Happy Bucks

Peggy shared that she finally decided to get a vanity license plate after discovering that Wisconsin offers a Rotary license plate.

Tammy shared that Chase is doing well and has gained almost a pound since birth. She and the family recently attended a wedding where Grandma and Papa were also invited, giving everyone a chance to spend time with the new baby. Her other two children were also home over Labor Day weekend and were able to meet him for the first time.

Mark shared that he has some exciting travel plans coming up, including caving in southwestern France and train spotting in Britain with his son David, who has become a fan of British railways. Mark also shared an inspiring story about his next-door neighbor’s grandnephew, Jackson. Three years ago, Jackson was seriously injured when he was struck by a drunk driver while training for an Ironman. He suffered numerous broken bones, a torn aorta, and significant knee injuries. This weekend, Jackson completed his first Ironman, finishing in the top 20 percent.

Gary shared that his attempt to retire last year did not last long because he continued saying yes when people asked for his help. One of his current projects involves renovating a 50-year-old home. What started as an interior remodel became a much larger project involving the roof system, exterior walls, and additional basement space. Gary was especially happy because the ice and water protection was installed on the plywood roof, meaning the house is now protected from the weather and the project can move forward. He hopes to have it completed by the middle of December.

Dave reported $2,800 in proceeds from the Frolic. Despite the windstorm and Thursday rainout, the event was considered a success, and Rotary’s share of the proceeds was $2,800. Dave thanked everyone who helped keep the hamburger stand operating.

Judy shared that she recently cleaned out her closet and has three jackets with Rotary logos that she would like to pass along to another Rotarian rather than donating them to a general clothing organization.

Library Fence Project

The library fence project was completed, and members agreed that the finished product looks fantastic. The project received positive attention online as well, with the club’s Facebook presence receiving comments and congratulations from people around the country.

Members thanked everyone who participated in the Saturday work session. The project came together quickly, and there was more than enough material to complete the fence. The club also discussed continuing to share photos and updates about the project on social media.

Student Rotarians

Lorelei shared an update from Sources of Strength, a high school group focused on mental health. The group is beginning to plan a community-wide color run for next spring, likely around May. The goal is to create an annual event and donate the proceeds to an organization that supports mental health. This year, the group is considering focusing its fundraising on substance abuse prevention and support. Planning is still in the early stages, but the students wanted to let Rotary know about the project because they may eventually need community partners, donations, and assistance with coordinating the event.

Julia shared an update about Letters of Love, a group she and her friends started last year. At their most recent meeting, students made approximately 100 fall-themed cards. The cards were sent to Minnesota to be reviewed and then distributed to people in the area. Julia also shared that Homecoming Week is next week and that she was selected for the Homecoming Court.

The Interact Club also recently completed a service project by decorating paper bags for Ronald McDonald House. The project was well received by the students, and they are interested in continuing it next year.

Polio Awareness and Interact

The club discussed participating in a polio awareness event with Interact. Branded Rotary shirts are available for approximately $8.50 each, and members discussed purchasing shirts for the students as part of the project.

There was also discussion about creating shirts specifically connected to Interact so students can visibly show the connection between Interact and Rotary. Rotary-approved branding will be used, and artwork can be created if needed. The goal is to make the event both a polio awareness activity and an opportunity for students to better understand Rotary’s role in the global effort to eradicate polio.

Members also discussed having Interact students create signs for the event. This would give the students another hands-on way to participate and promote polio awareness.

Upcoming Events and Club Business

A Fireside Chat is planned for the fifth Wednesday of the month at The Viking from approximately 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. An email will be sent to members to confirm attendance so an approximate number can be provided to The Viking.

The club also welcomed Sean, who is interested in becoming a Rotary member and was attending his third meeting! Members expressed appreciation for his continued interest and look forward to receiving his application.

Several upcoming speakers and club events are also being coordinated. The club is working to finalize dates with student speakers and other community presenters. The District Governor is scheduled to visit the club on January 6, and members were asked to keep that date open.

The meeting concluded with members breaking into committees to continue working on current projects and upcoming activities.