Who knew buying beautiful flowers for your family and friends could benefit the community so much? All proceeds from this Rotary fundraiser support programs like
You can view the flowers in three colors (red, white, and pink) and two sizes (single and double). Despite inflation, the same price as previous years - $15.00 for singles; and $25.00 for doubles.
You can select the delivery or pick-up option. I will work with you to make arrangements to get your plants to you. If you have difficulty with the website, contact me and I will be of assistance. Pickup will be November 27th (after 2:00) and November 28th (before 2:00). Expect most deliveries to be made these same dates. Pick up location is 6416 Hwy #7 - St Louis Park – same as last year.
Our club has supported the recent project with Bricks to Bread, sponsored by the Sunrise club. Consider supporting them at their fall fundraiser...
Come celebrate the love and generosity you share as our volunteers, supporters, friends and neighbors with the women, families, and communities we support!
Join the 2023 Oktoberfiesta event happening Friday, September 29 (6-9pm) and Sunday, October 1 (3-6pm)!
This Bricks to Bread will have two very special guests: Josefina Rojas, Bricks to Bread In-Country Coordinator, and Jenny Sanchez, owner of Jenny’sPanaderia (bakery) and 2020 oven recipient! Hear first-hand how your contributions changed the lives of these two women and their families, and how their entrepreneurial experiences have impacted so many others! No one can tell their stories better than they can!Join for pretzels (hot from the oven with signature cheese dip, grilled brats-on-a-stick, your favorite local brews & spirits, sweet treats, and more!
The Shreya R. Dixit Memorial Foundation inspires and mobilizes grassroots communities to adopt distraction-free driving practices as a way of life. They helped create the Minnesota Hands-Free Law.
Saturday, August 5 is the 16th annual 5K to end distracted driving.
In-person or virtual participation available at shreyadixit.org.
Celebrate Slavic heritage with two days of food, music, dance, traditional art demonstrations and family fun.
The Slavic Experience creates a welcoming space for people of Slavic heritage to commemorate, celebrate and share the richness and diversity of Eastern European traditions and customs within the greater Twin Cities community.
Enjoy kielbasa, cabbage rolls, stuffed dumplings, pastries, traditional beverages, and other culinary delights.
All are welcome at this free, family-friendly event.
Juue 28 marked the end of the Rotary year. Our final meeting featured the passing of the presidential plaque from Margaret Ganyo to Jim Brimeyer.
We also presented the Gil Braun Community Service award to Bill Gleason.
Bill is the third generation President and CEO of Gleason Printing, a family-owned business started in Minneapolis in 1940 that relocated to St. Louis Park in 1963-64. Gleason Printing is a full-service print shop for commercial mailing, digital, and offset printing, and works with a variety of nonprofits such as higher education, community nonprofits, and government agencies.
Bill has a lengthy list of community involvement that supports his recognition by the Rotary Club of St. Louis Park as the Gil Braun Community Service Award recipient.
An anonymous donor has pledged to match donations made to the St Louis Park Rotary Foundation before June 30--up to $10,000.
So your donation of $50, $500, or $1,000 gets doubled!
We've heard recently the power of our club's foundation in supporting community efforts. The Foundation supports three scholarships for SLP HS graduates. The Foundation's donation was leveraged for $22,000 to provide no-cost preschool for families in need this spring and summer. The Foundation made the sculpture in front of the Nature Center possible.
The Foundation also supports local programs of Children First, STEP, Scouts, Little League, YMCA, and Can Do Canines. We've collectively supported water sanitation projects in Central America and the Ukrainian Youth Exchange.
The Foundation distributes about $50,000 to these vital programs each year. This is only possible if club members continue to support the Foundation. You are invited to do your part by writing a check to the "St. Louis Park Rotary Foundation" and mailing it to SLP Rotary, PO Box 26728, St Louis Park, MN 55426 by June 30. Or you can bring it to the meeting on June 26. Donations are tax-deductible.
The SLP Rotary Foundation's $3000 commitment secured $22,000 from District 5950 and the SLP Sunrise Rotary to fund no-cost quality early childhood education for local families. The above video is a short presentation about the effort.
The Early Learning Program Supervisor, Erika Scott, wrote the following to our club:
I want to extend a heartfelt thanks for your tremendous support through the Preschool 4 Success program. Your generous donation immediately impacted 61 Early Learning families this spring and summer! We were able to cancel out remaining April and May tuition payments for 33 children who qualify for reduced tuition in addition to forgiving overdue late balances for 14 of these families! We were also able to fund a licensed teacher and para to run a second Summer Learning Preschool Academy program for 14 students entering Kindergarten this fall. This six week program allows children who have little to no preschool experience acclimate to classroom life and develop the social-emotional skills necessary to navigate the Kindergarten day.
What an amazing way for you to engage in outstanding civic service that supports the city of St. Louis Park's youngest and most vulnerable learners. The returns on this investment will echo positively in this community for years to come. We are so grateful to you! Yesterday was the first day of our Summer Learning Preschool Academy. Enjoy some pictures of our happy learners loving school!
STEP is hosting a food drive as part of the statewide Minnesota FoodShare campaign. STEP is seeking food and financial donations to fill its newly expanded food shelf.
The top needed items are cereal, tuna, peanut butter, jelly, cooking oil, oatmeal, toothpaste and toothbrushes.
Recently, our club heard about a group's experience in sponsoring a family of refugees from Ukraine. The sponsorship was handled via Alight. For anyone interested, here are some details about the process.
Alight Sponsorship Details: Being a sponsor group means paving the pathway for a family by filing a 1-134 form with the US Government. It includes preparing for a family's arrival by fundraising and organizing day-one details before they travel to Minnesota. And when the family arrives, it's about being there at the airport to welcome your family and helping them get settled in a new home. It means guiding them through government services and appointments, getting kids enrolled in school, and adults enrolled in language courses. And it means helping adults find a job, find daycare for little ones, and navigate public transportation so they can get to where they need to go.
On behalf of the Global Travelers E- Club of District 5950 we have a very special invitation for you and any of your club members. Our Global Travelers E-Club is meeting (virtually of course) next Tuesday, March 14 at 6 pm Central time. Stephanie Urchick the Rotary International President Nominee, will be speaking to our E- Club. We will have a chance to hear her and our very own Tom Gump, Former DG of 5950 to talk about how Community Corps can Energize Rotary. Getting a chance to listen to the Rotary International Leaders is a real treat. Please plan to attend if you can. There will be some time for questions for Stephanie.
At this meeting we will also discuss several international service trips for 2023, 24 and 25 to Kenya, Egypt, Cuba and Colombia and Ethiopia. To find out more, please join us on Tuesday evening at 6pm or better yet, stop by and meet some of the nicest people in the world between 5:30 and 6pm when we gather for a virtual social time with the Global Travelers Rotary E-Club members.
Our Global Travelers team would be happy to come to one of your meetings and discuss our service projects and how we are helping serve the world. Many of you are collaborating clubs with our most recent Global Grants that is bringing clean water to an entire community in Colombia. We are always looking for collaborating clubs for our projects and ways of supporting your international projects. If you are interested please let me know.
Feel free to share this link with friends and fellow Rotarians.
Bob Gustafson is our desgnated member ambassador. When you experience an impactful life circumstance. Bob can help communicate whatever level of information you're comfortable with to the rest of the club. Bob can be reached at bobgustafson@hotmail.com.
At a recent meeting, we heard about Shout Out Loud, a local effort committed to suicide prevention. To learn more about the latest practices for suicide prevention or to get involved, visit their website at https://shoutoutloudmn.com/.
On Thursday, April 28, our club celebrated its 75th anniversary. Participants included current and past members, District Governor Marianna Khauv, Mayor Jake Spano, and friends.
The St. Louis Park Sunrise Rotary will be making sandwiches for the Dignity Center during their meeting 8:15am, Friday, March 4th. Any Rotarian is invited to participate.
In order to purchase the correct amount of sandwich making supplies, they need to know how many people will be in attendance. In order to let us know, please click the doodle link below. Enter your name and then select “yes” or “cannot attend”.
Note that coffee and food will not be available during this meeting, so eat ahead and BYO coffee.
Sunrise Spring Plant Sale
From Susan Schneck: The most important thing to know is that plants are delivered to my home and must be picked up that day - which is Thursday, May 19 this year. We get the plants first thing in the morning and organize the orders by Rotarian to facilitate that process. We will schedule pickups between noon and 6 pm. After you send in the order forms with payment, we will return the order forms with the plants the day of delivery so each order is accounted for. Let me know if you have any questions.
The plants will come from Gregor Farms, a small family and local business that only uses natural products. All orders with payment need to be to me by March 25th. I prefer checks but venmo is an option - especially if you want to email your order forms. BUT make sure to friend me or let me know before you send me venmo funds. Hard to imagine, But there is more than one Susan Schneck so it's important to connect before to get it right. Make sure that the table on the last page of the order form is filled out and the numbers add up. Gift Cards are available and a nice option to buy from the nursery if you want something for Mother's Day. Keep in mind, we only get 16% of gift card proceeds and about 40-50% on plants. Plants will be delivered to my garage on THURSDAY May 19th. Plants MUST be picked up THAT DAY between noon and 6 pm.
The 2022 Rotary Zones 25B and 29 Institutewill be held in Minneapolis, Minnesota, September 15-18. This is the place to meet fellow Rotarians from around our Zone, network, learn from experienced Rotary members, and share your talents with others. This only comes to Minnesota once every 15-20 years. This is your chance. You never know who you will meet, or how you will be inspired. Our paired Zones extend from Canada down through the middle of the US to Texas.
Conduct an event that would raise awareness of Rotary in the community;
Recognize Rotary for the sculpture at the WHNC;
Rotary makes a contribution to the city for summer programs.
Note, the SLP foundation hasbudgeted $1,000.00 to sponsor this event.
Event will be done in cooperation with both SLP Rotary clubs and the city.
Event will be held on Sunday, September 26, 2021 – 1:00 – 4:00 PM
SCHEDULE
Westwood Hills Nature Center 40th
Friday – Sunday – Arts Show with Friends of the Arts
1:00 Gates Open Parking at Middle School Shuttle buses available 1:15 – Dedication of new picnic shelter 1:30 - 2:30 Tours of Nature Center and Shelter 1:45 – Live animal show 2:00 – 3:45 – Photography at sculptures 2:15 - Puppet show 2:45 - Live animal show 3:00 – Tours of Nature Center and Shelter 3:15 – Puppet show 3:15 – Dedication of Rotary Sculpture 3:30 – Rotary announces silent auction Items for the auction can be found at (web site) Auction closes September 30th at 6:00 PM 3:45 – Wrap Up
Last week, our club appeared twice in the news. The Star-Tribune ran a short about the Westwood nature center sculpture and includes Rotary's role in it. The St Louis Park-Hopkins Sun Sailor ran an article about Rotary's service activities in December. (As an bonus, Derek's cat, Bastet, made a partial appearance...)
o Mask wearing is required at all times o Social distancing must be maintained o Anyone choosing to enter the building is required to sign in and provide a cell phone number.
Contact information for pickup Guy – 612-839-7288 (Monday and Tuesday) Tammy - 612-834-3381 (Monday only) Greg - 612-240-6370 (Monday only) Bob - 612-716-8689
Pickup Scheduling We have set up the timeframes so that no more two Rotarians and/or two customers are picking up within the same 15 minute timeframe. Use this link to reserve a time for pickup https://www.signupgenius.com/go/4090d4dabaf2fa2ff2-poinsettia
Pickup times are:
12:30 PM until 5:00 on Monday, the 30 th . 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM on Tuesday, the 1 st .
Advise any of your customers to use the link for pickup and provide them with the contact phone numbers. Please text Guy (612-839-7288) when you are on your way. Your poinsettias will be placed at the overhead door so that we can prevent people from entering the building.
Africa has been declared polio free! Rotary members have played an invaluable role in the effort to rid the region of this virus, and this progress is the result of a decades-long effort. Our work continues and we won't stop until we can declare the world polio free! To learn more about our efforts and how you can help, visit
The meeting was called into order by Tammy at 12:02.
In virtual attendance were Jim R, Derek, Bill, Jim B, Elmer, David, Tammy, Bruce, Bob, Guy, Cully, Mike, Brian, Amanda, and Greg. Guest was Christine Leick.
Bob flew the flag for the virtual Pledge of Allegiance.
Tammy shared her reflection on her year as president.
Happy Bucks were shared by Tammy, Jim B, Guy, Bob, Elmer, Derek, Greg, Cully and Jim R.
Jim B gave an update on the process for selecting the Rotary-sponsored public art in front of the new Westwood Nature Center. There was to be a meeting to finalize the choice. Since, then, Jim had the following update on Thursday:
"Met with three artists this morning to discuss ideas for the nature center sculpture project. Narrowed it to one, with a backup. We liked our first choice providing he is willing to make a few changes to his proposal. If he does that, we are looking at an October dedication date. If not, we go to the other artist and also looking at an October date. Should know more sometime next week."
Guy was installed as president for 2020-21 Rotary year. He shared his plans and philosophy. Rotary should be fun!
Guy attended the Annual Meeting for District 5950 this past Saturday, as the delegate for our club. It was a short online meeting but there was one important vote which was for ‘District 5950 Representative to the RI Board Nominating Committee for our Bi-Zone area’. For this position there were 3 candidates [unlike the other positions where there was only one nominee]. The three candidates were Holly Callen, Irene Kelly and Tim Murphy. Guy shares that Tim won the position.
Another topic that came up was a report that within our district 85% of the clubs are continuing to meet with virtual meetings. Three new clubs have been added this year – the Veteran’s Club, Passport Club, and a Human Trafficking Club that is in process. The Echo Club was formed last year, so membership is up in the district!
Finally, it was encouraged that each club do strategic planning in the coming year. Guy has created a modified version he will be presenting to our club members and hopefully everyone will participate in answering a few questions and providing some feedback / input. This will be sent out in June.
Guy will be sending out his list of Board members for 2020-21 for a club vote / approval in the near future. Tammy will count votes and share results – onward and upward!
CELEBRATIONS:
No Anniversaries this week – however – a big 77th BIRTHDAY for Paul Bierhaus, May 19th at 11:59 PM. If you see the fireworks you will know what is going on J
HAPPY BUCKS:
Jim B is keeping is eye on the art installation for Westwood Nature Center and reports things are moving along. He has reviewed 22 art submissions, 8-10 of them were impressive enough to consider. He is unsure of how the final decision will be made – he will keep us updated. … Side note: The SW Corridor (light rail) is on schedule – or ‘on track’ as we could say J
Guy finally finished his ‘sea shell’ table [it’s been in his mind since at least 2014]. It looks great and will bring back memories of vacation time.
Rod finds out he is getting a grandson to carry on the Shilkrot name! Love those girls, but this is special, too!
Bob will be happy if the Twins truly get to play this year – Paul isn’t too invested – the unemployment is a nice replacement right now . . . . .
Amanda is happy that the Bridgewater has gotten some much needed loans and is ready now to re-employ!
VOCATIONAL TALK:
Rod gave his vocational talk.
Rotary Speaker: Carlos Morales – Amity Teacher from Columbia
What is the Amity Program?
“Over 57 years of building international friendship and cultural understanding through teaching exchange”
Carlos is a 24 year old Spanish/English/French language teacher from Columbia. He lives in the capital, Bogota. He has been in MN since August 2019
He is interning with the Spanish teachers at the SLP Middle school, assisting them in whatever way will help the students to learn Spanish. He also acts as an interpreter for students and parents.
The application process to come to the USA takes a long time – filling out applications, multiple interviews, and language exams – and then it may take another year before they are placed / chosen.
It was difficult to learn the US system - ‘a process’
In March when the distance learning began, they were not really prepared for that. Students got laptops or ipads if they did not have one and classes are carried out with Zoom or on a Google platform. Teachers prepare the lessons, he assists via emails and videos and communicating via texting – he is reading books for students, translating and assisting with homework. It is a challenge.
In Bogota there are 8 M people, they also were not prepared. It has been very difficult for them to continue teaching. The government provides some financial support and food. There are not enough computers – texts are brought to students at home. Just very difficult to keep the schools going.
He was supposed to go home mid-June but his flight has been canceled, the airport in Bogota is closed. He will continue to help out in SLP schools as long as they need him.
He gets room and board and a stipend for his year of work here in the States.
Paul D and family have hosted Carlos since January
Carlos states there are 150 Amity teachers in the US
The (virtual) Annual District 5950 Meeting will take place Saturday May 16, 2020. Guy Marzano has agreed to be the delegate for our club.
It seems we had some very cute visitors join our meeting today – a group of alpacas, munching on their snack of carrots. They were quite cute – apparently at the wrong meeting though . . . . .
Guy shared birthdays:
Walter Hansen – May 5th
Patricia – May 8th
Rotary Anniversaries – Both Patricia and Guy had an anniversary on May 6th
Happy Bucks:
Paul B is happy that he is now on the unemployment rolls. Got his first check ever this week. I think he said he was saving it to have a big Rotary party when this ‘stay at home’ is over. I think I heard that . . . .
Several members were happy that the online Rotary donation site works well – and is easy!
SPEAKER: Anna Odegaard, Legislative Advocate – MN Asset Building Coalition May 11, 2020
- Originally this group was not involved in criminal justice reform
- Focus is on asset building and includes 140+ community non-profit members. These represent direct service organizations/agencies
- This group looks at the work they are doing and the priories and policies for potential public investment
- They provide training for presentation to the legislature for issues that they become involved in – currently the focus is on criminal justice and the fees/fines/penalties that strip assets from low income families and racial justice reform
- In 2016 Anna’s goal was to identify people to get to the table that would be beneficial to put together a ‘Bill’ that would change how the fees and fines accumulate for those low income folks that get a traffic violation for example
- These fines start out at $50, add to that a State surcharge for $75 and a Law Library fee of $12 and a Diversion fee of $1 and it totals $138. Many people are not able to pay that much out and have to wait until some extra money becomes available to them.
- The first late fee is $5, the second late fee is $25 and then it would go to Collections which adds another $32 and now the total owing is $200. The point of escalation is when the first late fees start to accumulate. A Driver’s License suspension also happens when the late fees are tacked on.
- Once the license is lost then the job is lost. If you are caught driving after suspension it is a $300 fine - If you have no insurance it adds a $200 fine + a 30 day suspension.
- Many people cannot borrow the money to pay these especially if they are now not working – some find themselves more than $1000 in debt over a traffic violation.
- In 2018 a ‘Bill’ was introduced to the legislature in regard to this situation most importantly in regard to the Driver’s License suspension- it is done if there is a failure to pay and a failure to show up in court for accountability
- It is uncertain if there will be any action taken this year in the Legislature however, they will keep moving forward on trying to change the procedure to hopefully get better compliance to law while not disabling the recipient of the violation to go further into financial despair.
Present: Tammy, Paul B., Paul D., Brian G., Jim B., Astein, Jim R., Guy, Rod, Cully, Becky, Elmer, Bill D., Dave Howard, Derek. Guests: Lloyd Campbell from RI Passport club of MN.
Guy introduced Lloyd who described the Passport Club Rotary model which is largely virtual and gave details. Passport club members have a full RI membership and support the principles of Service, Network, Leadership and Fellowship.
Dues are less than $.50/day, designed to be less of a barrier to membership
Goal now is to increase membership
Examined why members leave clubs - mostly due to cost, the club environment and unmet expectations
Found that 71% of membership inquiries had no followup. Potential members did not get contacted
Membership includes about 12 in twin cities and others in Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, elsewhere totally about 21
We can ask to sit in a club virtual meeting contact through website: Rotary.AD-MKTG.com or contact Lloyd at Lloydwcampbell@gmail.com or see Guy to get more contact information for him
There has to be one meeting/month with the club and members can join in on any other of the 35,000 clubs worldwide
Maple Grove example has different types of membership and have shown growth – business, young professional etc.
Flexibility is key to engaging and keeping members
There are members who this works well for as they travel a great deal
The club has some projects – e.g. autism, overseas health project in Central America
Beck Bakken gave an update for Discover SLP
Since revenue is based on lodging taxes, they have gone from a team of five to three
Hotels are at 5% occupancy currently
Her budget is now ‘fluid’ as there are many unknowns as far as how soon the sector will come back
Astein updated on the Schools
The Junior High is getting its school levy project started with the performing arts center construction
Other projects are getting going early due to no classes occurring in buildings – one silver lining of this pandemic
SLP will also be letting students keep their devices (iPads, tablets, Chromebooks etc.) over summer in preparation that fall may have some distance learning possibilities
Children First is moving along as can be expected during this time (Paul D. has invited Margaret to join)
Happy Bucks
Jim B. played five rounds of golf this week
Guy announced birthdays, Dave A., Bruce and Elmer. The Club mercifully decided against disturbing Elmer with a Zoom version of Happy Birthday
Several RI anniversaries were announced as well
Dave G. was happy about his new app Step Tracker, and laid down 160,000 steps recently and feels it is great for body, mind and spirit
Derek was happy about gardening
Rod was happy to be back at Rotary after a family health related absence
And Tammy ‘Discovered St Louis Park’ through Westwood Hills nature center walks with a friend
Dave Arneson shared this new resource for ways to buddy-up and have neighbors help neighbors during the pandemic crisis. Below is the announcement of the group from Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson.
Friends - This week a group of volunteers and I launched NorthStar Neighbor, a new nonprofit organization matching volunteers with seniors or those at high risk of COVID-19 who need remote companionship, conversation or help with delivery of groceries or prescriptions.
The program matches healthy, low-risk Minnesotans who are 60 and under with someone in their community who is over 60 or is otherwise high-risk.
This is not a government program, just a group of volunteers who want to help connect people.
There are many amazing nonprofit organizations and churches that are providing services similar to this to people in their networks. We’re hoping to find those seniors or at-risk people who don’t have an existing network and just need a friend or helper right now.
If you’d like to volunteer or you or someone you know needs a match, let us know at www.NorthStarNeighbor.com. I’d also encourage you to like and share our Facebook page at FB.com/northstarneighbor.
It’s really important to remember this program is a two-way street. Those who are volunteering are providing a gift to someone in need, but those who are receiving help are also providing a gift to someone who desperately wants to help a fellow Minnesotan in this time of social isolation.
March 30, 2020 was a historic day for our club. We held our first virtual meeting via Zoom.
There was no program or speakers. Guy opened the meeting and shared an inspirational story about a shipwreck and reminded members of the Four Way Test.
The club membership was asked to support a timely $5000 grant to STEP for the purchase of a cargo van. The van is to be used to pick up food donations and make grocery deliveries to residents in need who are unable to leave their homes. It is anticipated that the pandemic will require a significant amount of grocery deliveries over the coming months. The cargo van was purchased thanks to the SLP Rotary Foundation's grant, alongside the SLP Youth and Community Development Fund, Luther Auto Foundation, and the SLP Sunrise Rotary Foundation.
Members then took turns to share updates in their lives, as well as Happy Bucks. Ten members were able to participate.
The meeting was opened by Bob Gustafson at 12:08 p.m.(time)
Song and Prayer were led by Tom H and Cully
Announcements
• Bob asked everyone to look at the Rotary International Magazine articles on Rotaract and Rotary International President Knaack’s vision for the future of Rotary.
• Becky reminded everyone about the Children First Breakfast on Thursday, March 5th at 7:00 am in The Doubletree Ballroom.
• Bob reminded everyone of the alternate meeting opportunity on Thursday, March 5th from 5-6:00 pm at the Dover Bar.
• Jim Brimeyer is planning a Noon Rotary Spring golf outingat Giants Ridge and Superior National. Please contact Jim ASAP if interested.
• Elmer (from the Bahamas) reminded everyone that the first Book Social Club meeting will be on March 26th at 5:30 pm at a place TBD
Sergeant of Arms report (guests, etc)
• Becky Bakken and Bill Davies introduced our Guest Joe Graca, formerly of the Edina Rotary.
Happy Bucks
• Bill Davies reported that his wife Kay is doing better after her surgery and is and about. He thanked everyone who assisted with providing meals.
• Bob Gustafson is thankful for the spring weather and the upcoming Twins home opener.
• Becky Bakken is happy about her upcoming vacation in Florida where she will take in a Twins Spring Training game.
• Cully Huestis celebrated his son’s hockey teams victory, normally $1 for each goal difference but the recent victory was going to cost him too much.
Name of speaker: Jennifer Randolph Reise, JD, Visiting Professor Mitchell Hamline School of Law
Derek Introduced his wife Jen Randolph Reise.
• Jen presented information on Distance Learning Comes to Legal Education
• Mitchel Hamline has been at the forefront of developing a blended learning model of education for law degrees.
• Starting in 2015, Mitchel Hamline was the first law school to offer distance learning.
• Students conduct much of there study through book work and on-line discussion and convene for face to face study one week a semester.
• The program has shown excellent results for older students and those who have fulltime jobs already and may be looking for a career change.
• The program’s first graduates are experience above average results on passing the BAR exam.
• The program has been accredited by the American Bar Association
Four Way Test
Meeting gaveled out by Bob Gustafson at 1:05 (time)
Club members greeted each other and guests with hand shakes.
Elmer led the Club in singing “America the Beautiful.” Greg Hildebrand led the Club in prayer.
Announcements:
Tammy is donating a bulletin board that will be used for public affairs articles, etc. It will be set up at the sign in table each week.
Tammy reminded everyone of the Children’s First Breakfast on Thursday, March 5th, at 7:00 AM [Much earlier than Tammy would like to get going].
Happy Bucks:
Happy Birthday to Cully, who celebrated his birthday on the 14th of February; and to Arnold Bloomquist, who celebrated his birthday on the 16th of February.
Monica celebrated her 22nd Rotary Anniversary on the 11th of February; Tammy celebrated her 17th Rotary Anniversary on the 12th of February.
Elmer continues to be grateful to volunteer at the Heart Center at Methodist Hospital. He talks with people who are preparing to have open heart surgery with encouraging words of the good reputation the Heart Center has and its positive outcomes. Elmer loves Methodist Hospital!!!
Greg Hildebrand announced that he is resigning from Rotary. He has so many work, family, and church obligations that he felt he could not give Rotary the attention that he’d like to devote to it. He has felt very welcome as a newer Club member; and he will miss everyone.
Paul Bierhaus was happy that he attended the Empty Bowls event at Westwood Church last week. He taste tested four different soups; he said that they were all excellent. Despite the cold day, he thought that there was a sizable crowd there.
Bruce has been flying back and forth from warmer climates; he promised to attend meetings whenever he’s in town. He is now looking forward to going to Arizona and its warmer weather.
Derek was happy that Empty Bowls was successful event though the turnout was about 50% of last year’s event. He thought that the very cold weather was responsible for the lower turnout. He displayed an article in the recent Sun Sailor that included pictures of the event on both the front and back cover.
Bob congratulated Derek and the other Club members involved in the Empty Bowls event. He attended and pleasurably sampled several soups. He reported that about ten other Club members were involved with the event—which was a “good show” in his opinion. Bob said that he was leaving the meeting early to start “Spring Training” for his job with the Twins.
Guy enjoyed a short sunny and warm visit to Sedona and Phoenix. He was happy that he didn’t miss any Club meeting since Tammy cancelled the meeting on Presidents’ Day while he was gone.
Speaker: Our speaker was Dr. Martha Nance, MD, from the Park Nicolette Struthers Parkinson’s Center.
Dr. Nance stated that Parkinson’s is the second most common degenerative disease [after Alzheimer’s]. It affects about one million people; it is more common in men than women [at approximately a 60:40 ratio]. About half of the sufferers live long enough to also get Alzheimer’s.
Some risk factors have been identified: Exposure to welding fumes; exposure to Agent Orange; repeated head injuries; injection of MPTP [a heroin contaminant]; and being of the male gender. Aging is the greatest risk factor. Drinking coffee and smoking have a correlation with lower risk; exactly why is not known.
It is postulated that causes are both environmental and genetic.
Theories include that the disease starts in the small intestine with the accumulation of synuclein bodies. There appear to be a lot of large Lewy bodies present in those bodies with the disease.
Early signs of the disease include frequent constipation.
Vagotomy [cutting of part of the vagus nerve—usually to treat stomach ulcers] appears to lower risk.
Genetic influence: 15% of sufferers have a first degree relative that also suffers. There is a lot of discussion on whether or not to test people that are related to sufferers; Dr. Nance’s opinion was that it may do more harm than good.
Related diseases:
Parkinson’s involves movement issues. Lewy body disease sufferers have both movement and dementia symptoms.
Those experiencing Multiple System Atrophy experience hallucinations [usually involving people and outsized animals], movement impairment, and autonomic system symptoms.
All these diseases show Lewy bodies present.
Prevention/Slowing Progression of the illness includes:
Exercise, exercise, exercise [Aerobic, range of motion, balance],
Medications,
A positive attitude,
Seeing a specialist, and
Forming a supportive team.
People often live up to thirty years with the illness.
There are all types of treatments being considered and studied.
The meeting was opened by Tammy Sullivan at 12:00 p.m.
Song and Prayer were led by Elmer and Tammy.
Announcements
From President Tammy Sullivan there will be no meeting on Monday, February 17th, 2020.
Paul Bierhaus reminded everyone about the ClubRunner App for your phone. The App can be found on the App Store and Google Apps. Paul is a technology wizard and would be happy to assist anyone with installing the APP and how to use it.
Tammy let everyone know there was a nice article in the Sun Sailor Newspaper about the Winter Fun Day.
Derek reminded everyone that the STEP Empty Bowls event is Thursday, February 13th, serving from 11:30 to 1:30 and 4:30 to 7:00.
Sergeant of Arms report (guests, etc)
No guests
Happy Bucks
Guy recognized Monique and Tom for their birthdays during the week. He had a nice lunch meeting with Amanda and hinted about a Club music event on September 26th, more details to come.
Bob was happy that there was no booing during his presentation.
Elmer was happy and thankful for his life and health. He was reminded of this after recent volunteer work he did at a hospital and after attending the Can Do Canines benefit where he heard the compelling story of a person who had recently received an assistance dog.
Dave was happy for time spent at a family gathering for his Uncle’s 95th birthday party.
Bob Gustafson
Born and raised in Thief River Falls
Graduated from Little Falls High School
Graduated with a BA from St. Cloud State University
Joined Rotary in April of 1980
President of The Chamber of Commerce in Crookston, MN
President of The Chamber of Commerce in Grand Forks ND
Met his wife Sara at the YMCA as she was assisting with the set up for a meeting
President of the Twin West Chamber of Commerce
State Director of the March of Dimes
Major Gifts Officer for the Twin Cities Area American Red Cross
Director of Development for AccessAbility
Bob is retired but works part-time with the Minnesota Twins
Wife, Sara, is the City Manager in Jamestown ND
Bob and Sara have a daughter Lilly who is 25
Name of speaker: J Drake Hamilton (JJ)
Organization/position/title: Science and Technology Director at Fresh Energy
SPEAKER/PRESENTATION HIGHLIGHTS
Paul Danicic introduced J Drake Hamilton with Fresh Energy.
JJ is the Science and Policy Director for Fresh Energy.
The mission of Fresh Energy is to shape and drive realistic, visionary energy policies that benefit all.
Fresh Energy is non-partisan non-profit that was founded in 1900.
Fresh Energy is committed to working effectively with Minnesota leaders, public and private partners, and individual residents who care about the future of our energy system and economy.
Minnesota has been a leader on working to achieve carbon neutral alternative energy which is making an impact on climate change.
JJ highlighted recent commitments made by ECO Lab, Cargill, 3M, and Target to reduce their carbon emissions and the use of renewable energy.
Tammy - Introduction, sing, prayer, announcement and “happy bucks.”
Announcements:
Children 2020 Champaign Breakfast still has availability at several tables. Talk to Tammy if interested.
Tom Forfesen (spelling) is answering email questions discussing the future of Rotary
Elmer brought up the idea of a book club to share thoughts and insight about books people are currently reading. The idea of holding that in conjunction with the Thursday night “make up” session was discussed. More info to follow.
Tom announced that Children First had selected Margaret Ganyo as their new executive director. This will be announced Feb 10th at the Children First Champions Breakfast. She was with United Way in southeastern Idaho and is a past Rotarian.
Happy bucks- Paul, Paul, Cully, Mike, David, Bob, Tammy and Guy
Paul Reminded people that we have free lunches available to potential members. Invite those you think could be beneficial to the club.
Jim Brimeyer was mentioned at least 7 times and then it was decided we would “roast” him until his return after the 29th. Elmer will be leaving on the 29th to go to the same place Jim is vacationing currently.
Speaker was Chris Knopf from Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness.
Discussed the environmental impact of copper sulfide mining.
Gave facts and figures about the boundary waters area.
Went over the parties involved, lawsuits and timing of litigation.
Covered the potential financial impact to the state and residence.
Answered questions and stayed after for discussion.
Derek RB started us off with a lovely poem by Odgen Nash, A Clean Conscience Never Relaxes.
Winter Fun Day report - Guy
Officially a success
About $2000 was raised by the event
Dave sponsored a horse and buggy which was popular
Tammy and Becky were general sponsors and Tammy donated a Kindle Fire
Mike helped arrange the Police and Fire trucks
Guy generously thanked everyone who helped out
Happy Bucks
Guy was happy for David Howard’s 23rd Rotary anniversary and for several birthdays
Paul B. thanked Amanda for her Winter Fun Day work
Derek made a donation on occasion of his birthday. He is 28*.
Cully’s child won his hockey game in spectacular fashion
Elmer told the story about how happy he was that he got his new iPhone rebooted
Jim B is quite happy he is going to Nassau
Guy told the story of getting a new water heater. Discussion: it was all around agreed that one real value of Rotary was that it helped people network with people/businesses that they could trust – i.e. Paul Hovde and Son
*Estimated.
Assembly regular meeting
Tammy read a letter describing a matching gift from the Gates Foundation to Rotary for the Rotary’s Polio elimination work
Derek updated us on the upcoming Empty Bowls event happening Thursday, February 13th at Westwood Lutheran Church. Come and help put food on the table of the people in our community who need it most. Everyone gets a free handmade bowl.
Becky gave a Children First update saying their top candidate for Executive Director has excepted the position and all are excited
College possible did not happen at the High School this year due to non Rotary related reasons. We are unsure whether it may return at this point.
Scholarship Discussion:
Named scholarships will happen this year
College Possible kids will not be listed this May
The Children First Breakfast is March 5th at the Doubletree Hotel. Danicic has a table as do several others in Rotary
The app includes member directory, up to date Rotary articles, and club information. Click below or search for "ClubRunner" in your app store for the free app!
Change is hard. And the longer we’ve been going one way, the more friends we have with us, the harder it is to be the one who turns around and does it differently. But change – not change for its own sake, but careful, considered, goal-directed change – is essential for any organization that wants to evolve, stay relevant, and move forward in the right direction. It’s about having the curiosity, the courage, and the conviction to look at different paths that might be better.
On October 28, nearly 70 volunteers turned out on a very cold morning to plant 150 trees along Minnetonka Boulevard in St. Louis Park. Members from both SLP Rotary clubs participated to plant trees in the cold mud. There were over two dozen types of trees planting along Minnetonka. The trees will be enjoyed by the community for decades to come.
Until the 1970s, Minnetonka Boulevard reportedly was lined by big, beautiful elm trees. This planting was overdue. Click to Read More to see some photo highlights.
St. Louis Park is doing our part to meet the Rotary International goal to plant 1.2 million trees by June 30, 2018!
On behalf of the Global Travelers E- Club of District 5950 we have a very special invitation for you and any of your club members. Our Global Travelers E-Club is meeting (virtually of course) next Tuesday, March 14 at 6 pm Central time. Stephanie Urchick the Rotary International President Nominee, will be speaking to our E- Club. We will have a chance to hear her and our very own Tom Gump, Former DG of 5950 to talk about how Community Corps can Energize Rotary. Getting a chance to listen to the Rotary International Leaders is a real treat. Please plan to attend if you can. There will be some time for questions for Stephanie. 
Last week, our club appeared twice in the news. The Star-Tribune ran a short about the Westwood nature center sculpture and includes Rotary's role in it. The St Louis Park-Hopkins Sun Sailor ran an article about Rotary's service activities in December. (As an bonus, Derek's cat, Bastet, made a partial appearance...)
Next meeting is a Zoom Meeting!
