S.W. Jewell Ave.

P.S. Attending a Fireside Chat also counts as a makeup!

Volunteer for a Great Cause

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 09, 2016

Murray Moore cooks up a storm at Let's Help Saturday.

Volunteer for one of our club's upcoming service opportunities:

Teachers' Lunch Bunch - NEW!

Friday, March 11, Noon to 1 p.m.
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St.
Email Glenn Jagodzinske to sign up.

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, March 14, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Sole Mates

Wednesday, March 23, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, March 25, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, March 26, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Teachers' Lunch Bunch This Friday

Posted by Jag Jagodzinske on Mar. 09, 2016

For many years, TSR has enjoyed a great partnership with Avondale West Elementary School. Our members have served at the school as mentors and penpals, taught Rotary's Four-Way Test, helped with the school carnival, enjoyed Lunch Bunch with hundreds of kids, and more!

Now we're doing something new: Next month, Topeka South will throw a TEACHERS' LUNCH BUNCH with pizza, soft drinks, and gift bags of supplies for Avondale West's "teacher-heroes."

Friday, March 11

Noon to 1 p.m.

Avondale West Elementary School

Located on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St.

We need 15 to 20 Rotarians to attend this special event, enjoy a meal and show our appreciation for all these teachers do. Cost to attend: $0. Just meet, greet, eat and appreciate!

Check out the flyer. To sign up to attend, please contact Bob Koopman, Mike Morrison or me.

– Glenn Jagodzinske, Teacher Lunch Bunch Coordinator

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 09, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

Michael Land
March 9

Jamie Stafford
March 10

Jared Holroyd
March 12

Friday's Meeting – Meet in BRADBURY THOMPSON

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 08, 2016

Photo courtesy of the Topeka Capital-Journal

Join us this Friday, March 11 for a presentation on the Topeka Center for Advanced Learning & Careers (T-CALC) by Eileen Caspers, USD 501's General Director of School & Career Programs.

Give Back ... Feel Good.

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 02, 2016

Jeff Wagaman recognizes a young Avondale West student at Lunch Bunch.

Volunteer for one of our club's upcoming service opportunities:

Teachers' Lunch Bunch - NEW!

Friday, March 11, Noon to 1 p.m.
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St.
Email Glenn Jagodzinske to sign up.

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, March 14, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Sole Mates

Wednesday, March 23, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, March 25, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, March 26, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Friday's Meeting – Meet in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 02, 2016

Join us this Friday, March 4 for a presentation on the Rotary Foundation by Kevin Tubbesing, current Foundation Chairman of Rotary District #5710, and his wife, Dawn Tubbesing.

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 02, 2016

Laura Sidlinger

Laura Sidlinger Chosen for Leadership Institute

Laura Sidlinger, a nurse practitioner at Valeo Behavioral Health Care, recently was selected to participate in the Leadership Institute sponsored by the Midwest Addiction Technology Transfer Center.

************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian – and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Golf Tournament – June 24

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 02, 2016

Doug Barrington (second from L) assembles a strong team at TSR's 2015 Golf Tournament.

Topeka South Rotary's Annual Golf Tournament will be here before you know it!

Friday, June 24, 2016

1 p.m. shotgun start

Topeka Country Club

Share the flyer with friends and colleagues!

For sponsorships, registrations and other details, email Doug Barrington.

Still Time to Attend a Fireside Chat

Posted by Erika Skinner on Mar. 02, 2016

Be part of a great Topeka South Rotary tradition: Fireside Chats. At these fun, one-hour get-togethers scheduled for different times of the day, TSR members discuss such questions as:

Do we, as a club, do enough to support our members?
What is your favorite "hands-on" service project, and why?
Should we "shake things up"?

Please sign up for one of these Fireside Chats by emailing Erika Skinner:

7:30 a.m. – Wednesday, March 2
Host: Jared Holroyd, Lexington Park Independent Living, 1011 S.W. Cottonwood Court

2 p.m. – Sunday, March 6
Hosts: Patti Mellard, Paul Bossert & Jamie Stafford, 5963 S.W. 31st Terr.

7 a.m. – Thursday, March 10
Host: Bob Carmichael, Perkins Restaurant, 1720 S.W. Wanamaker Road
6 p.m. – Monday, March 14
Host: Doug Barrington, KTWU, 1901 S.W. Jewell Ave.

P.S. Attending a Fireside Chat also counts as a makeup!

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 02, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

Bob Carmichael
March 3

Baili Zhang
March 3

Charles Engel
March 8

Friday's Meeting – Breakfast Bunch at LEXINGTON PARK

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 25, 2016

Join us this Friday, Feb. 26 for Breakfast Bunch at Lexington Park Independent Living, 1011 SW Cottonwood Court.

Our hosts will serve breakfast casserole, hash browns, fruit, coffee and water.

PARKING: Please park on the south side of the building and enter through the front doors (on the east).

Tournament to Benefit Silverbackks & Valeo

Posted by Karen Linn on Feb. 24, 2016

Last Friday, I reported that Topeka South Rotary had selected Silverbackks, Inc. and Valeo Behavioral Health Care as co-beneficiaries of TSR's annual Golf Tournament. The goal of the tournament – to be held at Cypress Ridge Golf Course on June 24, 2016 – is to raise $2,500 each for:

Silverbackks' Silver Pantry, which provides support for families who have recently moved from a shelter into their own homes or who are at risk of losing housing.
Valeo's Supported Education Program, which provides individualized assistance in gaining the academic skills needed to be successful in supporting efforts to receive a GED, receive vocational education and participate in college. (The program serves those who are living below poverty, have Severe and Persistent Mental Illness, and are trying to better themselves through higher education.)

Other committee members included President Faron Barr, First Vice President Paul Bossert, Service Committee Chair Jenalea Randall, Treasurer Adam Feldhausen and Past President Kip Slattery.

We received applications from six very well deserving and wonderful organizations – making the decision very challenging.

– Karen Linn, Immediate Past President

Golf Tournament Is June 24

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 24, 2016

Guests joined Glenn Jagodzinske (third from L) and Robert Wood at TSR's 2015 Golf Tournament.

Topeka South Rotary's Annual Golf Tournament will be here before you know it!

Friday, June 24, 2016

1 p.m. shotgun start

Topeka Country Club

Share the flyer with friends and colleagues!

For sponsorships, registrations and other details, email Doug Barrington.

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 24, 2016

Roger Underwood

Roger Appointed to Heartland Visioning Management Committee

Roger Underwood, Senior Vice President of Community Bank, was recently appointed new Vice Chair of the Heartland Visioning Management Committee. Read the story in TK Magazine.

************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian – and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Practice 'Service Above Self' ... with Style!

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 24, 2016

Brenda Dietrich, Bruce Graham and Dick Tinder serve lunch at Let's Help (Second) Monday.

Volunteer for one of our club's upcoming service opportunities:

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Feb. 27, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
Saturday, March 26, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Sole Mates

Tuesday, March 8, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Wednesday, March 23, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Teachers' Lunch Bunch - NEW!

Friday, March 11, Noon to 1 p.m.
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St.
Email Glenn Jagodzinske to sign up.

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, March 14, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, March 25, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 17, 2016

*Marlou Wegener and Faron*	Marlou Receives Silver Sponsor Pin Congratulations to Marlou Wegener, who recently received Rotary's Silver Sponsor Pin for sponsoring at least four new Topeka South Rotary members!
*Patti Mellard and Faron*	Faron Presents Patti with Bronze Sponsor Pin Congratulations to Patti Mellard, who recently received Rotary's Bronze Sponsor Pin for sponsoring at least two new TSR members!
*Martha Bartlett Piland*	Martha Named in "Women Who Rock" Issue Martha Bartlett Piland was recognized in the March/April 2016 issue of seveneightfive Magazine for her recent book Culturing Creative: A Guidebook for Fostering the Curiosity and Creativity That Solve Everyday Problems. Read the article.

************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian
– and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Friday's Meeting in BRADBURY THOMPSON

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 17, 2016

"Smart Is Beautiful" Campaign – Meet in BRADBURY THOMPSON

Join us this Friday, Feb. 19 to learn about the "Smart Is Beautiful" Campaign, presented by Zoe Schumm, Designer & Founder of 4 All Humanity, a fair trade apparel company.

Watch the "Smart Is Beautiful" video.

Sign up for a Fireside Chat Today

Posted by Erika Skinner on Feb. 17, 2016

Be part of a great Topeka South Rotary tradition: Fireside Chats. At these fun, one-hour get-togethers scheduled for different times of the day, TSR members discuss such questions as:

Do we, as a club, do enough to support our members?
What is your favorite "hands-on" service project, and why?
Should we "shake things up"?

Please sign up for one of these Fireside Chats by emailing Erika Skinner:

6 p.m. – Thursday, Feb. 25
Host: Jeff Wietharn, 3800 S.W. Belle Ave.
Noon – Friday, Feb. 26
Host: Allan Towle, Fidelity State Bank, 600 S. Kansas Ave.
7:30 a.m. – Wednesday, March 2
Host: Jared Holroyd, Lexington Park Independent Living, 1011 S.W. Cottonwood Court

2 p.m. – Sunday, March 6
Hosts: Patti Mellard, Paul Bossert & Jamie Stafford, 5963 S.W. 31st Terr.

7 a.m. – Thursday, March 10
Host: Bob Carmichael, Perkins Restaurant, 1720 S.W. Wanamaker Road
6 p.m. – Monday, March 14
Host: Doug Barrington, KTWU, 1901 S.W. Jewell Ave.

P.S. Attending a Fireside Chat also counts as a makeup!

Practice 'Service Above Self' ... with Style!

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 17, 2016

From left, Brenda Dietrich, Bruce Graham and Dick Tinder serve lunch at Let's Help (Second) Monday.

Volunteer for one of our club's service opportunities in February:

Lunch Bunch

Friday, Feb. 19, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Feb. 27, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food – Please bring eggs and sausage!) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 17, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

Doug Barrington

Feb. 18

Jeff Sorensen

Feb. 20

Young "Music for the Sole" Benefactor Presents Check

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 10, 2016

Jamie Stafford (L) and President Faron accept a generous
contribution to Sole Mates from Benjy Zhang.

TSR's Sole Mates project just received $588, thanks to the dedication and creativity of musician Benjy Zhang. The money will go toward the purchase of new shoes and socks for kids in need.

Benjy, the 16-year-old son of TSR member Baili Zhang, presented this second check from his music project fundraiser to President Faron and Sole Mates Coordinator Jamie Stafford on Feb. 5.

We truly appreciate your generosity and leadership, Benjy!

Friday's Meeting in KANSAS ROOM, 3rd FLOOR

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 10, 2016

"What Is Love? Reflections on Love and Marriage for Valentine's Day" – Meet in KANSAS ROOM, 3RD FL.

Join us this Friday, Feb. 12 for a presentation on "What Is Love? Reflections on Love and Marriage for Valentine's Day" by Topeka Psychologist Ira Stamm, Ph.D.

Save the Date: Golf Tournament Is June 24 (NEW DATE!)

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 10, 2016

Mike Land, Karen Linn, Adam Feldhausen and Terry Beeman tee up
for TSR's 2015 Golf Tournament.

Topeka South Rotary's Annual Golf Tournament – which got rescheduled for one week later – will be here before you know it!

Friday, June 24, 2016 (new date!)

1 p.m. shotgun start

Topeka Country Club

For sponsorships, registrations and other details, email Doug Barrington.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 10, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

Bob Barnett

Feb. 10

Ken Schmanke

Feb. 11

Giving to Rotary International Helps TSR!

Posted by Anne Wardner on Feb. 09, 2016

Rotary International's Annual Fund helps Rotary clubs take action today to create positive change in communities right here in Topeka and around the world.

Through the SHARE program, contributions to The Rotary Foundation are transformed into grants that fund local and international humanitarian projects, scholarships, and activities, such as vocational training teams.

At the end of every Rotary year, contributions directed to the Annual Fund-SHARE from all Rotary clubs in the district are divided between the World Fund and the District Designated Fund, or DDF. At the end of three years, each district can use the DDF to award clubs, such as TSR, funds in the form of grants to help sponsor various projects.

The Annual SHARE Fund is the primary source of funding for the grants that we as a club rely heavily on to continue our mission of "Service Above Self." As a club, we have used these funds to help support the projects there is an obvious passion for.

Through the combined efforts of our members and the money we have received from District Grants, we have been able to provide more than 1,000 pairs of new socks and shoes to the children right here in our community. We also have provided cook stoves, medical supplies, clean drinking water and much more to our friends in Guatemala.

In exchange for the support from the District and Rotary International, as a club we make a commitment on an annual basis to reciprocate the generosity through our contributions to the Foundation.

Our goal commitment this year is $12,000. To achieve this goal, an individual commitment from each of our members is critical – but also very attainable. Based on our current membership, it takes an annual contribution commitment from each member of just $10 per month.

To date, we are at only 22 percent of this goal – and we need your help!!

If you have not had the opportunity to make a contribution to the Foundation Annual SHARE Program, your consideration in doing so is respectfully requested.

Giving is simple and can be done a number of ways:

A one-time contribution online.
A check made payable to: Rotary International - Annual SHARE Program. (Please give the check to me or to Treasurer Adam Feldhausen.)
Through Rotary Direct – which allows the scheduling of automatic withdrawals to make contributions at your discretion. Learn more.

As Club Foundation Chair, I would be happy to assist you in any way to make the contribution process as easy and efficient as possible. I also am available at any time to answer any questions you may have.

On behalf of our Club President Faron Barr and the 2015-2016 TSR Board of Directors, THANK YOU to those who have already made contributions. Your generosity is recognized and appreciated by many.

– Anne Wardner, Club Foundation Chair

Get Involved ... and Volunteer

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 09, 2016

Dave Keating (L) and Mike Conlin serve
a meal at Let's Help (Second) Monday.

Volunteer for one of our club's service opportunities in February:

Sole Mates

Wednesday, Feb. 17, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, Feb. 19, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Feb. 27, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food – Please bring eggs and sausage!) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

EarlyAct Another Success!

Posted by Michael Morrison on Feb. 04, 2016

Topeka South Rotarians finished our EarlyAct service project on Jan. 29 with Ms Browning's third grade class. Jared Holroyd read an anti-bullying story, and we had our students draw scenarios in which the Four-Way Test would help them in class or on the playground.

The class had practiced the Four-Way Test with the teacher three times a day for the past week. Needless to say, they did well when we had them recite the test by themselves or in a small group. We rewarded the students with a Four-Way Test coin and a marshmallow treat.

On the way to the class, several of our Rotarians were greeted by several of the children with a, "Hi. You're the Four Way Test people." When the children got to the class at the beginning of our session, I was greeted by hugs from my students.

Thanks to Jennifer Cacchio, Jared Holroyd, Bob Koopman and Tonya Dorf Brunner for volunteering. Our next EarlyAct session will be April 8 and 15 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. If you would like to volunteer for EarlyAct, please contact me.

– Dr. Mike Morrison, EarlyAct Coordinator

Clean Water Presentations

Posted by Richard Harmon on Feb. 04, 2016

Because clean drinking water is a priority for Rotary International, please note these upcoming presentations by Wil Howie, founder of Living Waters for the World. This weekend, Howie will talk about how his organization's 2,000-plus volunteers get clean water to underserved parts of the world.

Friday, Feb. 5

7 p.m.

Mount Hope Cemetery Chapel

4700 S.W. 17th St.

and

Sunday, Feb. 7

8:15 and 10:30 a.m. Services

First Presbyterian Church

817 S.W. Harrison St.

(A luncheon and presentation will follow the 10:30 a.m. service)

Read the Topeka Capital-Journal story. For more information, email Thad Allton.

February Is for Love ... and Volunteering

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 04, 2016

Roger Underwood spends time with a youngster at Lunch Bunch.

Volunteer for one of our club's service opportunities in February:

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, Feb. 8, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Sole Mates

Tuesday, Feb. 9, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Wednesday, Feb. 17, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, Feb. 19, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Feb. 27, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food – Please bring eggs and sausage!) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 04, 2016

*Allan Towle & Faron*	Allan Towle recently received the Cliff Dochterman Award President Faron presented the award to Allan in recognition of a Rotarian's dedicated service to Scouting. The award is named in honor of former Rotary International President Cliff Dochterman, a devoted scouter from Moraga, Calif.
*Jennifer Cacchio & Jeff Hiestand with Faron*	Jennifer Cacchio and Jeff Hiestand received Blue Badges Even though these new members joined Topeka South Rotary Club just last month, they've already completed all of the requirements to receive a Blue Badge.

************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian
– and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 04, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarian celebrating a birthday this week:

Laura Sidlinger

Feb. 3

Welcome to TSR, Jessica and Bill!

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 04, 2016

Last week, President Faron inducted Bill Persinger
(third from L) and Jessica Lehnherr (second from R).

Congratulations to Jessica Lehnherr and Bill Persinger, who were inducted into Topeka South Rotary by President Faron on Jan. 29.

Jessica is Executive Director of CASA of Shawnee County. Her sponsor is Jim Ramos.

Bill is CEO of Valeo Behavioral Health Care. His sponsor is Patti Mellard.

We're glad you've both joined Topeka South Rotary!

Friday's Meeting in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 03, 2016

Water Well - Bangladesh water project – Meet in WASHBURN B

Join us this Friday, Feb. 5 for a presentation about the Water Well project in Bangladesh, led by Rehan Reza, Franchise Owner & Philanthropist.

EarlyAct Wraps Up Tomorrow

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 28, 2016

Tomorrow, Jan. 29, Topeka South Rotary members will finish teaching the Four-Way Test to 8- and 9-year-old students at Avondale West Elementary School. The curriculum, written by Dr. Julie Ford, focuses on anti-bullying and is completely scripted. Tomorrow is the second of two, one-hour sessions.

If you would like to volunteer for EarlyAct in March, please contact Dr. Mike Morrison.

As a volunteer, all you need to bring is your knowledge of the Four-Way Test – and want to have fun helping children in our community stand up to bullies.

– Jenalea Randall, Club Service Committee Chairperson

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 28, 2016

Allan Towle

Allan Towle became a first-time grandfather early this morning

Congratulate Grandpa Allan!

************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian
– and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 28, 2016

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian
– and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Friday's Meeting in BRADBURY THOMPSON

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 27, 2016

A nonprofit tea house that brings students and adult mentors together - Meet in WASHBURN B

Join us this Friday, Jan. 29 for a presentation by Kevin Christiansen, Owner of Cafe Barnabas, a nonprofit tea house that brings students and adult mentors together.

Please meet in the Bradbury Thompson Alumni Center.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 27, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarian celebrating a birthday this week:

Jim McHenry

Feb. 1

February Is for Love ... and Volunteering

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 25, 2016

Roger Underwood spends time with a youngster at Lunch Bunch.

Volunteer for one of our club's service opportunities in February:

EarlyAct

Friday, Jan. 29, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. (second of two sessions)
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St.
Email Dr. Mike Morrison to learn more.

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, Feb. 8, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Sole Mates

Tuesday, Feb. 9, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Wednesday, Feb. 17, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m.
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, Feb. 19, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Feb. 27, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food – Please bring eggs and sausage!) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Want More Fun? Try Volunteering!

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 21, 2016

Mike Culp and Tanya Dorf Brunner
volunteer at Let's Help.

Volunteer for one of our club's service opportunities this month:

Lunch Bunch

Friday, Jan. 22, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

EarlyAct

Friday, Jan. 22, 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. AND
Friday, Jan. 29, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St.
Email Mike Morrison to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Jan. 23, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food – Please bring eggs and sausage!) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

TSR's Sole Mates Expands into High Schools

Posted by Jamie Stafford on Jan. 20, 2016

Topeka area kids model their new footwear from TSR's Sole Mates service project.

In December, we announced that Topeka South Rotary’s Sole Mates purchased new shoes and socks for 1,000 kids since the program’s inception in 2012. The club has now served 1,062 kids – and recently expanded to include high school students!

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 20, 2016

Kip Slattery

Kip Slattery has a new job with Cope Plastics, an industrial plastics provider and distributor

Headquartered in Alton, Ill., Cope Plastics has 16 branch locations throughout the Midwest, with one in Topeka. As Outside Sale Representative, Kip will cover the entire state of Kansas and metro Kansas City. Congratulate Kip.

************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian
– and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Want More Fun in Life? Try Volunteering!

Friday's Meeting in BRADBURY THOMPSON

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 19, 2016

Please join us this Friday, Jan. 22 for a presentation about all of Topeka South Rotary's club service projects, led by Jenalea Randall and Tanya Dorf-Brunner.

We will meet in the Bradbury Thompson Alumni Center.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 19, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarian celebrating a birthday this week:

Tim Swope

Jan. 20

Club Social This Friday, Jan. 29

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 14, 2016

Don't miss January's club social – which also counts as a meeting makeup:

Friday, Jan. 29
A.J.'s N.Y. Pizzaria

1926 S.W. Westport Drive
4:30 p.m. to ?? p.m.

Questions? Please contact Erika Skinner.

Welcome, Jennifer and Patrick

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 14, 2016

Last week, President Faron inducted Jennifer Cacchio
(second from L) and Patrick O'Kane (second from R).

Congratulations to Jennifer Cacchio and Patrick O'Kane, who were inducted into Topeka South Rotary by President Faron on Jan. 8.

Jennifer is a Disaster Program Services Specialist at the American Red Cross. Her sponsor is Jenalea Randall.

Patrick is co-owner of Budget Blinds of Topeka. His sponsor is Keith Drinkard.

We're glad you've joined Topeka South Rotary!

Friday's Meeting in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 14, 2016

Please join us this Friday, Jan. 15 for a vocational presentation by new TSR member Patrick O'Kane, co-owner of Budget Blinds of Topeka.

Holiday Party Pix Now Online

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 13, 2016

Enjoy these photos from Topeka South Rotary's Holiday Party – and find more HERE!

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 13, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

Jeff Gabriel Jan. 13	Mike Murray Jan. 16
Jeff Chanay Jan. 17	Jenalea Randall Jan. 17
Bill Corbin Jan. 18

Friday's Meeting in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 13, 2016

Please join us this Friday, Jan. 15 for a presentation by Zoe Schumm, Designer & Founder of 4 All Humanity, a fair trade apparel company. Zoe will talk about the "Smart Is Beautiful" Campaign.

Volunteer in the New Year

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 12, 2016

Topeka South Rotarians meet with students for Lunch Bunch.

Volunteer for one of our club's service opportunities in 2016:

Sole Mates

Wednesday, Jan. 20, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m. (Highland Park Central & Scott Magnet schools)
– 8 volunteers needed
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, Jan. 22, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

EarlyAct

Friday, Jan. 22, 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. AND Friday, Jan. 29, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St.
Email Mike Morrison to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Jan. 23, 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. (prepare food – Please bring eggs and sausage!) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. (serve and clean up)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Don't Like Your Photo?

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 08, 2016

If your photo is looking dated – or you're sporting a new look! – it's easy to update your photo in ClubRunner:

Click this link.
Enter your login name and password.
Click on the "Membership" tab, then choose "Member Lists."
Find your name and click on the link.
Click on "Update" under your photo and upload a new one!

If you have questions – or want me to upload a new photo for you – please email me.

Thanks!

– Renee Varella, PR Coordinator

"Service Above Self" in Action

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 05, 2016

A child's shoes before getting a new pair at Sole Mates ... and after.

Volunteer for one of our club's service opportunities in 2016:

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, Jan. 11, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Sole Mates

Tuesday, Jan. 12, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m. (Ross Elementary students)
– 13 volunteers needed
Wednesday, Jan. 13, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m. (high school students)
– 20 volunteers needed
Wednesday, Jan. 20, 1:25 p.m. to 2 p.m. (Highland Park Central & Scott Magnet schools)
– 8 volunteers needed
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, Jan. 22, 11:20 a.m. to Noon
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

EarlyAct

Friday, Jan. 22, 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. AND Friday, Jan. 29, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St.
Email Mike Morrison to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Jan. 23, 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. (prep shift) OR 9:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. (serving shift)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 04, 2016

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

Ernie Beaudet Jan. 6	Mark Boranyak Jan. 6
Joe Beuerlein Jan. 9	Stuart Douthett Jan. 10
Bill Conn Jan. 11

Friday's Meeting in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 04, 2016

"Portraits of TROY" – The Architecture of Topeka High School - Meet in WASHBURN B

Please join us this Friday, Jan. 8 for presentation by Jessica Lehnherr, Executive Director of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates).

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 31, 2015

Doug Barrington and Anne Wardner received Paul Harris awards

Topeka South Rotary honored these two dedicated members with a Paul Harris award at the TSR holiday party on Dec. 19.

Doug Barrington

Anne Wardner

*Jason Geier*	Jason Geier recently appointed Topeka's new Municipal Court administrative judge Since 2009, Jason has been a senior assistant Shawnee County district attorney. He replaces retiring Judge Vic Miller and will start work after the first of the year. Read more.
*Martha Bartlett Piland*	MB Piland publishes creative guidebook Martha Bartlett Piland has recently published Culturing Creative, a guidebook for fostering the curiosity and creativity that solve everyday problems. Written and illustrated by Martha, the book is designed to help anyone be more creative. Find the book HERE.

Next class of Leadership Greater Topeka includes TSR members
Of the 36 people from Topeka and Shawnee County who have chosen to participate in the 2016 Leadership Greater Topeka Class, five are Topeka South Rotary members: Angela Dailey, Keith Drinkard, Jason Geier, Murray Moore and Jim Ramos. The program identifies outstanding potential leaders from the community and includes more than 900 alumni. Learn more.

*Angela Dailey*	*Keith Drinkard*
*Jason Geier*	*Murray Moore*
*Jim Ramos*

************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian
– and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 30, 2015

*Jason Geier*	Jason Geier was recently appointed Topeka's new Municipal Court administrative judge Since 2009, Jason has been a senior assistant Shawnee County district attorney. He replaces retiring Judge Vic Miller and will start work after the first of the year. Read more.
*Martha Bartlett Piland*	MB Piland publishes creative guidebook Martha Bartlett Piland has recently published Culturing Creative, a guidebook for fostering the curiosity and creativity that solve everyday problems. Written and illustrated by Martha, the book is designed to help anyone be more creative. Find the book HERE.

The next class of Leadership Greater Topeka includes five TSR members
Of the 36 people from Topeka and Shawnee County who have chosen to participate in the 2016 Leadership Greater Topeka Class, five are Topeka South Rotary Club members: Angela Dailey, Keith Drinkard, Jason Geier, Murray Moore and Jim Ramos. The program, which identifies outstanding potential leaders from the community, includes more than 900 alumni of the program. Learn more.

*Angela Dailey*	*Keith Drinkard*
*Jason Geier*	*Murray Moore*
*Jim Ramos*

************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian – and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

No Meeting This Week – HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 29, 2015

From Our House to Theirs: Silverbackks Donations

Posted by Jenalea Randall on Dec. 23, 2015

Inspired by the Dec. 4 meeting program about the Silverbackks volunteer group, Topeka South Rotary members are asked to consider donating items to Silverbackks as part of our club's "From Our House to Theirs."

Silverbackks needs the following items for the children and adults they help:

Socks and gloves for men and women
Alcohol wipes (individual packets)
Antibacterial wipes (individual packets)
Bandaids
Bath soap/gel
Combs
Conditioner (sample size/hotel size)
Deodorant (trial size)
Floss
Hand sanitizer
Laundry detergent (single-use packets)
Lip balm
Lotion (sample size/hotel size)
Maxi pads
Mouthwash (trial size/sample size)
Razors (disposable)
Shaving cream (trial size)
Shampoo (sample size/hotel size)
Tall kitchen trash bags
Tissue (purse size)
Toothbrush
Toothpaste (trial size)
Tylenol/Aspirin (2-pill packages)

The collection will last through the winter. The items will be donated to people in need as they are received, but an inventory of how much has been collected will be taken to share with members.

All donations may be left at the check-in table at the meetings. If you choose to offer a cash donation, please give it to a TSR board member or Jenalea Randall. All donations are strictly voluntary.

Thank you for your generosity!

– Jenalea Randall, Director of Club Service

Sole Mates Gives Away 1,000th Pair of Shoes!

Posted by Jamie Stafford on Dec. 22, 2015

Thanks to Sole Mates, a young girl shows off her new shoes.

Topeka South Rotary’s Sole Mates project has reached a tremendous milestone – giving away shoes to its 1,000th child on Dec. 16!

Sole Mates, which provides children from low-income families with new shoes and socks, addresses many causes of conflict, including poverty, inequality and unequal distribution of resources.

Thank you to all of the Topeka South Rotarians who financially support Sole Mates and who generously give of their time to help kids pick out new shoes and socks!

– Jamie Stafford, Sole Mates Coordinator

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 22, 2015

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarian celebrating a birthday this week:

Kip Slattery

Dec. 25

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 17, 2015

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

Jeanine Wells Dec. 16	Jim Driggers Dec. 19
Richard Tinder Dec. 19	Jahnnie Brake Dec. 21
Richard Harmon Dec. 22

Friday's Meeting in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 17, 2015

Please join us for "Portraits of TROY – The Architecture of Topeka High School" by photojournalist and historian Gary Krohe this Friday, Dec. 18. Read Gary's bio.

Give the Gift of Your Time

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 17, 2015

Tanya Dorf Brunner helps
make a hot meal at Let's Help.

Let's Help Saturday volunteers Mike Culp and Liviu Florea.

Get in the spirit of the Season by volunteering this weekend!

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Dec. 19, 8 a.m. (prep shift) & 9:15 a.m. (serving shift)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Board Approves Can Money for Guatemala

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 17, 2015

Topeka South Rotarians served a week in Guatemala last summer.

On Dec. 15, the TSR board of directors approved designating the third-quarter proceeds of our weekly Can Money to a new medical project in Guatemala.

The money will help Woodland Charities to create two new medical examination and treatment clinic spaces in San Juan and San Pedro, Guatemala. Local schools will provide a room (or rooms) within a school in each community to establish the clinics.

Services at the clinic will focus primarily on primary-school children as well as childbearing women and their preschool children and infants.

If you would like to help donate equipment and supplies to this initiative – or are interested in spending a week serving in Guatemala with Topeka South Rotary and Washburn University this summer – please contact Cynthia Hornberger.

Holiday Party This Saturday, Dec. 19

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 17, 2015

Join us for this special Topeka South Rotary tradition:

Holiday Party

Saturday, Dec. 19

6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Topeka Country Club

In addition to drinks, dinner and dancing, a couple of outstanding Topeka South Rotary volunteers will be honored with a Paul Harris Fellow recognition.

For questions, please contact Erika Skinner.

From Our House to Theirs: Toys for Tots

Posted by Jenalea Randall on Dec. 10, 2015

As part of the club's "From Our House to Theirs," Topeka South Rotary has joined efforts with the U.S. Marine Corps to collect items for their annual drive, Toys for Tots.

Toys will be accepted at every Friday meeting in December, with the last collection taking place at our holiday party on Saturday, Dec. 19.

All donations may be left at the check-in table at the meetings. If you choose to offer a cash donation, please give it to a TSR board member or Jenalea Randall. All donations are strictly voluntary.

Toys for Tots

The following toys are suggested:

All Ages: Books, Board Games, Bikes, Scooters, Helmets
Newborn–2 Years Girls and Boys: Educational, Books, Music/Sounds, Activity Walkers
3–5 Years Boys: Hot Wheels, Trains, Tractors, Small Sporting Goods, Super Heroes
3–5 Years Girls: Dolls, Princesses, Dress-Up Clothes
6–7 Years Boys: Sporting Goods, Science Activities, Remote Control Cars
6–7 Years Girls: Arts and Crafts, Jewelry, Hair Stuff
8–10 Years Boys: Sporting Goods, Science Activities, Remote Control Cars/Helicopters, Backpacks
8–10 Years Girls: Sporting Goods, Science Activities, Arts and Crafts, Purses, Bags, Jewelry

Most overlooked for gifts are young people in these age groups:

11-17 Years Boys: Basketballs, Footballs, Skate Boards, Bath and Hygiene Products, Bags
11-17 Years Girls: Curling Irons, Straighteners, Nail Polish, Jewelry, Arts and Crafts, Purses

Thanks for your generosity!

– Jenalea Randall, Director of Club Service

Volunteers Needed for EarlyAct

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 09, 2015

Topeka South Rotary will again serve as mentors to elementary school students at Avondale West Elementary School and teach them Rotary's Four Way Test.

If you are available Jan. 22 and 29 from 2:30-3:30 p.m. and can be part of this event, please contact Mike Morrison. Another opportunity to be a part of EarlyAct will be happen in March, after students return from spring break.

Membership Elects 2016-17 Board of Directors

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 09, 2015

Officers elected for TSR's 2016-17 Board of Directors, from left: Paul,
Jim, Jenalea,Scott, Austin, Jared, Keith, Faron, Adam, Doug, Anne,
Mike, Erika and Tanya.

On Dec. 4, our membership voted to approve the proposed slate of officers for the 2016-17 Board of Directors:

President Paul Bossert	Rotary Foundation Anne Wardner	Sergeant-at-Arms Scott Hesse
1st Vice President Jared Holroyd	Club Membership Jenalea Randall	Club Administration Erika Skinner
2nd Vice President Doug Barrington	Club Service Mike Morrison	Director-At-Large Austin Wingerson
Treasurer Adam Feldhausen	Director-At-Large Jim Ramos	Past President Faron Barr
Secretary Keith Drinkard	Club Public Relations Tanya Dorf Brunner

Congratulations and thank you for your service!

Welcome, Jeff!

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 09, 2015

Newest member Jeff Hiestand, center, with sponsor
Todd Zimlich and President Faron.

Congratulations to Jeff Hiestand, who was inducted into Topeka South Rotary by President Faron on Dec. 12.

Jeff is a Commercial Lender at CoreFirst Bank & Trust. He was introduced to TSR by Todd Zimlich.

We're glad you're part of Topeka South Rotary, Jeff!

Friday's Meeting in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 09, 2015

Please join us for holiday music by the Topeka West Singers this Friday, Dec. 11.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 09, 2015

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

	Chuck Banks Dec. 13
	Roger Johnson Dec. 13
	T.J. Brown Dec. 15

Please Donate Your Time This Season

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 09, 2015

Area schoolchildren show off their new footwear at a
Topeka South Rotary Soles Mates event.

Get in the spirit of the Season by volunteering for one of our club's next service opportunities:

Lunch Bunch

Friday, Dec. 11, 11:20 a.m. – 8 to 9 more volunteers needed
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St.
(Please bring a Happy Meal!) Download details HERE.
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, Dec. 14, 11:30 a.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Sole Mates

Wednesday, Dec. 16, 1:25 p.m. (Highland Park Central)
– 8 volunteers needed
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Dec. 19, 8 a.m. (prep shift) & 9:15 a.m. (serving shift)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Election for 2016-17 Board of Directors

Posted by Paul Bossert on Dec. 02, 2015

Nominees for the 2016-17 board, from left: Paul, Jenalea, Faron,
Mike, Jared, Scott, Adam, Doug, Keith, Jim, Tanya and Austin.
Not pictured: Anne and Erika.

TSR's proposed Board of Directors for the 2016-2017 Rotary year was presented at the Nov. 20 meeting.

The two-week comment period will end this Friday, Dec. 4 at our regular meeting, which will be considered our annual voting meeting.

Please make sure to attend Friday's meeting and also to share comments or concerns with a current board member.

President Paul Bossert	Rotary Foundation Anne Wardner	Sergeant-at-Arms Scott Hesse
1st Vice President Jared Holroyd	Club Membership Jenalea Randall	Club Administration Erika Skinner
2nd Vice President Doug Barrington	Club Service Mike Morrison	Director-At-Large Austin Wingerson
Treasurer Adam Feldhausen	Director-At-Large Jim Ramos	Past President Faron Barr
Secretary Keith Drinkard	Club Public Relations Tanya Dorf Brunner

See you Friday!

Friday's Meeting in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Dec. 01, 2015

Please join us for a presentation by Ami Weidler-Hyten, with the Silverbackks volunteer group, this Friday, Dec. 4.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Nov. 30, 2015

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarian celebrating a birthday this week:

Mike Wilson

Dec. 8

Pumpkin Run Results in Nearly $46,000 to PolioPlus!

Posted by Renee Varella on Nov. 24, 2015

Runners at TSR's 3rd Annual Pumpkin Run on Halloween.

The final race numbers are in – and show how Topeka South Rotary's 2015 Pumpkin Run for PolioPlus proved a HUGE success:

Our club contributed $7,655 to PolioPlus.
District 5710 has chosen to match our contribution 1:1 – which turns $7,655 into $15,310.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will match that amount – meaning a grand total of $45,930 goes to PolioPlus!

Not bad for a little 5K event in Topeka, Kan.!

I extend a big THANK YOU to Roger Underwood, his committee, all the members who donated directly to Polio Plus, our underwriters of the event, all the volunteers, and every one of our participants for making this one of our most successful events. We even had fun doing it!

And our thanks to all those who generously contributed to PolioPlus and the fight to eradicate polio throughout the world!

Enjoy more Pumpkin Run pix on our website and Facebook page.

– President Faron

Get in Action for Service Above Self

Posted by Renee Varella on Nov. 16, 2015

Jim Ramos celebrates new shoes at Sole Mates, while Tanya Dorf Brunner helps a youngster try on new socks.

Volunteer for one of our club's next service opportunities:

Lunch Bunch

Friday, Nov. 20, 11:20 a.m.
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Nov. 21, 8 a.m. (prep shift) & 9:15 a.m. (serving shift) – 3 volunteers needed
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Sole Mates

Tuesday, Dec. 8, 1:25 p.m. (Ross & Scott Magnet schools) – 16 volunteers needed
Wednesday, Dec. 16, 1:25 p.m. (Highland Park Central) – 8 volunteers needed
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, Dec. 14, 11:30 a.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Read about World Polio Day Events

Posted by Renee Varella on Nov. 16, 2015

Rotary’s third annual World Polio Day event in New York City on October 23 brought together top health officials, celebrities and more than 150 people to celebrate progress – including Nigeria recently being declared polio-free – and stay the course to eradicate polio worldwide.

Learn more about the events, videos and news coverage at Rotary.org.

Club Social This Friday, Nov. 20

Posted by Renee Varella on Nov. 16, 2015

Don't miss November's club social – which also counts as a meeting makeup:

Friday, Nov. 20
Speck's Bar & Grill

2105 S.W. Mission Ave.
4:30 p.m. to ?? p.m.

Questions? Please contact Erika Skinner.

3rd Annual Pumpkin Run a Smashing Success!

Posted by Renee Varella on Nov. 11, 2015

Runners in themed costumes at TSR's 3rd Annual Pumpkin Run on Oct. 31, 2015.

The Pumpkin Run for 2015 is history! We had a record number of participants and consider it a successful event.

A big thank you to all who participated and/or volunteered for the run. Now the only thing is to see if any of our Topeka South Rotary members still want to contribute to PolioPlus. There is still time as we receive the final expenses regarding the race.

So far, 48 of our members have contributed to PolioPlus, for a total of $4,885 – or 43% of the membership. The goal approved by the board was for $5,500, so we are short in meeting our goal by only $615.

Please consider helping us meet our goal by going online to the Rotary International website to give. Or write a check to the Rotary Foundation and put in the memo section "PolioPlus."

Thanking you in advance for your consideration in giving to PolioPlus to help eradicate polio.

– Roger Underwood, 2015 Race Director

Enjoy more Pumpkin Run pix on our website and Facebook page.

Friday's Meeting in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Nov. 11, 2015

Please join us for a presentation by Gary Musselman, Executive Director of the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA), this Friday, Nov. 13.

Friday's Meeting: Breakfast Bunch at BREWSTER PLACE

Posted by Renee Varella on Nov. 04, 2015

Fall of the Berlin Wall - Meet at BREWSTER PLACE, 1205 SW 29th St., Topeka, KS 66611

Please join us for Breakfast Bunch at Brewster Place this Friday, Nov. 6.

Thomas Gray, Education and Training Specialist at the Command and General Staff College in Leavenworth, Kan., will speak about serving as a border officer in Germany when the Berlin Wall came down in November 1989 – nearly 26 years ago to the day.

NOTE: Meet at Brewster Place, 1205 SW 29th St., Topeka, KS 66611 (Main building, lower level).

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Nov. 04, 2015

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarian celebrating a birthday this week:

Jim Rose

Nov. 5

Friday's Meeting in KANSAS ROOM, 3RD FLOOR

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 28, 2015

Please join us for a presentation about the nationwide "Home Fire Campaign" by Jennifer Cacchio, Disaster Program Specialist at the American Red Cross, this Friday, Oct. 30.

Rotaract Club at Washburn Gets Busy

Posted by Erika Skinner on Oct. 28, 2015

Topeka South Rotary members are encouraged to attend any upcoming meetings of the new Rotaract group at Washburn, which meets in Mabee Library.

Thursday, Oct. 29, 1 p.m.

Please come to the Rotaract meetings to help in whatever way you can – whether that be with resources, ideas, or even just showing an interest in what the students do. And visit Rotaract's Facebook page.

Thanks for your support!

– Erika Skinner, TSR Club Liaison to Rotaract

The Pumpkin Run Is Oct. 31 – Get Your T-Shirt This Friday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 21, 2015

Tomorrow, Roger will be selling white Pumpkin Run T-shirts (such as the one shown on Ken Schmanke above).

Topeka South Rotary's 3rd Annual Pumpkin Run, Walk & Family Stroll is a little more than a week away.

Show your support by buying a 2014 Pumpkin Run tech shirt at this Friday’s meeting for only $10. (These are the shirts that our club used the first two years. Roger and his crew have about 50 shirts in various sizes to sell.)

Then sign up for the Pumpkin Run – and recruit others to join you!

Saturday, Oct. 31

Lake Shawnee Shelter House #1

3400 S.E. Leisure Lane

Race begins: 8:30 a.m.

Registration, packet pickup: 7:30 a.m. – 8:15 a.m.

Awards ceremony: 9:45 a.m.

The Pumpkin Run is a benefit for PolioPlus, a Rotary International program to eliminate polio worldwide. Please help us fund this important initiative – and take advantage of the Bill & Melinda Gates' Foundation 2-to-1 match.

It takes just 5 minutes to donate securely online. Or please write a check to "Rotary International" (with "PolioPlus" in the memo line) and give it to Club Treasurer Adam Feldhausen or Pumpkin Run Race Director Roger Underwood, along with this Contribution Form.

Find more details in the flyer HERE – and sign up today! Questions? Email Roger Underwood.

Friday's Meeting at NEW KBI LAB ON WASHBURN CAMPUS

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 21, 2015

An artist's rendering of the recently completed KBI building at Washburn. Tour it with TSR this Friday!

Please join us for a special tour of the new Kansas Bureau of Investigation building on Washburn University's campus this Friday, Oct. 23. The facility is located at Durow Drive and Washburn Ave. on the southeast side of campus.

Coffee and muffins will be provided by TSR member Bob Carmichael, Perkins Restaurant & Bakery. Meeting announcements will begin at 7:30 a.m., followed by the tour.

PARKING: Please park on the north side of the "Forensic Science Center"end of the KBI building. Then enter through the main lobby on the northwest corner of the building.

Rotaract Club at Washburn Gets Busy

Posted by Erika Skinner on Oct. 21, 2015

Topeka South Rotary members are encouraged to attend any upcoming meetings of the new Rotaract group at Washburn, which meets in Mabee Library.

Friday, Oct. 23, 1 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 29, 1 p.m.

Thanks for your support!

– Erika Skinner, TSR Club Liaison to Rotaract

World Polio Day Is This Friday, Oct. 23

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 21, 2015

How close are we to a polio-free world? What’s needed to finish the job? Can we make history together?

Join Rotary International on Friday, Oct. 23, 2015, for the third annual World Polio Day. Watch a live streaming event from New York City at 5:30 p.m. DST to get a global update on the fight to end polio and take part in the conversation. Guests will include Global Polio Eradication Initiative partners, celebrity ambassadors, polio survivors and others.

Watch the livestream event and learn more at endpolio.org.

Check Out the Pumpkin Run Promo

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 14, 2015

Watch this WIBW-Channel 13-produced Pumpkin Run promo about the Oct. 31 event and share it with family, friends and coworkers. Help spread the word about this great family event by posting the link to Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites as well.

Our thanks to TSR member Jim Ramos of WIBW and to KTWU-Channel 11 for running the ad on its station as well.

Friday's Meeting in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 14, 2015

Please join us for a vocational presentation by TSR member Erik Karre, District Director of the Jayhawk Area Council, Boy Scouts of America, this Friday, Oct. 16.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 14, 2015

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

	Mike Morrison Oct. 17
	Maria Wilson Oct. 21

Next Board Meeting: WEDNESDAY, Oct. 21

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 14, 2015

Please note this date change for the next TSR board of directors meeting:

Wednesday, Oct. 21

Washburn Union, Lincoln Room
(next to the Kansas Room, where we usually meet)

7:30 a.m.

Any Topeka South Rotary member is welcome to attend any and all board meetings.

Help Us Get 100% Volunteer Participation

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 14, 2015

Volunteer for an upcoming event – and help our club achieve 100 percent participation in Service Above Self!

Lunch Bunch

Friday, Oct. 16, 11:20 a.m.
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Sole Mates

Wednesday, Oct. 21, 1:25 p.m. (Highland Park Central) – Volunteers still needed!
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Oct. 24, 8 a.m. (prep shift) & 9:15 a.m. (serving shift)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 14, 2015

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian – and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Pumpkin Run Is 2 Weeks Away!

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 14, 2015

Having a ball at the 2014 Pumpkin Run, from left: Sharon Boranyak and TSR members Murray Moore and Doug Barrington.

Topeka South Rotary's 3rd Annual Pumpkin Run, Walk & Family Stroll is just two weeks away. Sign up now!

Saturday, Oct. 31

Lake Shawnee Shelter House #1

3400 S.E. Leisure Lane

Race begins: 8:30 a.m.

Registration, packet pickup: 7:30 a.m. – 8:15 a.m.

Awards ceremony: 9:45 a.m.

It takes just 5 minutes to donate securely online. Or please write a check to "Rotary International" (with "PolioPlus" in the memo line) and give it to Club Treasurer Adam Feldhausen or Pumpkin Run Chair Roger Underwood, along with this Contribution Form.

Find more details in the flyer HERE – and sign up today! Questions? Email Roger Underwood.

Sign up at Rotary.org Today

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 08, 2015

Get connected with Rotary International by registering at Rotary.org today. It's an easy way to learn about all the great things Rotary is doing in the world.

What's more, you can help our club receive the Presidential Citation award by increasing the number of members who are registered on the website.

Here's how to get started:

1. Click on this link, then select "My Rotary."

Nominations for Paul Harris Fellows Due Thursday!

Posted by Paul Bossert on Oct. 08, 2015

Every year at our holiday party, we recognize a couple of outstanding Topeka South Rotary volunteers through the gifting of a Paul Harris Fellow recognition.

Paul Harris’ vision of community and fellowship originally laid the foundation for Rotary, and the Paul Harris Fellow designation was named in his honor. The recognition is bestowed upon individuals who contribute $1,000 to the Rotary Foundation or who have contributions of $1,000 made in their name.

This is a special honor for individuals in our club and a great way to honor those who go out of their way to serve our communities. Please email me with your nomination(s), which are due today, Thursday, Oct. 8.

– Paul Bossert, 1st Vice President

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 07, 2015

Congratulations to Oral Health Kansas, which in September was awarded the Kansas Public Health Association’s 2015 Corporate Public Health Service Award. Tanya Dorf Brunner is Executive Director of Oral Health Kansas, Inc.

************************************

*************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian – and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Volunteer Your Time

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 07, 2015

Volunteer for these upcoming events. They're a fun, fast way to make a positive difference in our community.

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, Oct. 12, 11:30 a.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Sole Mates

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 1:25 p.m. (Ross & Scott schools) – Volunteers still needed!
Wednesday, Oct. 21, 1:25 p.m. (Highland Park Central) – Volunteers still needed!
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, Oct. 16, 11:20 a.m.
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Oct. 24, 8 a.m. (prep shift) & 9:15 a.m. (serving shift)
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 07, 2015

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

	Dave Keating Oct. 7
	Erika Skinner Oct. 9

Friday's Meeting in KANSAS ROOM, 3RD FLOOR

Posted by Renee Varella on Oct. 07, 2015

Please join us for a presentation by Kevin Robertson, CAE, Executive Director of the Kansas Dental Association, this Friday, Oct. 9.

He will talk about the Kansas Mission of Mercy project, which has provided free dental care to more than 24,000 people since 2003.

Join the Freedom Walk With Rotary This Friday

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 30, 2015

The Downtown Topeka Rotary Club invites all Topeka and Holton Rotarians to join the first FREEDOM WALK WITH ROTARY this Friday, Oct. 2 at 5 p.m.

Sign Up for the Pumpkin Run on Oct. 31!

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 30, 2015

Runners start off strong in Topeka South Rotary's 2013 Pumpkin Run at Lake Shawnee.

Saturday, Oct. 31

Lake Shawnee Shelter House #1

3400 S.E. Leisure Lane

Race begins: 8:30 a.m.

Registration, packet pickup: 7:30 a.m. – 8:15 a.m.

Awards ceremony: 9:45 a.m.

It takes just 5 minutes to donate securely online. Or please write a check to "Rotary International" (with "PolioPlus" in the memo line) and give it to Club Treasurer Adam Feldhausen or Pumpkin Run Chair Roger Underwood, along with this Contribution Form.

Find more details in the flyer HERE – and sign up today! Questions? Email Roger Underwood.

TSR Helped at Harvesters Last Week

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 30, 2015

A strong contingent of Topeka South Rotarians showed up to pack sack lunches for food-insecure kids during our Rotary Day of Service at Harvesters last Friday.

This fun meeting-turned-service project event ensured that 530 fellow Shawnee County residents would have something to eat and be able to take care of their family and friends. Thanks to members' generosity, we donated $725 and 955 food items to the food bank.

And special thanks goes to Jenalea Randall, Club Service Chair, who did all of the shopping for us!

Find more photos on TSR's Facebook Page.

RI Approves Sole Mates Grant

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 30, 2015

Great news! Our club recently learned that Rotary International approved Topeka South Rotary's 2015-16 grant request for $3,094 to go to our Sole Mates program, which gives new socks and shoes to hundreds of kids in our community.

Send in Your Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 30, 2015

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian – and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Friday's Meeting in KANSAS ROOM, 3RD FLOOR

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 30, 2015

Please join us this Friday, Oct. 2 for a vocational presentation by TSR member Keith Drinkard, Business Development Relationship Manager for INTRUST Bank.

Volunteering Is the Best!

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 23, 2015

Lunch Bunch kids meet with TSR members Karen Linn, Jim Ramos, Jahnnie Brake, Keith Drinkard, Jim Reardon, Penny Morgan, Austin Wingerson, Jeff Wagaman and Roger Underwood last week.

Volunteer for these upcoming (and rewarding!) events. They're a fun and fast way to make a significant contribution to our community.

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Sept. 26, 8 a.m. (prep shift) & 9:15 a.m. (serving shift) 2 more volunteers needed for both shifts!
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Let's Help (Second) Monday

Monday, Oct. 12, 11:30 a.m.
WHERE: Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave.
Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Sole Mates

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 1:25 p.m. (Ross & Scott schools) – 16 volunteers needed
Wednesday, Oct. 21, 1:25 p.m. (Highland Park Central) – 8 volunteers needed
WHERE: Payless ShoeSource, 3215 S.W. Topeka Blvd.
Email Jamie Stafford to sign up.

Lunch Bunch

Friday, Oct. 16, 11:20 a.m.
WHERE: Avondale West Elementary School on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St. (Please bring a McDonald's Happy Meal!)
Email Doug Barrington to sign up.

Club Social This Friday

Posted by Erika Skinner on Sep. 23, 2015

Our next club social is at the restaurant/private club of our very own TSR member Luis Guillen:

Friday, Sept. 25

Luis' Place

435 S. Kansas Ave.

4:30 to ?? p.m.

Questions? Please contact Erika Skinner.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 23, 2015

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

	Kyle Kessler Sept. 23
	Angela Dailey Sept. 24
	January Scott Sept. 30
	Allan Towle Sept. 30

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 22, 2015

Marlou Wegener of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas was recently interviewed for TK Business Magazine:

Read Marlou's post HERE.

Kansas Chief Deputy Attorney General Jeff Chanay recently argued a case before the Kansas Supreme Court. Read the Topeka Capital-Journal article HERE.

Ken Schmanke has announced the formation of K1 Realty LLC, serving investors and occupants of commercial real estate in Topeka and Northeast Kansas. Learn more about Ken's new business HERE.

************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian – and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Friday's Meeting at HARVESTERS, 215 S.E. Quincy St.

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 21, 2015

Please join us for our Rotary Day of Service this Friday, Sept. 25 at Harvesters, 215 S.E. Quincy St.

During this week's meeting, Topeka South Rotarians will assemble sack lunches that will give 530 fellow Shawnee County residents the security of knowing they will have something to eat. Nutrients to help them concentrate while in school or at work and live their lives ... and take care of their family and friends.

Topeka South members gave generously to make this project happen. In total, $725 and 955 food items were donated. Thank you! Now it's time to start assembling the sack lunches – to see this entire service project to its end.

Harvesters will open its doors to the club beginning at 7:15 a.m. Friday. Following a continental breakfast of bagels, fresh fruit, COFFEE, and juice, plus club announcements, attendees will pack lunches and have the opportunity to tour the warehouse.

Below are additional details about Friday's meeting:

Harvesters is located at 215 S.E. Quincy St. in downtown Topeka.
Enter through the main entrance (with the red awning) and park in either the lot across the street or next to the building; there is also street parking available. Head to the break room for a light breakfast, announcements and directions on the service project.
We will be working in a warehouse environment. Casual dress is most appropriate, but not necessary. Open-toed shoes, like flip-flops or sandals, are not allowed.
All volunteers must be free of contagious illness (runny nose, colds, the flu, strep throat, etc).

I look forward to seeing you on Friday!

– Jenalea Randall, Club Service Chair

What's YOUR Member Moment?

Posted by Faron Barr on Sep. 16, 2015

If you attended the board transition meeting on June 26, 2015, you heard me speak of Rotary moments. This year, I would like to hear about the moment you KNEW you were a true Rotarian. You have already heard my moment. Now I want to hear yours.

For those of you who could not attend the transition meeting, let me explain this a little further. We all know that there is a time when we decided to join Topeka South Rotary. The reason you joined could have been for service, networking, philanthropy, friendship, or a number of other reasons. Once you joined, though, there is typically a moment that touches you in a way that makes you feel that you are now a true Rotarian at heart. This moment is surely different for everyone of us, but if you have been a member for any length of time, I am certain you have one.

This year the focus is on membership, and I would like for one of you to share your moment with us at the beginning of each meeting to show our guests and new members why we are Rotarians. This will also remind us of how important our work through Rotary is to our community, our world and ourselves.

Please indicate to me that you would be willing to share your moment at a future meeting by emailing me.

Share your moment and "Be a Gift to the World"!

– Faron E. Barr, 2015-16 President

Rotaract Club at Washburn Gets Busy

Posted by Erika Skinner on Sep. 16, 2015

Topeka South Rotary members are encouraged to attend any upcoming meetings of the new Rotaract group at Washburn, which meets in Mabee Library:

Friday, Oct. 9, 1 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 15, 1 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 23, 1 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 29, 1 p.m.

Thanks for your support!

– Erika Skinner, TSR Club Liaison to Rotaract

Welcome to TSR, Austin

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 16, 2015

Congratulations to Austin Wingerson, who was inducted into Topeka South Rotary by President Faron on Sept. 11.

Austin is a staff accountant at Summer Spencer & Company. He was introduced to TSR by Faron Barr.

Welcome, Austin!

Donations Still Needed for Rotary Day of Service!

Posted by Jenalea Randall on Sep. 16, 2015

On Friday, Sept. 25, meet your TSR friends at Harvesters, 215 S.E. Quincy, to pack sack lunches for students who are food insecure in our county. Each sack will hold enough food for one meal and several snacks.

28,000 Shawnee County citizens are food insecure, meaning food is available today but may not be tomorrow.
1 in 5 kids are food insecure.

Today through Sept. 18, Topeka South Rotary will be collecting food to put in the sack lunches – and we still need your donations!

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 16, 2015

Congratulations to TSR member Roger Underwood and his wife, Joanie, who were featured in the Fall 2015 issue of Topeka Magazine:

Read the story about Joanie's Italian grandparents – and precious family recipes – HERE.

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Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian – and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Seeking Nominations for Paul Harris Fellow

Posted by Paul Bossert on Sep. 15, 2015

Every year at our holiday party, we recognize a couple of outstanding Topeka South Rotary volunteers through the gifting of a Paul Harris Fellow recognition.

This is a special honor for individuals in our club and a great way to honor those who go out of their way to serve our communities. Please email me with your nomination(s).

– Paul Bossert, 1st Vice President

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 15, 2015

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarian celebrating a birthday this week:

	Keith Drinkard Sept. 20
	Jerry Cordill Sept. 21
	Dennis Grindel Sept. 21

Friday's Meeting in KANSAS ROOM, 3RD FLOOR

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 15, 2015

Kansas Commissioner of Insurance – Meet in KANSAS ROOM, 3RD FLOOR

Please join us this Friday, Sept. 18 for a presentation by Ken Selzer, CPA, Kansas Commissioner of Insurance.

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 10, 2015

Here's recent good news about TSR member Neil Dobler:

The 2016 Topeka Hall of Fame laureates include, from left:
Andrew Corbin, Dick Pratt, Neil Dobler and Eugene Williams.

On Tuesday, Junior Achievement of Kansas announced its 2016 Topeka Business Hall of Fame laureates: Neil Dobler, vice president in charge of the public works division at Bartlett & West; as well as Andrew Corbin, president and CEO of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas; Dick Pratt, a retired retail and real estate entrepreneur; and Eugene Williams, executive director of KTWU. The four will be inducted in a ceremony in March.

************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian – and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

TSR Inducts Washburn ROTARACT Club

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 09, 2015

New Washburn ROTARACT members include, from right: Vice President Lauren Barr, Past President Krystle McDonald, Treasurer Mark Latimer, David Erhart, Olivia Banzet, Member Relations Director Natalie Montney, and Club President Crystal Leinbach. Also pictured, from left: TSR President Faron Barr, TSR Club Liaison Erika Skinner and ROTARACT Faculty Liaison Liviu Florea.

On Sept. 4, President Faron inducted a new Topeka South Rotary-sponsored ROTARACT club at Washburn University.

The group, for young adults interested in taking action for positive change, meets on campus weekly to develop leadership and professional skills, participate in hands-on service projects, and plan fun networking/social activities.

The new ROTARACT members will join our club at Harvesters on Sept. 25 to pack food boxes for community members in need.

Learn more this international network of young leaders HERE.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 09, 2015

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarian celebrating a birthday this week:

Jeffrey Wietharn
Sept. 13

Friday's Meeting in KANSAS ROOM, THIRD FLOOR

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 09, 2015

Please join us this Friday, Sept. 11 for a presentation about the Military Veteran Project by Melissa Jarboe, MVP's Founder and Executive Director.

Let's Help Saturday Feeds Record Number!

Posted by Tanya Dorf Brunner on Sep. 01, 2015

Feeding a record crowd at Let's Help on Aug. 29. Back row, from left:
Luis Guillen, Chad Wilkins, Chris Spargo, T.J. Brown and Phil Tysinger.
Front row: Kip Slattery, Tanya Dorf Brunner and Terry Harbert.

Last Saturday, 18 Topeka South Rotarians, friends and family members served 348 trays in one hour. That’s the highest number of trays on a Saturday in anyone’s memory!

Clearly, we are meeting a need in our community. My thanks to all for volunteering and feeding so many hungry people this past weekend!

We will be back at Let’s Help on Saturday, Sept. 26. Please join us!

– Tanya Dorf Brunner, Let's Help Saturday Coordinator

Read the recent thank you note from Let's Help's new executive director HERE.

Friday's Meeting in KANSAS ROOM, THIRD FLOOR

Posted by Renee Varella on Sep. 01, 2015

Please join us this Friday, Sept. 4 for a presentation about "Fires in Topeka" by Todd Williams, Battalion Chief, Topeka Fire Department.

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Aug. 26, 2015

Here's recent good news about TSR member Jamie Stafford, Executive Assistant to the President and Vice President of Key Staffing.

On Aug. 11, the Jayhawk Area Council announced that Jamie was named a 2015 honoree of Topeka’s Top “20 Under 40” Award. The award recognizes Shawnee County community members for their commitment as well as professional and personal contributions.

This year, the selection committee reviewed 115 nominations, then narrowed the list to 20. The honorees will be recognized at a banquet on Nov. 12.

************************************

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian – and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Friday's Meeting in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Aug. 26, 2015

Please join us this Friday, Aug. 28 for a presentation about "Early Baseball in Kansas City" by Dave Webster, "KayCee, The W Guy."

Club Social This Friday

Posted by Renee Varella on Aug. 26, 2015

Join us at this week's Club Social. (Bonus: It counts as a makeup!)

Friday, Aug. 28
Blind Tiger Brewery & Restaurant
417 S.W. 37th St.
4:30 p.m. – ??

Questions? Please email Erika Skinner.

Service Spotlight: Lunch Bunch

Posted by Douglas Barrington on Aug. 19, 2015

Topeka South volunteers at Lunch Bunch in 2014. From left:
Dave Keating, Todd Zimlich, Neil Dobler and Jeff Sorensen.

It's time for school again – and for Topeka South Rotary's Lunch Bunch volunteer opportunity!

Lunch Bunch is scheduled for these Fridays in the 2015-16 school year:

Sept. 18
Oct. 16
Nov. 20
Dec. 11
Jan. 22

Feb. 19
Mar. 25
April 15
May 20

Lunch Bunch takes place at Avondale West Elementary School (on S.W. Burlingame Road, between 32nd and 33rd St.) Volunteers should be there about 11:20 a.m. with a Happy Meal from McDonald’s (either for a boy or girl). Lunch is over at noon.

Rotary volunteers share lunch with a K-5th grade child and read a brief memo from the child’s class explaining why he or she was selected as the outstanding student for the month. You then give the memo to the child to take home and share with their family. The child also receives an age-appropriate book as a gift from TSR. (We now have enough books for the entire year!)

According to the principal of Avondale West, “The students really look forward to Lunch Bunch. (They) are excited to continue the partnership (with TSR)!”

Give it a try! Volunteer next month or contact me for more information.

– Doug Barrington, Lunch Bunch Coordinator

Good News!

Posted by Renee Varella on Aug. 19, 2015

Here's recent good news from TSR member Jeff Wagaman, Executive Director, Division of Crime Victims Compensation at the Kansas Attorney General's Office:

On Aug. 10, Jeff reached a goal he's been working toward for more than a year: He took an oath to become a Deputy Sheriff with the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office. Jeff will keep his current job at the A.G.'s office; the deputy position is part-time.

Jeff Wagaman is sworn in as a Deputy Sheriff for Shawnee County.
From left: Shawnee County Sheriff Herman Jones, Jason Lehnherr,
Jeff, Buck Reuter and UnderSheriff Phil Blume.

Please share any good news YOU have – or learn about another Topeka South Rotarian – and we'll share the news with our club. Examples of good news include:

Promotions, career changes and professional accomplishments
Weddings, anniversaries and engagements
Births, adoptions, graduations or other celebrations
Good news from schools, churches, nonprofits or civic organizations

Please send your news to Renée Varella today!

Friday's Meeting in KANSAS ROOM, THIRD FLOOR

Posted by Renee Varella on Aug. 18, 2015

Please join us this Friday, Aug. 21 for a presentation by
Washburn University Baseball Coach Harley Douglas.

Board Approves $5,000 for Sole Mates

Posted by Renee Varella on Aug. 18, 2015

On Aug. 18, the TSR board approved a 2015-16 budget of $5,000 for Sole Mates, which gives area kids much-needed new socks and gym shoes from Payless. The board will soon submit a grant to Rotary District 5710 for a large portion of that cost.

Want to volunteer at an upcoming Sole Mates event? It's a great experience to be teamed up with a child to pick out shoes and socks and then be on your way within 30 to 35 minutes. Learn more by contacting Jamie Stafford.

Let's Help Monday Crew Feeds 317!

Posted by Renee Varella on Aug. 13, 2015

On Aug. 10, TSR's Let's Help Monday crew feeds a crowd. From left:
Dick Tinder, Erik Karre, Joe Beuerlein, Dave Keating and Mike Conlin (with son).

On Monday, five Topeka South Rotarians (shown above) helped serve lunch to 317 people at Let's Help. (See more pix HERE.)

If you missed the Aug. 10 opportunity to be of service at Let's Help, you can volunteer there on these future dates:

Let's Help Saturday

Saturday, Aug. 29 at 8 a.m. (prep shift) & at 9:30 a.m. (serving shift)
WHERE: Meet at Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave. Email Tanya Dorf Brunner to sign up.

Let's Help Second Monday

Monday, Sept. 14 at 11:30 a.m.
WHERE: Meet at Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave. Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Missed a Meeting? It's Easy to Do a Makeup

Posted by Renee Varella on Aug. 12, 2015

Did you know that attending weekly meetings is one of the basic obligations you accept upon joining Rotary?

If you must occasionally miss a meeting, however, you can easily do a “makeup” if you:

Complete a 30-minute online session at Rotary eClub One. You could watch videos or read articles on everything from personal growth and community service to international literacy projects.
Participate in a TSR service project. For example, serve a meal at Let’s Help or help a child choose new sneakers at a Sole Mates event.
Attend a regular meeting of another Rotary club. Other options: Attend a District Conference or other approved District or RI meeting.

Please do your part to keep our attendance numbers up – and help our club stay strong and active!

For questions about membership, contact Jenalea Randall. To report a meeting makeup, contact Club Secretary Keith Drinkard.

Our Pumpkin Run Is Oct. 31

Posted by Renee Varella on Aug. 11, 2015

Save the date for our 3rd Annual Pumpkin Run, Walk & Family Stroll:

Saturday, Oct. 31

8:30 – 10:30 a.m.

Lake Shawnee Shelter House #1

3400 S.E. Leisure Lane

The Pumpkin Run is a benefit for PolioPlus, a Rotary International program to eliminate polio worldwide.

And new to the Pumpkin Run this year: Chip timing.

Find more details in the flyer HERE – and sign up today! Questions? Email Roger Underwood.

Friday's Meeting in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Aug. 11, 2015

Join us this Friday, Aug.. 14, for a presentation by Chad Wilkins, CFO of Midland Care.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Aug. 11, 2015

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

	Sean Frost Aug. 17
	Mike Norris Aug. 17

Board Approves $500 for Chepo, Panama

Posted by Renee Varella on Aug. 04, 2015

Last month, the TSR board approved a $500 donation to Woodland Public Charity for supplies to be sent to the victims of a massive fire that hit Chepo, Panama, on June 2. Although there were no human casualties reported, the blaze consumed 150 wood homes and displaced more than 1,000 people in the indigenous community of Aguas Claras, Bayano, Mandugandi Comarca of Chepo District.

On July 30, Woodland Public Charity filled a large container with donations for Chepo, created this video and thanked donors:

Volunteers Still Needed on Aug. 8!

Posted by Renee Varella on Aug. 04, 2015

Please give a few hours of your time to help make Rotary's Foundation, Membership, Leadership (FML) Seminar this week a success:

Saturday, Aug. 8, 2015

8 a.m. to 3:20 p.m.
Washburn University Student Union

President Faron still needs volunteers for:
• Registration
• Sergeant-at-arms duties

If you are willing to help, please email Faron, and he will let the FML team know.

Looking for Help for Let's Help Monday

Posted by Renee Varella on Aug. 04, 2015

Next Monday, Topeka South Rotarians will serve lunch to hungry people at Let’s Help – and we need your help to make it happen.

No cooking experience is necessary. Just come help out the crew and have fun in the process!

Let’s Help Monday

Monday, Aug. 10, 11 a.m.
WHERE: Meet at Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave. Email Joe Beuerlein to sign up.

Please LIKE US on Facebook

Posted by Renee Varella on Jul. 29, 2015

Help us share the good work that Topeka South Rotarians do – and encourage your friends, family and colleagues to "Like" our Facebook Page often.

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Jul. 28, 2015

Best wishes to the Topeka South Rotarian celebrating a birthday this week:

Chris Spargo
Aug. 4

Congratulations, Patti!

Posted by Renee Varella on Jul. 23, 2015

Best wishes to Patti Bossert, who married Daryl F. Mellard on July 18, 2015.

Club Social This Friday

Posted by Renee Varella on Jul. 22, 2015

Join us at our Club Social this week. (It also counts as a makeup!)

Friday, July 31

Blue Moose Bar & Grill

3030 SW Wanamaker Road

4:30 p.m. – ??

Questions? Please email Erika Garcia.

Topeka South Rotary Constitution

Posted on Jun. 30, 2015

Please find our Club's constitution HERE.

Reporting Makeups

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 30, 2015

Pat Munzer is our Club Secretary. If you need to report meeting makeups, please report them to Pat.

From a district reporting standpoint, it is important that we report accurate and strong attendance numbers for our club. Even if you are in good standing attendance-wise, there may be events or meetings that you attend and don't report that could bump up individual attendance success. Please report your makeups, so we can continue to report increasingly successful numbers, including more members with perfect attendance!

Happy Independence Day!

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 30, 2015

NO MEETING this Friday, July 3 in honor of the holiday weekend.

Your 2015-16 Board of Directors

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 29, 2015

Topeka South Rotary's 2015-16 board members, from left: Paul Bossert, 1st Vice President; Faron Barr, President; Jim Rinner, Sergeant-At-Arms; Karen Linn, Past President; Doug Barrington, Club Membership; Pat Munzer, Secretary; Craig Beougher, 2nd Vice President; Adam Feldhausen, Treasurer; Erika Skinner, Club Administration; Jenalea Randall, Club Service; Anne Wardner, Rotary Foundation; Cynthia Hornberger, At-Large Director; and Jahnnie Brake, At-Large Director. Not pictured: Renee Varella, Club Public Relations.

Rotary Day at the T-Bones

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 29, 2015

Join Rotarians across our District for the 9th Annual Parade of Heroes at the T-Bones:

5:30 p.m.

Tuesday, July 7

Enjoy a parade, picnic, first pitch at 7:05 p.m. and evening fireworks. To get your tickets, download the flyer HERE.

What a Terrific Day for Golf!

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 24, 2015

Our golf tournament last Friday was a huge success! Thank you to Doug Barrington and his committee – Bob Koopman, Penny Morgan and Erika Garcia – for all their hard work.

I would like to add a HUGE thank you to the members who donated door prizes to the event:

Rob Briman, Briman’s Jewelers – Two watches
Bob Carmichael – Ten $10 gift certificates to Perkin’s Restaurant & Bakery
Ken Gorman – Free oil change at Doug Richert Pontiac Cadillac
Doug Barrington, Team Barrington/Realty Professionals of Topeka – Golf balls
and also to our Title Sponsor: Capitol Federal Savings – $2,000

In addition, many thanks to the 40+ hole sponsors and the 16 teams of golfers who are making the golf tournament a huge success for the Family Service & Guidance Center’s Therapeutic Play Park.

– President Karen

Find more fun golf photos HERE and on TSR's Facebook page.

A Note from Our President

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 24, 2015

It has been my privilege and honor to serve as President of Topeka South Rotary this past year. TSR members truly know what “Service above self” is all about. Our light shines in our community!

Thank you for allowing me this great opportunity!

– President Karen

Just $320 Gives Us STAR Club Status

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 24, 2015

We need only $320 more for the Rotary Foundation to reach STAR club status!

If Topeka South Rotary achieves STAR club status, the contributions we make to the Foundation today will transform our gifts into projects that change lives – both close to home and around the world. For example, the contributions that TSR makes today come back to us for such local projects as Sole Mates.

Please donate to the Rotary Foundation by going online or click on the contribution form. Or simply hand a check to President Karen or Treasurer Craig, and they will get it submitted to Rotary International.

Thank you for your contributions!

Board Approves New Member Applications

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 24, 2015

On June 16, the TSR board accepted the membership applications of:

• Ed Hood (Classification: Development; Sponsor: Mark Boranyak)
• Dennis Grindel (Classification: Senior Wellness; Sponsor: Angela Dailey)

The board also approved the transfer of:
• Erik Karre from the Kearney, Neb., club (Classification: Scouting; Sponsor: Kip Slattery)

We appreciate your interest in Topeka South Rotary!

Happy Birthday!

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 23, 2015

Best wishes to Topeka South Rotarians celebrating a birthday this week:

	Matt Hickam July 1
	Steve Mohan July 4

Be of Service This Saturday

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 23, 2015

Let’s Help Saturday

Saturday, June 27 at 8 a.m. (prep shift) & at 9:30 a.m. (serving shift)
WHERE: Meet at Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave. Email Faron Barr to sign up.

Welcome New Members

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 09, 2015

Congratulations to these newest members of Topeka South Rotary:

Bob Carmichael Managing Partner, Perkins Restaurant & Bakery Inducted June 5	Keith Drinkard Business Development Relationship Manager, INTRUST Bank Inducted June 12
Denise Cyzman Executive Director, Kansas Association for the Medically Underserved To be inducted June 19	Randy Morris President, Midwest Coating, Inc. To be inducted June 19

Welcome to Topeka South Rotary!

Next Week's Board Meeting Counts as a Makeup

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 09, 2015

Did you know that members are invited to attend Topeka South Rotary board of directors' monthly meetings – and that each counts as a makeup?

Feel free to join us at next week's meeting:

Tuesday, June 16

7:30 a.m.

Washburn Union's Cottonwood Room (3rd floor)

Last Week for Guatemala Donations

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 09, 2015

The Rotary-led Guatemala volunteer team in 2014.

This is the last week to donate supplies to the June 14-21 Guatemala trip with TSR members Faron Barr, Cynthia Hornberger and Jeanine Wells. If you can donate any of the following items, contact Faron. Or give cash or checks (payable to “Topeka South Rotary") to Faron or Craig Beougher. All donations must be received by Saturday, June 13.

Other Rotary-related volunteers going to Guatemala include Faron's wife, Ann; Jeanine's daughter, Brenda; and Rob Briman's wife, Carol, and their daughter, Amanda.

Thank you for your support of this important work! (To watch a great video of TSR volunteers in Guatemala in 2013, click HERE.)

Wish List for Guatemala:

Toothbrushes and toothpaste
Clothing for babies up to 1 year (needed for 25 infants)
Soccer balls, basketballs, volleyballs
Baseballs, soft balls, gloves, bats, hats
Pencils (not mechanical), erasers, sharpeners, rulers, crayons and other school supplies
Fabric, colored thread, needles, buttons, zippers, elastic, etc.
Portable sewing machines
Donation to purchase glucose strips
Donation to purchase children's multivitamins
Donation to purchase water filters: $50 each (needed for 100 families)
Donation to purchase cook stoves: $150 each (needed for 75 families)

Our End-of-Year Social Is June 26

Posted by Renee Varella on Jun. 02, 2015

Mark your calendars for Topeka South Rotary's end-of-year social at President Karen's house:

Friday, June 26

5 – 7:30 p.m.
3740 SW Stutley Road

TSR will supply hamburgers, hotdogs and beverages; please bring a dessert or salad. And bring your entire family!

RSVP to President Karen

Friday's Meeting in BRADBURY THOMPSON

Posted by Renee Varella on May 27, 2015

Please join us at 7:30 a.m. this Friday, May 29 for a presentation by Eugene Williams, Executive Director/General Manager of KTWU.

We will meet in BRADBURY THOMPSON.

Welcome New Member: Chad Wilkins

Posted by Renee Varella on May 11, 2015

Congratulations to Chad Wilkins, who was inducted into Topeka South Rotary by President Karen last week.

Chad is the chief financial officer for Midland Care Connection, Inc. He was introduced to TSR by Tanya Dorf Brunner.

Welcome, Chad!

Topeka Rotary's Red Carpet Gala: June 4, 2015

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 27, 2015

The Downtown Rotary Club will host a "100 Years of Rotary in Topeka" Gala at the Topeka Civic Theatre on Thursday, June 4 – and we're all invited! See the Red Carpet Gala flyer.

Regular tickets are $35 each. Reserve a two- or four-person table HERE.

Have some great stories about the history of Rotary in Topeka to share? Email them to Tom Gorrell or Ramon Powers from the Downtown club. They will compile the stories and share them at the event.

TSR Donates "Go Bags" to Scott Magnet School

Posted by Karen Linn on Apr. 27, 2015

Our members recently donated supplies for 40 "Go Bags" to Scott Dual Language Magnet School. The emergency-preparedness items for students ranged from flashlights, batteries, clipboards and water to markers and first aid supplies.

Thank you, Rotarians!

Want to Know What the Board Is up to?

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 07, 2015

You can now find the minutes from Topeka South Rotary's board of directors monthly meetings on our website. Here's where to find the link:

Please note that minutes will be posted one month after each board meeting, giving board members time to review and approve the previous month's minutes.

Last 2 Weeks to Donate to "Go Bags" for Scott Magnet School!

Posted by Tanya Dorf Brunner on Apr. 07, 2015

Our club has only two weeks left to fill "Go Bags" for Scott Magnet School. The Kansas Center for Safe and Prepared Schools recommends schools prepare “Go Bags” for each classroom as a way to provide helpful items for teachers during a crisis event.

The items most needed:

Flashlights
AA batteries
Clipboards
Cash to buy remaining items

Let's Help Client Gives TSR a Painting

Posted by Faron Barr on Apr. 07, 2015

On a cold, snowy Saturday last February, one of the people who received brunch from Topeka South Rotarians at Let's Help gave our club one of his paintings, with the inscription, "Thanks for coming on a bad day." - Faron Barr

Friday's Meeting in BRADBURY THOMPSON

Posted by Renee Varella on Apr. 02, 2015

Please join us at 7:15 a.m. this Friday, April 3, when Dr. Matt Johnson, Vice President of Development & Communications for the Kansas Council for Economic Education, will talk about Financial Literacy Month.

Note: Please meet in BRADBURY THOMPSON.

Friday Is the Deadline for Rotary Youth Leadership Academy Applications!

Posted by Faron Barr on Mar. 31, 2015

Topeka South Rotary needs your candidates for the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) by this Friday, April 3, for priority consideration.

Do you know a high school student, relative or friend who would be a good candidate for this spring's Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) in Lawrence?

RYLA 2015 is a five-day camp for incoming high school sophomores, juniors and seniors interested in developing leadership potential. The students will learn from business and community leaders about strengthening their leadership skills and abilities, promoting ethical behavior, and facilitating personal growth and self-awareness.

Wanted: EarlyAct Volunteers in April

Posted by Tanya Dorf Brunner on Mar. 24, 2015

Next month, Topeka South Rotary will host EarlyAct – a new service project that teaches third-graders the Four Way Test.

Third-graders are at a great age to learn about the Four Way Test – and how using it in their lives can help them to avoid and stop bullying.

EarlyAct involves two one-hour sessions with the third-graders at Avondale West Elementary School, 3229 S.W. Westview Ave.:

Friday, April 3, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Friday, April 10, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

We have an easy-to-follow script to use in working with the third-graders, which makes the project easy, fun and very rewarding. (It’s not necessary to volunteer for both sessions, but it is an ideal way for the kids to interact with the same Rotarians each week.)

If you're interested in volunteering for EarlyAct or learning more about it, please contact Dr. Mike Morrison or Tanya Dorf Brunner.

Going to São Paulo? Be a TSR Delegate!

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 24, 2015

Are you thinking about attending the 2015 Rotary Convention in São Paulo, Brazil, June 6–9? If so, please let Karen Linn know if you are willing to be a delegate for Topeka South Rotary.

Learn more about the 2015 Rotary Convention.

Rotary in the News

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 24, 2015

Rotary received extensive media coverage in 2014, with more than 375 news organizations in 20 countries featuring Rotary's humanitarian efforts.

Of those stories, roughly 50 appeared in top-tier international news organizations, including seven out of the 10 most influential ranked by Forbes, such as the Associated Press, BBC, CNN, Reuters, The Washington Post, TIME and The Wall Street Journal.

Highlights include:

TIME Magazine – Rotary’s National PolioPlus Chair for Pakistan, Aziz Memon, was quoted. The story also called Rotary “the point-organization for the eradication of polio for more than 25 years.

Fireside Chat Feedback

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 17, 2015

Learn what your fellow Topeka South Rotarians had to say about Rotary and our club by reading the notes from our 2015 Fireside Chats.

Congratulations, Patti & David!

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 10, 2015

Congratulations to two Topeka South Rotarians for these recent honors:

	Patti Bossert, of Premier Staffing Professionals and Key Staffing, for being inducted into the Junior Achievement Topeka Business Hall of Fame on March 5.
	David Oliver, of Capitol Federal Savings Bank, for being inducted into the Kansas Collegiate Football Officials Hall of Fame on March 8.

Share Your Story With Us!

Posted on Mar. 03, 2015

President Karen is looking for more stories about Topeka South Rotarians – and that includes you!

Tell us some things about yourself that your fellow Rotarians may not know – but would love to hear. For example, have you:

Met a famous person?
Published a book?
Moved 30 times in your lifetime?
Created a "bucket list"?
Owned a sweet car?

Please take a few minutes to fill out Karen's Member Minute Questionnaire. She will share your story at a future meeting!

Note: To use the linked PDF above as a fillable form that you can attach to an email, Adobe Acrobat Pro must be installed on your computer. Click on the link, then select "Open With Different Viewer" (in the upper-right corner of the PDF).

Use Our Online Directory to Find Rotarians

Posted by Renee Varella on Mar. 03, 2015

Did you know that you can contact a Topeka South Rotarian by using our ClubRunner online directory? It's easy!

Click on this home page widget.

Friday's Meeting: Meet in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 24, 2015

Join us this Friday, Feb. 27 for a presentation by Jim Peters, Director of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Kansas.

Only 3 Fireside Chats Left – Sign up Now

Posted by Jenalea Randall on Feb. 24, 2015

Reserve your seat at a Fireside Chat today – only three sessions are still open! A few questions we will explore at these Topeka South Rotary get-togethers include:

Do we, as a club, do enough to support our members?
What is your favorite "hands-on" service project. What else should we be doing?
Should we "shake things up"?

Please make plans to attend at least one Fireside Chat. (See the remaining sessions below.) Sign up today by emailing Jenalea Randall or talk with me at a Friday morning meeting.

► Friday, Feb. 27, 8:30 a.m.
Anne Wardner
Washburn University, Washburn "W" Room

► Tuesday, March 3, 7:30 a.m.
Mike Wilson
Architect One, P.A., 906 S. Kansas Ave., Ste. 200
Max: 14

► Wednesday, March 4, Noon
Allan Towle
Fidelity State Bank & Trust Company, 600 S. Kansas Ave.
Max: 14

Golf Tournament to Benefit Family Service & Guidance Center

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 24, 2015

Last Friday, Marlou Wegener reported that Topeka South Rotary has selected Family Service & Guidance Center as the beneficiary of our annual Golf Tournament. The tournament – to be held at Cypress Ridge Golf Course on June 19, 2015 – will raise funds for FSGC's new Therapeutic Play Park.

Our thanks go out to all of the applicants – who made choosing a beneficiary very difficult!

Volunteer at Let's Help This Saturday

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 24, 2015

Please help Topeka South Rotary to prepare and serve brunch to community members at Let's Help this Saturday:

Saturday, Feb. 28, 8 a.m. (prep shift) & 9:30 a.m. (serving shift)
WHERE: Meet at Let's Help, Inc., 200 S. Kansas Ave. Email Faron Barr to sign up.

From Our House to Theirs: "Go Bags" for Scott Magnet

Posted by Tanya Dorf Brunner on Feb. 17, 2015

Topeka South Rotary has begun a new “From Our House to Theirs” collection this year in a project to help a local school prepare for emergencies.

Scott Magnet School would like to prepare teachers for emergencies. The Kansas Center for Safe and Prepared Schools recommends schools prepare “Go Bags” for each classroom as a way to provide helpful items for teachers during a crisis event. Over the next several weeks, we will request items for the Scott Magnet School “Go Bags.” Please consider donating some of the items or donating money to purchase the needed items.

The Club Service Committee is beginning by collecting clipboards for the Go Bags through Friday, February 27. We are seeking 40 clipboards. Please bring a gently used or new clipboard to a regular Rotary meeting this month.

In March, we will request additional items for the “Go Bags." If you have any questions, please contact Tanya Dorf Brunner or Glenn Jagodzinske.

Thanks for your help in providing emergency kits for Scott Magnet School!

Have You Signed up for a Fireside Chat?

Posted by Jenalea Randall on Feb. 17, 2015

Reserve your seat at a Fireside Chat today – and share your thoughts and ideas about Rotary! A few questions we will be exploring at these Topeka South Rotary get-togethers include:

Should we adopt "The Rule of 85"?
Do we, as a club, do enough to support our members?
What is your favorite "hands-on" service project. What else should we be doing?
Should we "shake things up"?

Between the eight different locations, we have seats for 128 Rotarians. There is a seat for each and every one of you! (See the complete schedule below.)

Please make plans to attend at least one Fireside Chat. Sign up today by emailing Jenalea Randall or talk with me at a Friday morning meeting.

► Thursday, Feb. 19, 7:30 a.m.
Jared Holroyd
Atria Hearthstone, 3515 S.W. Sixth Ave.
Max: 20

Friday's Meeting: Meet in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 17, 2015

Please join us this Friday, Feb. 20 for a presentation on World War II's Battle of the Bulge by local author Tad Pritchett.

Friday's Meeting: Meet in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 10, 2015

Please join us this Friday, Feb. 13 for a vocational presentation by Martha Bartlett Piland, MB Piland Advertising + Marketing.

Deadline for Golf Tournament Beneficiary: Feb. 6

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 03, 2015

Don't miss the opportunity to advocate for one of your favorite charities! Topeka South Rotary is now accepting applications for the beneficiary of our annual golf tournament in June. To read the guidelines for the application, click HERE. Deadline for applications is Friday, Feb. 6.

'Rule of 85': Share Your Input

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 03, 2015

The TSR board of directors is exploring the adoption of a Retiree “Rule of 85” Exempt Membership Type. TSR Membership Director Jeff Sorensen will hold one more membership input meeting:

Wednesday, Feb. 11 at 5 p.m. at The Classic Bean in Fairlawn Plaza

If you cannot attend the meeting, please share your comments and questions with Jeff.

The current draft of the Rule of 85 proposal includes these guidelines:

Member must reach the age of 65 and be retired from his/her primary career.
Member must attain Rotary's “Rule of 85” (member's age plus years of Rotary membership equals at least 85).

Farewell Party for Denise Walsh: Feb. 20

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 03, 2015

You're invited to a farewell party for Topeka South Rotarian Denise Walsh, who's moving to Brazil!

Please join the Hill’s Corporate Tax Department in wishing Denise Walsh congratulations and bon voyage (boa viagem!).**

Friday, Feb. 20
6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Lazy Toad Restaurant (Private Room)
5331 S.W. 22nd Place, Suite 2
Hor d’oeuvres and Cash Bar
RSVP by Friday, February 13!
Email Monique Fortune or call 785.368.5589

**BONUS: Topeka South Rotarians can get makeup credit for attending Denise's party. Jenalea Randall will be there with a sign-in sheet!

Friday's Meeting: Meet in WASHBURN B

Posted by Renee Varella on Feb. 03, 2015

Join us this Friday, Feb. 6 for a presentation by Casey Culbertson on the Action Pact Young Professionals Rotary Summit.

Thank You to Our Panama VTT Hosts

Posted by Renee Varella on Jan. 27, 2015

Our thanks to the Topeka South Rotary members who helped with the Panama Vocational Training Team (VTT) last week:

Martha Piland – served as host family
Luis Guillen – served as host family
Kip Slattery – served as committee member who took guests on a museum tour and driving tour of Topeka, and then drove them to Manhattan
Patti Bossert – served as committee member who hosted the Sunday night social and set up two of the vocational sessions
Cynthia Hornberger – conducted a vocational session
Faron Barr – served as committee member and set up a vocational session

This photo shows our Rotarian friends from Chepo, Panama, on a tour of the Kansas Museum of History last Sunday with Kip Slattery. From left to right: Dr Juan Jose Arroyo, a doctor, volunteer firefighter and first responder; Licda Yaritza Pineda, head of the Institute of professional education and training for human development; [a museum mannequin!]; and Jose Manuel Espinosa, a businessman who has volunteered alongside a California doctor in Panama and helped to clean the country's beaches.

Sign Up for a Fireside Chat Now

Posted by Jenalea Randall on Jan. 26, 2015

Fireside Chats – a tradition dating back to Paul Harris – are scheduled! The Chats are a time for Topeka South Rotarians to come together to discuss what Rotary is, how our club functions, the events and community support we offer, and a host of other topics. A few questions we will be exploring include:

Should we adopt "The Rule of 85"?
Do we, as a club, do enough to support our members?
What is your favorite "hands-on" service project. What else should we be doing?
Should we "shake things up"?

Between the eight different locations, we have seats for 128 Rotarians. There is a seat for each and every one of you! (See the complete schedule below.)

Please make plans to attend at least one Fireside Chat. Sign up today by emailing Jenalea Randall or talk with me at a Friday morning meeting.

► Wednesday, Feb. 18, 7:30 a.m.
Martha Bartlett-Piland
mb piland advertising + marketing, 3127 S.W. Huntoon
Max: 14

Hosts for Fireside Chats Still Needed

Posted by Jenalea Randall on Jan. 20, 2015

Topeka South Rotary's Fireside Chats will take place Feb. 19 to March 6. Would you like to host one? If so, please email Jenalea Randall by Jan. 26.

To make hosting a little easier, consider co-hosting a Fireside Chat with another Topeka South Rotarian. Remember, the Chats can be at your home, place of business or a local bar or restaurant. Breakfast, lunch and after work are all options.

Fireside Chats are a long-storied tradition in Rotary International. Please consider being a host or co-host. Send the time, date and location of your Fireside Chat to Jenalea by Jan. 26.

Thank you!

This Friday: Be Social

Posted by Jenalea Randall on Jan. 20, 2015

A Solution for Your New Year's Resolution ... Drinks with Rotarians!
Perhaps your New Year's resolution is to spend more time with friends, exercise more, cut back on calories and have perfect Rotary attendance.

Well, good news! January's social will fulfill all of those goals: Rotarians are friends, you have to walk into the destination, and many drinks contain few calories. Plus, the monthly socials are considered a Rotary makeup meeting.

Fulfill your resolution by having drinks with Rotarians!

Friday, Jan. 23

4:30 p.m.
The Lazy Toad, Fairlawn Plaza

Club Leaders: Register for Accelerate Rotary 2015

Posted on Jan. 13, 2015

Register now for Accelerate Rotary 2015 on Jan. 31! This free, one-day workshop energizes and prepares you to take on the mantle of leadership in your club.

One workshop track is targeted to presidents, presidents-elect and club board members – this year's and next. The other track is for all Rotarians and focuses on how you can enrich your experience in Rotary. See the agenda HERE.

Saturday, Jan. 31

8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Lawrence Holiday Inn
200 McDonald Drive, Lawrence, Kan.

A Pre-Accelerate Rotary Social with cash bar will be held in the Lawrence Holiday Inn hotel bar on Friday, Jan. 30 at 5:30 p.m.

Membership Input Meetings for the 'Rule of 85'

Posted on Jan. 05, 2015

Membership Chairperson Jeff Sorensen has scheduled two membership input meetings to explore a membership classification that reflects Rotary International's "Rule of 85." (This rule allows an exception to meeting-attendance requirements if a Rotarian is 65 years old or older and whose age and years in Rotary total 85 years or more.)

Friday, Jan. 23 at 8:30 a.m. (right after our Club meeting in BRADBURY THOMPSON)
Wednesday, Feb. 11 at 5 p.m. at The Classic Bean in Fairlawn Plaza

Additional information will be distributed before the meetings.

Welcome New Member

Posted on Jan. 05, 2015

Jim Ramos, Marketing Consultant at WIBW-TV

Rotarians Enjoyed Holiday Party – and Gave to Local Charities!

Posted on Dec. 30, 2014

On Dec. 20, Topeka South Rotarians and their guests enjoyed our Club's annual holiday party at the Topeka Country Club.

What's more, the party-goers donated 51 gifts, a variety of clothing and undergarments, plus $425 for Toys for Tots and the Topeka Rescue Mission! The party committee distributed the donations to the charitable organizations on Monday. Thank you, Rotarians!

Announcing New Paul Harris Fellows

Posted on Dec. 22, 2014

Congratulations to these TSR members for being chosen as Paul Harris Fellows this year!

Mike Culp

Tanya Dorf-Brunner

A 30-Second PSA on Peace

Posted on Dec. 15, 2014

Watch Rotary District 5710's 30-second PSA on peace – then share this timely video with your family, friends and social networks!

From Our House to Theirs: Help Easter Seals Capper Foundation

Please consider touching the lives of those served by the Easter Seals Capper Foundation this holiday season and purchase a small gift as you are out shopping.

The Capper Foundation needs help collecting gift items by 5 p.m. this Friday, Dec. 12 (for the holiday party next week). Topeka South Rotary's Tanya Dorf Brunner has offered to collect donations from TSR members this Friday meeting and deliver them to Capper's by the deadline.

Ward Whelan Legacy

Posted on Nov. 16, 2014

On Nov. 14, Jeff Sorensen remembered his good friend and fellow Rotarian Ward Whelan, who passed away Aug. 23, 2011. Read the Legacy HERE.

Update on Breakfast Fee for Guests

Posted on Jul. 28, 2014

The board of directors has updated TSR's policy on the fee for guests at weekly meetings: Breakfast will continue to be free for all prospective members, speakers, and the children of TSR members.

All other guests will be required to pay $10 for breakfast.

Membership Goal: Plus 1

Posted on Jul. 14, 2014

TSR's 2014-2015 goal for membership is +1. To meet that goal, we need to continue to bring new members into our Club. Invite your co-workers, neighbors and friends to become a part of our great Club. Together, we can LIGHT UP ROTARY!

Your 2014-15 Board Members

Posted on Jul. 07, 2014

Back row, from left: Farron Barr, Paul Bossert, Marlou Wegener, Craig Beougher, Doug Barrington, Renee Varella, Jeff Sorensen, Anne Wardner, Jahnie Brake. Front row, from left: Angela Dailey, Jenalea Randall, Kristina Dietrick, Karen Linn, Tanya Dorf Brunner

Four Way Test

Posted on Jun. 23, 2014

Your Attendance Matters!

Missed a meeting? Do a makeup! As a participatory organization, Rotary highly values regular attendance at the weekly club meetings. In fact, attending the meetings is one of the basic obligations that a member accepts upon joining Rotary.

If you must occasionally miss a weekly meeting, however, you can easily do a “makeup” if you:

Copy of LEGACIES OF TOPEKA SOUTH ROTARY: Jim Brown

Posted by Renee Varella

Last week, Tim Swope shared a remembrance of Jim Brown, a Topeka South Rotarian who passed away on January 24, 2013. Read the TSR Legacy HERE.

District 5710 Foundation Banquet

Saturday, Nov. 15
6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Sheraton Overland Park Hotel
6100 College Blvd.
Overland Park, KS 66211

To register or to learn more, click HERE.

ROTARIANS HELP KIDS STAY WARM

Thanks to our members' generous donations of coats through “From Our House to Theirs,"
Topeka South Rotary was able to collect 27 coats, which were delivered to Highland Park Central Elementary School last Friday.

The school office was very happy to receive them – and one family who needed coats was in the office at the time. Timing is everything!

Stay tuned for the next “From Our House …” collection request. And, if you have any suggestions for organizations that could use our help, please contact Tanya Dorf Brunner.

PLANT BULBS FOR TULIP TIME

During Fireside Chats, many Topeka South Rotarians expressed an interest in a short-term service project where they can get their hands dirty. We have just such an opportunity now!

Shawnee County Parks and Recreation staff are looking for volunteers to help plant the tulip bulbs for next year’s big Tulip Time event. The planting will take place on a Saturday very soon, so if you are interested in getting your hands dirty and helping make Topeka beautiful, please email Tanya Dorf Brunner.

CONGRATULATIONS, FARON

Topeka South Rotary is pleased to announce that Woodland Public Charity has selected
Faron Barr for the Woodland Volunteer Humanitarian Award 2014.
The honor acknowledges Faron's amazing work and leadership in Kansas and Guatemala.

The award will be presented during the Woodland Gala:
Thursday, Nov. 20
5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Sunset Ballroom, Holiday Inn & Suites – Overland Park Hotel West
8787 Reeder Road
Overland Park, Kan.

For ticket information or to RSVP by Nov. 7, 2014, contact Jorge Coromac; 816.516.9927.
Or visit Woodland Public Charity.

NEXT CLUB SOCIAL: OCT. 24

Don't Miss Our October Social
Friday, Oct. 24
5 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Buffalo Wild Wings

THE PUMPKIN RUN NEEDS YOU NOW!

Only 24 Days to the 2nd Annual Pumpkin Run/Walk/Stroll for PolioPlus
Saturday, Nov. 1 at 7:30 a.m.
Lake Shawnee Shelter House #1

The Pumpkin Run/Walk/Family Stroll is fast-approaching – and we need your help in several ways:

Volunteer. Email Roger Underwood to get involved.
Participate. Get the Entry Form HERE.
Ask your friends, neighbors and coworkers to walk, run or stroll on Nov. 1. Find the Entry Form HERE.
Go online to Rotary International, make a contribution to PolioPlus, and print off the acknowledgement for Roger Underwood or Craig Beougher.
Write a check to Rotary International for PolioPlus and fill out RI's Contribution Form on our website. (Give your check and a copy of the form to Roger or Craig.)
Spread the word that we need companies and organizations to underwrite the event with a $100 contribution – or more. Direct potential underwriters to the Pumpkin Run Entry Form. Help us to maximize the amount raised, so we can take advantage of the 2-to-1 match of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Goals for this year's Pumpkin Run:

To get the cost of the race underwritten with $2,500. (We currently have $1,150.)
To get 200 Pumpkin Run participants registered at $25 each for a $5,000 contribution to PolioPlus. (We're currently at $900.) Any amount you can give is welcome because the Gates Foundation match increases your gift by 200 percent!

Please don't procrastinate. Help out now!

LOCAL EBOLA EXPERT SPEAKS AT ROTARY

Missed TSR's Program on Ebola? Watch WIBW-Channel 13's story about Kansas State University veterinarian Dr. Jerry Jaax, who spoke about Ebola to Topeka South Rotarians on Sept. 26.

TSR MEMBER DIRECTORY

Updates Coming Soon: We're in the process of printing new and updated pages for Topeka South Rotary's member directory. You can easily access our Club's online directory by logging into http://www.topekasouthrotary.org and clicking on the Membership tab and then "Member Lists."

If you'd like a printed version of the new material to add to your current printed directory, email Paul Bossert. Please note that new pages will be printed only for those members who request it.

To update your directory information or add/update your photo, log in to http://www.topekasouthrotary.org and click on the My ClubRunner tab and then “My Profile." The Edit button in the middle of the window will allow you to make changes. To have your new information included in the directory update, please complete it by Oct. 31.

FRIDAY'S MEETING - MEET IN BRADBURY THOMPSON

Join us Oct. 10 for a vocational presentation by Kyle Kessler, Executive Director
of the Association of Community Mental Health Centers of Kansas, Inc.

NOTE: Please meet in Bradbury Thompson.

SEPTEMBER SOCIAL: SEPT. 26

Join Us at Our Next Club Social:

Friday, Sept. 26
5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Quinton's, 4121 S.W. Huntoon

LUNCH BUNCH: FRIDAY, SEPT. 19

Share a Meal With a Youngster at Lunch Bunch!
Have lunch with a deserving Avondale West Elementary School student –
and experience the satisfaction of selfless service.

Topeka South Rotary's next Lunch Bunch is Friday, Sept. 19, 11:30 a.m. to noon.

Just bring a McDonald's Happy Meal to the school at 3229 S.W. Westview – you can also
bring a meal for yourself – and enjoy a short lunch with students and other Rotarians.
To sign up, email Neil Dobler.

CONGRATULATIONS, PATTI!

Patti Bossert Nominated for Rotary International’s “Women of Action”

Rotary District 5710 recently nominated Patti Bossert, a Topeka South Rotarian, for the Rotary International “Women of Action” honor. The recognition highlights the important role that women play in advancing economic development and keeping the international community’s focus on the empowerment and promotion of women and girls.

On Oct. 7, 2014, Rotary International and The White House will honor six to eight Rotary Club members from across the United States as “Women of Action” during Rotary Day in Washington, D.C. These women will be recognized for their professional achievements and volunteer efforts to improve the lives of others in their communities and around the world.

Patti has been active in Rotary for 25 years, serving as club president, assistant governor, district membership chair, district conference chair, and more. She currently chairs the District World Peace Fellowship Committee.

In addition to leading Topeka South Rotary’s Sole Mates service project, Patti has performed humanitarian work in Guatemala. She also is financially supporting the education of a student who plans to attend medical school and then return to Patanatic, Guatemala, as that community’s first medical doctor. As if that's not enough, Patti was just named an inductee into the Topeka Business Hall of Fame. Way to go, Patti!

CELEBRATE TOPEKA ROTARY'S 100 YEARS ...

Posted by Renee Varella

... and tour the old federal courtroom for the last time!

Meet the Downtown Rotary Club in the old federal courtroom for a brief program about the building and a tour of Constitution Hall. A boxed lunch for $11 will be available.

Also enjoy a sneak peek of plans for the Rotary Pocket Park downtown!

September 11, 2014
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Downtown Post Office, Third Floor
424 S. Kansas Ave.

Register for this event by SEPTEMBER 9 HERE.

LEGACIES OF TOPEKA SOUTH ROTARY: Jim Brown

Posted by Renee Varella

Last week, Tim Swope shared a remembrance of Jim Brown, a Topeka South Rotarian who passed away on January 24, 2013. Read the TSR Legacy HERE.

FROM OUR HOUSE TO THEIRS: COATS FOR KIDS

Posted by Angela Dailey

Topeka South Rotary is working with Highland Park Central Elementary School to give coats to students who don’t have them. We will collect coats at each regular Friday meeting through September 19.

Please consider cleaning out your closet and donating unneeded coats. Kids come in all shapes and sizes, so any size or weight of coat would be welcome.

Thank you for your help in making sure Topeka kids
are warm and snug this fall and winter!

CONGRATULATIONS - JENALEA RANDALL!

Posted by Angela Dailey

Topeka South Rotary's very own Jenalea Randall is among the "20 Under 40" honorees. The annual "20 Under 40" program recognizes people under age 40 who demonstrate leadership skills and community involvement on both a professional and personal level in the Topeka-Shawnee County area.

WAY TO GO JENALEA!

CONGRATULATIONS, JIM RINNER!

Posted by Angela Dailey

Congratulations to Jim Rinner from Bartlett & West who received his blue badge on Friday August 1!

THE PUMPKIN RUN IS COMING!

Posted by Renee Varella

Topeka South Rotary's 2014 Pumpkin Run – a 5K Run/Walk – will be Saturday, Oct. 25 at Lake Shawnee.

Please consider a contribution to Polio Plus. (Make your check payable to Topeka South Rotary.)

We also are looking for sponsors to underwrite the cost of the Run. If you know of a business that might be interested in sponsoring/underwriting the Run, please contact Roger Underwood.

WITH DEEPEST SYMPATHY

Posted by Karen Linn

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Jenalea Randall on the loss of her husband, Anthony Randall, after a battle with brain cancer.

We also extend our sympathy to Jared and Debbie Holroyd on the loss of Debbie’s parents, John and Zona Berberich.

MEET YOUR NEW BOARD MEMBERS

Posted by Renee Varella

Back row, from left: Farron Barr, Paul Bossert, Marlou Wegener, Craig Beougher,
Doug Barrington, Renee Varella, Jeff Sorensen, Anne Wardner, Jahnie Brake.
Front row, from left: Angela Dailey, Jenalea Randall, Kristina Dietrick, Karen Linn, Tanya Dorf Brunner

FOUNDATION, LEADERSHIP, MEMBERSHIP SEMINAR

Posted by Renee Varella

**VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!**

Topeka South Rotary has been asked to help with the
District's Foundation, Membership, Leadership Seminar
on Saturday, August 9 in Washburn University's Student Union.
Please contact Karen Linn if you can help with this event.

REGISTER for the FML Seminar.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT

Posted by Renee Varella

RI President Gary C.K. Huang chose Light Up Rotary as his theme for the 2014-2015 Rotary year and is asking all of us to share our service with the community, strengthen our club and let our light shine in the community.

I am privileged and honored to be the President of this club – Topeka South Rotary – a club that indeed shares our service with and lights up our community. Thank you for allowing me this opportunity!

To all members of Topeka South, THANK YOU for making our community a better, healthier and safer place through Service above Self.

I look forward to a wonderful year of service to the community, getting to know each other a little better and letting our light shine!

– Karen Linn

LEGACIES OF TOPEKA SOUTH ROTARY: Jerry Bergen

Posted by Renee Varella

Legacies of Topeka South Rotary honor those members who have died with a personal remembrance about how each Rotarian contributed to our club and the community.

On June 27, Jim Rose shared a tribute to Dr. Gerald "Jerry" Bergen, 80, who died on Feb. 25, 2014. Read Jim's heartfelt – and humorous – Legacy tribute HERE.

Jerry Bergen, 1933–2014

CLUB SERVICE REPORT

Posted by Tanya Dorf Brunner

During the 2013-14 Rotary year, Topeka South Rotarians were very busy proving that service truly is above self in our club. Read the 2013-14 Club Service Report.
(To get involved in 2014-15, contact Tanya Dorf Brunner at tdorf@oralhealthkansas.org.)

Sana Kaufmann Scholarship Awarded

Posted by Angela Dailey

Congratulations to Mallory Copeland, a Shawnee Heights senior, who was the recipient of the Topeka South Rotary Sana Kaufmann Scholarship. Mallory is joined by her mother on the left and Marlou at the Topeka Community Foundation Scholarship Reception. For those of you not familiar with the Sana Kaufmann scholarship that is administered by Topeka Community Foundation for TSR, it memorializes Sana Kaufmann. Sana was an exchange student sponsored by TSR to South Africa and unfortunately died tragically while there. She was a debate student at Shawnee Heights, so the scholarship awards $500 to a Shawnee Heights forensics/debate student. Mallory hopes to visit our club soon!

Rotary Peace Fellowships

Posted by Angela Dailey

Each year, Rotary selects individuals from around the world to receive fully funded academic fellowships at one of our peace centers. These fellowships cover tuition and fees, room and board, round-trip transportation, and all internship/field study expenses. Two types of peace fellowships are available.

More information can be found HERE. For an application, click HERE. The deadline is April 15, 2014.

Thank You Renee Varella!

Posted by Angela Dailey

A big thank you to Renee Varella for accepting the public relations TSR board of directors position for 2014-2015 to fill the vacancy due to John Ratzenberger moving to Chicago.

Guatemala Update

Posted by Angela Dailey

So far the Guatemala team has been very busy working in the Patanatic community. The nursing team has seen over 200 patients, 7 cook stoves have been installed, 25 water filters have been assembled, part of the team has been installing security cameras, and part of the team has been putting screens over the windows in the volunteer area to keep insects out. The team is ready to tackle day three of their journey where they will be conducting Sole Mates Guatemala, delivering the water filters assembled yesterday, seeing kindergarden and first grade students for checkups, and finishing up some of the jobs started earlier. Tomorrow we travel across Lake Atitlan to San Juan to see more students and deliver more items. Your donations have been sorted and will be received over the next two days. There will be a full update when we return. Thank you all for your support of this project.

This is a picture in front of the shoe store in Panajachel. This was the first installment of Sole Mates Guatemala. We purchased 15 pairs of shoes with our donations.

Thank you Jared!

Posted by Angela Dailey

Thank you Jared Holroyd and his staff at Atria for hosting our second Breakfast Bunch, we are interested in hearing your thoughts. Contact Tanya Dorf Brunner with your comments at tdorf@oralhealthkansas.org.

Rotary District 5710 Conference

Posted by Angela Dailey

The Rotary District 5710 Conference will be May 2-4 at the Ritz Charles in Overland Park. You may have received registration information from the District 5710 office, so you are encouraged to attend, but you do need to register. If you plan on attending, please let Marlou know!

Lunch Bunch - March 28

Posted by Angela Dailey

Lunch Bunch is Friday, March 28. See Neil Dobler (neil.dobler@bartwest.com) if you would like to volunteer.

RYLA 2014

Posted by Angela Dailey

It is time to start thinking of students who would be good candidates for this year's Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA). RYLA is designed to help students develop their own leadership skills and abilities, promote ethical behavior, and facilitate personal growth and self-wareness. High school students who will be a sophomore, junior or senior next school year are eligible. If you know of a student who could benefit from attending RYLA, please see Faron Barr (fbarr@t-mfinancial.com) for more details. You can access the application here and view the brochure here. Applications can be submitted to Faron Barr by April 15th. Topeka South Rotary has received three applications.

New TSR Member Welcome

Posted by Angela Dailey

Welcome to Pat Munzer from Washburn University

TSR Club Social

Posted by Angela Dailey

The May social will be on Friday, May 30th from 5-7pm at The Blue Moose, 3030 SW Wanamaker

Can we Meet the TSR Annual Fund Goal?

Posted by Angela Dailey

Thank you to all TSR members who have contributed to the Rotary Foundation annual fund! Although we are still short of our $12,000 goal, we are almost up to $9,000 for the year! So I would ask you to consider a contribution if you have not done so.

We ask alot of you and I am always in awe of what each of you do for Rotary and many other organizations! Remember the annual fund contributions have the potential of coming back to our club to help fund our local projects - a great example is Sole Mates!

If you would like to give and want more information, please see me or Anne Wardner. Thanks so much for your consideration.

Marlou

Thoughts & Prayers for Jerry Bergen

Posted by Angela Dailey

Please keep Jerry Bergen in your thoughts and prayers as he is at Brewster Rehab with his illness. Jerry is in Room 313 and well wishes or even a visit would lift his spirits. If you would like mail a card, the mailing address is 1001 SW 29th Street, Room 313, Topeka KS 66611.

Let's Help - Saturday, January 26th

Posted by Angela Dailey

Saturday's Let's Help is on January 26th of this month. If you can help, please contact Faron Barr (fbarr@t-mfinancial.com)

Ideas for “From Our House to Theirs”

Posted by Angela Dailey

The Club Service Committee is considering re-starting the “From Our House to Theirs” initiative this year. It is an opportunity to clean out your closets and doors and donate things you don’t need any longer to organizations that could use them. If you have ideas about organizations we could approach that may be interested in a donation drive, please contact Tanya Dorf Brunner at tdorf@oralhealthkansas.org. Thank you!

Fireside Chats

Posted by Angela Dailey

Thank you to all of hosts and hostesses of Fireside Chats! If you were able to attend, we appreciate your comments and input. Stay tuned for more details and the drawing for gift cards that all attendees' names will be in! We will draw at a future club meeting!

Thank you Brewster Place

Posted by Angela Dailey

Thank you to Brewster Place for hosting our meeting on Friday, January 3. There was lots of conversation and positive comments. Thank you to Angela Dailey and Tanya Dorf Brunner for coordinating the meeting. Watch for details in the future for the next "Breakfast Bunch" meeting at Atria Hearthstone on April 11.

Congratulations!

Posted by Angela Dailey

Congratulations to Mike Wilson, who was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship at the Holiday Party!

Thank you

Posted by Angela Dailey

to Danette Tipton and her Club Social Committee for planning an awesome TSR Holiday Party!

Rotary Foundation Goal

Posted by Angela Dailey

Twenty TSR members can receive matching 100 points if they contribute $100 to the Rotary Foundation. Remember the deadline is December 31!

Rotary Global Grant Scholarships

Posted by Angela Dailey

It's again time to find those outstanding Rotary Scholars!

The District Scholarship Committee has been busy revising the District application document to more closely resemble the Rotary.org form. We need to find several qualified applicants in District 5710. The STRICT deadline for online submission of applications at the District Level is JANUARY 31, 2014. So get started now asking around town and in your favorite colleges for scholars who want an all-expenses paid year of studying abroad. Every club in District 5710 can find applicants if we make a real Rotary effort.

One of our applicants from last year, Myriah Smith, has been awarded a $30,000 scholarship grant to study in Panama and teach English as Second Language to children and teachers there. Our other scholar is still awaiting word on his application which has been delayed by some difficulties with the online form.

You can find official information and an application form for the District 5710 preliminary selection process website here.

Topeka South Rotary Sole Mates - Last Chance to Volunteer

Posted by Angela Dailey

The last volunteer opportunity for Sole Mates for the school year is April 15th - at 1:25pm at the South Payless Store (3215 SW Topeka Blvd). Contact Jamie Stafford (jamies@keystaffing.com) to sign up!

TSR Holiday Party

Posted by Angela Dailey

TSR Holiday Party

Thank you to those who have signed up.

See you Saturday night!

2014-2015 Board of Directors for Topeka South Rotary

Posted by Angela Dailey

Here is the slate of officers for the 2014-2014 Board of Directors for Topeka South Rotary. If you have any other nominations, please contact Marlou (Marlou.Wegener@bcbsks.com). We will vote on the officers November 22.

President	Karen Linn
1st VP	Faron Barr
2nd VP	Paul Bossert
Secretary	Angela Dailey
Treasurer	Craig Beougher
Past President	Marlou Wegner
Sergeant at arms	Doug Barrington
Club Administration	Jenalea Randall
Public Relations	John Ratzenberger
Membership	Jeff Sorenson
Service	Tanya Dorf Brunner
Foundation	Anne Wardner
At-Large	Kristina Dietrich
At-Large	Jahnnie Brake

Past President's Council Meeting

Posted by Angela Dailey

The Past President's Council will meet after the Washburn Athletics deparment tour on October 11th. A conference room will be available in the Athletics Department immediately following the tour.

2013 TSR Pumpkin Run Race Results

Posted by Angela Dailey

To find out the race results for the TSR Pumpkin Run, click here.

Reminder - Dues are Increasing

Posted by Angela Dailey

Just a reminder that our dues are increasing to $145 per quarter beginning in October.

TSR Movie Club

Posted by Angela Dailey

Our next movie will be 12 Years a Slave. If you are planning to go, please email Mike Culp (mikec@cox.net).

2013 TSR Pumpkin Run

Posted by Angela Dailey

Topeka South Rotary Pumpkin Run will be Saturday October 26^th at 8:30am at Lake Shawnee Shelter House #1 and it is a 5k Run/Walk. To register, click here.

Any TSR Member can write a check to RI and send it to Roger Underwood or go online at RI and give to Polio Plus (you MUST print a receipt and give it to Roger). A $100 sponsorship turns into a $300 contribution to Polio Plus!!

Thank you Topeka South Rotary!

Posted by Angela Dailey

"Dear Topeka South Rotary Club,

Thank you so much for selecting Breakthrough House and the Clubhouse as recipients of your golf tournament proceeds! The $6,027.21 will help us maintain our work units - making certain we have supplies and support for the kitchen, clerical, retail, cleaning/maintenance and automotive units.

Your funding will go a long way in supporting the hundreds of Clubhouse members during the year!"

Danette Tipton, Breakthrough House Staff and Clients

TSR Membership Goal

Posted by Angela Dailey

Topeka South Rotary wants you to share your Rotary experience with others in order to inspire current and future prospective members. The goal our club has established for this Rotary year is for each member to bring 1 potential new member as your guest. Your guest does not actually have to make a commitment, they could have future potential.

Please help us pass on the Rotary experience and start thinking about who you can invite to help us reach or goal. Throughout the year those who have shared their experience to a potential member and brought them as a guest will be recognized. The time to start is now! If you have any questions please direct them to Paul Bossert with the membership committee paul@premierks.com or any of our other board members. A list of board members can be found on the front page of the TSR website at www.topekasouthrotary.org.

All Topeka Rotary Social

Posted by Angela Dailey

Friday, Sept. 20

5 – 7 p.m.

New City Café, Downtown

More information here.

Attendance at the event will

serve as a make-up for a missed meeting.

Calibrate your Rotary compass at the upcoming All Topeka Rotary Social.

Fulfilling the club's mission of "Service Above Self" is easier when interacting with others who are on the same path. Mix, mingle and connect with fellow Rotarians at the upcoming All Topeka Rotary Social.

Enjoy great food, drink and conversation with others at New City Café in downtown Topeka. Owned and operated by Luis Guillen, a Topeka South member. The more you mix and mingle the better your chances are of leaving with a gift from the planning committee.

Tickets are $10 per person. Potential members and significant others are welcome. Buy your ticket from Bob Gunter or Mike Culp.

January Social

Posted by Angela Dailey

Celtic Fox - January 24th

118 SW 8th St - Downtown

5-7pm

Club Service Committee Seeks Members

Posted by Angela Dailey

Service is one of the most important parts of Rotary, and we are forming a new Club Service Committee to review our current Topeka South Rotary service projects and explore ideas for new projects. The 2013 Fireside Chats showed us that our club is passionate about the service we perform. If you are interested in helping with this effort to review and refresh our service projects, please contact Tanya Dorf Brunner at tdorf@oralhealthkansas.org.

Welcome our Newest Member!

Posted by Angela Dailey

Jahnnie Brake, the newest TSR member who was inducted on July 12. Jahnnie is a Financial Planner with Edward Jones. We are very happy to have you!

Upcoming TSR Board Meetings

Posted by Angela Dailey

Any TSR member is welcome to attend the board meetings. The next meeting is scheduled for March 18, beginning at 7:30 am in the Thomas Room at the Washburn University Union.

TSR Board of Directors Meeting

Posted by Angela Dailey

The Topeka South Rotary board of directors met Friday, July 19. The proposed budget that you have been able to review the last few weeks has been approved by the board with one small change. The name of the proposed line item for Group Study Exchange (GSE) Team expenses has been changed to International Projects Expense, which will provide more breadth in a variety of international projects that TSR could support. Please remember that with the proposed budget approved, a slight dues increase will occur as of the October 1 statement. The dues will now be $145 quarterly, a $10 increase.

CLUB COMMITTEE SEEK MEMBERS

Posted by Angela Dailey

The Club Administration committee is recruiting members who are interested in helping with the Holiday Party, December 14th @ Topeka Country Club, or to plan other club socials. Please contact Danette Tipton (dtipton@breakthroughhouse.org).

2013 District 5710 Foundation, Membership, Leadership Seminar - Deadline to register approaching

Posted by Angela Dailey

The deadline is approaching to register for the District 5710 Foundation, Membership, Leadership (FML) Seminar. It will be held August 10, 2013 at our own Washburn University Memorial Union. TSR is expected to have four volunteers to help with the Seminar - two for registration and two throughout the entire day. For more details, and to register, CLICK HERE. This event is free and the club with the most attendees will receive a Paul Harris fellow!

Friday's Meeting

Posted by Angela Dailey

We will meet at Bradbury Thompson this Friday to hear Alden Hickman from Heifer International.

From the President...2013-2014 Topeka South Rotary Goals and Budget

Posted by Angela Dailey

Hello everyone! I am thrilled and honored to serve as your president for the 2013-2014 Rotary year. We have a very special group of members at Topeka South Rotary and my club membership at TSR has been a very important part of my life since 1999!

At the June 28 transition meeting, I visited about the goals that the board has set for our year. We as a club submit three major goals to Rotary International and I wanted to make you aware of those: Total contributions to the Rotary International Foundation Annual Giving Fund - $12,000; Total contributions to Polio Eradication - $3,250; Membership Goal - Plus 3 from our ending membership number on June 30 (114)

Stay tuned - you will all be hearing more about how I hope to engage each of you to help meet these goals and others!

At this Friday's meeting, I will once again be distributing a draft budget for Topeka South Rotary for 2013-2014. While the board of directors is responsible for approving the budget, I wanted every member to have an opportunity to review the draft and contact me with any comments prior to our board meeting on July 19. I do want to let you know that a proposed increase in dues (for three quarters) is included in the budget. If you are not able to attend Friday's meeting, and would like to receive a copy of the draft budget, please contact me at marlou.wegener@bcbsks.com and I will get one sent to you.

I look forward to working with you this year!

In Rotary,

Marlou

Meet Your 2014-2015 Board Members!

Posted by Renee Varella

From left to right: Mike Culp, Tanya Dorf Brunner, Jeff Sorensen, Marlou Wegener, Faron Barr, Karen Linn, Craig Beougher, Paul Bossert Angela Dailey

President's Family Picnic

Posted by Faron Barr

Friday June 28th, 2013 6:00p.m.

Location: Shawnee Lake Shelter #1

Meat and Beverages provided by TSR

Please bring a side dish or dessert.

Save The Date

Posted by Faron Barr

Rotary International President 2013-2014, Ron Burton, will be at the Topeka Country Club on July 18th at noon. Downtown Rotary and District 5710 invites everyone to join them for this rare occasion. Reservations are due by July 15 and the cost is $18 per person. Email Linda Ireland to register at linda@rotary5710.org.

New Members Approved

Posted by Faron Barr

Ron Simmons and Charles Shively have been approved for membership by the board. Their seven day comment period ends on Friday of this week. If you have any comments about these two potential members, please pass them on to Penny Morgan or Paul Bossert.

Alternate Meeting Locations

Posted by Faron Barr

Due to air conditioning updates in the Washburn Memorial Union, we will be meeting at the Bradbury Thompson Center until the issues are resolved with the units. Please reference this bulletin or our website for updates on meeting locations. If you have questions, contact Faron Barr or Karen Linn.

Helping Hands Humane Society Vocational Meeting

Posted by Faron Barr

Our next meeting will be a vocational meeting at the Helping Hands Humane Society located in the old Dillons building on the corner of 21st and Belle. We hope to see you there. A list of possible donations for HHHS can be found here if you desire to bring any items that they need.

Polio Case Reported In Somalia

Posted by Faron Barr

A case of type 1 polio has been reported in the Banadir region of Somalia. The country's first case since March 2007. Genetic sequencing suggests that the virus is closely related to a type 1 virus strain circulating in Nigeria, which is still a polio-endemic country.

Polio must be eradicated everywhere to make all the world's children safe. So in response to the outbreak, an immunization campaign is taking place 14-16 May, aimed at reaching more than 350,000 children in the Banadir region. Read more here. Learn more how you can support our efforts to end polio now at http://www.endpolio.org/

African GSE Team Visits This Evening

Posted by Faron Barr

The Rotary GSE event this evening will be at the Break Room Restaurant and Dinner Theatre, 911 S Kansas Avenue in downtown Topeka. We’ll have a special showing of Bluegrass & Apple Jam customized for Rotary GSE by Karen Hastings and Chris Schultz. This musical revue program sold out the Break Room on an extended run in April. Karen Hastings, the creator and director of the show, is excited about doing a special show for a multi-cultural audience. Dinner and the show will cost $32 per person; on line reservations are required and you can make your menu selections when you make your reservation if you make your reservation before 2 today. You can still make reservations after 2 but you’ll get the turkey dinner. The doors will open at 6:00PM for cocktails and mingling in the front and dinner service seating will begin at 6:30. The show will begin as soon as dinner service is complete, between 7:30 and 8:00.

The event page is set up and ready for you to register. You will be prompted for a password since the event is private and only available to Rotarians and invited guests. We tried to keep the password incredibly simple. Event Page Link: topekarotary.eventbrite.com

Items Needed for Guatemala - LAST CHANCE TO DONATE!

Posted by Faron Barr

Once again, our fellow TSR members will be going to Guatemala in September. They are collecting donated items to be used for the children when they get vaccinated.

Chewable multi-vitamins for children ages 2 to 6

New or like-new Shoes for children ages 2 to 4

Baby clothes (onsies type) for 0 to 1 year old - remember the weather is warm year round

Fabric to make baby diapers and baby blankets

School supplies - pens, mechanical pencils, stickers, markers (no notebooks please)

Blood glucose testing strips as shown here.

Rotary International - National Volunteer Week

Posted by Faron Barr

It's National Volunteer Week. Thank you to all of our volunteers for making a difference in their communities and for following us on social media!
You can learn more about how to join us at www.rotary.org/join.

Can Money Continues for Sole Mates

Posted by Faron Barr

This quarter all the can money collected will go to Sole Mates again. So far, we have collected $982.73!!

5K Preparation - TSR Style

Posted by Faron Barr

For those who are interested in getting a feel for what it is like to walk a 5K (3.1 miles), we will meet in the parking lot of Henry T's at about 5pm on April 12th. We will walk around the perimeter of Washburn University, and then meet back at Henry T's for some hydration. If you would like to just join the walkers to congratulate them on a job well done, you can meet us at Henry T's from 5-7pm for a well deserved social. We hope to see you there.

Rotary Youth Exchange - Host Families Needed

Posted by Faron Barr

Rotary District-5710 is looking for host families for the 2013–14 school year. The Rotary Youth Exchange program requires at least two and preferably three host families for each student, so the hosting commitment is three to five months. If you or somebody you know is interested in hosting one of these students in Topeka, please contact David Beck, Downtown Topeka Club YEO, 785 817-0144, davidbeck@cox.net or Robert Thompson, District 5710 Inbound Coordinator, 913-742-3665, ratratrat@yahoo.com

Details about each student is listed on the next page.

Meeting in the Kansas Room

Posted by Faron Barr

For the next meeting, we will be meeting in the Kansas Room on the second floor of the Washburn Memorial Union. We hope to see you there.

Rotary International - End Polio Now

Posted by Faron Barr

We're making progress in the fight to end polio. 18 April marks a year since the last case of type 3 polio was reported in Pakistan, which is one of three polio-endemic countries. The other countries are Afghanistan and Nigeria.

In 2012, there were only seven cases of type 3 polio reported globally. So far this year, no type 3 cases have been reported

Celebrate Rotary 2013

Posted by Faron Barr

It is time to CELEBRATE ROTARY 2013! The conference will be held at Rock Springs, Junction City, on May 3-5, 2013. Children, friends and family are encouraged to attend also. There will be activies for everyone. For more information, click on CELEBRATE ROTARY .

TO REGISTER: Contact Jamie Stafford, jamies@keystaffing.com or call her at 785-272-9999 (daytime/weekday hours).

March Is Literacy Month

Posted by Faron Barr

We make a difference in our communities and globally. It’s Literacy Month. Share this graphic to help raise awareness about our work.

Help support literacy projects through The Rotary Foundation at www.rotary.org/contribute.

Another Successful Guatemalan Trip

Posted by Faron Barr

The donations from Topeka South Rotary were a major help to the ongoing sustained economic development of Patanatic, Guatemala. The supplies and money provided by TSR were administered in several different areas. To learn more about this past trip, click the "more" button below. There will be a detailed presentation on August 23rd. I hope all of you can attend.

Bloomberg Donates $100 Million To Polio Eradication

Posted by Faron Barr

Thank you New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg! He's donating US$100 million to support polio eradication. Rotary launched a global fight to end polio in 1985.

Mayor Bloomberg said, "We're at a critical juncture in the global effort to e...nd polio. If we're going to achieve a polio-free world, we must act quickly and commit now to providing the resources needed."

Learn how you can join the mayor and others in ending polio at www.endpolio.org. You can also read the full article here.

Can Money for Guatemala

Posted by Faron Barr

Remember that all of the can money collected this quarter will go to the Guatamalan Project adminstered by Woodland Public Charities and partnered with District 5710. These funds will help with several humanitarian efforts in Patanatic, Guatemala. A description of these efforts can be accessed here. Let's make a difference internationally and give generously to this worthwhile project.

Meeting at Bradbury Thompson Center This Week

Posted by Faron Barr

We will, once again, be meeting at the Bradbury Thompson Center this week. Our speaker will be our very own Danette Tipton giving a vocational speech. We hope to see you there.

RYLA 2013

Posted by Faron Barr

One More Fireside Chat To Go

Posted by Faron Barr

The last Fireside Chat of this rotary year for our club will held at Berberich, Trahan & Co., P.A. (3630 SW Burlingame Rd.). This meeting is being hosted by Karen Linn and will begin at 7:30am on March 6th. This meeting was rescheduled due to the weather. If you haven't made it any of the previous Fireside Chats, this is your one last opportunity to attend this year. We hope to see you there.

District Foundation News

Posted by Faron Barr

It's time for some GOOD NEWS and the OTHER KIND regarding our contributions to the Annual Fund so far this year. First the GOOD NEWS--As of the close of the books December 31, 2012, our district was slightly ahead of last year in contributions to the Annual Fund. Now for the OTHER KIND--We are far from our goal of at least $100 per member for the Rotary year. In fact our average giving per member so far is only about $43.
Please consider the Rotary Foundation as you review your charitable giving this spring as the Foundation counts on each member for support so it can continue to provide wonderful programs in our local communities and throughout the world.
Thank you to all who have make a contribution to the Foundation. Every Rotarian, Every Year!

Golf Tournament - June 24th, 2013

Posted by Faron Barr

The Golf Tournament will be held on June 24th at Cypress Ridge. The beneficiary of this year's tournament will be Breakthrough House. If you would like to participate in the tournament or help, please contact Jerry Cordill (640-0526) or Phil Tysinger (224-1994).

TSR Beneficiaries Announced

Posted by Faron Barr

Topeka South Rotary received five(5) applications as beneficiaries of our fund raising efforts for the 2012-2013 Rotary year. A review committee made up of board members and non-board members reviewed the applications and made recommendations to the TSR board. The following was approved by the board; The TSR Sole Mates program was approved for $1,500.00 as part of our matching portion to the District 5710 grant that was received for that program. Those funds will come from our weekly can money. Proceeds from this quarter’s meetings, January through March, of weekly can money to go to the Woodland Public Charity for their water, education and health care programs in Guatemala. Breakthrough House was approved as the beneficiary of the proceeds raised from this year’s golf tournament.

TSR Afterhours Social

Posted by Faron Barr

We will be having another TSR social this Friday the 18th at the New City Cafe from 5:30pm til 7:00pm. President Penny would like you join her for a relaxing evening with some of your fellow rotarians. We hope to see you there.

Fireside Chats

Posted by Faron Barr

It is now time to start thinking about Fireside Chats. We are planning to have these sessions in the last couple of weeks in February and the first week of March, if possible. If you would like to host one these meetings, please contact Anne Wardner (Anne.wardner@fbfs.com) for more details and she will help you schedule your session.

TIME magazine article featuring Rotary International

Posted by Faron Barr

The fight against polio is on the cover of this week’s TIME Magazine. Read about the progress in fighting polio and Rotary’s role in eradicating this crippling disease.

“Thanks to aggressive global vaccination programs led by Rotary International, UNICEF, the World Health Organization, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, and, most recently, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the year just beginning could be the disease’s last.” Read more here.

Message from the Rotary International President - Sakuji Tanaka

Posted by Faron Barr

My best wishes to our members enjoying this holiday season with their families. Without the steadfast support of the family of Rotary, our tremendous accomplishments in 2012 would never have been possible.

Passing of PDG Fred Krebs

Posted by Faron Barr

It is with great sadness that we let you know that Past District Governor Fred Krebs passed away today, Friday December 28. Fred was our District Governor in 1996-97 and was a very active member of the Shawnee Mission Rotary Club, our District historian and a mentor to many of the members of this district. His service will be held on Saturday, January 5 at the Johnson County Community College. Time and details will be sent to you later when the plans for his service are complete.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to his daughter and his two brothers.

Happy Holidays

Posted by Faron Barr

Since Washburn University will be closed on December 28th, 2012, we will also take a TSR holiday break. There will be no meeting on 12/28/2012. We hope you enjoy the holidays with your family and friends. We will resume our regularly scheduled meeting time on January 4th, 2013.

TSR Welcomes the Topeka High Drumline

Posted by Faron Barr

This week's meeting will feature a special holiday treat. The Topeka High Drumline will perform for us this Friday during our regular meeting time. To accommodate this, Washburn University will open both Washburn rooms A & B for us. The Topeka High Drumline has performed at special events all over the country, so come enjoy this unique opportunity to see them perform just for our club. We hope to see you there.

2012 TSR Holiday Photos

Posted by Faron Barr

If you look to your right on this page under photo albums, you will see a link called 2012 Holiday Party. Click on this link and you will see several picures from the party. Everyone had a great time and we hope to see you there next year.

Rotary International Charity Miles

Posted by Faron Barr

It only takes a few seconds to vote for Rotary in United's 10 Million Charity Miles Giveaway at http://10millioncharitymiles.com/charity/39. You can vote daily per device.

Rotarians use Charity Miles to change lives by helping with humanitarian projects, such as transporting children with birth defects to hospitals for treatments they can't receive at home.

Foundation Mission

Posted by Faron Barr

The mission of The Rotary Foundation is to enable Rotarians to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty. The Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation supported solely by voluntary contributions from Rotarians and friends of the Foundation who share its vision of a better world.

New Sole Mates pictures

Posted by Faron Barr

There are new pictures from some of our Sole Mates outings. Just look under the Photo Albums section of this page and click on the Sole Mates 2012 tab. You will see some of your fellow rotarians helping students at one of the local Payless Shoe Source stores. If you would like to become involved, see Glenn Jagodzinske or Patti Bossert.

Rotary Foundation SHARE Program

Posted by Faron Barr

The Rotary Foundation has a unique funding cycle that uses donations for programs/grants three years after they’re received. The three-year cycle gives districts time for planning projects, selecting participants, and budgeting expenditures. This cycle also allows the Foundation to invest the contributions and spend the investment earnings on administrative and fund development costs. The system is called SHARE because
• Rotarians share their resources with fellow Rotarians around the world
• The Trustees share some of their decision-making responsibility with the districts

Rotary All Topeka Meeting

Posted by Faron Barr

This Friday at the Ramada Inn downtown there will be an All Topeka Rotary Social with all four rotary clubs in Topeka invited. The social starts at 5:00pm. For more information click here.

Foundation Fundraising Update

Posted by Faron Barr

As of Thanksgiving day, the club has raised $4075.00 to contribute to Rotary’s Annual Programs Fund. This represents 33.9% of our goal for this Rotary year. Thirty members have made a contribution this year to assist the Club in our fundraising efforts. Thank you to all of the members who have made a donation this year.

Meeting Location This Week

Posted by Faron Barr

Once again we will be meeting in the Bradbury Thompson Center this Friday November 30th and the folllowing Friday December 7th. Our speaker this week will be Julie Mulvihill from the Kansas Humanities Council. We hope to see you there.

A Special Meeting This Week

Posted by Faron Barr

This week will be a unique experience for our club. We will have a joint meeting with the Sibu Rotary Club in Romania via SKYPE. Liviu Florea has arranged this very special opportunity to meet with fellow Rotarians in Romania. Don't miss this first time experience for both of our clubs. We hope to see you there.

Foundation Matching Program for November

Posted by Faron Barr

November is Foundation Month and Topeka South Rotary is once again instituting a matching program for your donations to the Annual Programs Fund during the month of November. For the first 20 people who donate at least $100 to the Annual Programs Fund, TSR will match 100 recognition points. Remember that it takes 1,000 recognition points to achieve a Paul Harris Fellow. Anytime you contribute to the Annual Programs Fund you will receive 1 point for every dollar you contribute. If you are one of the first twenty to contribute at least $100 this month, TSR will give you 100 more points that can be applied to your PHF or given to someone else. Don't miss out on this opportunity! You can make your contributions to our Foundation Chair, Jeri Hansen, our Treasurer, Craig Beougher, or online at the www.rotary.org website.

Topeka South Rotary Lunch Bunch

Posted by Faron Barr

Lunch Bunch has been part of Topeka South Rotary for a number of years in partnership with USD 501 and Avondale West Elementary School. The Lunch Bunch group meets once a month, usually the third Friday, at Avondale West with 11-13 students, depending on the number of classes. Each classroom teacher nominates one student each month for Lunch Bunch and writes a brief description of the reason for selecting the student. Many times the student is selected for doing outstanding work, helping other students or adhering to the school motto of SOAR, which stands for Safety, Organization, Attitude and Respect and corresponds to the school mascot, the Hawk. Many students are selected for making great improvements in work, attendance or attitude.

The Rotarians each bring a meal – Happy Meals are favorites – for a student and something for themselves and the goal is to have one Rotarian for each student. We meet in the library and begin with lunch. The students, ranging from Kindergarten to 5th Grade are always ready to visit about their school and family or tell us about their favorite team. Many of the kids are from single-parent families and a great number of them move in and out of the district during the school year. For more information on this wonderful program click the "more" below or contact Neil Dobler at neil.dobler@bartwest.com.

You Are Invited

Posted by Faron Barr

You are invited to a special holiday night at Topeka Civic Theatre on December 9th. The TCT crew will be performing A Christmas Story and you can see it with your friends in our club. You have up to November 21st to RSVP for this event. For details see Tanya Dorf Brunner about this special event. You can also view the brochure here.

Polio Plus Campaign for November

Posted by Faron Barr

‎

35 years ago the world saw it's last case of smallpox. Today, Rotary International and its international partners are on the verge of eradicating polio from the face of the earth. Join Eastern Kansas Rotary, District 5710, in helping make this final push to end this dreaded disease. For every new Like (116 now) to the Rotary District 5710 facebook page in the month of November, $5 will be donated to the PolioPlus - End Polio Now. LIKE US NOW! click here

Please help by reviewing our Annual Membership Classification Survey

Posted by Faron Barr

Rotary International asks that each club conduct a classification survey every year. The classification survey is intended as a brainstorming activity to continually advance membership. We have completed the survey which you can find here. We request that you take a look at the survey and do a little brainstorming by looking at the categories that are not filled, or even categories that may not be listed, and either contact people you know or send us their names and we will contact them. If you have names of individuals that you would like us to contact about becoming a Topeka South Rotarian please send them to paul@premierks.com.
If you would like to give membership input or need to earn a make-up, the membership committee will meet the first Tuesday of every month at 7:30am at the Classic Bean in Fairlawn Plaza.

Meet TSR Rotarian Jeanine Wells

Posted by Faron Barr

Seven Things About Jeanine:

1. Briefly describe your occupation.
I retired in July, 2011 from residential real estate sales. I now have 3 part time jobs & am busier than ever with those, some volunteer work & family.
2. What is your favorite hobby?
Spending time with the grandkids, of course! But I also enjoy cooking and reading.
3. Who do you feel was a major inspiration in your life or career?
Oprah!
4. What music genre do you listen to the most?
Very eclectic taste in music – on my ipod you will find everything: Creed, Elton John, Bon Jovi, The Stones, Soundtracks from Broadway musicals, Country, Blues & Jazz! I have been both a Lee Greenwood & a Bon Jovi groupie!!
5. Describe your perfect vacation:
Exploring areas that I have not been before at a leisurely pace so that I can experience the local culture & cuisine – but I also love a quiet beach with a good book!
6. What media events capture your attention the most?
Real estate news and local issues.
7. What is your favorite sport or sports figure to watch?
Love Jayhawk basketball!

World Polio Day

Posted by Faron Barr

It's time to make history on World Polio Day, 24 October. Lend your voice to End Polio Now. .
Go to https://www.thunderclap.it/projects/436-world-polio-day-end-polio-now and sign up to send out a coordinated mass message.

New Monthly Service Award

Posted by Faron Barr

The Club Service award is an award designed to recognize one member per month for their personal contribution through service to the club and the community. Exceptional contributions through service on a committee, successful fundraising efforts, membership recruitment efforts, consistent work on a specific club project, initiating/coordinating a collaboration with another club on a project or assisting other members with their club assignments are examples of the types of contributions which may be qualifying for consideration.

This service may have been through participation in any of the lines of service. Financial contributions made by members shall not serve as a basis for consideration for this award.

Individuals can be nominated by any member of the club. Nominations should be made within the first two weeks of each month to the Foundation Chair. The board members shall review any nominations at their regularly scheduled board meeting and select one member each month. The member selected shall be allocated 100 foundation points for their service to the club.

A member may only be awarded this recognition once in a rotary year. Receipt of this award does not preclude a member from being nominated for a Paul Harris Fellow recognition at the club's annual holiday celebration. Current board members are not eligible to receive consideration for this award.

Holiday Party Planning Committee Meeting scheduled

Posted by Faron Barr

As impossible as it may seem, we are rapidly approaching another holiday season and 2012 will soon be coming to a close! You know what that means..............time to gear up for another FANTASTIC TSR Holiday Party!!!
If you have not already heard, we've had a change of venue. This years party will be held on Saturday December 15th at Serendipity located in the heart of Topeka's flourishing NOTO Art's District. Anne Wardner is currently looking for volunteers willing to help with the planning of this event. If you are interested in being part of this years Holiday Party planning committee Anne would love to hear from you. Please respond by email or give her a call at 969-9689, if you would like to help in any way.

The Holiday Committee will meet on Wednesday October 24th at 12:00 at New City Cafe on Huntoon.

Polio Survivor Talks About Polio Eradication

Posted by Faron Barr

The World Health Organization (WHO) has predicted that ending polio would prevent 10 million children from suffering from paralysis during the next 40 years.
Rotarian and polio survivor RAMESH FERRIS talks about his opportunity to build awareness for polio eradication in New York City.

Read the article at: http://blog.rotary.org/2012/10/08/ferrisinny/

Rotary International

Posted by Faron Barr

The Rotary Foundation meets the highest Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance standards for charities, which includes 20 standards for accountability.

The Rotary Foundation is supported solely by volunteer contributions, which enable us to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty.

Read more at: http://www.rotary.org/en/AboutUs/TheRotaryFoundation/Pages/ridefault.aspx

Sole Mates District Simplified Grant Received

Posted by Faron Barr

The Club has received a district simplified grant in the amount of $1500.00 to support the SoleMates project. District Simplified Grants are a tool for Rotary districts to support short-term humanitarian projects that benefit the community. The club will be responsible for matching the $1500.00 grant. The total project budget will enable club members to purchase approximately 120 pairs of shoes for students identified by school administrators at three elementary schools in the USD 501 district.

Meet TSR Rotarian Mark Boranyak

Posted by Faron Barr

Seven Things About Mark:

1. Briefly describe your occupation.
I am now retired after almost 40 years working in state government relations: Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce, Kansas Beer Wholesalers Association, Anheuser-Busch Companies (St. Louis), and Capitol Strategies LLC.
2. What is your favorite hobby?
My favorite hobby is SCUBA diving and underwater photography. I have been doing that for over 40 years.
3. Who do you feel was a major inspiration in your life or career?
Inspiration? I am not sure. Several people have been instrumental in my career. They include Eldon Danenhauer (former Coors distributor in Topeka/Lawrence), Dean Campbell (former Anheuser-Busch distributor in Manhattan), Pat Hubbell, and former colleague at Anheuser Busch, Ed Miles. There are many more; we all gain by listening and being inspired by others throughout our lives.
4. What music genre do you listen to the most?
Anything by Jimmy Buffett. Yeah, I am a real Parrothead. Unfortunately, last year two surgeons spent 12 hours operating on my head to remove a non-cancerous tumor. In doing that, they had to remove my hearing nerve. Now I am totally deaf in my left ear and that has significantly affected my ability to enjoy music. Bummer.
5. Describe your perfect vacation:
My perfect vacation is diving along a beautiful coral reef somewhere in the South Pacific looking for marine creatures to photograph, especially odd looking ones.
6. What media events capture your attention the most?
Given my background, political events capture more of my attention. I particularly focus on watching both political parties being controlled by extremists and the affect money has on our political process.
7. What is your favorite sport or sports figure to watch?
I don’t watch sports much. But I do follow my Kansas State Wildcats!

Congratulations Jeff Wagaman

Posted by Faron Barr

One of our current members has recently been promoted to a new position in the Attorney General's office. Jeff Wagaman will now oversee the new Division of Crime Victims Compensation created by Attorney General Derek Schmidt. To learn more follow this link: http://www.kansas.com/2012/09/25/2503369/kan-ag-reorganizes-efforts-to.html

Visit From the District Governor

Posted by Faron Barr

Our next meeting will be a presentation from the District Governor of District 5710. If you haven't met Kevin Tubbesing before, this will be your chance to see his vision for our district in this year. This will also be a good opportunity for many of you to have better access to one of our district leaders if you have questions. We hope to see you there.

We Have Returned

Posted by Faron Barr

We returned from Guatemala on 09/23/2012. Over the seven days we were there, we were very busy. We first slept in a seminary on the night of our arrival before traveling two and half hours to Panajachel. The next day we visted the Community Center for Education and Health in Patanatic. In Patanatic, we learned how to assemble water filters, administer medication, and test glucose levels for the surrounding communities. It was an experience like we have never had before. The villages around Lake Atitlan’ consist of deeply impoverished homes and families while being surrounded by some the most beautiful landscape we have ever seen. The lake itself is very large and is surrounded by three volcanoes. The area is all mountainous. Panajachel has very narrow streets with street vendors lined up on both sides. Our hotel was nice for that area, but not nice compared to what we are used to. You have to brush your teeth with bottled water, because the tap water can make you very sick. The village we did most of our work in was Patanatic. It is in the mountains at 6,600 feet above sea level. The views from this village are absolutely breathtaking. We went to several other surrounding communities as well. After we were finished, we had given worm medicine to over 2,000 students, took blood glucose readings from 300-400 sixth graders, replaced over 50 water filters with more efficient water filters, and worked in the community garden. In the community garden, we had to clear jungle from the mountain side with a machete, so they could plant coffee trees. We also built a rabbit hutch and planted some of the coffee trees. Two people of our team spent the afternoon teaching the local children how to sew. We also attended an all-day celebration for the first four nurses Patanatic has ever had. The first part of this day was watching them graduate and second part of the day was the town of Patanatic celebrating the fact that they will now have nurses in their community to help them with health concerns. Patanatic has never had a clinic or nurses to staff one. This was very moving for the people of Patanatic and our team. It is hard to express in words the need for what is being accomplished here. We still have more to do and we will give you more detail when we give our presentation. A link to a large on-line photo album is forthcoming. This is just an example what Rotary International, District 5710, and Topeka South can do with the help of its members.

Greetings from Panajachel

Posted by Faron Barr

So far we have been in Panajachel for three days. In this time, we have been very busy. We first slept in a seminary on the night of our arrival before traveling two and half hours to Panajachel. The next day we visted the Community Center for Education and Health in Patanatic. In Patanatic, we learned how to assemble water filters, administer medication, and test glucose levels for the surrounding communities. On the third day, we started working with communities where we gave worm medication to over two hundred children, assembled and gave instruction on 21 water filters, and recorded the glucose levels of over 40 sixth grade children. The items that you have sent with us were needed much more than we imagined. The school supplies were appreciated very much by the children and the school staff. The glucose meters and test strips were crucial to us being able to test the glucose levels in the children and surrounding communities. The supplies that the schools and Patanatic had were scarce, so we were very happy that we brought the items we collected from you or purchased with your donations. It is hard to express in words the appreciation and need for what we are doing here. We still have more to do and we will give you more detail when we come back. A link to a large on-line photo album is forthcoming. This is just an example what Rotary International, District 5710, and Topeka South can do with the help of its members.

Youth Exchange Memories

Posted by Faron Barr

In celebration of New Generations Month, on 12 September we invite Rotarians to use social media to share a positive Youth Exchange memory, talk about a successful exchange, or describe the benefits they have experienced in hosting exchange students. On Twitter, use the hash tag #YEXmoment.

Watch Yoko Sekimoto recall her “fabulous experience” with Youth Exchange in 1962, when she became the first Japanese student to participate in Rotary Youth Exchange. In 2012-13, Rotarians in Japan are celebrating 50 years of exchanges around the world.

Join the celebration by sharing this video or your favorite Youth Exchange moment:http://vimeo.com/47268841

Meet TSR Rotarian Mike Wilson

Posted by Faron Barr

Seven Things About Mike:

1. Briefly describe your occupation.
Architect – I also dabble in commercial real estate development
2. What is your favorite hobby?
I enjoy most yard work and take care of my church’s building and grounds.
3. Who do you feel was a major inspiration in your life or career?
A single individual is notably absent for me as an inspiration. As an architect I have always admired Frank Lloyd Wright.
4. What music genre do you listen to the most?
Soft Rock and Folk.
5. Describe your perfect vacation:
Going somewhere that neither Maria nor I have been, getting in on some awesome nature hikes with wildlife viewing and finding a fascinating unexpected event or activity not on the itinerary.
6. How do you stay informed of current events or developments in your field?
I subscribe to a key newsletter and receive literally dozens of periodicals on architecture and related fields whether I subscribe to them or not.
7. What is your favorite sport or sports figure to watch?
No doubt its football, but I find that the older I become the less excited I get.

Meet TSR Rotarian Gerald Bergen

Posted by Faron Barr

Seven Things About Jerry:

1. Briefly describe your occupation.
In the past two quinquennium I have worked extremely hard to make certain that no entry would appear on my calendar that would require either physical or mental exertion on my part. I have been reasonbably successful at that endeavor. Prior to that I was the Director of Student Financial Aid at that illustrous institution Kansas State and after that State Student Financial Aid Director on the staff of the Kansas Board of Regents.
2. What is your favorite hobby?
I have several hobbies none of which cannot be ignored for a good afternoon nap. I love to read, woodcarve, and do wood working projects, as long as they don't interfere with Item #1.
3. Who do you feel was a major inspiration in your life or career?
Other than my parents, my high school football coach was the greatest influence on my life.
4. What music genre do you listen to the most?
Most of my music listening occurs in the car and is Kansas Public Radio which has variations of music genre.
5. Describe your perfect vacation:
I'm living it!!!
6. How do you stay informed of current events or developments in your field?
To keep abreast of world events I read newspapers, watch newscasts, read three newsmagazines and discuss current events with friends. Then I make up my own mind what I believe.
7. What is your favorite sport or sports figure to watch?
My favorite sporting events are college & professional football, college basketball, track and the Iditarod. Baseball, golf, and tennis are minor sports.

Update on Karen Linn

Posted by Faron Barr

As some of you may know, one of our members, Karen Linn, underwent surgery last week. Kip Slattery just spoke with Karen and her husband today. Kip had the following to report.

"I spoke with Karen, just recently, and she is doing very well! She said she feels great and can't believe how well she feels after having that type of surgery. She gets tired easily, which is understandable. Her sister from Cincinnati is staying with her this week and helping out. Andrew told me she rests everyday between 1 and 4 and requested that she not have visitors or calls during that time."

We all wish Karen a safe and speedy recovery.

New Generations Month

Posted by Faron Barr

Get ready for New Generations Month at Rotary in September with a look back at Boys and Girls’ Week, which started in New York in 1920 to promote youth development in education, citizenship, and vocation.

Read more at: http://www.rotary.org/en/MediaAndNews/News/Pages/110914_news_history.aspx?fb

Last Week Before the Guatemala Trip

Posted by Faron Barr

On September 16, members of the Topeka South Rotary Club are going to Guatemala for a week on a joint service project with Woodland Public Charity of Kansas City. Faron Barr, Patti Bossert, Michael Culp, Mike Wilson, Maria Wilson and Kyle Smith, will be visiting schools, providing medical assistance to students and infants, improving water purification systems and celebrating the first four graduates of the new nursing program!
This trip is an outgrowth of Paul Bossert's mission trip in June with Rotaract.

It has been suggested that we could take some small 'gift' items that are in short supply at the schools or the clinic and would be of benefit. The following items were suggested by WPC:

1) “Onsies” – Newborn infant to 12 month sizes
2) Crayons and markers
3) Pens
4) Stickers – NOT sticker books, just sheets of stickers
5) Test strips for blood glucose testing for these machines ONLY:
a. AccuCheck Nano
b. Onetouch Ultra Mini
c. Bayar Contour
d. Free Style Flash
e. Free Style Lite
These range in price from $25 - $100 for 100 strips.

Please do NOT donate notebooks, paper, or books. These items are too heavy for us to take with us on the trip.

And of course we would accept cash donations to buy items, or to pay the airline to bring the extra luggage full of them!
If you are so inclined, please bring the items to Rotary the next three Fridays and get them to any of the members going on the trip.
For more information about the trip, feel free to ask the members listed above for details.

Thanks for your help!!

Rotary International Brings Clean Water to Mozambique

Posted by Faron Barr

A water project brings clean water and an updated sanitation system to schoolchildren in Mozambique thanks to Rotarians in Mozambique and Denmark who used a Foundation grant.

Read more at http://www.rotary.org/en/MediaAndNews/News/Pages/120817_news_mozambique.aspx.aspx?fb

The Rotary Club of Maputo, Mozambique, partnered with the Rotary Club of Skanderborg, Denmark, on a global grant project to build bathrooms, a water hole, and a tank for a school in Maputo.

Meet TSR Rotarian Barbara Ballentine

Posted by Faron Barr

Seven Things About Barbara:

1. Briefly describe your occupation.
I have been in nonprofit management and fundraising my entire professional life. I started with the Battered Women’s Task Force; and from these beginnings my passion was born to be actively engaged in movements that make the community more responsive to the health and welfare of women and children.
2. What is your favorite hobby?
ART! I can get lost in my artwork both with watercolor and especially painting with dyes on silk.
3. Who do you feel was a major inspiration in your life or career?
My inspiration and mentor is Joan Wagnon who encouraged me to try new things, allowed that it was OK to fail as long as I learned from the failures, and mostly to be myself. She saw strengths in me that I did not know existed. She is also an incredible role model or action - not rhetoric. She has actively demonstrated her caring for families, the less fortunately and for Kansas itself!
I also pay homage to my friend Sherry – who taught me to how play at the age of 18 - after being an “adult child” most of my early life. Sherry’s lessons and demands that we go “play” brought balance to my life.
4. What music genre do you listen to the most?
Ah music – it depends upon the day and my mood! All music is incredible (except perhaps Rap – I don’t get that). Mostly I listen to Rock – the Rolling Stones any time over the Beatles. But I also love great new jazz – Richard Elliot or Boney James on the sax are the best! Then there are the ladies – all in a class by themselves and do not fit into one genre: Joan Armatrading, Bette Midler, Emmy Lou Harris, Alison Kraus, Nancy Griffith and Gillian Welch just to name a few! And then – just to round my music chart out – let’s not forget Gogol Bordello – gypsy punk rock at its best! OMG – they make me dance the entire time!
5. Describe your perfect vacation:
I want equal time by the ocean and in the high desert. Playing in the ocean’s wave at night just before a hurricane rolls in can be so stimulating; but then meditating high in the hills of Red Rock Canyon while golden eagles soar overhead is just as magical.
6. How do you stay informed of current events or developments in your field?
Patty tells me about current events she thinks I’d care about (knowing I refuse to read this crappy newspaper and don’t watch the news); but I constantly research developments in my field because I also want to stay current for my students.
7. What is your favorite sport or sports figure to watch?
I am so READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL! Nothing is more fun than seeing Peyton Manning flat on his back because of a SACK!

Finish The Fight For Global Polio Eradication

Posted by Faron Barr

We launched a new polio website to raise support for the fight to end this crippling disease. Visit http://www.endpolio.org/ to take action through great interactive features.

Don't forget to sign on to our message urging world leaders to fund the fight against polio at the United Nations General Assembly in September. Polio is at a tipping point and now is the time to act. Add your name and share your voice.

ENDPOLIONOW_4p

End Polio Now -Finish The Fight For Global Polio Eradication

www.endpolio.org

New Directory Update - ACTION NEEDED

Posted by Faron Barr

Topeka South Rotarians, please help us out by logging into this website, if you have not already done so, and updating your membership information by Friday August 24th. This information will be pulled for the printed directory.

You can log in by clicking login on the right side of this webpage. After you have logged in click on "Membership List" under membership. The important information would be everything under the personal information tab. Also, please update your picture if you would like a new picture included in the directory.

*If you have forgotten your password, there will be a link on the login screen that says "I forgot my password" and requires that you enter your last name and email address after which your password will be emailed to you. If you have never logged in, you would need to hit the "I forgot my password" link and use the email address that you gave when you initially filled out the rotary application, which was used to enter you as a Rotarian. If you try an email address and it does not work please check your junk mail for the password email, and if problems persist contact Faron Barr or Paul Bossert.

New Directory Update Reminder - ACTION NEEDED

Posted by Faron Barr

Topeka South Rotarians, please help us out by logging into the website and updating your membership information by Friday August 24th. This information will be pulled for the printed directory.

You can log in by going to www.topekasouthrotary.org and clicking login on the right side of the webpage. After you have logged in click on "Membership List" under membership. The important information would be everything under the personal information tab. Also, please update your picture if you would like a new picture included in the directory.

* If you have forgotten your password, there will be a link on the login screen that says "I forgot my password" and requires that you enter your last name and email address after which your password will be emailed to you. If you have never logged in, you would need to hit the "I forgot my password" link and use the email address that you gave when you initially filled out the rotary application, which was used to enter you as a Rotarian. If you try an email address and it does not work please check your junk mail for the password email, and if problems persist contact Faron Barr or Paul Bossert.

Rotary International Membership Challenge

Posted by Faron Barr

Take the Rotary Membership Challenge in August for Membership and Extension Month.
Sponsor a new member, tell a friend or colleague about your club's projects, or volunteer as a mentor to prospective or new members.

Read more at http://www.rotary.org/en/Members/Events/Announcements/Pages/120827_announce_membership.aspx?fb

Meet TSR Rotarian Karen Linn

Posted by Faron Barr

Seven Things About Karen:

1. Briefly describe your occupation.
Certified Public Accountant with the Public Accounting Firm Berberich Trahan & Co., P.A.. I am Director of the Audit Department.
2. What is your favorite hobby?
Playing the piano, but I hardly ever get to play.
3. If you could attend one event at the Olympics what would it be?
swimming
4. What music genre do you listen to the most?
I am stuck in the 70’s!
5. Describe your perfect vacation:
Driving around the United States with my husband and daughter seeing everything the USA has to offer. Occasionally I enjoy the same on our motorcycle, but then we have to leave Josie behind.
6. How do you stay informed of current events or developments in your field?
We continually receive continuing education and updates from a variety of sources on current events and developments in accounting/auditing. Our greatest source is the McGladrey Alliance which provides us with the resources of a National/International firm while maintaining our local independence.
7. I'll take my steak.......
medium rare /Oscar

Meet TSR President Penny Morgan

Posted by Faron Barr

Seven Things About Penny:

1. Briefly describe your occupation.
Financial Consultant - I assist people in understanding how to accumulate wealth, & implementing the plan, so they may one day become an Explorer of the Universe (aka. Retire)
2. What is your favorite hobby?
Scuba diving in the ocean, and sailing around Lake Perry
3. If you could attend one event at the Olympics what would it be?
Gymnastics
4. What music genre do you listen to the most?
Country & classical
5. Describe your perfect vacation:
Anywhere but here, with no cell phone coverage or internet access
6. How do you stay informed of current events or developments in your field?
Read, Internet webinars
7. I'll take my steak.......
on a plate, medium rare with a loaded baked potato

Meet TSR Rotarian Craig Beougher

Posted by Faron Barr

Seven Things About Craig:

1. Briefly describe your occupation.
I am an accountant for a CPA firm. I primarily do corporate audits but have also done corporate and individual tax returns.
2. What is your favorite hobby?
I play the guitar in what little free time I have.
3. If you could attend one event at the Olympics what would it be?
Just one?
4. What music genre do you listen to the most?
Country
5. Describe your perfect vacation:
Somewhere with my family. Not real picky as long as my wife and child are with me.
6. How do you stay informed of current events or developments in your field?
Professional magazines and websites.
7. I'll take my steak.......
medium with a baked potato.

Meet TSR Rotarian Todd Zimlich

Posted by Faron Barr

Seven Things about Todd:

1. Briefly describe your occupation.
I provide insurance and investment solutions. I work primarily with life insurance and investments and enjoy helping people start from scratch all the way to planning for income during retirement.
2. What is your favorite hobby?
I like golf.
3. If you could attend one event at the Olympics what would it be?
I would attend Ice Hockey, oh, this is the Summer Games, right…probably swimming.
4. What music genre do you listen to the most?
I listen to Christian music (K-Love is 88.9 or 97.3 FM!)
5. Describe your perfect vacation:
At a beach with family and no specific plans. Just a lot of hanging out, relaxing…
6. How do you stay informed of current events or developments in your field?
I stay informed reading and attending seminars and workshops
7. I'll take my steak.......
To Go…(Medium)

Meet TSR Rotarian Douglas Barrington

Posted by Faron Barr

Seven Things About Doug:

1.       Briefly describe your occupation.
Director of Development and Educational Services for Washburn University-owned KTWU Channel 11 (PBS) responsible for membership, sponsorship, grants, volunteers, planned giving, major donations, auction and educational services (provides many outstanding programs and training for children, teachers, daycare providers, parents and grandparents that cannot be found anywhere else).
2.       What is your favorite hobby?
Golf
3.       If you could attend one event at the Olympics what would it be?
Discus
4.       What music genre do you listen to the most?
Rock oldies (I was a drummer)
5.       Describe your perfect vacation:
On an Island playing golf, scuba diving, helicopter ride/parasailing/zip line (something exciting) and sight-seeing.
6.       How do you stay informed of current events or developments in your field?
Email, webinars and periodicals.

7. I'll take my steak.......
substitute with fish, chicken or turkey.

Rotary International in Lagos

Posted by Faron Barr

At a primary school in Lagos, Nigeria, children lacked access to proper toilets, affecting their health and education. The Rotary Club of Lagos-Palm Grove Estate stepped in with the help of a Rotary Foundation grant to provide water and sanitation, just one of the ways Rotarians are making a difference in this area of focus. You can help at
http://www.rotary.org/en/Contribute/Pages/ridefault.aspx

Read more at: http://blog.rotary.org/2012/07/20/lagos/

TSR goes to Guatemala

Posted by Faron Barr

If you have ever thought about participating in a Rotary Service trip, this is an opportunity for you!

You may be aware that in June, Paul Bossert traveled to Guatemala with a group of Rotarians from our District. Jorge Coromac from the Lenexa club has worked hard on a sustainable project for the last few years in Guatemala. They have partnered with other Rotary Clubs including the Olathe club and Woodland public charity to build a community education and medical center & gardens in the town of Patanatic, which is located in the mountains on Lake Atitlan. He worked on water filters, sewing, and gardening projects on the island of Patanatic. While they were there the community had it’s first dentist ever. The goal is to teach sustainability, rather than just "giving" to the community. I have attached Paul's schedule from June so that you have an idea of what to expect. This a very affordable trip and they welcome anyone inside or outside of Rotary. Our district clubs have been huge supporters of this project. Below is a link to a blog with pictures from the June trip.

http://patanatic2011.blogspot.com/

The trip was so meaningful to Paul, that he has convinced Faron Barr, Kyle Smith, and Patti Bossert to go in September. Patti invites anyone who is interested to call Paul or her to get more details about this opportunity!

Home Page and Bulletin updates

Posted by Faron Barr

You will notice in this week's bulletin and on the home page that some the old and/or outdated stories have been removed. If you are interested in reading the old stories, they have not disappeared forever. You can find the old stories under the Stories link at the top of the home page. We hope that this will result in the home page and bulletin being more readable and user friendly. We will continue to add new stories, so check back periodically to catch up on the latest TSR news.

Rotary International "This Close" Campaign

Posted by Faron Barr

Aseefa Bhutto Zadari, the daughter of Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari, took part in our “This Close” campaign ad to help raise awareness that if we End Polio Now, we are “This Close” to making history. The only other human disease to be eradicated is smallpox.

This crippling disease is without a cure. It only can be prevented through vaccines. Contribute to the fight at www.rotary.org/contribute

Photo: Aseefa Bhutto Zadari, the daughter of Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari, took part in our “This Close” campaign ad to help raise awareness that if we End Polio Now, we are “This Close” to making history. The only other human disease to be eradicated is smallpox.
This crippling disease is without a cure. It only can be prevented through vaccines. Contribute to the fight at www.rotary.org/contribute

Meet Your 2012-2013 Board members

Posted by Faron Barr

From left to right: Phil Tysinger, Craig Beougher, Karen Linn, Mark Boranyak, Robert Coopman, Anne Wardner, Penny Morgan, Kip Slattery,
Jeanine Wells, Rob Briman, Faron Barr, Marlou Wegener, Jeri Hansen, and Paul Bossert

Foundation Goal Achieved

Posted by Faron Barr

We have officially achieved our goal for giving to the Annual Programs Fund in the 2011-2012 Rotary year. Our goal this year was $12,000 and we have donated 103% of this goal! Our per capita giving last year was $108.38 which means we will receive our Star award again for last year. Thank you to everyone who donated to the Rotary Foundation in 2011-2012. We could not have acheived this amazing goal without your help.

End of year social - Friday June 22nd - Please RSVP

Posted by Paul Bossert

Please follow this link for detailed information and RSVP instructions...

Event info and RSVP

Check out the District Conference photo album

Posted by Paul Bossert

The 2012 District 5710 conference was a huge success. Thank you to all of the TSR members who volunteered. Those include...

Faron Barr and President Kip Slattery – Sole Mates presentation
Mark Boranyak - Photographer
Gary Lucas – Golf Tournament
Bob & Maureen Koopman – Wine Tasting
Bryce & Roslyn McHenry – Wine Tasting
Karen Linn – House of Friendship
January Scott – Gift Basket
Liviu Florea – Selling Raffle tickets
Patti Bossert - Event Chair
Jamie Bossert - Venue and Catering
Kyle Smith - House of Friendship and Photographer

Thanks to all of the TSR members who attended and helped, we are representing our club very well at the district level.

To view the photo album click on the District Conference 2012 photo album on the right side of the page.

Volunteers needed

Posted by Paul Bossert

District 5710 needs your help. We need 5-6 volunteers to help serve at the wine tasting Friday, April 27th. There will be no charge to attend if you volunteer!. The Wine tasting is a great social event and will feature Music by Invisible Bike! Volunteers will be needed from 6:40pm to 10:00. Please contact Patti Bossert if you can help. 272-9999 or patti@keystaffing.com

Sana Kaufmann Memorial Scholarship

Posted by Paul Bossert

Johnny Morgan was this year’s recipient of the Sana Kaufmann Memorial Scholarship sponsored by Topeka South Rotary. Johnny is a senior from Shawnee Heights High School, he plans on attending Emporia State University this fall. His aspirations are to become a math teacher.

LAST CHANCE to register!

Posted by Paul Bossert

When

Friday April 27, 2012 at 1:00 PM CDT
-to-
Sunday April 29, 2012 at 11:30 AM CDT

Add to my calendar

Click here for event information page

Where
Prairie Band Casino & Resort

This year’s conference will be held at the Prairie Band Casino & Resort Conference Center.

http://www.pbpgaming.com/

Please make your reservations by calling 785-966-7777 or 866-966-7822.

We have reserved a block of rooms under the name of S04ROTY.

Room rates for the group are $99.00 per night for Friday and Saturday.

Volunteer Info

Contact

Linda Ireland
Eastern Kansas Rotary D5710
linda@rotary5710.org
785-232-7216

New Sole Mates Album

Posted by Paul Bossert

Sole Mates continues to big a huge success. Many smiles, and many happy feet, including some kids hopping around the store like bunnies in their new shoes. It is definitely a must see, so we have added a new album to our website for the most recent event. If you haven't visited our photo albums scroll down on the website and you will see the albums in the right column.

Annual Rose Project is Underway!

Posted by Paul Bossert

Look for the order form at this Friday's meeting! Order forms will be due Friday March 23rd, 2012 and delivered on March 30th, 2012.

It's not too late to register for District Conference

Posted by Paul Bossert

When

Friday April 27, 2012 at 1:00 PM CDT
-to-
Sunday April 29, 2012 at 11:30 AM CDT

Add to my calendar

Click here for event information page

Where
Prairie Band Casino & Resort

This year’s conference will be held at the Prairie Band Casino & Resort Conference Center.

http://www.pbpgaming.com/

Please make your reservations by calling 785-966-7777 or 866-966-7822.

We have reserved a block of rooms under the name of S04ROTY.

Room rates for the group are $99.00 per night for Friday and Saturday.

Volunteer Info

Contact

Linda Ireland
Eastern Kansas Rotary D5710
linda@rotary5710.org
785-232-7216

India removed from polio-endemic list!

Posted by Paul Bossert

India has been removed from the polio-endemic list by WHO. It's a tremendous accomplishment that shows we can End Polio Now.

"If every country follows the model set by the Indian government, we will soon achieve global eradication of the virus," said William Boyd, Rotary Foundation chair. RI partnered with the Indian government in the polio campaign, along with WHO, Gates Foundation, and UNICEF.

Read more at

www.livemint.com/2012/02/26223206/How-India-fought-the-wild-poli.html?atype=tp

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

If you are interested in sharing a little bit of information about yourself in our weekly Meet a TSR Rotarian section of the website and on the eBulletin please email your bio and picture to fbarr@t-mfinancial.com. If you would like to use your picture from the directory please specify in your email.

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

Rick Higgs - President, Higgs Financial Services, Inc.

Inspiration for the week

Posted by Paul Bossert

"When I was 5 years old, my mother always told me that happiness was the key to life. When I went to school, they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wrote down "happy". They told me I didn't understand the assignment. I told them they didn't understand life." ~ John Lennon

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

Jared Holroyd, Senior Executive Director at Atria Hearthstone

Fireside Chats

Posted by Paul Bossert

If you would be interested in hosting or co-hosting a TSR Fireside Chat with another member, please contact Kim Gronniger at kimberly.gronniger@westarenergy.com by Feb. 15. Members can host a gathering for a total of 10 people (to better facilitate discussion) in a home, business, restaurant, bar or other establishment at any time of day. In the past, some hosts have provided breakfast at their workplace, paid for drinks and appetizers at a local establishment after work or provided refreshments in their homes. We would like to distribute the list of options and sign-up sheets to members at the Feb. 17 meeting. Meetings should be scheduled between Feb. 27 and March 9.

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

Anne Wardner, LUTCF - Career Agent with Farm Bureau Financial Services

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

Allen Towle - President of Fidelity State Bank and Trust Company

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

Kimberly N. Gronniger - Manager, Consumer Services at Westar Energy

Please Make Note of Tour - February 24th

Posted by Paul Bossert

We will have a vocational tour at the Grace Episcopal Cathedral on February 24th.

Subject: Icons in Transformation Art Exhibit - Feb. 24 Topeka South Rotary Vocational Tour

Please remember that on Friday, Feb. 24, Topeka South Rotary will have our meeting at Grace Episcopal Cathedral, located at 701 SW 8th Avenue (8th and Polk) to view the Icons in Transformation Art Exhibit. This exhibit will showcase the works of Russian Artist Ludmila Pawlowska, who is also a Rotarian!

Please arrive shortly before 7:30a.m. There is plenty of parking located in the cathedral parking lot that you can enter from 8th Street. Enter at the red door on the west side of the building, which is the one closest to the parking lot. We will gather for coffee and breakfast rolls in the Great Hall, located on the lower level and hear some brief comments about the exhibit before we take the tour!

We hope to see you then!

Make-up Policy Reminder

Posted by Paul Bossert

This is just a friendly reminder that make-ups must be completed within two weeks before or after the missed meeting. If you don't make it to a meeting to report them you can send an email to jsorensen@cstonegroup.com.

Reporting make-ups

Posted by Paul Bossert

Jeff Sorenson has replaced Paige Eikert as the Club Secretary. If you need to report make-ups please report them to Jeff at jsorensen@cstonegroup.com.

It is important from a district reporting standpoint that our club reports accurate and strong attendance numbers. Even if you are in good standing attendance wise, there may be events or meetings that you attend and don't report that could bump up individual attendace success. it is important that you report your make-ups so we can continue to report increasinglyl successful numbers and report more members with perfect attendance.

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

Tom Ellis - VP of Development for Washburn University Foundation

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

Faron Barr - Financial Advisor with T& M Financial, Inc.

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

Jeff Sorensen - Financial Advisor, Cornerstone Group

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

Marlou Wegener - Manager of community Relations at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas and the Chief Operating Officer of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Foundation

Albert Dimmit

Posted by Paul Bossert

We sadly report to you that Albert Dimmit has passed away. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 29, at First Congregational Church in Topeka. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Congregational Church, Metropolitan Community College Scholarship Fund, the Brewster Foundation, or a charity of the donors choice.

May all of our thoughts and prayers be with Jean, Albert's wife, and their families!

From Our Home to Theirs

Posted by Paul Bossert

DVDs For Vets is an excellent way to clear the shelves of unwanted DVDs and to benefit those who have served our country! In addition to providing entertaining DVDs for use in the VA Hospital, money donated to the project will be used to buy portable DVD players for use at the bedside of those veterans whose worlds are greatly limited by illness and disability. What an excellent way to open up their world by providing much needed distraction. It has been shown that 15 minutes of laughter reduces the perception of pain for hours!

THE DETAILS: The project runs through Friday, December 16. Bring any commercially produced DVD to Friday's TSR meeting. No VHS tapes please. Cash donations in any amount are welcome. Make the check out to TSR with" DVDs for Vets"on the memo line. If you have a working PORTABLE DVD player to donate, it would be most welcomed! Consider putting up this content in your Facebook or Twitter to involve your circle of people in the project. For any questions, please contact James Slover at jestopeka@aol.com or text/call 845-4901.

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

Bob Koopman, Principal - Professional Engineering Consultants

Meeting Location - Friday December 2nd

Posted by Paul Bossert

Please note that Friday, December 2nd, we will be at the Bradbury Thompson Alumni Center.

Rotarians Chip in on Reading Cleanup

Posted by Paul Bossert

Thanks to all of the Rotarians from Topeka South Rotary and Rotary District 5710 for helping make an impact on the Reading community. Thanks to KSNT, The Topeka Capital Journal, and Kansas City Action NBC Action News for covering the event. Read the CJ Online article and view more pictures by clicking the link below.

Rotarians Chip in - CJ Online

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

Kyle Kessler - KVC Health Systems

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

Brad J Noller - American Family Insurance

Last Chance!

Posted by Paul Bossert

Topeka South Rotary Club

Annual Wine and Beer Tasting event

To benefit Christmas Bureau families

Nov. 11, 2011

6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Kansas Children’s Discovery Center, 4400 SW 10th Ave.
Tickets: $35 per person
Includes hors d’oeuvres plus wine & Blind Tiger beer samplings

New this year: VIP session from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. for an in-depth
explanation on the wines presented at the tasting.
Tickets: $50 per person (includes admission to event)

Purchase your tickets today! by calling...
Kim Gronniger @ 220-3123
Bob Gunther @ 507-360-9223
or
Marlou Wegener @ 291-7246

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

Paige Eichert - Scott, Qunlan, Willard, Barnes & Keeshan

TSR "Sole Mates" Project Gets Media Attention

Posted by Paul Bossert

Thank to WIBW, KSNT, and the Capital Journal for showing up to support our project. Follow the link for the cjonline article...

http://cjonline.com/news/2011-10-26/students-get-shoes-soul-mates-program#.TrFJYnK2CSo

Rotary Foundation Month Incentive!

Posted by Paul Bossert

In celebration of Rotary Foundation month, Topeka South Rotary will be awarding extra recognition points for anyone who donates between $100 and $500 to the Rotary Foundation through the month of November. If you donate between $100 and $500 to the Rotary Foundation, you will receive double the recognition points for your donation. For example, a donation of $100 would be awarded the normal 100 recognition points from Rotary International and Topeka South Rotary would also award you 100 points for this donation, which would be a total of 200 points awarded for the same $100 donation. If you donate $500 dollars, you will receive 1,000 points which is enough to receive your Paul Harris Fellow. Topeka South Rotary will only award a total of 10,000 recognition points from the points available for our club on a first come, first serve basis. Remember this is only for the month of November, so don’t miss out. Get your donations in for the month of November and take advantage of this great opportunity while helping the world and your local communities with humanitarian efforts through the Rotary Foundation.

6th Annual District 5710 Foundation Banquet

Posted by Paul Bossert

November 19th

6th Annual District 5710 Foundation Banquet

November 19, 2011

6:00 to 9:30 pm

Overland Park Sheraton

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

David Smith, the superintendent of the Brown vs. Topeka Board of Education National Historic Site

Lunch Bunch This Friday - October 28th

Posted by Paul Bossert

Lunch bunch is this coming Friday, October 28. Note that the start time has moved to 11:45, we will be finished by 12:15.

Meet a TSR Rotarian

Posted by Paul Bossert

Bryce McHenry, Director of Corporate Development at US Alliance Corporation

Twitter and Facebook

Posted by Paul Bossert

Our old facebook group was set for archival because of new facebook changes that did not allow for out types of groups so we created a brand new facebook non-profit page for Topeka South Rotary. Please follow the link and like our new page...

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Topeka-South-Rotary/244382178942250

We have also set up a twitter account account for those of you that like to use twitter. Our user name is topekaSrotary. Please go to the link and follow us on twitter...

https://twitter.com/#!/topekaSrotary

1st TSR Sole Mates Shoe Day a Success

Posted by Paul Bossert

Eight timid students arrived at Payless Wednesday in tattered shoes and flip flops and left 30 minutes later with huge smiles on their faces and brand new shoes and socks on their feet. The nine TSR Rotarians who assisted them in choosing the right sized tennis shoe were all grins too. Of course, the smile could be because their student FINALLY chose a shoe and it was available in the right size!

Our first Sole Mates outing was a success thanks to the Payless employees who measured feet and the 9 Rotarians who were paired with the students. The students and their teachers came from Quincy Elementary and Scott Magnet school and earned the privilege to get a new pair of shoes and socks by performing a chore in class or in the cafeteria. The students were excited to share the details of their accomplishments with us.

Thank you to the following Rotarians who assisted on the first Shoe Day:

Craig Beougher

Cristina Carper

Faron Barr

Karen Gehle

Jamie Stafford

Barb Ballentine

Joe Beuerlein

Bill Conn

Patti Bossert

The next Sole Mates Shoe Day is October 26^th @ 2:00 pm at the north Topeka store.

Sole Mates

Posted by Paul Bossert

Topeka South Rotary has committed to putting shoes on kids' feet that would otherwise not have comfortable fitting shoes. Thank you to our first group of volunteers...

Craig Beougher
Penny Morgan
Cristina Carper
Faron Barr
Karen Gehle
Barb Ballentine
Joe Beuerlein

We will see you at the South Topeka Payless on Wednesday, September 29th @ 2:00pm.

TSR Annual Golf Tournament

Posted by Paul Bossert

Thanks to all of those who participated in and sponsored our Annual Golf Tournament. It was a huge success once again. Final numbers and an announcement will be coming soon!

Terry Carney

Posted by Paul Bossert

Please keep Terry Carney in your thoughts in prayers. His surgery was successful and he is recovering well!

LAST COLLECTION - THIS FRIDAY

Posted by Paul Bossert

The last collection for the Topeka Rescue Mission will be this Friday September 23rd.

Thanks to all of those who have already given. The Rescue Mission website is www.TRMonline.org . Please lend a hand! Questions? Contact Rob Briman at (785) 231-8246. Click on "more" below for a list of needs...

18th Annual TSR Charity Golf Tournament

Posted by Paul Bossert

Sign up right away for our 18th Annual Topeka South Rotary Charity Golf Tournament. Please try to help us get sponsors as well.

Click here to get the 2011 registration form!

Congratulations to Patti Bossert!

Posted by Kipley Slattery

Congratulations to Patti Bossert for being appointed to the Kansas Governor's Council of Economic Advisors. This is a very key position in which Patti will help direct the strategies for our states economic development resources.

Congratulations Patti!

GSE to Finland, District 1380

Posted by Paul Bossert

Group Study Exchange applications for Team Leader and Team Members to Finland are due July 31^st. The outgoing visit to Finland will be from March 16^th to April 16^th, 2012. If you are interested in being a team leader and would like more information, please feel free to contact Andrea Norris, GSE co-chair for the outgoing team, at 785-766-7854 or asnorris@earthlink.net.