Stories

Welcome, President Derek Schilling!

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary has installed its tenth president, Derek Schilling, for the Rotary year beginning July 1, 2024. Derek grew up in New Ulm and earned a degree in geology, with a paleobiology minor, from St. Cloud State University. He has worked as an environmental consultant for the past 23 years, currently as an Associate Director and Principal Scientist at Braun Intertec Corporation with a specialty in developing market pursuits, specifically around affordable housing.

Derek and his wife Laura (also a Kick-Start Rotarian) have been married 25 years and live in Inver Grove Heights with their two dogs, Rowdy and Bruno. They love to travel, especially taking cruises.

Derek intends to build upon the accomplishments of outgoing president Marie Olson and other past presidents in growing club membership while re-energizing engagement and celebrating the contributions of existing members, and continuing to promote the club’s successes and partnerships in local media.

Have a great year, Derek!

2024 Eagan 5K & Kids Run!

Join us for our annual Eagan 5K and Kids Run to benefit community partners like The Open Door, Eagan Community Foundation, Caponi Art Park, and many others!
Open to all ages! Come to run, walk, or cheer!

Registered participants will receive a full swag bag including a t-shirt. 5K will also include chip timing by Anderson Race Management and awards will be given to the top race finisher in both the men’s and women’s categories.

For more information and to register, click: Learn More & Register

Sponsorship Opportunities also available!

You can help by being a sponsor! Sponsors will receive many benefits depending on the level of donation. Check out the options to find a level that is right for you. Don’t see a sponsorship level that meets your needs? Let us know and we will create one!

For more information, email denise.p.sjoberg@gmail.com.

Welcome President Marie!

We are excited to announce Marie Olson as the 2023-24 President of the Eagan Kick-Start Rotary Club!

New Year, New Goals: How the Rotary Club is Making a Difference in Local and Global Communities

As the new year approaches, many people start thinking about their goals and ways that they can make a positive impact in their communities. The Rotary club is no different. As a global network of community volunteers, the Rotary club is always looking for ways to make a difference in their local communities and around the world.

Build Beds This Summer!

Our friends at Sleep in Heavenly Peace - Twin Cities South have scheduled a summerload of bed-building opportunities for the handy among us.
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE!

Blood Drive: July 2, 2022!

Kick-Start is hosting a blood drive during Eagan FunFest weekend!
July 2, 10am-4pm at Cub Foods - Eagan East, 1020 Diffley Rd.

Make an appointment here!

Rotary International Convention 2023

Convention hosted in MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA!

May 27, 2023 - May 31, 2023

LEARN MORE

3rd Annual Kick-Start Comedy Showcase

3rd Annual Kick-Start Comedy Showcase featuring headliner Khadijah Cooper and an awesome lineup of talent.

Proceeds benefit community projects in Eagan and beyond!

Doors open 7pm, performance begins 7:30pm
$30 per person, which includes one drink ticket
Since material may include adult themes, 18+ recommended
Purchase tickets on Eventbrite

Polio Plus Raffle

Join the excitement at each Kick-Start Rotary meeting by participating in the Polio Plus Raffle!
Raffle tickets cost just $1 - if your number is chosen then you may choose a playing card from the deck. If you choose the Joker, you win the pot! Half of all raffle ticket sales are donated to the Rotary International Polio Plus campaign.

Polio is nearly eradicated worldwide - join us on Thursday mornings for some fun and help finish off polio!

Welcome Dianne Miller!

In July, Eagan Kick-Start Rotary welcomed its seventh president, Dianne Miller!
Dianne has proudly worked for the City of Eagan for 20 years as Assistant City Administrator, overseeing several departments including Human Resources, Information Technologies, Elections and City Clerk functions. She also is the City’s point person on recycling and airport relations.

Dianne grew up in Burnsville and received her bachelors degree in public administration from St. Mary’s University and a masters degree in public administration from the University of Kansas.
Dianne discovered her passion for public service and community engagement through experiences such as working with the Red Cross, interning with local communities, and wielding an ax to dig trenches for water pipes in Guatemala. She first worked in public administration with the City of Overland Park, Kansas during graduate school before beginning her fulltime local government career with the City of Eagan.
Dianne has been married for 17 years to her husband, Justin, who is the City Administrator of Lakeville. They are blessed with four spirited daughters ranging in age from elementary to high school. The family dog, Elmer, is a giant Pyradoodle who is petrified of flies.
Away from the office, Dianne is a sports junkie and typically can be found on the sidelines of her kids’ soccer games, cheering on her Kansas Jayhawk basketball team, or walking and snowshoeing on the trails throughout Eagan’s parks and neighborhoods.
Welcome Dianne!

Rotary International Convention 2021

Virtual Convention hosted in TAIPEI!

Jun 12, 2020 - Jun 16, 2021

LEARN MORE

No Meetings 3/19 & 3/26!

As social distancing is among the most highly recommended practices for slowing the spread of coronavirus, Eagan Kick-Start Rotary has cancelled the next two meetings (3/19 & 3/26) and will resume our weekly meetings on Thursday 4/2 provided the public health situation has stabilized by then. In the meantime, stay safe and I look forward to seeing you all on April 2!
Mike Supina
President, Eagan Kick-Start Rotary

Effective Leadership - Getting People to do Stuff

Michael Angelo Caruso teaches leaders and salespeople how to be better at what they do. He's a valued communication consultant to companies and organizations all over the world. Michael has delivered over 2000 presentations and keynote speeches on five continents and in 49 of the 50 states. He's an internationally recognized expert on the subjects of leadership, selling and improved customer service.
Leading is much easier when you learn:

Why money does not motivate most people
Two things that motivate people almost every time
5 Cool Ideas for dealing with under-performers
Why most job descriptions are de-motivating
The #1 thing workers want (but don’t get) from managers
How to deal with the 4 most diffiicult personalities
Strategies for dealing with negativity
5 ways to instantly improve your presentation skills
How to never be the bad guy again
The 15 most powerful words

Dont miss this amazing opportunity to see Michael Angelo Caruso live in our area!
REGISTER HERE!

Kick-Start 2nd Annual Comedy Showcase!

The Eagan Kick-Start Rotary Club will host its second annual Comedy Showcase on Friday and Saturday, Jan 31 and Feb 1, at Art Works (3795 Pilot Knob Rd, Eagan). Doors open at 6:30pm for a happy hour; the performance begins at 7:30pm. This is a 21+ event.
This year's headliner is Ali Sultan. Sultan moved to America from Yemen at the age of 15 and soon embarked on his comedy adventure. He has won numerous local comedy competitions and has performed across the U.S. and internationally. Tickets can be purchased online at Eventbrite.
The Saturday performance will be preceded by the opening reception for the art exhibit “Expression: Raw Emotion”, from 5-6:30pm on Feb 1, which is free and open to all ages.
Hope to see you there!

First Rotarian on the Moon!

Rotary International Convention 2020

HONOLULU!

Jun 06, 2020 - Jun 10, 2020
Learn more

Register here!

Let There be Party!

Thursday, June 20, 2019, 5-7pm

Blackhawk Park

Let's celebrate Kick-Start's accomplishments and kick off a new Rotary year!

BBQ, pop and water will be provided but feel free to bring additional refreshments, outdoor games, and a lawn chair if you like.

Spouses and families are welcome!

Gerten's Plant Cards

Is it safe to garden yet?

If you're ready, so is Eagan Kick-Start Rotary!

If you buy Gerten's Plant Cards from EKSR, you pay for and receive the full face value of the card, but EKSR get's 15% back from Gerten's to use for our community programs!

Just notify Mike Supina in person, by phone/text (651-706-0061), or by email how many cards you would like - $25, $50, and $100 denominations - and he'll do the rest.

You may pay by cash or check payable to Eagan Kick-Start Rotary.

Cards can be used for live plants only.

Thanks!

Rick's Bike Sale!

Saturday May 11, 9am-1pm

Superior Service Center, 14580 Glenda Dr, Apple Valley

Benefiting Kids 'n Kinship and DARTS

Kick-Start Volunteers at The Open Door

On Thursday May 2 Eagan Kick-Start has committed to providing a team of seven volunteers to The Open Door to assist in client grocery shopping and checkout. Volunteers should arrive at 5:15pm for orientation. We will finish no later than 8pm. Spouses/partners are welcome. Register here.

Invoices are Out!

You should have received an e-mail with your invoice from Tom Hofstad.

Please remit your dues at your earliest convenience.

Contact Tom with any questions.

It's Bowl-a-thon Time!

Join us for the Kids 'n Kinship 20th Annual Bowlathon Fundraiser on

Saturday, April 27th, 2019

Cost is $25 per bowler.

If we want to send a team, we need to coordinate which time works for the group.

Contact Mike Supina if you are interested.

Bowling Times:

1:00 - 2:30 pm - Session One Bowling and Team Photos

3:00 - 4:30 pm - Session Two Bowling and Team Photos

Shoes, balls, and bumper lanes (if desired) will be available. Food and refreshments are also available for additional purchase at the bowling alley.

And check out the awesome silent auction baskets!

MORE INFO HERE!

MN Rotary License Plates!

On Thursday, February 28, 2019, at 12:45pm, at the Minnesota State Office Building, Room 10, the Minnesota House Transportation and Finance Committee will be conducting a hearing on House Bill No. HF0593, which, when passed, will eventually allow us to purchase special, Rotary International, Minnesota license plates for our cars and motorcycles. Please come to the hearing and support our efforts that have been years in the making. We will have Rotarians speaking in support of the legislation.
Thank you for all you do for Rotary!

Skip-a-Meal Challenge

At Kick-Start's business meeting on Thursday Feb 28, the club will participate in the Skip-a-Meal Challenge. We will meet at The Open Door that morning, skip our customary breakfast, and instead donate those funds to The Open Door. So plan to come hungry and leave hungry!

Feb 28, 7am

3904 Cedar Grove Pkwy, Eagan

¡Carnaval Brasileiro!

Come as you are or go all out with masks, hats or colorful costumes to Art Works' third annual fundraiser! All are welcome to celebrate with Brazilian drinks, treats, live samba music & dance instruction...and some other fun surprises are in the plans.
Dancing is optional. Fun is required.

Saturday March 16

7-10pm

3795 Pilot Knob Rd, Eagan MN

We like to reward people for making our event a priority in their planning. Buy tickets early, and take advantage of a reduced ticket price.
$30 if you buy tickets by February 16.
$35 if you buy tickets by March 1.
$40 if you need to purchase tickets after March 1.

Kick-Starters Come through for Super Bagging!

20+ Kick-Starters and friends/family members fanned out to nearby Cub Foods stores during Super Bowl weekend to raise money for The Open Door in the expanded 2019 Super Bagging event. Thanks everyone for helping The Open Door raise around $40,000 this year!

Not Asleep, Just Resting Our Eyes

Thank you for your forbearance while Kick-Start News was on hiatus during your secretary's mission trip to Guatemala. Normal publication resumes this week.

Cake+Comedy Recap!

What a fun night! The house was packed, cake was served, beverages were flowing, and comedy talent abounded! Ali Sultan and his People of Comedy troupe introduced Eagan to their unique brand of humor and maybe even a new perspective on life in Minnesota. Big thank yous to Art Works for their unmatched hosting skills and to all volunteers from AWE and Kick-Start for making our first Kick-Start Comedy Showcase a success!

Aloha Tropics

Say, “ALOHA, tropics!” and “goodbye, winter!” This adults-only event includes a stroll along the Tropics Trail at the Minnesota Zoo, a tasty island beverage and delicious tropical-inspired food. Live music will transport you far away from the bold frozen north! Look forward to an impactful TreeHouse program highlighting stories from south metro TreeHouse teens. Hawaiian shirts are strongly encouraged! All proceeds benefit Eagan, Lakeville and Bloomington TreeHouses.

Saturday, March 2, 2019 | 6:30 PM
Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley

MORE INFORMATION AND TICKETS HERE!

Light the Night

Please consider joining us for the 5th annual Light the Night on March 9, 2019 at Crystal Lake Golf Club.

If you have interest in being a sponsor (the Apple Valley American Legion, Digital Strategies, McCormick Computer Resale and Thrivent were our team of generous sponsors this past year) or donating to the event, please contact event chair, Jodi Hanson. This is a night you don’t want to miss, so watch for more details about next year’s celebration!

BUY TICKETS HERE!

Days for Girls Sewathon

Volunteers will be sewing and assembling kits for Days for Girls International. There are jobs for people who sew and non-sewers too. Please provide your email address if you'd like to volunteer. We'll send you a registration form. You're welcome to come for a few hours or the whole day. We hope to assemble 200 kits!
Saturday, March 9, 2019 at 9 AM – 4 PM
Mt Calvary Lutheran Church, 3930 Rahn Rd, Eagan, MN

Rotary International Convention 2019

Jun 01, 2019 - Jun 05, 2019

Events
Capture your moments in Hamburg. Take advantage of the many events and activities planned by Rotary, your Host Organization Committee, and Rotary members.
Learn more

House of Friendship
This is where the Rotary world comes together to exchange ideas and project successes.
Learn more

Breakout sessions
Breakout sessions are your opportunity to dig deeper into the topics that interest you.
Learn more

Preconvention events
Our preconvention events will energize and inspire you, and prepare you for a memorable convention experience.
Learn more

Convention program
View highlights of the convention program.
Learn more

Register here!

5950 Midterm Assembly

FREE EVENT! January 26, 2019
Registration opens at 8:30am
Event will begin at 9:00am
Event will conclude at 1:30pm (lunch provided)

Mid-Year Rally/Update
Highlight Exemplary Programs
Revitalize for remainder of Rotary year

A great event for all Rotarians, Club Leaders, Recently Elected Future Club Leaders, District Leadership Team, District Committees, Assistant Governors.
Minnetonka Community Center
14600 Minnetonka Blvd
Minnetonka MN 55345

Register here!

Eastern Europe Tour Group

Rick Olson from the Prior Lake Rotary Club visited Kick-Start a few weeks ago to tell us about an upcoming Eastern European travel opportunity.
Follow this link for details.

Happy New Year!

HFSB Coffee Break

Jan 10, 8am

Home Federal Savings Bank

2805 Dodd Rd, Suite 160, Eagan 55121

No Bulletin Next Week!

For those who celebrate, have a joyful Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year!

Cake+Comedy!

Come celebrate Art Works' third birthday with free cake and an art opening downstairs followed by a comedy performance by Ali Sultan upstairs ($30 admission includes one drink ticket).
The party begins at 6:30pm; showtime at 7:30pm.
Note that performance may include adult language and/or controversial topics.

More about Ali Sultan:
* 2018 Best of The Midwest (Gilda’s Laugh Fest)
* Top 5 Comedians to Watch (Growler magazine)
* Acme’s Funniest Person (Acme Comedy Company)
* Funniest Person with a Day Job (House of Comedy)
* Best Local Comic (City Pages)
"Stories with My Muslim Mom" podcast host Ali Sultan saw his first standup comedian when he moved to America from Yemen at the age of 15. Years later, after learning English, Ali began his comedy adventure.
Ali has performed at the world famous Acme Comedy Company, Gotham Comedy Club, The Comic Strip, and is a regular performer at the annual Arab American Comedy Festival. His sketch work has been featured by TPT, PBS, and Funny or Die, and he has created the critically acclaimed People of Comedy showcase.
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE!

Rotary Gala Game Show

Make plans to attend Eagan's premiere social event - hosted by the Eagan Noon Rotary Club - the 2019 Eagan Rotary Gala! All the festivities will be taking place at the Eagan Community Center (1501 Central Parkway, Eagan) on Saturday, February 2, beginning at 6 pm. In addition to an evening of fine dining, you’ll want to bid on the exciting array of live and silent auction items that will be featured throughout the evening while also experiencing games shows galore! Tickets are currently on sale and may be purchased for $95 by clicking here or by contacting Scott Swenson at 651-405-2001. Corporate sponsorships are also available - click here for complete details or contact Scott Swenson.

December (Kick)Starts with a Bang!

December began with a busy week for Kick-Starters!
GUILD LADDER OF HOPE
From Gary Hansen: Thank you to Kick-Start Club members for supporting the important work of Guild, Inc.! Several members attended the Dec. 5 Ladder of Hope luncheon and others joined in making donations. This year’s event attracted the greatest attendance of any in the five years that I have been involved as a Guild volunteer. We helped raise $353,724 – a record outcome for Ladder of Hope events! Thank you for supporting Guild’s work to “fill the gap” to help persons with mental illness lead quality lives.
THE OPEN DOOR
On Dec. 6, six volunteers helped to shop, weigh, log, and load over 1800 lbs of groceries for families in need - by far a record total for our group! Your donation of time has made a difference in the lives of 27 families as the holiday season is upon us.
THE KICK-START HOLIDAY CHOIR
Also on Dec. 6, a festive group of twelve talented Kick-Starters and Interact students, plus Gene, descended upon the Commons on Marice with abundant holiday cheer to share, some of it in musical form. Who knew the vocal and instrumental talent hiding in plain view among our morning breakfast crew? Thank you Carol Wirsbinski for organizing this fun event.
THANK YOU TO EVERYONE FOR YOUR DEDICATION TO OUR COMMUNITY!

Kick-Start Holiday Choir

Reminder for Kick Start Rotarians - Holiday Caroling Event on Thursday Dec 6.

We’ll meet promptly at 5:00 pm at The Commons on Marice, 1380 Marice Drive in the lobby. There will be a keyboard for someone willing to play it as well as easy piano music for musicians and lyrics for singers. Suggesting we wear festival holiday colors to lift the spirits of the residents. We’ll sing 10-12 commonly known holiday songs.

Afterwards, Bill and Carol Wirsbinski are hosting the singers, musicians and TOD shopping volunteers at their home for holiday cheer and light appetizers. Address: 3675 Woodland Trail. Looking forward to this Holiday event!

Questions: Carol Wirsbinski 612-986-1740

Kick-Start Volunteers at The Open Door

On Thursday Dec 6 Eagan Kick-Start has committed to providing a team of seven volunteers to The Open Door to assist in client grocery shopping and checkout. Clients arrive beginning at 5:30pm; volunteers should arrive 20 minutes early for orientation. Spouses/partners are welcome. Register here.

Mark Anderson

Our friend and Kick-Starter Mark Anderson was discharged from the hospital Saturday and will continue his recuperation at home. Thank you to everyone for your concerns, prayers, and support. We hope to welcome Mark back to Kick-Start in the near future!

Our Wilderness, Our Future

Learn more and help shape the conversation about the future of our wilderness.

Wed. Nov 14 6:30-8:30pm at The School of Environmental Studies, 12155 Johnny Cake Ridge Rd, Apple Valley.
Featured Presentation: Will Steger – Eyewitness to Global Warming
Will Steger, world renowned polar explorer, educator, photographer, writer and lecturer will present a retrospective of a life in the arctic regions of the world. His presentation “Eyewitness to Global Warming” is his vivid account of the changes that he’s witnessed firsthand, caused by global warming.

Presentation: Lebanon Hills – Conserving Nature Close to Home
Dakota County Parks Natural Resources staff will provide an update on restoration progress at Lebanon Hills. Learn about several project areas, buckthorn management, and more. There will be opportunity for Q/A and discussion with staff.

Doors open at 6pm. Seating is limited. Following the event, all are welcome to join for a social gathering with Will Steger at The Mason Jar, 1565 Cliff Rd., Eagan

Gun Violence Forum

The League of Women Voters Dakota County will host a public forum concerning gun violence in America and related public policy issues. The forum is free and all are invited to attend. The forum will consist of a brief presentation on gun violence data, a review of current Minnesota gun laws by Burnsville Police Sergeant David Powers, and a panel discussion considering potential strategies to reduce gun violence and related 2nd Amendment issues. The panel discussion will be moderated by Mary Rice, President of LWV Bloomington. Panelists will include Rev. Nancy Nord Bence, Executive Director of Protect Minnesota, Bryan Strawser, Chairman of the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus, Rep. Erin Maye Quade, MN House District 57A, and Rep. Steve Drazkowski, MN House District 21B. The panel discussion will include a question and answer session. Members of the public may submit questions for the panelists either in advance via email to lwvdakotacty@lwvmn.org or in writing during the forum. The forum will be recorded and video of the event will be published online at lwvdakotacounty.org and on LWV Dakota County’s Facebook page. LWV Minnesota and LWV of the U.S. have adopted various policy positions with regard to guns and violence prevention. However, this forum is intended to be educational and feature a variety of viewpoints, rather than support the policy positions adopted by the League of Women Voters.
Monday Nov 12 6:30-8:30pm at Nativity Episcopal Church, 15601 Maple Island Rd, Burnsville.

Walk to End Hunger

The Walk to End Hunger is a family-friendly 5K fun walk held on Thanksgiving morning 7:00am-10:00am, in the Mall of America. It is a great way to start your holiday off right - giving back before you give thanks!

Kick-Start's own Karen Dare has formed a team to benefit The Open Door and invites you to walk with her. To register, simply follow this link, click on the icon for The Open Door, and join Karen's team Dare2Give.
Registration on the day of the event will take place on Floors 1 and 2 of the East Side of the Mall of America, by Sea Life. Day-of registration opens at 7:00am on Thanksgiving; the registration fee at the door is $35. The formal program, with the countdown, will take place on the main stage of the Rotunda at 7:30am.

VOTE!

Adopt-a-Street Cleanup

Kick-Start's street cleanup is scheduled for 9am Saturday Nov 3.

Meet at the west end of O'Neill Drive near Lone Oak Parkway between 8:45-9am.

Wear appropriate footwear and bring work gloves if you have them. Vests and trash bags will be provided.

See you there!

District 5950 Visits Kick-Start

Kick-Start had the distinct honor of hosting District Governor Irene Kelly on Sep 13, and then District Membership Chair Lloyd Campbell, as well as District Governor Nominee Tom Gump and Executive Director Carol McDonald on Oct. 18. All offered their perspectives on how Rotary can make a difference and how to grow and inspire our club membership. For more on this critical topic, see the article Step Right Up in the August 2018 edition of The Rotarian featuring Tom Gump and the Rotary Club of Edina/Morningside.

Deck the Halls!

Deck the Halls Home Holiday Tour, a fundraiser for the Eastview Community Foundation (EVCF), will be held Saturday, November 10 and Sunday, November 11, Noon-4PM. Attendees will be able to tour 5 homes in Apple Valley and Eagan beautifully decorated for the holidays by local vendors: Bushel & Peck, Ficus & Fig, At Home, and Kowalski’s Market. Nothing Bundt Cakes is also participating.

EVCF provides scholarships to graduating seniors, as well as “Random Acts of Kindness” money to feeder schools.

Tickets are $22 each, or grab a “sleighfull” of friends and buy 4 tickets and get the 5th free.

Webb Financial Happy Hour

Good Times + Networking = Webb Financial Happy Hour
Oct 25, 2018, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Bald Man Brewing
2020 Silver Bell Rd, Suite #25, Eagan

Hosted by Dave Verbeke

Turn Our Grant into Action!

Join us for a 2018-2019 grant project supported by Rotary District 5950. We are planning a long-term project to install native gardens and benches at Art Works and Caponi Art Park. During our fall work days, we will prepare the garden sites, weed and mulch. During our winter planning, we will design and build benches for installation at both Art Works and Caponi Art Park. During our spring work days, we will plant gardens and complete the project with delivery of benches.
Want to join us? Then sign up and show up! We can't wait to work with you!

Fall Garden Prep Days
Thursday Oct. 25, 2:30-5:30pm

Art Works

3795 Pilot Knob Rd, Eagan

Saturday Oct. 27, 9:00am-noon

Caponi Art Park

1220 Diffley Rd, Eagan

Winter Bench Planning Day

Saturday Jan. 12, 9:00am-noon

Art Works

3795 Pilot Knob Rd, Eagan

Interact Coat Drive

We all have that seldom-worn coat taking up space in our closet. Here's its chance to find a home with someone who really needs it. The Eagan High School Interact Club will hold their annual coat drive October 23-25. So bring any gently used coats to the Kick-Start meeting on Thursday 10/25. Carol Wirsbinski will collect the coats and deliver them to the high school.

FMSC Food Packing w/Interact

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary will volunteer with Interact to pack food for those in need.

Family members and friends are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Time

Tue Oct 9 2:15pm - 4:00pm

Place

Feed My Starving Children

990 Lone Oak Rd #136

Eagan MN 55121

LeDuc House Visit

Join your Kick-Start friends on a visit to the LeDuc Historic Estate at 4pm on Thursday Oct 18.

Learn about the history of the house and maybe even encounter a ghost!

American Cancer Society Fall Cookout

Another reminder from our friend Scott Swenson:

Thank you to all that have already contributed to my campaign for the American Cancer Society and those that have rsvp’d for our open house on October 6th from 4:00 on at 4100 Havenhill Circle, Eagan. We will have hot burgers and brats and cold beverages. Please bring your guests and come when you can and stay for as long as you can. If you would like to bring a dish to share that would be appreciated.

If you are able to support the American Cancer Society please feel free make an online donation.

Thank you for your consideration and support!

Makeup!

On October 18th there will be a drawing for a fabulous door prize (courtesy of our friend Scott Swenson) for any members that have a paid make up at another Rotary Club between Sep 20 and Oct 18. If you have been looking for an excuse to attend another club this may be the right time. Each paid make up will be good for one entry in the drawing.

A suggestion if you are looking for ideas: The Eagan Noon Club meets at noon each Wednesday at the Lost Spur.

Guild Ladder of Hope

Join Guild Inc. at their annual benefit lunch to hear unforgettable stories of hope and recovery.

Date: Wednesday, December 5th. Registration 11:30 a.m. Program 12:00 - 1:00 p.m
Location: DoubleTree By Hilton Bloomington-Minneapolis South, 7800 Normandale Blvd, Minneapolis, MN 55439
RSVP: Table captain, Gary Hansen.

Free parking available for our guests at the private lot adjacent to the hotel.

Visit the DoubleTree By Hilton Bloomington-Minneapolis South website for detailed directions.

To learn more about the Ladder of Hope, call 651-925-8454 or visit www.guildincorporated.org

Guild Incorporated: Integrated treatment and services for people with mental illness.

Ending Human Trafficking

As much as we Rotarians enjoy the fun, friendship, and networking aspects of Rotary, we should always remember that Rotary has the power to enact positive change on a global scale. Rotary has recently undertaken perhaps one of the most difficult challenges in its history - ending human trafficking. This may seem like an impossible task given how ingrained human trafficking is all over the world, the powerful criminal enterprises that profit from it, and cultural obstacles against the empowerment of women, the predominant victims of human trafficking.
What can you do?

Educate yourselves and your club on this issue. Invite speakers to provide more information on this issue to your club
Identify a Club Champion who can serve as an ongoing club advocate for this initiative. Thank you Mary Nell Zellner for stepping up to be Kick-Start's Club Champion!

If you ever think that human trafficking is too big a problem to tackle, remember this Ethiopian proverb: When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion.

Each of our local Rotary Clubs is one strand of that spider web; together we can end human trafficking.

Can-Do Wooferoo

Once again, Kick-Start's own Mike Ferber, his wife Betty Otto, and their dog Brooklyn will participate in the Can-Do Wooferoo, a fundraiser for Can-Do Canines on Saturday, Sep. 29. Mike and Betty's team, Dogs R Us, hope to continue their tradition as the event's top fundraiser!

Click here to help!

Pints 4 People

Join the Edina Morningside and South Metro Minneapolis Evenings Rotary Clubs on Friday, September 28 from 5:30-8:30 pm for the 6th annual Pints 4 People charity fundraiser.
Fee includes local craft beer sampling, a souvenir Rotary beer tasting glass, and food.
Proceeds from the event will go to the EMRC and SMME Rotary Foundations to benefit worthwhile projects around the globe and in our local community.
Get your tickets HERE!

District Governor Irene Kelly to Visit Kick-Start

District Governor for 5950, Irene Kelly, will visit Eagan Kick-Start Rotary during our business meeting on Thursday 9/13. Please plan to attend and give her a warm welcome!

Kick-Start Volunteers at The Open Door

On Thursday Sep 6 Eagan Kick-Start has committed to providing a team of 6-7 volunteers to The Open Door to assist in client grocery shopping and checkout. Clients arrive beginning at 5:30pm; volunteers should arrive 20 minutes early for orientation. Spouses/partners are welcome. Register here.

Harvest of Art

Celebrate art in Eagan on Saturday September 8 at the Eagan Art House!

1pm-6pm: Activities

6pm-7:30pm: Food truck and open mike

7:30pm: Short film screening

The fun will also include:

First Ever Short Film Celebration
Eagan Community Supported Art (CSA)
Raku Pottery
Artist Demonstrations
Entertainment
Artist Booths

One Rotary Summit

Consider registering for this year’s District 5950 One Rotary Summit 8am-1pm Saturday Sep. 22 at the Earle Brown Heritage Center. Why? Because this is your opportunity to learn why and how Rotary is changing lives in our communities and around the world. You will participate in focused discussions about the great opportunities and benefits of being a Rotarian. If you are a new Rotarian, there will be a special session just for you. You will also have the opportunity to meet some of the Charter Members of our new EcoClub.
Designed For: New Rotarians, Club Presidents, Club Board Members, District Leadership Team, Assistant Governors, & All Rotary Club Members in District 5950
Includes: Light breakfast, snack, and lunch
Questions: Email Tom Gump or call him at (612) 770-8389.

Register here!

Walk to End Alzheimers

The Edina Rotary Club has formed a team for the Walk to End Alzheimers.
The event is Saturday Sep. 15 at Target Field.

Registration at 8am
Ceremony at 9:30am
Walk to immediately follow

If you would like to walk with them, form your own team, walk on your own, or contribute, go here for more details.
They even have a video!

walk18-11317-10847201.mp4

Rotary Youth Exchange

Eagan's Rotary Clubs are sponsoring two foreign exchange students at Eagan High School during the 2018-19 school year. There are still opportunities to be a host family. Families of all types are suitable - with or without children, empty nesters, working or retired - but must live in the Eagan High School attendance boundary.
If you or someone you know live within the Eagan High School attendance boundary and would consider hosting a student, please contact Nate Danielson at 612-499-0193 for more details.

AWE Sunday Salon

Sunday Aug 5, 7pm at AWE: Celebrate talented Eagan youth and their passions for art:

Olivia Crutchfield - Photography

Anna Connelly and Rachel Scott - Dance

Anthony Wallace - Spoken Word.
See you there!

Tickets here!

National Night Out

Spend the evening outside with your neighbors on National Night Out, Aug 7.

Find a block party near you!

Year One: The Open Door Volunteering

Kick-Start has just completed our first year of monthly volunteering at The Open Door. Here are the numbers:
Volunteer hours: 180+
Families served: 270
Groceries shopped, weighed, logged, and loaded: Over seven tons(!)
Thank you to all of our volunteers! (some not pictured)

Support the Arts in Eagan

Remember those bellbottom jeans you thought you'd never wear again? (Well, except for Scott Swenson)
Now here's your chance!

Art Works Eagan hosts Come Together, a 1970s-themed fundraiser on Sat. Aug 25 from 7-10pm.

Proceeds will be earmarked for a long-deferred but urgently-needed roof replacement.

The evening will include:

Refreshments, appetizers, and a cash bar
Artist demonstrations
Dancing to some smooth tunes in the Performance Hall
Photo op in a vintage 70s car
And most importantly, meet other wonderful members of our community that make us great

Costumes not required, but encouraged!

Tickets available here

Support the Arts in Eagan (Part 1)

Caponi Art Park hosts the HeART of the PARK fundraiser on Friday Aug. 17 from 5:30-8:30pm.
This first annual fundraiser will run in conjunction with Caponi's final ‘Round the Bend concert of the season featuring Sawtooth Brothers with Stanton West.

There are two types of tickets available:
1. VIP: $65
2. General Admission: $15 (children 12 and under are free)

VIP tickets include designated parking, special seating, dinner and drinks provided by ZZQ Smokehouse and much more! There are a limited number of VIP tickets available! Make sure to get yours now before they run out!

General admission tickets give you all the same great music and access to purchase beer from Bald Man Brewing and food from the evening’s food trucks, O’Cheeze, Northbound Smokehouse and Nothing Bundt Cakes, that you are used to.

Purchase Tickets Here

Rotary Race Day

Districts 5950 and 5960 are hosting a Rotary Race Day!

Live horse racing, silent auction, kid’s activities, and cards!

Who: Everyone is welcome! Bring your friends, family and kids!

When: Friday, August 10, 2018

Where: Canterbury Park - Silks Party Area (1100 Canterbury Rd, Shakopee)

Time: Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Live racing starts at 6:30 p.m.

Cost: $10.00 per ticket which includes admission, hot dog and soda. (coupon will be handed out at event)

Children 17 and under are free, but must buy $10 ticket if they want a hot dog and soda.

How: Purchase tickets from any Rotary Club President

100% of ticket sales will benefit Polio Plus!

Drive Away Hunger

Love to golf? Hate food insecurity? Then this is the event for you.

Lost Spur will host a golf tourney to benefit The Open Door on Saturday Aug 4 from 1-6pm.

$60 per person includes:

Golf
Cart
Prime Rib Dinner (dinner or golf only also avail)

SILENT AUCTION, RAFFLES, GAMES & PRIZES!
Bring in up to 20 non-perishable food items and get a raffle ticket for each item

1:00 Check-In
2:00 Shotgun Start
4:00 Social Hour
5:00 Dinner and Awards

CALL TO REGISTER! 651-454-2330x2

Visit website for details and registration.

Kick-Start Volunteers at The Open Door

On Thursday Aug 2 Eagan Kick-Start has committed to providing a team of 6-7 volunteers to The Open Door to assist in client grocery shopping and checkout. Clients arrive beginning at 5:30pm; volunteers should arrive 20 minutes early for orientation. Spouses/partners are welcome.

Sign up electronically on Clubrunner!

Kick-Starters Contribute to FunFest Success!

Eagan's July 4 FunFest was a good time for everyone despite the soggy conditions, but it truly took a village to pull it off successfully. Eagan Kick-Start Rotarians helped fill out the FunFest board this year and were visible in every aspect of the celebration, both on center stage and behind the scenes. Hats off to Michelle Boe, Karen Dare, Mike Ferber, Marshall Mullet, Jerri Neddermeyer, Andrew Pimental, Denise Sjöberg, and of course, Kick-Start's patron saint Scott Swenson!

REMINDER! July 19 Meeting at Fire Station #1! Corner of Blackhawk & Diffley

Eagan Foundation Happy Hour

Eagan business leaders and a colleague are invited to join the Eagan Foundation for happy hour! Enjoy a business development update from City of Eagan leadership; networking with fellow Eagan business leaders; a chance to learn about the Eagan Foundation's grants, scholarships, and community initiatives; food, prizes, & brewery tours.

Date: Monday July 16, 2018

Time: 5pm - 6:30pm

Bald Man Brewing
2020 Silver Bell Rd
Suite 26
Eagan, MN 55122

Register here!

Contact Jamie Hopkins with any questions.

Thank You, Dave Verbeke!

Our Year-End Celebration on June 28 represented the last meeting chaired by President Dave Verbeke.

Dave led our club in exactly the manner we needed at this stage of our growth - building upon the traditions of Rotary and the accomplishments of our previous presidents Mike Ferber and Eric Swanson while at the same time putting his personal stamp on the club with new accomplishments.

Those include:

Growing club membership from 35 to 39 members. The club now has more women members and more members under age 50 than ever before.
Tracking 670 service hours by club members including monthly volunteering at The Open Door.
Increasing the Rotary Foundation contribution to $7000.
Pinning three new Paul Harris Fellows.
Raising $1500 for Polio Plus through the weekly 50/50 raffle.
Establishing the Eagan Kick-Start Rotary Foundation as a 501(c)(3) organization and growing its balance to over $10,000.
Engaging in three joint grant projects with other clubs.
Securing a district grant for the Lexington-Diffley tree planting project.
Receiving the Rotary Presidential Citation for the third consecutive year.
Leading the club with good humor and a tireless work ethic.

In appreciation of Dave's leadership, his successor, Karen Dare, presented him with a token of appreciation.

And lest anyone underestimate the rigors of leadership, even in a community service organization like Eagan Kick-Start Rotary, we uncovered the following pictures of Dave, the left one taken in June 2017, and the right one in June 2018.

Thanks Dave, for all you have done and will continue to do!

Invoices are Out!

You should have received an e-mail with your invoice from Tom Hofstad.

Please remit your dues at your earliest convenience.

Note that dues have been reduced by $15/quarter.
Contact Tom with any questions.

Year-End Celebration

As our 3rd Rotary year is coming to a close, it's time to celebrate all of the great things we did as a club and friendships that were made this past year, while "Kick-Starting" our upcoming year!

When: Thursday June 28th from 5:00-8:00PM
Where: Central Park Pavilion, 1501 Central Pkwy, Eagan, MN 55121
What: ZZQ Smokehouse BBQ will cater food for everyone (No Cost). Water will be provided but other beverages are BYOB. As with last year NO hard alcohol is allowed in the park. Beer and wine are BYOB.

Lawn/yard games are encouraged. Hopefully everyone can have some fun celebrating the year and getting to know each other better in a non-meeting setting.
Spouses and significant others are encouraged to join!
Please RSVP to Eric Swanson at your earliest convenience so he has can determine the appropriate food to order.

Note: There will be no morning meeting on June 28.

Farewell to Isa!

Isa Franca, Rotary Exchange Student, departs her second home of Eagan, Minnesota to return to her hometown of Presidente Prudente, Brazil.

Let’s send her off with lots of love and well-wishes!

When: July 5, 2018, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Where: Home of Keevan and Mike Kosidowski, 3715 Denmark Ct W, Eagan

What: Open house to wish Isa well with some light appetizers and drinks

Join us as we send Isa Franca, Rotary Exchange Student, off with lots of love!

The State of The Open Door

An Exclusive Event for Supporters and Partners

(This is NOT a public event)

When: Monday June 11, 6-8pm

Where: Apple Valley Mobile Food Distribution Center, 14757 Energy Way, Apple Valley

Program:

6:00pm: Picnic dinner, beverages, meet & greet board and staff, tour of facility

7:00pm: Brief program by Executive Director Jason Viana

7:20pm: Q & A with Jason and board

7:30pm; Mingle

RSVP to Carol Wirsbinski.

Well THAT was quick!

If you were wondering what just flashed by in a blur, it was spring. It's over now and summer is here.

Thank you to everyone who purchased and/or sold Gertens Plant Cards, especially Robert Schuchman, Barry Minsker, and Dave Verbeke for boosting our overall sales.

Our club earned over $900 from card sales in May.

Although the spring rush is over, our account remains active at Gertens year-round so if you have any large plant purchases to make, contact Mike Supina and he will set you up with some Gertens Plant Cards.

Kick-Start Volunteers at The Open Door

On Thursday June 7 Eagan Kick-Start has committed to providing a team of 6-7 volunteers to The Open Door to assist in client grocery shopping and checkout. Clients arrive beginning at 5:30pm; volunteers should arrive 20 minutes early for orientation. Spouses/partners are welcome.

Sign up electronically on Clubrunner!

Be a Mentor

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary tries to pair each new member with a mentor to help them navigate some of the Rotary websites and answer any questions.

We are looking for three right now. If interested, please contact Nate Danielson.

Thanks!

Welcome Jen Baumgartner

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary celebrated the induction of Jen Baumgartner at our April 26 meeting.

Jen was born and raised in Atlanta and studied Public Relations and Communications at Xavier University. She has over 20 years of non-profit management experience and currently serves as Executive Director of the American Cancer Society for Minnesota and the Dakotas.

Jen, her husband Eric, and their two daughters have lived in Lakeville since 2007. They are a family of avid skiers and golfers although lately much of Jen's time is devoted to being a Dance Mom, Theater Mom, and Ski Sherpa.

Welcome to Kick-Start, Jen!

Funfest, Beer, and You!

Kick-Start has committed to staffing several shifts at the Beer Tent during the Eagan July 4 Funfest.

If you've signed up for a shift, please don't forget to show up!.

If you've received training, you can still sign up to help. Sign up for a shift here.

Contact Denise Sjöberg with any questions.

Thanks!

Plant a Tree!

Join us and help plant the trees acquired through district grant funding along with funds from our own Eagan Kick-Start Rotary Club.
If you intend to help with the planting, please wear appropriate footwear and consider bringing work gloves.
But we want to maximize turnout so everyone is welcome, even if just for the photo op!

See the event calendar for more information.

Welcome Ryan Murphy

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary celebrated the induction of Ryan Murphy at our April 26 meeting.

Ryan grew up in Lakeville and graduated from Lakeville South High School in 2011. He is co-owner of Murphy Automotive and manages the Lakeville location. Ryan, his fiancée Brittany, and their two dogs, Izzy and Bentley, will soon move into their new home in Lakeville.

Ryan likes to work with his hands, both in automotive repair and on home remodeling and construction. During his tenure with the Eagan Rotary Club he spearheaded the Panama Chicken Coop project, including writing the successful $8500 international grant. He is also the Rotary District 5950 training co-chair and is active in the North Star Youth Exchange.

Welcome to Kick-Start, Ryan!

Interact in Action!

The Eagan High School Interact Club (mentored by Bill Wirskbinski) has several upcoming events:

Shoes for Africa: Interact will collect shoes to be donated for people in need in Africa 7am Tuesday May 8 at Eagan High School.
End of Year Party: Enjoy treats and fellowship with the students of Interact at 2:30pm Tuesday May 22 at Eagan High School.
Street Cleanup: Help collect trash along Diffley Road between Lexington and Hwy 3. Meet at 2:30pm Thursday May 24 at McDonald's.

Thanks Interact for all you do!

Welcome Carol Wirsbinski!

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary celebrated the induction of Carol Wirsbinski at our April 26 meeting.

I grew up in a small town in north central Wisconsin, Mosinee. I graduated with a BBA from UW-Eau Claire and entered the telecommunications industry. I spent nearly all of my career in the communications industry in various roles including CEO of CitiLink, COO of Hickory Tech/Enventis and most recently, CSO of Consolidated Communications Inc. I completed my career in technology at the end of 2017 fulfilled and eager to be moving to a new challenge.
Currently I serve on the board of The Open Door, Dakota County’s largest food shelf, and I serve as the Chair of the development committee. I am excited to be building relationships within the local community with so many willing and engaged community members.
I live in Eagan with my husband Bill of 33 years. We are blessed to have two wonderful adult children, Luke and Justin. While our boys do not live in the metro area, we build family memories at our cabin in Turtle Lake, Wisconsin with many family members. We all enjoy the outdoors, being on the water and sharing laughs while relaxing on the lake.
My interests and hobbies include biking, running, walking and being outdoors. Additionally, I relish conversations with acquaintances, both new and long time friends sharing interesting discussions about our world.
I am excited about the next chapter of my life which will be less about technology and more about building and enjoying relationships of good and productive people. These are the people who show up. These are the people who make the world a better place.

Welcome to Kick-Start, Carol!

Spring has (finally) Sprung!

And that means it's time to garden!

If you plan to purchase plants from Gertens, Kick-Start can benefit at NO COST TO YOU!

Simply order Gertens Plant Cards from Mike Supina and pay with cash or a check payable to Eagan Kick-Start Rotary.

Mike will pick up the cards each week and distribute them at each Thursday morning meeting.

Gertens allows Kick-Start to purchase the cards at a 15% discount; the club keeps the difference.

Remember, Gertens Plant Cards can be used for live plants only, not for other gardening supplies or equipment.

So get outside and plant!

Kick-Start Volunteers at The Open Door

On Thursday May 3 Eagan Kick-Start has committed to providing a team of 6-7 volunteers to The Open Door to assist in client grocery shopping and checkout. Clients arrive beginning at 5:30pm; volunteers should arrive 20 minutes early for orientation. Spouses/partners are welcome.

Sign up electronically on Clubrunner.

UPDATE!

We have EIGHT(!) volunteers already signed up! THANKS Kick-Starters!
Since our club began volunteering in 2017, well over half of our members have participated, and even more have assisted The Open Door in other ways. The Open Door would like to recognize your service at their VOLUNTEER PICNIC on May 20 from 6-8pm at Blackhawk Park. RSVP here.

Young Life Host Families Needed

Tony Ripley, a former member of the Eagan Rotary Club, is looking for some host families to host students he is bringing from Bulgaria to the United States. The days are fairly booked. The hope is the host family could provide breakfast, an end of day respite, and a place to sleep. Contact Scott Swenson with any questions.

Thanks!

2018 Rotary Revue!

Monday, May 21 | Guthrie Theater
REGISTER NOW!

Keynotes: Marilyn Carlson-Nelson on sex trafficking, Maria Pacheco on the power of Rotary making a difference, Mitty Chang on the future of Rotary.

Award "Oscars" program: like you've never seen it before.

Rotary show: Ever fancied performing on-stage at the Guthrie? Here's your chance! Put your skills learned in "How to make the most of Rotary" to use ON STAGE at the Guthrie

Done in a Day: Just because the SuperBowl is over, doesn't mean the problem has gone away. Come and create care packages for victims of sex trafficking.

Friendship Hall: Come and meet the Youth Exchange students as they tell you about their countries, as well key Rotary initiatives and charities.

Fun.....friendship....tears.....laughter......SHOWTIME!!

Gus Sent Me

Get ready for another packed house as the Gus Sent Me train rolls back into the SE metro and heats things up once again.

Will they go off the rails or keep on chuggin' down the track?

You gotta be there to find out.

Saturday April 28, 8pm

Rosemount VFW Post 9433
2625 120th St W,

Rosemount MN

Rotaract: Books for Africa

Please join Twin Cities Rotaract for an evening of celebration, beer, and food with all the proceeds going to Books for Africa. Books for Africa is working to increase the literacy rate in Africa which is currently at about 70%. Rotaract clubs are for young professionals age 18-35 to become engaged in local and global service and our Rotary family.

Serving Others Above Self

Wednesday, April 25, 2018

6pm-8pm

Summit Brewery, St. Paul

BUY TICKETS HERE!

Adopt-a-Street Cleanup

Kick-Start's street cleanup is scheduled for 9am Saturday May 5.

We will be doing THREE cleanup sessions in 2018 because the street was closed last year due to the Vikings construction.

Meet at the corner of O'Neill Drive and Lone Oak Parkway.

Wear appropriate footwear and bring work gloves if you have them. Vests and trash bags will be provided.

Sign up on Clubrunner. See you there!

District Tree Planting

Our club has supported the District Tree Planting project in partnership with Great River Greening. District 5950 will plant 3000 trees in the Crosby Farm Park in St. Paul on Saturday May 19. The planting will happen between 1:00-5:00pm. 75 volunteers are needed to assist with the project. If you would like to help, you can sign up directly at:

http://www.greatrivergreening.org/rotary-event-registration/

Our club contributed $10 per member to support President Risely's goal of planting one tree for every Rotary member worldwide.

There is another opportunity to plant trees on the North Shore on Thursday May 10 & Friday May 11 near Two Harbors, MN. This project is with the Nature Conservatory and they are in need of 20 volunteers. Steve Solbrack is organizing this event and you register by emailing him at steve@solbrack.com.

REMINDER! No Morning Meeting April 12!

The regular morning meeting on Thursday April 12 will be replaced by an evening Visioning Session to be held at Art Works Eagan from 5pm-8pm.

District Assembly: 5950

This training event prepares incoming club leaders for their year in office and helps them build their leadership teams.
Designed for 2018-2019 club officers, chairs, committee members, new members, future leaders, and all Rotarians interested in learning more about Rotary.
Club district training fee covers the cost for up to 10 members. Breakfast and lunch are included.

There will be a surprise Keynote Speaker that will uplift our club members.
Register here.

March Madness Results

The Kick-Start March Madness pool final results are:

If you have not chipped in your $20 entry fee, please get it to Dave Verbeke at your earliest convenience.
Half of the entry fees collected will go to The Open Door for our one ton of food donation.

Kids 'n Kinship Bowlathon

Knock things down for a cause at the Kids 'n Kinship Bowlathon!

Sunday, April 22, 2018

11:00am - 12:30 pm or 1:00 pm - 2;30pm

Cedarvale Lanes

3883 Cedar Grove Parkway

Eagan, MN

Cost: $25/Bowler

Visit Kids 'n Kinship website for more information or contact Melynda at 651-333-9468.

Welcome Angie Cunningham!

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary celebrated the induction of Angie Cunningham at our March 1 meeting.

Angie grew up Maple Grove (before there was anything in Maple Grove), went to Wayzata High School, and attended the College of St. Benedict. She has been worked at Thomson Reuters for 27 years in a variety of positions, currently the Director of Product Management Operations.

Angie lives in Eagan and has two children: Charlie (23) works at United Health as an underwriter, and Margaret (20) is a junior at the University of WI La Crosse studying biology and pre-PA.

Welcome to Kick-Start, Angie!

North Star Youth Exchange

The North Star Youth Exchange encompasses Rotary Districts 5950 and 5960 in southern Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin. Chair Mike DeLuca reports that at the recent North American Youth Exchange Network Conference, the North Star program was presented a Gold Award as a high performing district. In addition, at the annual award banquet North Star was presented this year’s outstanding district in all of North America.
Our program was noted for our growth in long term students, our new short term program, our unique one-way inbound programs that have received international recognition, our programs to help disadvantaged students be exchange students, our commitment to diversity and inclusion, and our organization structure that is a model for many districts.
Hundreds of volunteers have made North Star what it is today. Thank you for all you do to support Rotary exchange students.

March Madness Update

For anyone who still cares...

The Kick-Start March Madness leaderboard as of Friday morning is:

If you have not chipped in your $20 entry fee, please get it to Dave Verbeke at your earliest convenience.
Half of the entry fees collected will go to The Open Door for our one ton of food donation.

Kick-Start Volunteers at The Open Door

On Thursday Apr 5 Eagan Kick-Start has committed to providing a team of 6-7 volunteers to The Open Door to assist in client grocery shopping and checkout. Clients arrive beginning at 5:30pm; volunteers should arrive 20 minutes early for orientation. Spouses/partners are welcome.

This is a busy time of year at The Open Door; please consider volunteering if you can, thanks!

Sign up electronically on Clubrunner.

Kick-Start Serves the Homeless

On Thursday March 8, eight Kick-Starters, friends, and spouses volunteered to serve dinner at the Dakota County Emergency Shelter currently at Easter Lutheran Church and operated by Matrix Housing Services. This piggybacked onto our club's December-January commitment to raise and contribute funds to sponsor one night of shelter operations.

Thank you, volunteers, for your willingness to serve!

March Madness Pool

There are 34 completed brackets in Kick-Start's March Madness pool.

Half of the entry fees collected will go to The Open Door for our one ton of food donation.

Good luck to everyone. If you have any questions, please contact Dave Verbeke.

Mystery Guest!

Our scheduled speaker for March 22 became unavailable; instead we will hear from a MYSTERY GUEST!

Remember that this meeting will begin at 6:45am.

Kick-Start Club Social

Kick-Start's next social will be at the Union 32 Craft House, Union 32 Craft House (2864 Hwy 55, Eagan) on Thursday March 22 beginning at 4:30pm and ending when everyone leaves.

Appetizers will be sponsored by Fireside Wealth/Eric Swanson.

Beer/drinks is pay on your own.

Hope to see you there!

NCPETS Wrap-up

Posted by Karen Dare

As your President Elect, I was able to attend the North Central President-Elect Training Seminar in Rochester, MN. Our theme for the 2018/19 year is "Be the Inspiration." The weekend lived up to the new theme. I was INSPIRED by speakers who shared their Rotary passion and experience. I learned skills to improve our club and INSPIRE ways to promote Rotary in our community. I have a better understanding of the power of the Rotary Foundation and hope to INSPIRE our club to action. Eagan Kick-Start Rotary was well represented as our President Elect Nominee Mike Supina attended as well.

Kick-Start Club Social

Kick-Start's next social will be at the Union 32 Craft House on Thursday March 22 beginning at 4:30pm and ending when everyone leaves.

Appetizers will be sponsored by Fireside Wealth/Eric Swanson.
Beer/drinks is pay on your own.

2864 Highway 55
Eagan, MN, 55121

Hope to see you there!

Propel Your Passion!

Take a minute to think about what you are truly passionate about. Then, the next time you are among your Rotary friends, take a look around. The people you see are the horsepower ready and willing to turn your passion into action. Then take a look at the Rotary District 5950 Grants webpage. There awaits a pool of funds to do the same.

Helping to turn your passion into action is why we all meet each week. So develop your idea and harness the club to do what it does best!

Women in Rotary

Posted by Mike Supina

Since March is National Women's History Month I thought it would be appropriate to publish a quick writeup on notable women Rotarians. I had no idea of the education I would receive.

As it turns out, there are very few notable women Rotarians because women were excluded from Rotary membership until 1989. And the decision to include women did not occur out of goodwill; resolutions to admit women had been circulated since 1950 and were consistently voted down. In 1978 Rotary International went so far as to terminate its association with a club in California that had admitted a woman member. It took a 1987 US Supreme Court ruling to open up American Rotary Clubs to women; Rotary International soon followed.

The first women District Governors were elected in 1995. The first woman elected to the Rotary International Board of Directors, Catherine Noyer-Riveau, began her term in 2008. Today there are over 200,000 women Rotarians worldwide and, I believe it is fair to say, women represent the most promising avenue for Rotary's growth and leadership. Bottom line: the history of women in Rotary is being written by us right now.

So with that, here is my (far too short) list of notable women Rotarians. Let's grow it:

Françoise Barré-Sinoussi: Isolated the AIDS virus at the Pasteur Institute (Rotary Club of La Rochelle-Aunis, France)
Dianne Feinstein: US Senator from California (Rotary Club of San Francisco CA)
Angela Merkel: Chancellor of Germany (Honorary Member: Rotary Club of Stralsund-Hansestadt, Berlin, Germany)
Lorraine H. Morton: Mayor of Evanston, Illinois 1993-2009 (Rotary Club of Evanston IL)
Catherine Noyer-Riveau: Gynecologist. First woman elected to the Rotary International Board of Directors (Rotary Club of Paris, France)
Donna Shalala: US Secretary of Health and Human Services (Rotary Club of Madison WI)

Welcome Marshall Mullet!

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary celebrates two new members in February. The first we will introduce is Marshall Mullet.

Marshall is the firstborn of a third generation farmer in Montana, where his great-grandfather was one of the first homesteaders in their community. He moved to Minnesota and graduated from Crown College with a B.S. in Business Management and Accounting.

Marshall and his wife Luanne live in Eagan; they have two children, Sophia (3) and Oliver (1). He currently is self-employed and specializes in building custom websites and integrations with tools such as Salesforce and HubSpot.

Welcome to Kick-Start, Marshall!

Interact in Action!

The Eagan High School Interact Club (mentored by Bill Wirskbinski) has had a busy February.

Recent projects include:

Feed My Starving Children on Feb. 22 during which ten Rotarians and over 30 Interact students participated.
A jeans drive that resulted in 356 pairs of jeans delivered to Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Burnsville.

Kick-Start's Mary Nell Zellner will report periodically on Interact's activities and how Kick-Start can be of assistance.

Loaves & Fishes: Dakota County Homeless Shelter

Kick-Start will provide eight volunteers to serve and clean up dinner at Easter Lutheran Church (by the Lake).
Food will be prepared by others during an earlier shift (look here if you are interested in preparing the food, which is separate from Kick-Start's activity).

For details contact Denise Sjoberg or sign up on Clubrunner.

Creative MN: Eagan Impact Study

Are you curious about the contribution of the Arts to our local economy and quality of life? Then join us for a fascinating presentation and discussion at Eagan City Hall on Monday Feb 26 from 5:30pm-6:45pm.

Sheila Smith, Executive Director of Minnesota Citizens for the Arts and Chair of Creative MN, will share a report on the economic impact of the Arts in Eagan. You'll get an insight into the economic activity generated by the arts and artists in Eagan and the hard data you can use to advocate for your art organization.
Stay after the presentation for a discussion about the Super Block and make your mark on the vision for it.

Rotary Foreign Exchange: Community Meal

Join us at Art Works Eagan, 3795 Pilot Knob Rd, on March 11 from 1pm-2:30pm to try a variety of salads, sides, main dishes, and treats celebrating Brazilian and Italian traditions. Proceeds from this buffet style meal will help fund travel for our foreign exchange students ~~over Spring Break~~ in June.

When buying tickets, please select vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, or specify your dietary needs because we want YOU to be able to share a meal with the community.

This meal is brought to you by the 2017-2018 exchange students Isabelle França and Giovanni Arriciati with back-up by Rotary friends Ryan Murphy and Jerri Neddermeyer.

Email Jerri to reserve your spot.

Eagan Foundation Community Grants Coffee

Join the Eagan Foundation on this day of celebration: Thur 2/22 from 7:30-9:00am at the Lone Oak Grill.

Since 1990, the Eagan Foundation has contributed more than $1,000,000 to the Eagan community through student scholarships, local initiatives, and community grants.
The Eagan Foundation Community Grants Program is intended to directly benefit the Eagan community.
Grants are awarded only to nonprofit organizations, although an organization need not be formally incorporated or for general community benefit purposes.
The grant is to pay for things, not time or people.
Typically, grants are $1,000 or less.

Hope to see you there!

Empty Bowls

Save the date! The Open Door’s 9th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser will be held on Thursday, March 8 from 11am-2pm & 4:30pm-7:30pm at St. John Neumann Church in Eagan.
During this event, guests choose a hand-crafted and hand-painted bowl, share a simple meal of soup and bread, place chances at the ART10 drawing, and make a donation to support The Open Door, your local food shelf serving families and individuals across Dakota County.

Monies raised will help stock the shelves with fresh and healthy foods.

Welcome Robert Schuchman!

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary celebrated two new members in January. Today we introduce Robert Schuchman.

Robert has over 20 years of experience in real estate sales and appraisal services. He grew up in Iowa, served in the U.S. Marine Corps, and studied business at the University of Maryland before settling in Minnesota.

Robert and his wife Megan have raised three children in Eagan, two who currently attend the University of Minnesota and a senior at Cretin Durham Hall.

Robert loves to golf and has recently acquired a second home in Naples, Florida.

Welcome to Kick-Start, Robert Schuchman!

Like Us!

First 100 likes achieved!

Now navigate to Kick-Start's Facebook page so we can get started on the next 100.

There once was a man named Verbeke...

...who delivered an oversized check...

But I've spent so much time

Coming up with a rhyme

That I gave up on this limerick.

Meanwhile our friends at the Eagan High School Interact Club, mentored by Bill Wirsbinski, have big plans for the $500 contributed by Kick-Start Rotary, including assembling birthday bags for clients of The Open Door.

Busy Saturday of Service...

Saturday Feb. 3 was an unparalleled day of service for Eagan Kick-Start Rotary during which a majority of our membership dedicated the day to serving neighbors in need. Nineteen of our members, plus additional friends and family members, bagged groceries at Eagan's Cub Foods stores to raise money for The Open Door, Eagan's food pantry. And a few liked it so much that they went back on Super Bowl Sunday to bag some more! Thanks friends!

American Conversations: Looking Forward

In conjunction with Women’s Art Resources of Minnesota (WARM), Art Works Eagan's next exhibition is American Conversations: Looking Forward, featuring work that will spark conversations about the issues and problems that trouble and inspire us. Join us for the opening on February 11th from 6-9 pm for music and spoken word performances, as well as light refreshments. We can’t wait to see you there!

...But Wait, There's More!

On the same Saturday, four ADDITIONAL Kick-Start Rotarians plus family members and friends volunteered for the Days for Girls sewathon hosted by Kick-Start's own Karen Groves. They prepared hygiene kits for girls in parts of the world where feminine hygiene supplies are hard to come by. Thanks, friends, for all you do!

Kick-Start Recognized

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary has been recognized by The Rotary Foundation in three categories:

Top Three Highest in Per Capita Annual Giving,
Every Rotarian, Every Year Giving, and
100% Foundation Giving Club.

Thank you for your generosity!

Welcome Kip Springer!

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary celebrates two new members this month. The first we will introduce is Kip Springer. Kip serves as the Deputy Fire Chief for the Eagan Fire Department. He is entering his 29th year in the fire service, the last three with Eagan. He has degrees in Fire Science, Law Enforcement, Emergency Management, and is working toward a degree in Administration. His free time activities include racquetball and golf as well as charitable fundraising for causes including Special Olympics Polar Plunge, Fight for Air Climb for Cystic Fibrosis, American Cancer Society Relay for Life, and St. Baldrick's Foundation for childhood cancer research.
Kip lives in Rosemount with his wife Susie, 18 year-old daughter Anna, and 16 year-old son Kyle.
Welcome Kip!

Kick-Start Volunteers at The Open Door

On Thursday Feb 1 Eagan Kick-Start has committed to providing a team of six volunteers to The Open Door to assist in client grocery shopping and checkout. Clients arrive beginning at 5:30pm; volunteers should arrive 20-30 minutes early for orientation. Spouses/partners are welcome.

This is a busy time of year at The Open Door; please consider volunteering if you can, thanks!

Sign up electronically on Clubrunner.

Kick-Start Honors Paul Harris Fellows

Kick-Start is pleased to announce two new Paul Harris Fellows - Tom Hofstad and Mike Supina. Paul Harris Fellows are individuals who have contributed, or have had contributions made in their name, totaling $1000 to The Rotary Foundation. This recognition was established in 1957 to show appreciation for and encourage substantial contributions to the foundation. Since then over one million Paul Harris Fellows have been recognized. If you want to see your progress toward this goal, go to My Rotary and navigate first to Profile and then Donor History Report.

SOUP-er Sunday Approaches!

Kick-Start will collect soup cans at its 1/25 meeting to throw at Philadelphia fans as they arrive for the Super Bowl.

Just kidding! That's not how Minnesota rolls!

The cans will be donated to The Open Door to help feed our neighbors in need.

And, you can also bring your surplus paper grocery bags to any Kick-Start meeting or event and they will be delivered to TOD.

Contact Denise with any questions.

YMCA Seeks Board Members

The Eagan YMCA is looking for new members for its Community Board.

If you or anyone in your network would be a good candidate, please contact Nate Danielson.

The purpose of the Community Board is to:

Align the work of the local YMCA to the community as a whole and communities of interest as well as to the YMCA of the Greater Twin Cities.
Serve as a voting member of the Board with the authority and responsibility to identify, support, and promote excellence in YMCA programs and services to meet the needs of the entire community.
Support YMCA programs and services by leading in planning, monitoring, and evaluating YMCA programs and services.
Take an active leadership role in giving and securing financial resources for the YMCA and enlisting volunteer participation.

Apply at Member Services by Jan 31.

Days for Girls Sewathon

Kick-Start's Karen Groves will host a Sewathon on Saturday, February 3 from 9:30-noon to benefit the non-profit Days for Girls.

The sewathon will be held in the Foods Lab room at Eastview High School. A fellow Rotarian, Judy Johnson, will lead the project. She’s involved with Days for Girls and has organized 60+ sewathons! We’ll be cutting and sewing hygiene kits. Rotarians (and others) will deliver these kits to girls in 20 countries, most recently South Sudan and Guatemala. Judy brings all the supplies; we provide the labor.
Contact Karen for more details or to sign up.

Rotary Mid-Term Assembly

Please register now to attend the 2018 District 5950 Mid-Term Assembly, on January 27, 2018.
Mid Term Assembly is your chance to:

Hear District Governor Bob Halagan summarize the State of the District;
Learn about the District’s new initiatives;
Visit a showcase of Rotary projects to determine which one(s) you want to get involved in;
Attend breakout sessions to learn how to make your club more effective; and
Be motivated and inspired by a special Keynote Speaker - Joe Schmit, author of Silent Impact.

REGISTER NOW!

Early registrations are appreciated. The event is free for all District 5950 Rotarians (paid through your club’s Training Fee).

Thank you for all you do for Rotary and for helping District 5950 be the best it can be!

Thomas A. Gump

Rotary International District 5950

District Training Chair 2017-20

Governor-Nominee-Designate 2020-21

Rotary Club of Edina / Morningside, MN, USA

Mobile: (612) 770-8389

E-mail: tagump@gmail.com

Kick-Start Social: Zentangles

Our next Social will be Zentangles - Doodling for Grownups at the Eagan Art House. Julie Andersen offers her assurances that it isn't scary and no experience is necessary!
Appetizers and water will be provided (not dinner). BYOB but please limit it to beer or wine.
The cost is $5 per person and spouses/friends are welcome. There is space for 20-25 people, so first come first serve.
Please RSVP to Eric Swanson at your convenience and let him know if you have any questions.
A big thanks to Julie for helping to set this up!

Interact in Action!

The subzero temperatures will not deter the Eagan High School Interact Club (mentored by Bill Wirskbinski) from a busy winter of service. Upcoming projects include:

Feed My Starving Children on 2/22/2018 from 2:30-4:30PM. Kick-Starters are invited to join.
Making about 50 fleece tied baby blankets out of polar fleece to donate to local shelters.
Making up to 200 birthday bags for The Open Door for which they will use Kick-Start's $500 donation for the materials.
Coat check at Eagan Rotary Gala on 2/10/2018.
Jeans/coat drive at Eagan High School on 2/21-22/2018.
Researching 363 event, making sandwiches in partnership with a local grocery store for eight homeless locations (tentative date is 2/20/18).

Kick-Start's Mary Nell Zellner will report periodically on Interact's activities and how Kick-Start can be of assistance.

Eagan Rotary Gala!

The Eagan Rotary Noon Club is selling tickets online for the Eagan Rotary Gala which is February 10, 2018 at the Eagan Community Center. We hope by then to have adequately recovered from the Twin Cities hosting the Super Bowl and the Vikings winning it!

Once again you can join 350 people raising money that will be used to make a difference in our community and world. This the Noon Club's only fundraiser. It supports the club foundation and the money is spent back in the community on projects and not-for-profits. Last year the Noon Club committed $150,000 to help Art Works Eagan achieve their goal of opening their new space. The Noon Club gives approximately $30,000 in community grants per year.

And new for 2018: Eagan Rotary Gala tickets may now be purchased electronically via our Club’s website www.eaganrotary.org! Simply click on the giant red PURCHASE TICKETS icon prominently displayed on our home page and complete the simple four-step purchasing process. And you will also have the ability to purchase sponsorships with your credit card via our new electronic ticketing system. We’re absolutely convinced this will be a much easier/less time consuming system for us going forward – and rest assured, we’ll be with you every step of the way should you have questions or encounter any challenges.

One final note: if you add Scott Swenson's name as the Rotarian in the note section, he will include you as he coordinates seating.

Contact Scott Swenson with any questions.

Enjoy the Holidays!

One of the real joys this holiday season is the opportunity to say thank you to all Kick-Starters for everything you do and wish you the very best for the New Year. Spend time together with loved ones and enjoy the greatest gifts of the season - Peace, Joy, and Hope!

Hats and Gloves to Lewis House

Kick-Start kicked in funds to purchase warm hats and gloves for residents of Lewis House, a Sexual and Domestic Violence shelter in Eagan. We wanted to send along our friendliest faces with the delivery but they weren't available so instead we sent Buzz and Greg. Thanks guys!

Kick-Start Volunteers at The Open Door

On Thursday Jan. 4 Eagan Kick-Start has committed to providing a team of six volunteers to The Open Door to assist in client grocery shopping and checkout. Clients arrive beginning at 5:30pm; volunteers should arrive 20-30 minutes early for orientation. Spouses/partners are welcome.

This is a busy time of year at The Open Door; please consider volunteering if you can, thanks!

Sign up electronically on Clubrunner.

Year-End Giving

As you contemplate your year-end giving options, consider The Rotary Foundation. Recent contributions have been used to fund a worldwide campaign to eradicate polio which is very close to succeeding. Your contribution can make a difference on this and future initiatives.

Follow this link to donate online.

Or if you prefer a paper form, download the attached.

Thanks!

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary Club info:

District: 5950

Club ID: 86993

Kick-Start at the The Open Door

Kick-Start's five volunteers kept themselves hopping at The Open Door Thursday evening by shopping, weighing, logging, and loading 1233 lbs of groceries for 25 families. Since September about 40% of our membership has volunteered at least once at The Open Door. If you haven't yet, give it a try this winter - it's a great way to learn more about your community and your friends. For example, this month we learned how Betty Otto tricks Mike Ferber into eating kale.

Interact in Action

If you have ever wondered what the future of Rotary will be, you need look no further than the Eagan High School Interact Club. In just the past few months they have served our community with a fall leaf raking project, a winter coat drive, and a grocery bagging fundraiser at Cub Foods. What an inspiration for Rotary Clubs everywhere hoping to up their community service game!

Homeless Shelter Sponsorship

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary has committed to sponsoring one night of the Emergency Winter Shelter when it locates to Easter Lutheran Church in Eagan 2/17-3/17/2018. All proceeds collected from Happy Bucks at our weekly meetings in December and January will be earmarked for this cause; the club will make up any shortfall.

So when you are happy, be really happy!

Budget Game Plan 2018

Questions about Eagan's budget priorities? Wondering what value you will receive from your City tax dollars in 2018?

Send your questions now. Then the Eagan Finance Team will address them during a live Facebook Chat on November 28 at 3:00pm.

Art: Diverse Perspectives through Local Eyes

Join Art Works Eagan for a gallery exhibition celebrating the work of local artists in Eagan Artist Connect.

Art Works Eagan

Dec.3, 6pm-9pm

3795 Pilot Knonb Road

Eagan MN 55122

Cooks for Kids at Ronald McDonald House

The Cooks for Kids (CFK) Meal Providers program at Ronald McDonald House in St. Paul is a fun, flexible group volunteer opportunity that makes an enormous difference in the lives of families with seriously-ill children.
Eagan Kick Start Rotary will send a team of volunteers to plan, prepare and serve buffet style meals to Ronald McDonald House families at the Ronald McDonald Family Room located inside Children's Hospitals & Clinics of MN, St. Paul. After a long day at their child’s bedside, families tell us that a hot meal served by friendly volunteers is a highlight of their day.
Check out the Event Calendar for more details or to volunteer!

Kick-Start Volunteers at The Open Door

On Thursday Dec. 7 Eagan Kick-Start has committed to providing a team of six (or seven!) volunteers to The Open Door to assist in client grocery shopping and checkout. Clients arrive beginning at 5:30pm; volunteers should arrive 20-30 minutes early for orientation.

Our November effort resulted in our six volunteers shopping, weighing, logging, and loading 1220 lbs. of groceries for 24 families!

Spouses/partners are welcome. Sign up electronically on Clubrunner.

Kick-Start Honors Paul Harris Fellows

Quick! What do Kick-Start Rotarians Scott Erickson and Dave Verbeke have in common with Boris Yeltsin, Jonas Salk, Jimmy Carter, and Mother Teresa? All are Paul Harris Fellows - individuals who have contributed, or have had contributions made in their name, totaling $1000 to The Rotary Foundation. This recognition was established in 1957 to show appreciation for and encourage substantial contributions to the foundation. Since then over one million Paul Harris Fellows have been recognized. If you want to see your progress toward this goal, go to My Rotary and navigate first to Profile and then Donor History Report.

Thank you for all you do Scott and Dave!

Interact Coat Drive

The Eagan High School Interact Club will hold their annual coat drive beginning this week. So clean out those closets and bring any gently used coats to the meeting this Thursday 11/9. Dave Verbeke will collect the coats and deliver them to the high school.

One Rotary Summit Ideation

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary sent three representatives to the One Rotary Summit on Sep. 15 at the Earle Brown Heritage Center. Follow the link for the raw notes transcribed from the ideas generated that day. District 5950 will ultimately create a “toolkit” that offers a step by step approach to some of the ideas. As you use or implement ideas, please let Tom Gump know your experience.

Together we can move ideas to action.

Beer, Fun, and Inspiration with TreeHouse

Numerous Kick-Start Rotarians joined TreeHouse at Bald Man Brewing for beer, food, live music, and inspirational words of love, hope, and transformation from those who serve at and attend TreeHouse in Eagan. TreeHouse raised over $40,000 to support at-risk teens in our community.

Special thanks to Kick-Start's own Scott Erickson for helping to organize and publicize the event!

Kids 'n Kinship Informational Meeting

You are invited to attend a Kids 'n Kinship Information Session on Monday, Oct 30 from 6 to 6:45 pm at the Wescott Library in Eagan.

The Information Session is the place to hear about the children who are waiting for mentors, the volunteer screening process and the activities and benefits provided by Kids 'n Kinship. Mentor application materials will be available.

Mentoring is rewarding and you can make a big difference in the life of a child!

Let us know if you can attend via email or phone at: rykinship@aol.com or 651-686-0990. Thank you!

Kick-Start Volunteers at The Open Door

On Thursday Nov. 2 Eagan Kick-Start has committed to providing a team of six volunteers to The Open Door to assist in client grocery shopping and checkout. Clients arrive beginning at 5:30pm; volunteers should arrive 20-30 minutes early for orientation. Spouses/partners are welcome. Sign up electronically on Clubrunner.

Rotarians Team with Interact at FMSC

On October 10, Rotarians from Kick-Start and the Eagan Noon Club joined with around 80(!) Eagan High School Interact Club members to pack food at Feed My Starving Children.

The combined turnout of volunteers for this event was likely the highest of any Rotary event in Eagan, which is good news for the recipients of this food.

The numbers are:

Boxes packed: 254
Total Meals: 54,860

Value of meals: $19,070
Kids fed for a year: 151

Good work, team!

Welcome Derek Schilling!

I grew up in New Ulm, Minnesota and graduated from St. Cloud State in 2000 with a degree in Geology. I am married, and my wife, Laura, is an Accounting Manager for Deluxe Corporation. After 14 years in the Chanhassen area, we moved to Eagan in the summer of 2016. Our house is currently run for the comfort of our two dogs, Rowdy and Bruno.

Laura and I like to travel, with cruises being our method of choice. We have been fortunate to visit 17 different countries, and escape many cold winter weeks via cruise ships. My other interests include geology, paleontology, disc golf, fantasy football, and enjoying time with family and friends.

My 16 years of experience as an Environmental Consultant have found me at Braun Intertec as a Senior Scientist in the Environmental Consulting Group. At Braun Intertec, I enjoy managing projects involving environmental remediation of Brownfields sites to facilitate redevelopment. It is fulfilling to see my work have a positive community impact while supporting my clients. I also support other service areas for Braun, including property transfer environmental assessments, asbestos, and lead-based paint investigations. My professional certifications include Licensed Professional Geologist in the State of Minnesota and Certified Hazardous Materials Manager.

An Evening for TreeHouse

Please join TreeHouse for a fun evening of beer, food, live music, and dancing.
TreeHouse will present an encouraging message of love, hope, and transformation for at-risk teens in our community.

Wednesday, November 1st
6:30 to 9:30pm
Bald Man Brewing
2020 Silver Bell Road, Eagan, MN 55122

Hors d’oeuvres by Andiamo
Big Band tunes by Steam Heat for your listening and dancing pleasure

RSVP to Scott Erickson at Scott.Erickson55@gmail.com

Art: The Unexpected Application of Skill

Two years of organizing brought Art Works Eagan to a brick and mortar home in the heart of Eagan. Two months of renovation and intense volunteerism have made it possible to open the doors of Art Works Eagan to the public! Come and celebrate the grand opening with friends and neighbors!

Experience the perspective of featured artists: Kristin Hoelscher-Shacker, Brenda Lyseng, Felix Guadalajara, Becka Rahn and Thomas Schrunk.

Food provided by the Lone Oak Grill. Admission is free!

Share Your Inspiration!

Posted by Mike Supina

For me, one of the highlights of each meeting is hearing those pearls of wisdom that each of our members finds inspirational.

So I want to try something new - email your inspiration to me after each meeting and I will use it as a header for Kick-Start News the following week.

Gives those who missed it a chance to see it and those who heard it a moment for further reflection. Thanks!

Art Works Eagan Needs Elbow Grease!

As most of you know, our sister Rotary Noon Club has made a significant contribution to help support Art Works Eagan. While we don't have the deep pockets they have (yet), we do have plenty of able bodied volunteers who can help AWE open their doors and become a vibrant art space in our home town Eagan. AWE has set up a Sign-Up Genius to help manage the helpers. Please consider joining a shift or 2 to help this dream come true. All donations of time will be counted as service hours for your Rotary membership. If you bring a friend or family member they add to our hours!

Here's the link.

Hurricane Maria Devastates Puerto Rico

Many Kick-Starters have loved ones in North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska. Imagine if a disaster occurred that left every resident of those three states with no electricity, safe drinking water, or even mobile phone service. 3.5 million people desperate for help, some trapped in isolated locations, some with serious medical needs.
This is not a hypothetical scenario. It is happening right now, not in the Upper Midwest, but in Puerto Rico, where the entire population, equal to that of three nearby states, is suffering with no relief in sight, perhaps for months.
Please check out this link or other organizations dedicated to assisting the Americans of Puerto Rico, and help however you can.

Guild Ladder of Hope

Join Guild Inc. at their annual benefit lunch to hear unforgettable stories of hope and recovery.

Date: Wednesday, December 6th Registration 11:30 a.m. Program 12:00 - 1:00 p.m
InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront: 11 E Kellogg Blvd St. Paul, MN 55101
RSVP to your table captain - Gary Hansen.

Free parking will be available for guests at the InterContinental and Capital City parking ramps. Parking vouchers distributed at event.

Visit the InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront website for detailed directions.

To learn more about the Ladder of Hope, call 651-925-8454 or visit www.guildincorporated.org

Guild Incorporated: Integrated treatment and services for people with mental illness.

Invoices are Out!

You should have received an e-mail with your invoice from Tom Hofstad.

Please remit your dues at your earliest convenience.
Contact Tom with any questions.

Welcome Dianne Miller!

Dianne Miller has proudly worked for the City of Eagan for 16 years. She is the Assistant City Administrator, overseeing several departments within the City, including Human Resources, Information Technologies, Elections and City Clerk functions. She also is the City’s point person on recycling and airport relations. Eagan Forward has been an effort under Dianne’s leadership, as she has a keen interest in community and employee engagement.

Dianne grew up in Burnsville, Minnesota and received her bachelor’s degree in public administration from St. Mary’s University. She went on to earn her master’s degree in public administration from the University of Kansas.

Dianne discovered her passion for public service and community engagement through experience such as working with the Red Cross, interning with local communities, and wielding an ax to dig trenches for water pipes in Guatemala. Her formal career began in the City of Overland Park, Kansas during graduate school. She then had the privilege of beginning her fulltime local government career in the City of Eagan in 2001, where she continues to serve today.

Dianne has been married for 13 years to her husband, Justin, who is the City Administrator of Lakeville and a fellow Rotarian. They are blessed with four spirited daughters, ranging in age from a new middle schooler to a head-strong two year old. The family dog, Sherman, is a neurotic but lovable Goldendoodle.

Away from the office, Dianne is a bit of a sports junkie and typically can be found on the sidelines of her kids’ soccer games, cheering on her Kansas Jayhawk basketball team, or walking the trails throughout Eagan’s parks and neighborhoods.

Celebrating Rotarians at Work

District 5950 Governor Bob Halagan writes about finding solutions in a time of discord.

Kick-Start Kickoff at The Open Door

On Thursday Sep 7 Eagan Kick-Start Rotary kicked off its volunteer effort at The Open Door. Six volunteers contributed a total of 14 hours assisting 17 client families shopping the aisles of the food pantry, then weighing, logging, and loading the groceries into vehicles. All told, the volunteer team distributed 856 pounds of groceries. Check the events calendar on Clubrunner or in Kick-Start News for future volunteer dates.

Hurricane Harvey Relief

Rotary provides a way for you to contribute to the Hurricane Harvey relief effort.

Follow this link for more information.

Can Do Wooferoo

Once again our own Mike Ferber is involved with Can Do Canines with the wonderful Wooferoo being held Saturday, September 16, 2017.

Please consider supporting this outstanding organization with a pledge to Mike's team, Dogs R Us.

This event benefits Can Do Canines and helps them to continue to provide assistance dogs free of charge.

Dogs R Us was the top team last year and is gunning for a repeat performance.

Brooklyn was the most recent of Mike's 40+ trainee dogs; she is now off to college for her final training.

All gifts are appreciated! Thank you!

Kick-Start Volunteers at The Open Door

On Thursday Sep. 7 Eagan Kick-Start has committed to providing a team of seven volunteers to The Open Door to assist in client grocery shopping and checkout. Clients arrive beginning at 5:30pm; volunteers should arrive 20-30 minutes early for orientation. Spouses/partners are welcome. Sign up electronically on Clubrunner.

Welcome Mary Nell Zellner!

Mary Nell Zellner has been extremely involved and successful in the leadership and direction setting for Zellner Senior Health Consulting and its ever-expanding consulting service lines; client relationships; and functional expertise. She has more than 25 years of experience serving as a trusted strategic business advisor to health care industry chief executive officers, executive management, and boards of directors to aggressively develop vision, mission, strategy, and profitability. As both a consultant and management executive, Ms. Zellner offers a unique blending of business, financial, operational, and marketing strategies to facilitate transformational change management, competitive positioning, and P&L performance.

Ms. Zellner’s areas of expertise include the following:

• Strategic planning/facilitation.

• Health care continuum alignments including affiliations, partnerships, joint ventures, and mergers.

• Market growth strategies.

• Clinical service line innovation, development, and diversification.

• Operational and margin improvement and turnaround.

• Payor-provider model innovation including shared savings/risk such as ACOs.

• Interim leadership

Prior to re-starting her practice, she worked with Health Dimensions Group as a Vice President and Senior Vice President of Consulting Services. Ms. Zellner also managed the consulting practice of a Midwest long-term care consulting.

Ms. Zellner was the James B. Swanson Facility of Excellence winner in 1996, was awarded the Phyllis King Leadership Award in 2002 from Pathway Health Services Corporation, and the 2011 Commitment Award from Face the World.

FMSC Food Packing/Happy Hour

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary will volunteer to pack food for those in need.

Family members and friends are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Participants will gather at Lone Oak Grill afterwards for refreshments.

Time

Wed Aug 30 5:45pm - 7:30pm

Place

Feed My Starving Children

990 Lone Oak Rd #136

Eagan MN 55121

Club Contact

Jason Madson

Dare Homers in Clutch!

Scheduled speaker Jason Viana of The Open Door had an unexpected conflict arise so our own Karen Dare filled in to share what she's learned as a board member at The Open Door.

And the club came through with 216 lbs of food donations!

Plus an unannounced guest.

One Rotary Summit

DISTRICT 5950 ON SEPTEMBER 15, 2017

Are you a person with leadership skills? Do you share your ideas in your Rotary Club? Are you a person of action? Then you should come to your District's One Rotary Summit. You will learn how membership, public image, humanitarian service and supporting your Rotary Foundation work together in Making a Difference in your local community.

You will meet fellow D5950 Rotarians who have similar interests in being a "Person of Action" -- which is an exciting phrase to use in sharing about your Rotary efforts. You will take home ideas that have worked or will be worthy of trying in this and in future years. Don't miss this event. There will be breakfast, lunch and beverages to fuel you to be fired up!

Registration Details

What: One Rotary Summit (ORS)
Where: Earle Brown Heritage Center
When: Friday, September 15, 2017
From: 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Breakfast and Lunch provided)
Charge: Free for all Rotary members! (Funded by club training fee)

Registration Deadline - August 31, 2017.

Participate in a new format of case-study learning and help develop tools for District 5950’s Female Engagement Toolbox!

Questions: Please call Tom Gump (612) 770-8389

Come Welcome Isabelle and Giovanni

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary joins the Eagan Rotary Club in welcoming Isabelle and Giovanni as exchange students this fall. Isabelle is visiting from Brazil; Giovanni comes from Italy. Both students arrive on Aug 26. Rotarians will assemble at the baggage level of Terminal 1 (Lindbergh) to welcome Isabelle when she arrives at 10:45am, and then later that same day to welcome Giovanni when he arrives at 8:30pm.

Kick-Start Rotary on LinkedIn

KICK-START ROTARIANS!

JOIN OUR CLUB'S GROUP ON LINKEDIN!

Connecting to your fellow club members helps you network and helps the club learn about potential new members from among your other connections!

Rotary Global Rewards

Rotary Global Rewards, our member benefits program, offers discounts on products and services from local and global merchants, along with opportunities to give back to Rotary.

Over 33,000 members have signed in to use Rotary Global Rewards. To raise awareness of this program, you can:

Recommend Rotary Global Rewards to all club members. They can visit www.rotary.org/globalrewards from a computer or download the Rotary Club Locator App to use the program on mobile devices.
Post a "Rewards" link to www.rotary.org/globalrewards on your club and district websites. This gives members easier access to Rotary Global Rewards.
Encourage club members to post offers on Rotary Global Rewards.
Suggest that club members help the program grow in their communities by asking local merchants to post offers.

You can find instructional videos, how-to-guides, and promotional materials on the Rotary Global Rewards page of My Rotary. If you have any questions about the program, write to rotaryglobalrewards@rotary.org.

Supplies for Uganda

Are you storing unused sewing and knitting machines, material, yarn and supplies….they are needed in Uganda!!

The Rotary Club of Maple Grove is collecting sewing machines + supplies (fabric, thread, needles, scissors, etc.), and knitting machines + supplies (yarn, knitting needles, crochet hooks, etc.) to create a sewing center in Uganda near one of the largest refugee camps in the world. They are also accepting bed linens and gardening tools.

The sewing center project will impact the lives of women and their children who arrive in Uganda as economic, political and war refugees. These refugees have no way of supporting themselves or make a living, and these families ending up homeless and hungry on the streets Kampala and the surrounding area.

These items will be used in a sewing cooperative and each machine donated will help a family become financially independent. Many women have been victims of wartime sexual violence and because of a lack of skills, tools and/or supplies, they are trapped in the sex trade. Learning to sew and knit can liberate them.

Sewing and knitting equipment and supplies will be accepted until September 17, 2017 as the 40’ container will leave Minnesota for Uganda in early October. In December, several people from Minnesota will be traveling to Uganda to teach people how to sew and knit.

For pick up, please contact Judy Johnson, jjohnson9730@msn.com, 612-296-6658

Welcome Mark Anderson!

I grew up in rural southern MN about 20 miles SW of Mankato, in Madelia. I attended Gustavus Adolphus College where I received my Financial Economics Degree. My wife Mary, and I have been residents of Eagan for 26 years, and we have 2 boys, Collin and Krister. Collin is attending the College of St Scholastica in Duluth, and Krister is at Eagan High School.

Other employment since college has included Dean Witter Reynolds Brokerage, and Norwest Bank. For the past 27 years, I have served south metro Educators and school employees with Horace Mann Insurance. We specialize in all the personal lines of insurance (auto, home, toys), Life Insurance, and retirement programs. I am the Agency Owner/President of the Mark G. Anderson Insurance Agency, Inc. My office is located in Burnsville and includes myself, two licensed producers, and two office assistants.

I am Head Course Marshal for the Twin Cities Marathon TC 10 mile, “Shortcut to the Capitol” and have served on several event committees with TCM, and metro area groups. In my spare time I enjoy running, golfing, triathlons, attending Timberwolves games, supporting the activities/sports of our boys (in basketball, Collin was Freshman of the Year and contributed 36 pts in 4 OT loss in the UMAC Championship Game last season), and helping my wife with the many running events she manages. Highlights of activities include the destination marathons that I have completed in NYC, Honolulu, and Disney World.

Food and Fund Drive

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary would like to welcome Jason Viana of The Open Door with contributions of food, household supplies, and gift cards to local markets.

Jason will speak to the club at the August 17 meeting.

The top five needed items are:

* Peanut butter

* Canned tuna or chicken

* 16-48 oz bottles of vegetable oil

* 64 oz bottles of 100% fruit juice

* Toilet paper

In addition, gift cards to Cub, Target, Sam's Club or other local food markets are always welcome.

Bring your donations to the 8/10 or 8/17 meetings where they will be bundled for The Open Door.

2018 Rotary Convention - Toronto

INSPIRATION AROUND EVERY CORNER
JOIN US IN TORONTO 23-27 JUNE 2018

Rotary International looks forward to welcoming you to the 109th Rotary convention in Toronto. It will be an exciting event, where we’ll celebrate a year of successful service and look ahead to the future.
Not only will you hear captivating speeches and attend lively breakout sessions, you’ll also get to explore the service of others in the House of Friendship while connecting with fellow Rotarians from around the world.
Register today and take advantage of early registration savings!

Camp Enterprise Registration Now Open

Registration is open for 2017 Rotary Camp Enterprise, 11/2-4 at YMCA Camp Ihduhapi, 25 miles west of Minneapolis on Lake Independence.

Camp Enterprise is the opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to immerse themselves for three days in understanding the free enterprise system. Presentations are made by business executives and entrepreneurs who share their experiences and answer questions on a variety of fields and interests. You will participate in discussions about business and life after high school including a chance at scholarships totaling approximately $5000!

Check out the schedule of events for this 3 day/2 night residency camp. Register here.

Panel on the Opioid Epidemic

The Rotary Club of Minneapolis will host a panel on the opioid epidemic on August 4, 2017 @ 12 pm.

Minneapolis is experiencing an opioid epidemic: over prescription, illegal markets, and sadly, overdose deaths. Learn about causes, implications, and potential solutions from three unique and powerful perspectives: law enforcement, medical/personal, and industry solutions.

Speakers:

Rich Stanek, Hennepin County Sheriff
Lori Lewis, Registered Nurse
Rob Reynolds, Deterra Systems

The cost of this event is $20 for visiting Rotarians and guests. Reservations requested.

Windows on the Marquette, IDS Building, 50th Floor
80 S 8th St, Minneapolis, MN 55402
RSVP: sybylla@mplsrotary.org

Attention New Members!

We like to include an introduction to each new member in the newsletter. Please write up a short little bio/intro (including a photo), and email it to msupina@comcast.net. We will then include a couple each week until we get caught up with all of our new members. Thanks for your attention, and welcome to Eagan Kick-Start Rotary! CLICK HERE for a document that will help you navigate our ClubRunner. Updating your information will help us all stay connected!

National Night Out is Aug 1

Eagan residents, lock your doors and spend the evening outside with your neighbors! Effective Crime Prevention begins with strong neighborhood and community relationships.

National Night Out is designed to:

Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness
Generate support for and participation in anti-crime efforts
Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships
Send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back

Neighborhoods celebrate National Night Out many different ways:

Block parties
Cookouts
Potluck suppers
Games for children
Barbecue
Ice cream socials

National Night Out is sponsored by the Eagan Police and Fire Departments and the Eagan Citizen’s Crime Prevention Association. Visit the website to find a party in your neighborhood.

Recruitment Training Opportunity!

JOIN DISTRICT & CLUB LEADERS TO EXCHANGE IDEAS AND HELP DEVELOP RECRUITMENT TOOLS FOR THE DISTRICT 5950 TOOLBOX

REGISTRATION DEADLINE - AUGUST 31, 2017

REGISTRATION DETAILS

What: One Rotary Summit (ORS)

Where: Earle Brown Heritage Center

When: Friday, September 15, 2017

From: 8:00am to 1:00pm (Breakfast Buffet and Box Lunch provided)

For: Club presidents, officers, Membership chairs, Public Image chairs, The Rotary Foundation chairs, and general membership.
Charge: Free for all District 5950 Rotarians! (Paid by training fee)

Questions: Please call Tom Gump (612) 770-8389

Rotary Int'l President-elect Sam F. Owori Dies

Rotary International President-elect Sam F. Owori died on 13 July due to complications from surgery. Sam was a member of the Rotary Club Kampala, Uganda, for 38 years.

Read more on the Rotary International website.

Reminder! July 13 Meeting at Databank

Arrive at 3255 Neil Armstrong Blvd between 6:30 am and 7 am.
Approach main gate, roll down window, press entry button.
Identify yourself as a Rotary member visiting for tour.

Questions? Call Buzz at 651-456-5730

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary Earns Presidential Citation

The Eagan Kick-Start Rotary Club has earned its second consecutive Presidential Citation, for the 2016-17 Rotary year. Clubs earn a Presidential Citation by achieving milestones in the areas of membership attraction and engagement, contributing to the Rotary Foundation, humanitarian service, mentoring, and maintaining visibility in their communities. Eagan Kick-Start Rotary looks forward to further increasing its impact both locally and beyond in the coming year.

Invoices are Out!

You should have received an e-mail with your invoice from Tom Hofstad.

Please remit your dues at your earliest convenience.
Contact Tom with any questions.

New Club Board of Directors for 2017-18

Thanks to all who attended out year end celebration at Blackhawk park. Your Club's Board of Directors for 2017-18 are:

(pictured left to right)

Jerri Neddermeyer- Member at Large

Karen Dare- President Elect

Mike Supina- Secretary

Dave Verbeke- President

Doreen Runquist- Sargent at Arms

Eric Swanson- Past President

Tom Hofstad- Treasurer (not pictured)

Good luck to all in the coming year!

Thanks, Greg!

Thanks, Greg Oxley for agreeing to be a mentor for our newest member, Jon Jandro!

Eagan's NEW Lone Oak Tree

Your Eagan Kick Start Rotary Club, in conjunction with the Historical Society has sponsored the new Lone Oak Tree planted at the Old City Hall Building on Pilot Knob Drive. Our thanks to Greg Oxley for making us aware of the opportunity to associate our club with the newest symbol of the city of Eagan. This project also helps our club demonstrate the Presidential theme for 2017-18 which is Rotary: Making a Difference. Ian Risely, incoming Rotary International President, has asked each Club to plant a tree for each of their members during the coming Rotary year.

Kick Start Sponsors the Lone Oak Tree

Your Eagan Kick Start Rotary Club, in conjunction with the Historical Society has sponsored the Lone Oak Tree that will be planted at the Old City Hall Building on Pilot Knob Drive. Our thanks to Greg Oxley for making us aware of the opportunity to associate our club with the newest symbol of the city of Eagan. This project also helps our club demonstrate the Presidential theme for 2017-18 which is Rotary: Making a Difference. Ian Risely, incoming Rotary International President, has asked each Club to plant a tree for each of their members during the coming Rotary year. Please join us for the dedication and planting ceremony at 8:30 AM on Thursday June 8, 2017

Robotics!

	Eagan High School Robotics Team 2220 Blue Twilight brought their robot from this year's FIRST Robotics Competition. Each year, the robotics program dedicates time to building solutions to problems and puzzles. The teams compete with other teams to meet the challenges together.
	The team is proud of their accomplishments including their outreach such as support of younger program and support of teams developing in other countries.
	Robots are cool, but they are super fascinating when born from the minds of our local youth. There is no better educational opportunity than building teams of problem solvers.

Meet New Rotarian: John Diedrich

Meet one of our newest members, John Diedrich! He is the first one of the new batch to submit his photo and information for the newsletter! Thanks, John, and WELCOME!

John writes:

I grew up in West St Paul, attending St Michael’s and St Joseph’s grammar schools and Archbishop Brady High School (now St Croix Lutheran).

Following high school, I joined the US Navy, serving in the Navy Nuclear Program for seven years (1971-1978). After the Navy, I moved to the civilian nuclear power industry, first with the Tennessee Valley Authority in Chattanooga, TN; then stint with Westinghouse Electric in Atlanta, Georgia, where I worked as a non-degreed engineer.

Westinghouse eventually discovered that they could hire a fully-degreed engineer for less money than they were paying me, so they provided a nice severance package, including money to go back to school for a degree. I took the hint, moved in with my in-laws in Eagan, Minnesota, and enrolled at the University of Minnesota, eventually earning a Bachelor of Electrical Engineering.

After graduating from the U, I worked as a Project Engineer with several system integrators, designing and installing industrial control systems in various industries. I’ve put systems together for fossil fuel plants, fire detection/suppression systems for refineries, semiconductor fabrication systems for Intel and Motorola, and water/wastewater systems across the United States.

In 2009, the Idaho National Laboratory offered me a position in a new group they were starting to support the Department of Homeland Security cyber-security effort. I have been part of the Industrial Control Systems Cyber Emergency Response Team (ICS-CERT) for eight years: 2.5 years in Idaho Falls, ID; 2 years in Arlington, VA; and the last 3.5 years working remotely from Mendota Heights. My primary function is as a subject matter expert (SME) for water/wastewater control systems. I also provide support to the Production Group, which finalizes the various products that ICS-CERT publishes (mostly on the website).

As interesting as my current position is, it won’t last forever; and I plan to retire within the next five years. In the past three months I’ve begun taking courses to prepare myself for my retirement career as a futures/options trader.

Ice Cream Party with Eagan High School Interact Club

=COOL

Join Eagan High School' Interact Club for an ice cream social!

Thursday, May 25, 2017

2:30 - 4:00 p.m.

at Eagan High School

Welcome Our Speakers May 25, 2017

Team 2220 Blue Twilight is an FRC (FIRST Robotics Competition) team out of Eagan High School. Students work alongside experienced mentors on one of three subteams to learn about topics ranging from electronics and programming, to design and build, to grant writing and social media. The team runs all year long, spending summers focusing on community outreach, training students during the fall, and then building a competition robot during the winter which is used at tournaments in the spring. This past year, Blue Twilight won numerous awards at both the regional and world championship levels.

Keep it simple: Just help out when and where you can!

Thanks, volunteers, for being good neighbors!

	Eagan Kick-Start Rotarians got out to do a little yard work to help out a neighbor. What a great way to celebrating beautiful weather, able bodies, and time to give back to the community!
	Huge thanks to the volunteers: Jason, Eric, Cathy, Steve, and Karen (Jerri sends apologies for missing anyone not in pictures)
	Way to be good neighbors! #ServiceAboveSelf

Kick-Start Rotary Bowls for Kids N Kinship

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary sponsored 10 bowlers to support Kids N Kinship on Sunday, April 23, 2017 at Cedarvale Lanes.

If you are planning a bowling league, rumor has it that our President Eric Swanson and Luther Wynder are good picks for your team!

Early Squad Bowlers = Karen Dare, Doreen Runquist, Scott Swenson, Andrew Pimental, Jerri Neddermeyer

Late Lanes Bowlers = Mike and Olivia Supina, Eric Swanson, Luther Wynder, and Denise Sjoberg

True Blue Gala Invitation: Support DCTC and our own Michelle Davis

Get your tickets HERE!

Give Karen Groves a HIGH FIVE!

Give KAREN GROVES a big HIGH FIVE!

She has volunteered to mentor TWO new Rotarians!

Thanks for all you do to get our new members kick-started!

Spring Clean-up Service Project with DARTS

Sign-up with Jason to help a neighbor with Spring yard cleaning!

Saturday, May 6, 2017

9:00 a.m.

Adopt-A-Street Clean-up is Delayed

Our adopted street, O'Neill Drive, is under construction.

Good news: we get out of cleaning it on April 30!

Bad news: when we do get to clean it, it will be extra dirty!

Bring your work gloves, friends!

Support Eagan's Funfest Ambassadors: April 24 @ Chipotle

Support our community youth, Eagan Funfest and get your burrito all at the same time! Show the flyer on your phone or just tell the cashier that you are supporting Funfest Ambassadors.

Monday, April 24, 2017

5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Chipotle at 3324 Promenade Ave, #107, Eagan, MN

Bowlathon: April Social to Support Kids 'n Kinship

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary Club is committing to 10 bowlers at the Bowlathon to support Kids 'n Kinship. We are inviting all who wish to participate to register through ClubRunner or sign-up at meetings until April 6. Help us support this wonderful nonprofit while having fun together!

Sunday, April 23, 2017

3:00-4:30 p.m.

Cedarvale Lanes

3883 Cedar Grove Parkway

Eagan, MN

Cost: $25/Bowler

Eagan Kick-Start Club is planning to support 10 bowlers. If you would like to contribute by "paying your own way," please write a check to Eagan Kick-Start Rotary. If we have more than 10 bowlers interested, we will need to have participants contribute. We look forward to solving that logistical "problem" when we have 100% club participation for this worthy event!

Capitol Tour March 23, 2017

Thanks to our Program Committee: Buzz, Karen, and Julie for organizing our weekly engagements. A special thanks to Buzz Anderson, Laurie Halverson and Paul Hicks for their time and expertise. The Capitol is beautiful and the tour was memorable!

Newest Mentors for Newest Members

Newest Mentors for Newest Members:

Barry Minsker - John Diedrich

Karen Groves - Julie Farrell

Karen Dare - Kim Heckmann

Thank you mentors for this very important service.

More mentors are needed. Contact Mike Ferber at mgferber@usfamily.net or 651-454-3066 if you are willing to be a mentor.

Feed My Starving Children: EK-S and Interact

Eagan High School Interact Club and Eagan Kick-Start Rotary Club volunteered at Feed My Starving Children on March 14, 2017 packaging 24,960 meals...enough food to feed 68 children for one year. Thanks to our EK-S Volunteers: Mike Ferber, Jerri Neddermeyer, Doreen Runquist, Eric Swanson, Mike Supina, and David Verbeke

Be a mentor!

Be a mentor, you can...

and help the Kick-Start Club thrive, you will!

Current mentors and new members/soon to be new members are:

Mark Bonstrom—Andrew Pimental

Mike Supina—Keevan Kosidowski

Gene Kuppenbender—Nate Danielson

David Bullock—Mike Fedde

Karen Groves—Michelle Davis

Gary Hansen—Tarryl Clark

Jason Madson—Denise Sjoberg

Thank you mentors for this very important service.

More mentors are needed. Contact Mike Ferber at mgferber@usfamily.net or 651-454-3066 if you are willing to be a mentor.

Capitol Tour March 23

Are you ready to tour the MN State Capitol??????

We’ll meet this Thursday, 3/23, at 6:30AM at Granite City, and leave for our field trip to the Capitol. Drivers, if anyone has trouble walking, Buzz says you can drop off riders at the Promenade under the Capitol steps. There’s metered street parking on John Ireland Blvd and Cedar St, but be prepared in case the meters just take quarters. You might want to look for a Lot. We’ll meet in the Rathskeller, basement/tunnel level at 7AM for coffee and doughnuts. Please look at the list below to make sure your name is included if you need a ride. Email Karen Groves at karen.groves@thrivent.com with any changes ASAP.

Meeting at Granite City at 6:30 a.m.

Dave Verbeke (Driving)

Barry Minsker

Julie Andersen

Doreen Runquist

Andrew Pimental (Driving)

Eric Swanson

Karen Groves

Karen Dare

Mike Ferber (Driving)

Pat Geagen

Sue Geagen

Mark Bonstrom (Driving)

Mike Supina

John Diedrich

Sharon Diedrich

Driving Separately: Buzz Anderson, Tarryl Clark, Keevan Kosidowski, Jerri Neddermeyer, Gary Hanson, David Bullock

EK-S Rotary at Eagan Community Connections Event

Connecting with the community through service: Eagan Kick-Start Rotary

March 6, 2017: City of Eagan hosted a Community Connections Event with 40 community organizations present. Eagan Kick-Start Rotary spent the afternoon chatting with neighbors, friends, and future Rotarians about the service provided by our club members.

Vikings Cheerleaders with Mike Ferber, Scott Swenson, and Mike Supina	Putting tutorials by Cathy McCoy
Friendly faces: Cathy McCoy, Doreen Runquist, and Greg Oxely	Future and Past Presidents: Dave Verbeke and Mike Ferber

Eagan Business Council Round Table MARCH 8

Eagan Business Council Round Table Event

Location:

Argosy University
1515 Central Parkway
Eagan, MN 55121

Date/Time Information:

Wednesday, March 8, 2017
8:00 to 9:00 a.m.

Contact Information:

651.452.9872

Fees/Admission:

Free to attend, but please RSVP your attendance.

Reminder: EARLY START TIME 6:45 a.m. March 16 Meeting

Due to the State of the City scheduled for 8:00 a.m. at Bald Man Brewery,

we are starting early on March 16.

March your calendars and DON'T FORGET TO REMEMBER!

Thanks, Dave! Way to Step Up!

Thanks to our newest volunteer mentor, David Bullock! He has stepped up to mentor our newest member Mike Fedde. As we gain more members, we will be looking for more mentors. Are you ready to step up too?

Rosemount Rotary Fundraiser: Irish for a Day Soiree

Paul Eggen from the Rosemount Rotary Club will be visiting our club this week, so if you are interested in an Irish Soiree for a good cause, be prepared to buy tickets.

Empty Bowls Event to Support The Open Door Food Pantry

Plan to attend the 8th Annual Empty Bowls event

Thursday, March 2, 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. and 4:30-7:30 p.m.

St. John Neumann Catholic Church

4030 Pilot Knob Road, Eagan

If you would also like to volunteer, you can click to sign-up to help or bring a yummy treat.

Community Connections Event March 4, 2017

Help us connect with our community by volunteering to represent Eagan Kick-Start Rotary at the "Community Connections" event hosted by the City of Eagan. Local organizations will be present to talk with the guests about the cool happenings in our wonderful city. Our Board of Directors is putting together some materials and an activity for our table, and we need volunteers to hang out, answer questions, and talk about Rotary! Sign-ups will be available at the upcoming meetings between now and March 4. The event is held at the Eagan Community Center from 12-4 p.m. Make sure you allow yourselves enough time to make the rounds and meet representatives from other cool organizations too!

Little Ways to Make a Big Impact with INTERACT

There are two upcoming opportunities to support Eagan High School Interact Club and the causes they impact:

1. EHS Interact Annual Jean Drive

Please bring your extra jeans of any size to the Eagan Kick-Start Rotary meeting on Thursday, February 23, and Doreen Runquist will transport our donations to Eagan High School. Donations ultimately support The Union Gospel Mission and the Aid Dah Yung Center in St. Paul.

2. EHS Interact at Feed My Starving Children

Save the date to assist EHS Interact at Feed My Starving Children on March 14 at 2:30 p.m. Sign-up at the EK-S Rotary Meeting this week to help out! Mr. Wirsbinski tells the Interact students, "Have a Cause other than yourself." They are a remarkable group of young people!

Thanks from The Open Door and Scott Swenson

Dear Friends,

On Super Bowl weekend we undertook the single largest community outreach event in the history of The Open Door, and thanks to your help the event was a tremendous success. You joined over 200 community members who volunteered their time to bag groceries, sell Cub Cares bags of food, and spread the mission of The Open Door to thousands of shoppers at all 3 Cub Store locations in Eagan.

Thanks to your generous gift of time, energy, and enthusiasm we raised nearly $30,000 in cash and food donations!

The collective impact of your efforts goes far beyond the dollars raised and the food collected...your time and efforts helped bring the issue of hunger in our community front and center on one of the busiest shopping weekends of the year, and helped hundreds of shoppers learn about our mission of ending local hunger through access to healthy food.

This event took more than volunteer power...it also took financial support. Home Federal and Cub Foods laid the ground work as title sponsors, and are deserving of our gratitude as well as our support. Superior Service Center and Liberty Title, and all of our sponsors listed on the right side of this page gave to make this event the success that it was. Please support the companies and individuals who support The Open Door.

Thank you. Thank you for giving up time on your weekend, thank you for putting yourself out there and talking to strangers, thank you for representing The Open Door with compassion and class.

With Deepest Gratitude,

Jason Viana, Executive Director The Open Door

Scott Swenson, Market President Home Federal

Prepare to Garden with Kick-Start Rotary

Coming soon to a SPRING near you!

Get ready for a fundraiser that is going to paint the roses red! We plan to offer Gertens Plant Cards this year to prepare for Mother's Day and the upcoming outdoor season. Plan your perennial purchases with Kick-Start Rotary!

Stay tuned for details!

From Bagging to Bling!

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer

Past President Mike Ferber and Current President Eric Swanson both attended the Eagan Rotary Gala Fundraiser on Saturday, February 4, 2017. Don't they clean up nicely?

Future President Dave Verbeke and Webmaster Jerri Neddermeyer rocked table 13 at the Gala. Other Kick-Start Rotarians in attendance: Julie Andersen, Mike Supina, Keevan Kosidaowski, and of course our very own frequent-flying visitor Scott Swenson.

It's all in the BAG!

Super Rotarians at the Super Bagging Event to Support The Open Door Food Pantry

Eagan Kick-Start Rotarians rocked more than two full bagging shifts to support the Super Bagging Event on February 4-5, 2016.	The event expanded to all three Cub Foods stores in Eagan, and bagging shifts ran all day for two straight days.
Customers could purchase donation bags with food to be directly donated to The Open Door Food Pantry. Donations support the community's need for food year round...not just at peak donation times surrounding holidays.	Baggers helped the community prepare for their super bowl parties while earning cash tips donated directly to The Open Door. The coming weeks will tell how successful this year's event really was. Thanks to all who organized, bagged, and donated! The community benefits from every ounce of your generosity.

Mentoring Program

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer

Thanks to Mark Bonstrom, Mike Supina, and Gene Kuppenbender for stepping up to be mentors for our newest Rotary members! Your service and dedication to making Eagan Kick-Start Rotary a welcoming club are appreciated.

Meet New Rotarian: Keevan Kosidowski

Keevan Kosidowski, Vice President, Regions Hospital Foundation

Keevan is a native Iowan and has spent her career in philanthropy, primarily working in higher education and healthcare. In 2006, Keevan joined Regions Hospital Foundation, part of the HealthPartners system, as Director of Major and Planned Gifts and has provided leadership for three capital campaigns and a growing team of development professionals. Keevan serves on the Regions Hospital Senior Leader Team.

Prior to joining Regions Hospital, Keevan worked at the University of Northern Iowa Foundation in Cedar Falls, Iowa. During her tenure there, her husband Mike obtained his teaching degree and started teaching elementary and middle school. Math is his specialty. Keevan received her bachelor of business administration from the University of Iowa and is enrolled in the Masters in Public and Non-Profit Administration Program at Metropolitan State University.

Keevan and Mike along with their three children moved to the Twin Cities in 2005. Mike is originally from Winona, MN and many of his siblings live in the metro so he returned to his roots. He also began teaching at Faithful Shepherd Catholic School. In 2011, Keevan and Mike and their family were overjoyed by the arrival of CarLee, their little unexpected blessing, who brought their family to six and also gave Mike the opportunity to become a stay-at-home dad. Ally, their oldest daughter, lives and works in Rochester and is engaged to be married; Danielle is completing her teaching degree and lives in Eagan and Jack is serving our country in the United States Navy and is stationed in San Diego. CarLee is a kindergartner at Northview Elementary.

Keevan and Mike, are active at their church Hosanna! and with their four kids. They enjoy camping, volunteering, golfing and swimming. Keevan serves on the Eagan YMCA Board, Neighborhood Development Center's Development Committee and is now a member of the Eagan Kick-Starter Rotary. Rotary is a great opportunity for Keevan and her family to become more engaged in the Eagan community. After Ramsey County, Dakota County is also the second largest service area for Regions Hospital so Rotary also provides an opportunity for her to serve as an ambassador in her own community.

Souper Drive Update

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer

Thanks to all who have brought soup for the drive to benefit The Open Door Food Pantry! In week one, EK-S Rotary donated 43 pounds of soup, and in week two, combined donations from both Eagan Rotary clubs brought in more than 50 additional pounds of soup. We have TWO more meetings to complete the drive. Challenge yourself and your network to flex their SOUPER muscles and bring more soup.

There is a special this week at Hy-Vee with tomato and chicken noodle soup for 29 CENTS per can!

Two more weeks to be SOUPER!

Mentor a New Rotarian

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer

Dear friends,

As we grow, new members will be joining our ranks and we need seasoned members to help get them settled and keep them involved. Please consider volunteering to mentor a new Rotarian and build one-to-one relationships with other members of our club. You could meet outside of Rotary if that would help, or just check in through email. As we develop a mentor program, we welcome your ideas for how to fold new members in to active service. If you are interested, please talk with Mike Ferber.

With joy on the journey,

EK-S Rotary Board of Directors

January Social: Mystery Art Night

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer

	Our January social was held at the Eagan Art House. We worked on a clay mosaic project that we can donate to the Eagan Rotary Gala Fundraiser. We cut clay, used colored clay to create surface decoration, and tried a technique called mocha diffusion to create little tree patterns on tiles.
	The clay will dry, be fired the first time in the kiln, and then glazed and fired for the final time. Finished tiles will be added to the project and grouted in place to create a whole pattern. In all, there were 12 participants with Rotarians and guest. We look forward to more socials to get us all out of our comfort zones and learn new things with great friends!
	The Eagan Art House has monthly "Mystery Art Nights" for adults. You can register for Eagan Art House classes through Eagan Park and Recreation Department. Try something new every month and get involved in the art community. There are classes for every age group in a wide variety of creative media.

More Opportunities to Support the Super Bagging Event Feb 4-5

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer

Way to go, Kick-Starters! The sign-up list for the Super Bagging Event on Saturday, February 4 the super bagging at the Cub Location on Diffley event is full! Soooooo, Mike Supina started a new slot to volunteer on Sunday, February 5, 2017, 12-2pm at the Cub Location on Cliff Lake Road. If you are available, sign-up for more bagging online here. Hang out with Mike at that time or volunteer for another slot available.

Sign up for a Shift to End Hunger in Our Community

Posted by David Verbeke

Sign up for a shift at the Cub store on Diffley from 1 to 3 on Saturday Feb 4. We need at least 10 volunteers. You can pickup a 1 or 2 hours shift to help bag groceries. All donations will go to The Open Door. See Jason for sign up times.

Meet Our Newest Rotarian!

Posted by David Verbeke

The Eagan Kick-Start Rotary Board has approved Andrew Pimental for membership in our club. Welcome, Andrew! Here's a short biography on Andrew:

Andrew was born and raised in Colorado, near the small town of Castle Rock. Andrew attended Colorado State University where he received two degrees, a bachelors in Sports Medicine and a Masters in Exercise Physiology. Began his career in the Recreation industry in 1998 in a small town in Southwestern Colorado named Pagosa Springs. Shortly after that he moved back to the Denver area and for eight years worked for one of the top award winning special park districts in the Denver area. He then moved his career to Special District Management and ran the GVR Metropolitan District in Northeast Denver for 5 years. Andrew met his wife Kristin Anderson in 2007 and with Kristin being a Minnesota native, they decided to move the family back to Minnesota in summer of 2013. Andrew and Kristin have three daughters: Elin age 5 and twins Amelia and Olivia age 2.

Most recently Andrew worked for the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board and now Andrew serves the City of Eagan as their Director of Parks and Recreation since May of 2016.

Andrew is passionate about serving others through his job and during his leisure time. He helped establish the Far Northeast Denver Optimist Club in 2011 and served as the Charter President until moving to Minnesota. Andrew enjoys the outdoors with his hobbies being fishing, hunting, camping and golf.

SoupPerBowl Drive: Collect and Donate

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer

Last Week's Meet: 12/29/2016

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer

We had a very full meeting for the last Thursday of 2016.

Eagan FunFest Ambassadors accept the BIG CHECK from President Eric Swanson.

Manalee Johnson, President - Eagan Citizens Crime Prevention Association

James McDonald, Eagan - Chief of Police

Save the Date!

Can you organize a group to take a two hour shift?

Invitation: Join Home Federal and DCRC for Coffee

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer

SoupPerBowl Drive: Help TOD suit up for the big game

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer

Coming Soon! Keep your eyes open! Starting in January, Eagan Kick-Start Rotary will be helping The Open Door gear up for the big game! It will be simple, it will be easy, an it will impact so many people!

Your SOUPER mission, should you choose to accept:

1. You can put out a box with a SOUPER flyer at your work place (yes, the flyer will be wonderful and artsy....as soon as I make it)

2. You can bring the box and its SOUPER contents to Rotary meeting weekly and load it into a car for transport.

3. You can take your box back to the work place for more SOUPER refills.

4. You can sign-up to bag groceries at a participating CUB foods to support this SOUPER organization: The Open Door.

5. You can sign-up SOUPER friends and network of SOUPER groups outside of SOUPER Kick-Start Rotary to help get this done for the SOUPER needy in our own SOUPER community.

More details to come! Be ready!

Serving Families through Cooks for Kids

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer

Friday, December 23, 2016

When others were doing the last minute holiday scramble, these six members of the Eagan Kick-Start Rotary Club were preparing home cooked meals for families tending to someone in the hospital. Cooks for Kids at the Ronald MacDonald House is open for service every day of the year. A huge thank you to Anchor Bank and Steve Dobin for sponsoring the event.

After a long day at the hospital, families look forward to a “home-away-from-home” cooked meal. Cooks for Kids groups who plan, purchase, prepare and serve meals are bright spots in the day of a family staying at the Ronald MacDonald House. They encourage volunteers to gather a group of friends, family or co-workers to sign-up to serve a meal at any of the four locations. The kitchens have everything needed to chop, slice, sauté, roast and bake your way into a family's heart.

Check out this cool opportunity for your own group outside of Rotary:

Twin Cities Cooks for Kids

Speaker Dale Weeks

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer

December 22, 2016

Speaker Dale Weeks talked with Eagan Kick-Start Rotary about the need for benchmarking and review of past business resources. High tech industry in Minnesota would benefit from reviewing what has and has not worked in the past in order to avoid the typical failure rate of start-up efforts in entrepreneurship. His work with Global Leadership and Benchmarking Associates informs his work to support high tech industry trends in Minnesota.

Superhero Speaks on Secret Service and Counterfeit Money

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer

	Last week's speaker talked with Eagan Kick-Start Rotary about the Secret Service branch, his own service in the protective detail for a variety of people of importance, as well as his work with counterfeit currency. The program committee works to gather the most varied speakers for the weekly meetings. Buzz Anderson (pictured here) serves on the program committee with Karen Groves and Julie Andersen. If you have an idea for an engaging and knowledgeable speaker, please share with our committee.
	Don't know what a counterfeit $100 note looks like? Find a Rotary Meeting, and learn something new. Speaker for December 22, 2016 Dale Weeks Minnesota High Technology Council He will speak about the need for more high tech jobs in Minnesota.

Getting Down to Business

Posted by Jerri Neddermeyer on Dec 07, 2016

Business Meeting December 8, 2016

Eagan Kick-Start Rotary awarded $500 to Cheryl Caponi in support of the new construction of an outdoor classroom at Caponi Art Park. The total cost of the project was $30,000. CAP looks forward to being able to offer programming rain or shine in the coming season!	Eagan Kick-Start Rotary sponsored three local students in Camp Enterprise. Two students from Eagan High School and one student from Eastview High School spoke at the business meeting about their experiences at the event.
Eagan Kick-Start Rotary welcomes Luther Wynder as the newest member of the club. He moved to the area following a job opportunity with the Minnesota Valley Transport Authority. Eagan Kick-Start Rotary supported the MVTA food drive to "Stuff the Bus" which benefits local food shelves.	We bid farewell to our very own Christina Royal and Kristin Reither. They move on to exciting new career chapters, and we will miss them both! This photo was taken during a happy hour held in their honor on December 7, 2016. L-R: Chritina, Dave, Julie, Jason, and Kristin

Donation to Eagan High School Interact Club

Posted by David Verbeke

Tuesday morning several club members attended the EHS Interact club to present a check to help sponsor the activities of their club. Doreen Rundquist, Jerri Neddermeyer, Eric Swanson and Dave Verbeke were on hand to make our $250 donation to the club. Jerri called on network to gather donations for the Interact baby blanket project. The Interact club hopes to create 100 blankets for local charities.

Warm Hearts and Hands Donation to 360 Communities

Posted by David Verbeke

Batman ( Buzz Anderson) and his loyal sidekick Robin (Greg Oxley) delivered the Club's donation of hats and gloves to 360 Communities. No word if the Joker also attended but knowing Buzz there was were a few bad jokes made during the delivery. Adam West was the best Batman followed by George Clooney and then Buzz Anderson.

Help Rotary improve-Take the Online Survey

Posted by David Verbeke

Do you have ideas for making District 5950 more vibrant?

All Rotarians received a November 22 email inviting them to complete an online survey about why we join Rotary, why we stay, and what can be improved. Your responses are confidential. District leaders will use this information to improve our membership approach and public image.

If you haven’t completed the survey yet, please follow this link and spend 5-10 minutes sharing your opinions: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WLPWJTJ. The survey is available until December 30. Data will be compared to similar questions from the October 2013 survey when 1,205 Rotarians responded. Results will be shared with members on the District 5950 website, DG newsletter, and at District gatherings such as Mid-Term Assembly and Pre-PETS. Clubs can also request a club-specific compilation of responses.

District leaders sincerely thank you for investing your time and thought in this survey

Mid Term Assembly Meeting on January 28th

Posted by David Verbeke

Make plans now to attend the upcoming District Mid Term meeting on a Saturday, Jan. 28, 2017 at Earle Brown Center in Brooklyn Park. Attending the District meetings with other Rotary members from across the metro is a great way to learn more about Rotary and the projects that are going on. Our club would like to see 10 members attend the meeting. The cost is free and includes lunch. Look for more details in an upcoming newsletter

Career Day Success for our Club

Posted by David Verbeke

Inver Hills News at the Community College published an extensive article about Career Day that Eagan Kick-Start Rotary supported. Many students benefitted from talking with professional in many business areas. One student secured a internship recommendation with the Minnesota Vikings! Read the complete article at: https://news.inverhills.edu/blog/career-major-day/

Changes to the Kick-Start Board of Directors

Posted by David Verbeke

During its regular monthly meeting the Board of Directors approved the following changes to the officer positions. Dave Verbeke has accepted the position of President-elect replacing Kristin Reither who has left the club due to a promotion and transfer to the Y in Shoreview. Karen Dare has been appointed to the Secretary position replacing Dave. An additional position of Member at Large was created and filled by Jerri Neddermeyer. Jerri will assist Karen with the newsletter and will serve as the Club's Webmaster. We wish all of our new Directors good luck in their new position!

No meeting this week-Happy Thanksgiving

Some Thanksgiving trivia to impress your guests with:

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Minnesota is the top turkey-producing state in America, with a planned production total of 46.5 million in 2016. Six states—Minnesota, North Carolina, Arkansas, Missouri, Virginia, and Indiana—account for nearly two-thirds of the 248 million turkeys that will be raised in the U.S. this year.

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the largest pumpkin pie ever baked weighed 2,020 pounds and measured just over 12 feet long. It was baked on October 8, 2005 by the New Bremen Giant Pumpkin Growers in Ohio, and included 900 pounds of pumpkin, 62 gallons of evaporated milk, 155 dozen eggs, 300 pounds of sugar, 3.5 pounds of salt, 7 pounds of cinnamon, 2 pounds of pumpkin spice and 250 pounds of crust.

Originally known as Macy’s Christmas Parade—to signify the launch of the Christmas shopping season—the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade took place in New York City in 1924. It was launched by Macy’s employees and featured animals from the Central Park Zoo. Today, some 3 million people attend the annual parade and another 44 million watch it on television.

Stuff the Bus

Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) is sponsoring a food drive for the holidays. They are asking riders, drivers and everyone else to help them Stuff the Bus Help them fill the needs of local food shelves during the busy holiday season. Proceeds will be donated to 360 Communities. "I am committed to MVTA being part of the community" said Luther Wynder MVTA Executive Director and Kickstart member. " I've have been involved in a similar promotion in Delaware and believe this will be very successful for MVTA.

Highest need items are canned fish & meat, peanut butter, canned fruits and vegtables, rice & pasta and cooking baking items. Personal items such as toothpaste, deodorant and feminine hygiene products are also in demand. Cash donations will also be accepted.

Items will be collected at meetings on 12/1 and 12/8. Donations will be delivered to the MVTA after our meeting on 12/8. Please be generous and support the MVTA and fellow Rotarian, Luther Wynder's project.

Volunteers needed for Cub Grocery Bagging Event Monday 11/21

The Eagan High School Interact club has asked for some adult volunteers to help with their fundraising event on Monday 11/21 at the Cub Foods on Diffley. They are bagging groceries from 4:00 pm until 9:00 and would like some adult help to supervise the students. Stay for a couple of hours or all night. Let Dave Verbeke know at dave@webbfinancial.com if you can attend and what hours you can be there. This is an important event for the Interact Club as it helps fund their budget for this year.

Upcoming Service Projects

The following events will be added to the calendar but I also wanted to bring them to everyone's attention so we can get our members signed up to help.

1.   Walk to End Hunger
Date :   11-24-16
Location:   Mall of America (Kick off = MOA Rotunda)
Time:   7:30 am
                Register: http://www.walktoendhunger.org/site/PageServer?pagename=register
                Registration Fee: $25.00

2.   Ronald McDonald House – Cooks for Kids Dinner
Date 12-22-16
Location:   Children’s Hospital – St. Paul – 345 Smith Ave N., St. Paul
Rotaries needed:   6
Time:   3:00 to 7:30

3.   The Open Door – Cub Food Bagging Event
Date:     02-04-17 and 02-05-17
Time:     TBD
Location:   Cub Foods, 1020 Diffley Road, Eagan

See Jason Madson for sign up details.

Deck the Halls Holiday Home Tour

Posted by Karen Groves

Hi Kick-Starters! I’m a supporter of the Eastview Community Foundation. The foundation helps students at Eastview and it’s feeder schools with funds for Random Acts of Kindness, Grants, and Scholarships. Here’s an example! The foundation provided funding for an elementary student to rent a band instrument they wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford. On November 12/13, I’ll be helping with the inaugural “Deck the Halls Holiday Home Tour”. I’d love to see you there! Questions? Call Karen Groves: 952-693-1049. Tickets can be purchased at evcf.org.

Coats for Kids Donation

Our Happy Bucks from September will keep 21 kids happy an warm this winter. Our club collected $357 from our generous members. Proceeds will be used to buy new winter coats for kids. Our donation will be pooled with the Knights of Columbus to help kids in need this winter. Thank you for contributing Happy Bucks over the last month.

Caponi Art Park Open Classroom Space

Our Club had explored the idea of securing a grant from the District to help support the construction of outdoor classroom space at Caponi Art Park. When we approached the District for grant help, we found out that the available funds were already committed for the year. While this was disappointing for the Club, Caponi decided to move ahead with the project with the hopes that funding would be in place by the end of the year. Grants from other organizations helped fill some of the need but they are still a few dollars short of their goal. Our Board of Directors has agreed to a $500 donation to the project. Caponi Art Park is also running a crowd funding campaign to help make up the short fall. If you are interested in making a personal donation, please visit their Indiegogo site:

http://www.twincities.com/2016/10/17/give-local-help-fund-an-outdoor-classroom-at-caponi-art-park/

Kick-Starters Clean Up the Neighborhood

Posted by David Verbeke

Our first Adopt a Street cleanup was held on Saturday October 8th on O'Neill Drive in Eagan near the Vikings new training center. David Bullock, Mike Ferber, Gary Hansen, Jerri Neddermeyer, Mike Supina Eric Swanson and Brooklyn from Can Do Canines helped with the cleanup! Our commitment to the the city is for two clean ups per year. Look for another opportunity to help out in the Spring! Thanks to all who helped!

Guild Incorporated Luncheon

Posted by Gary Hansen

Guild Incorporated, a St. Paul non-profit organization that provides integrated services for persons with mental disabilities, has a major fundraiser, the Ladder of Hope luncheon, scheduled at noon on December 7 at the Intercontinental St. Paul Riverfront. Gary Hansen, a table captain for this event, invites Rotarians to join him for lunch to learn about Guild’s programs and hear inspiring messages from a few who benefit from them. Ask Gary about this event at a club meeting or contact him at garyhansen@1stcounsel.com. More information about Guild is available at http://guildincorporated.org/.

Tree House Event is a Big Success

Thank you to all who attended the Tree House benefit at Vivo. Eagan Kick Start's version of Ringo Starr provided the entertainment. Please make sure to support this worthy cause.

Jennifer Jones- The Future of Rotary

Hear Jennifer Jones speak to the topic of the Future of Rotary.

Tuesday November 1

Area 4 Breakfast 6:30 AM @ Edinburgh Country Club $18/person (registration not required)

District Event Noon @ Doubletree Hotel St. Louis Park $25/person (register: www.Rotary5950.org)

Thursday November 3

Area 6 Breakfast @ Hazeltine Golf Course Chaska $15/person contact Char Weber at charmweber@gmail.com or 612-730-8210

Area 3 Lunch @ Edina Country Club Edina $20/person (registration not required)

Young Professionals Forum @TBA in northwest Twin Cities contact Mary Kurth at kurthpm@msn.com

Interact event at Feed My Starving Children

Posted by David Verbeke on Sep 20, 2016

Eagan High School Interact Club hosts event at Feed My Starving Children

Water Missions invites Rotarians to walk

Walk for Water is on Saturday, September 17 at Upper Landing Park in St. Paul. It is sponsored by PENTAIR and Pace Analytical, supporters of Rotary International’s goals to provide safe water, proper sanitation, and economic development to those who are most in need.

Let’s be a significant Rotary presence at the walk! I HAVE SET UP A TEAM: "ROTARY 5950" To get more information and register to walk at

http://events.watermissions.org/site/TR/WalkinaBucket/General?team_id=3908&pg=team&fr_id=1571 Remember, to register under our team! The cost to register is $20. [Can't make it, you can donate if you like.] You get a tee shirt (pick your size when you register), snacks and entertainment. I am bringing my wife Colleen and our two grandchildren. Kids participate free. Our group is trying to raise $2,500, but I would like us to swamp the top team! Can you imagine 250 Rotarians, that's $5,000!

TreeHouse Gala Benefit on Oct. 3

Posted by David Verbeke

Treehouse is a metro-wide 501(c)(3) wired into the large public high schools. With the help of guidance counselors and social workers, Treehouse identifies and reaches out to youth struggling mightily with addictions, dysfunctional families, bullying, etc. Treehouse helps youth rebuild their lives, stay in school and focus on serving others. Check out the record of success at www.treehouseyouth.org. It's amazing work!

The event will be held October 3rd, 630-830 pm at Vivo Kitchen in Apple Valley. provided free will be heavy hors d' oeurves, good wine, and music by Thick Friends. That will be the fun! TreeHouse director, Paul Maloney, will deliver the message about Treehouse' work, and we hope to stir up some generosity with an ask for a free-will offering...a very simple approach. We want to fill Vivo with 100+ generous souls. 100% of the money raised will go to Treehouse to help youth!

We're asking for RSVPs to Scott Erickson at scott.erickson55@gmail.com, or by text to 651-283-8627, by 9/26.

Meet our Youth Exchange Student

Our youth exchange student welcome party is coming up so please mark your calendar. Come and help welcome Arianna from Italy to Eagan! Please join us for an open house from 4 to 6 pm.

Location:

3763 Denmark trail W

Eagan, MN 55123

When:

September 18th at 4-6 pm

RSVP:

Call, text or email

Ryan Murphy

952-380-8300

ryan.murphy@murphyauto.net

Sign up for the District Meeting

Posted by David Verbeke

Have you signed up yet for our new Fall Training called One Rotary Summit?

September 23, 2016
8:30 am - 1:00 pm
Lafayette Country Club

This program will be delivered in a NEW FORMAT that you will really like! You will come away from this training with fresh ideas to understand how Membership, Foundation and Public Image - when coordinated together - powerfully impact your club. You can expect to get concrete ideas to put into action in your club right away, making your club "Great, On Purpose!"

Food will be served! Enjoy both breakfast and lunch!

Cost: Your club has already paid for you to attend, so it doesn't cost anything out of pocket, but you do need to register!

Sign up at: https://www.crsadmin.com/EventPortal/Registrations/PublicFill/EventPublicFill.aspx?evtid=1e9fbc00-3de6-45d8-9f09-2dcab6b705ee

Videographer Needed to Document our Club Activities

Our overworked and underpaid webmaster needs some help to keep our website and newsletters fresh and vibrant! We need 2 or 3 helpers to take photos at meetings and events and upload those images to ClubRunner. From that library I can update the website and create all sorts of flashing, eye catching photo montages to keep our website new and appealing. We need several people to help out to cover meetings and events since not everyone can make it to every meeting. See Dave Verbeke if you'd like to help out. I will set up a lead and two backups to document the history that we are creating!

Looking for Millennial Volunteers

FEATURE

Have You Volunteered This Summer?

Help our Program committe find great speakers

We've been fortunate to have many interesting and informative speakers. Help keep our meetings interested by recruiting a speaker for our weekly meeting. Coordinate through Buzz Anderson or Karen Groves.

INSPIRATION

December 15 Steve Dobin

December 22 Scott Erickson

December 29 Mike Ferber

January 5 Karen Groves

BRING A FRIEND TO ROTARY

Bring a Friend and help our club reach it's membership goals! During the first quarter, if you bring a friend to Rotary breakfast is free for the guest. From our Visioning process we set a goal of 50 members. Do your part by inviting a guest who is interested in joining Rotary.

INVOICES ARE OUT!!

You should have received an e-mail with your invoice from Tom Hofstad! Please Note: The invoice has the mailing address as Granite City. Please make sure all checks are mailed to Eagan Kick-Start Rotary Club 2805 Dodd Rd., Suite 160, Eagan, MN 55121 Please see Tom with any questions!

Welcome to our new website!

Posted by Kristin Reither on Apr 23, 2015

Welcome to our Rotary Club!

Security and Integrity of Your Data

Posted by Kristin Reither on Apr 23, 2015

ClubRunner secures all your private information using the latest security technologies. Hosted in a world class data centre with redundant power, Internet backbones and 24/7 security and monitoring, you can rest assured that your club data is safe and protected. Your members' contact information is secured behind unique logins and passwords. Access to information is also restricted, for example, a member can only view the list of members, but can modify his or her own personal information.

Data on the server is protected by TCP/IP filtering, firewall and anti-virus software that protect against any unauthorized intrusion. Backups of data are made daily and stored off-site.

Quote of the Week - Who Said It?

Posted by Karen Dare on Apr 23, 2015

We could never learn to be brave and patient, if there were only joy in the world.

Integrated eBulletin for Easier Communication

Posted by Karen Dare

ClubRunner makes it easy to publish your weekly Club eBulletin, and send to all members and friends of the club, by incorporating home page stories and events with the push of a button.

Monday, May 21 | Guthrie TheaterREGISTER NOW!

Monday, May 21 | Guthrie Theater
REGISTER NOW!