DICKINSON TRICK OR TRUNKSubmitted by: Kris Fehr, Assistant Governor  Dickinson Rotarians dressed as a baker, pancakes and bacon handed out candy to a record 3,000 trick or treaters at Trick or Trunk in downtown Dickinson on Halloween. The club recently held its annual Pancake Karnival, with proceeds going to support the end of polio worldwide.
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WAHPETON PINTS FOR POLIOSubmitted by: Linda Marrin  Last week, on World Polio Day, our Wahpeton Breckenridge Rotary Club hosted Pints for Polio at Firehouse Pub in Wahpeton. Our event ran from 5-8 PM. Firehouse Pub contributed $1 for every drink sold and we also collected cash donations. We raised $520 (before the Bill & Melinda Gates donation.) We had a great crowd and gave out door prizes every 15 minutes. We had a sponsored taco bar and good participation from Rotarians.
Your club could win a vest for each member, plus an additional 10% for those new members that will join after seeing you working in those vests. The vests are sized to your members (be sure to allow room for sweaters and coats!) and your club logo will be on the vests. To enter your club in the January vest drawing, send an email to RotaryLinda5580@gmail.com. |
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NOVEMBER ECO CHALLENGESubmitted by: Marg Woods, Thunder Bay-PA Rotary, District Environmental Committee  A Delicious Plant Rich Diet Challenge for Rotarians The Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group, ESRAG, has launched a “Plant-Rich Diet Task Force encouraging communities to eat more plant foods – whole grains, legumes, vegetables, fruits, and fewer animal products – meat, dairy, eggs, fish and seafood. Talks, workshops, and challenges are regularly organized to spread awareness about the massive environmental and health benefits of plant-rich diets, as well as guidance and support for how to adopt them.” Join the ESRAG challenge, like the Rotary Club of Thunder Bay-Port Arthur, that has started a plant based dinner club for fellowship and fun exploring new recipes and sharing food experiences. Or try these ideas: |
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ON YOUR MARKS, GET SET, GOALS!Submitted by: James Harrington  On Your Marks, Get Set and Set Your Goals! Attention Club Presidents, as we the start the second quarter of your 2024-25 Rotary year, it’s the perfect time to align your club’s goals with the larger vision of Rotary International. By entering your goals into Club Central, you’re not just planning for the year ahead—you’re contributing to the global Rotary movement, showcasing the impactful work you’re doing, and helping us track our collective progress. Why Set Your Club Goals in Club Central? Setting goals for your club is more than a checklist; it’s a way to measure progress, stay focused, and celebrate your achievements. The process is simple, flexible, and provides you with a clear view of how your club is advancing in areas that matter most to Rotary’s mission. Whether your focus is on engaging members, increasing your community impact, expanding your reach, or enhancing your adaptability, Club Central makes it easy to track and adjust your goals as needed. |
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PRESIDENTIAL MESSAGE Stephanie A. UrchickPresident 2024-25(Presidential message retrieved from: https://my.rotary.org/en/news-media/office-president/presidential-message) November 2024One of Rotary’s greatest strengths is the ability of our members to come together to create lasting change, and The Rotary Foundation helps us transform dreams of change into reality. From eradicating polio to building peace, much of the work we do around the world would not be possible without our continued support of our Foundation. The cause of peace is especially important to me, and one of the most effective ways we build peace is our Rotary Peace Fellowship — a product of The Rotary Foundation. The program helps current and aspiring peace and development professionals around the world learn how to prevent and how to end conflict. |
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NOVEMBER IS ROTARY FOUNDATION MONTH |
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Pints for Polio Event - Rotary Club of Wahpeton Breckenridge On World Polio Day, our Wahpeton Breckenridge Rotary Club hosted a successful Pints for Polio event at Firehouse Pub in Wahpeton. From 5-8 PM, the pub generously contributed $1 for every drink sold, and we received additional cash donations, raising $520 before the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation match. We had an incredible turnout, giving away door prizes every 15 minutes and enjoying a sponsored taco bar. The event was well-supported by our community and fellow Rotarians, making for a memorable evening in the fight to end polio. Members are wearing the new vests that they won at our quarterly vest drawing!
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WORLD POLIO DAY One Day. One Focus: Ending PolioWorld Polio Day is a time for Rotary members, public health advocates, and all who want a world free from polio to come together, recognize our progress in the fight to end polio, and talk about the actions we need to take in order to end polio for good. All donations are matched 2:1 by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, tripling your impact! |
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DULUTH MEMBER HIGHLIGHTED IN WOMAN TODAY MAGAZINESubmitted by Mark Leutgeb, Duluth Skyline Rotary
Deb Almirall, member of Duluth Skyline Rotary Club, highlighted in the Woman today magazine. View here: https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/the-woman-today-magazine Deb is a past President and long-time Treasurer of Skyline. She attended the RI Convention in Atlanta and many District Conferences. She is multiple time Paul Harris Fellow recognized.
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DICKINSON ROTARY DICTIONARY PROJECTSubmitted by: Kris Fehr, Dickinson Rotary Club  Dickinson Rotary recently completed its annual Dictionary Project by going into third grade classrooms with a lesson and dictionaries for each third grader in Dickinson, Belfield and South Heart. By the numbers: 484 dictionaries, 25 classrooms, 10 Rotarians and 3 towns.
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INTERNATIONAL FALLS SKETCHES OF MINNESOTA
The International Falls Rotary Welcoming Community Initiative continues with Sketches of Minnesota Dinner starts at 5:30 followed by the performance.
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IN MEMORIAM
David SmetePast District GovernorMarch 18, 1942 - October 7, 2024 OBITUARY: https://www.hautfuneralhome.com/obituaries/david-smette Dave loved Rotary and all the people he met through his service to his club, district, and community. Please keep the Smette family in your thoughts and prayers today and in the days ahead. |
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4 WAY TEST ESSAY CONTESTSubmitted by: Paul Burnett, 4 Way Test Essay Contest Chair  School is in session and the annual District 5580 4-Way Test Essay Contest is now underway! Clubs are encouraged to begin contacting their schools and distributing materials as soon as possible. More information and additional materials are available for download at https://rotary5580.org/sitepage/four-way-essay. We look forward to receiving your club’s winning essay! |
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IN MEMORIAM Sonja Marie OzbunSpouse of PDG Jim Ozbun (District Governor 2007-08, 2014-15)January 13, 1938 — September 15, 2024 Funeral service for Sonja Marie Ozbun, 86, of Dickinson, North Dakota will be 10:00 a.m., Saturday, September 21, 2024 at St. John Lutheran Church, Dickinson, ND with Pastor Lisa Lewton officiating. Burial will follow in the Fair Fill Cemetery, Flasher ND. |
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WELCOME NEW MEMBERSCongratulations to the Ely Rotary Club and the Moorhead Rotary Club and their new members. Welcome! Mike Murray (Ely Rotary) Mike is a former member of the St. Cloud Rotary Club for approximately six years in the mid 2000’s. He resides in Sartell, MN and has had a cabin in the Ely area for the past 25 years. He is retired from an 8 to 5 job and doing some consulting work. Mike is married and has three adult children. He enjoys running marathons, hunting, fishing and anything outdoors. Mike is a Paul Harris Fellow. Alex Aldrich (Moorhead Rotary) Alex grew up in Southern California and made his way to Moorhead thanks to a job offer from Concordia College, where he was a professor for several years. He is now a financial advisor, serving the higher education and small business community. He and his wife, Rebekah, have been married since 2010 and have four children—Avery, Amelia, Emma, and Lincoln. |
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IN MEMORIAMSubmitted by: Christi M. Stonecipher, Bismarck Rotary Club
Bismarck lost a legend when longtime resident J. Michael McCormack passed away unexpectedly on August 28. A beloved history professor at Bismarck State College for many years and a member of the Bismarck Rotary Club for several decades, McCormack brought wit and wisdom to club gatherings and almost never missed a meeting. His Celebration of Life was filled with family, friends, and numerous Rotarians. We will miss his profound presence. Godspeed, Mike. Those wishing to honor Mike's memory are welcome to make a donation to the scholarship fund in his name at Bismarck State College by clicking on the link here: https://bscf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=1464 |
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CALL FOR NOMINATIONS DISTRICT GOVERNOR 2027-2028 District 5580 is now calling for nominations for the office of District Governor for the Rotary year 2027-2028, and qualified Rotarians may submit a nomination for consideration by the District Nominating Committee. The Rotary clubs in our district have many outstanding past presidents making a difference in their clubs and communities. Serving as District Governor is an opportunity for these committed Rotarians to bring the same leadership, skills and vision to District 5580. Now is the time for your club to nominate an outstanding Past President for District Governor 2027-28. The Nominee must submit the following documents: |
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WAHPETON-BRECKENRIDGE WINS VESTSSubmitted by: Lisa Neitzel  Breckenridge Wahpeton Rotary Club Wins Vests Congratulations to the Wahpeton-Breckenridge Club on winning vests for their members via the exciting wheel of fortune spin, held during the June Club Call!
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INTRODUCING RYE PUBLIC IMAGE OFFICERSubmitted by: Bradford Folta  I am two years into my Rotary career and have enjoyed all the thrills Rotary offers. I currently serve as the Club Service Officer for the Brainerd Noon Rotary Club. I am excited to be the new RYE Public Image Officer for District 5580. I grew up in Brainerd and was never aware of the opportunity to be an exchange student through Rotary. After I joined my club and attended the district shin-digs for RYE, I became motivated to promote the program because of my missed opportunity and to show that there were new and exciting things beyond our district for our youth to experience. My goal with the RYE team is to expand RYE to more clubs within our district, increase our outbounds/inbounds, and create a locally-international world from which we can learn and enjoy making the great white north much more fun!
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ROTARY IS A LIFE JOURNEYSubmitted by: Kay Parries  We started our Club visits on July 8th! Since that time we have visited 21 Clubs in Minnesota and North Dakota covering almost 3000 miles. Each club has projects, fundraisers and programs unique to their communities. Some share many of the same projects that most of you do, such as raffle books, scholarships, peach sales and rose sales. I’ve been collecting a list to share with you as we continue our journey across District 5580.
Rotary is a life journey! There are times where we don’t know where that journey will take us. But, what I do know is that journey will benefit many people and yourself. I can’t be more proud of District 5580 for the wonderful clubs and all of you who do wonderful things in your communities! Kay Parries DG 5580 |
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BRAND CENTER RADIO ADS
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YOUNG LEADERSA new club role, more support for Rotary’s young leaders
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WELCOME HARBORTOWN NEW MEMBERSubmitted by: Scott Soderberg, Harbortown Rotary Adam Hughley (Duluth Harbortown) Adam was raised in Duluth. Attended Duluth East High School and graduated from UMD with a degree in Anthropology and Psychology. Adam married his beautiful bride, Megan, in 2011 and went on to have 3 boys ages 3,6, and 8. Adam returned to school to become a RN at St. Lukes and was manager of the inpatient mental health unit before having the opportunity to become an owner and manager of Happy Sleeper. Adam is on the board of the Glen Avon Hockey Club and coaches youth soccer and hockey. Adam enjoys spending his time with his family and taking his sons hunting, fishing, camping, and mountain biking |
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CONGRATULATIONS VEST WINNERS!Submitted by: Linda Marrin
Congratulations to the Wahpeton-Breckenridge Club on winning vests for their members via the exciting wheel of fortune spin, held during the June Club Call last Tuesday! For future quarterly drawings, clubs will need to register for the drawing, but this quarter, only, all clubs had the opportunity to win vests for club members, which will attract positive attention when your club is serving the community.
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HONORING MEMBER Jerome ("Jerry") L. KlevenJerry was a member of the Grand Rapids Rotary Club for 64 years and actively attending meetings and project work until mid-June of 2024. Jerome (“Jerry”) L. Kleven, 97, passed away on June 27, 2024. Jerry grew up in Braham, MN and began working at an early age at Peterson’s Grocery. Notably, during his final two years of high school, the store was more than just his workplace; it was where he also resided after his parents moved to Minneapolis as his father found a new job there. |
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ALZHEIMER'S/DEMENTIA ROTARY ACTION GROUPSubmitted by: Chris Nakea, ADRAG Public Image Coordinator 
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PUBLIC IMAGE FUNDINGSubmitted by: Scott Soderberg  How long has it been since your logo caught your eye? When I look at these fresh Rotary logos, it makes me curious and think that something’s happening here. As a long-time member, I might walk a little prouder or, as a non-member, I might be tempted to research Rotary (especially if the info is right there) However you perceive it, it evokes emotion, action and a fresh start, something we all can use from time to time! We’ll even help you pay for it! Thanks, Scott |
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DICKINSON RECOGNIZES ADMIN PROFESSIONALSubmitted by: Kris Fehr, District Assistant Governor, Dickinson Rotary Club  Two people keep the Dickinson Club's records up to date, ensuring smooth transitions, accurate record keeping and timely financials. On Administrative Professional Day, we gratefully recognized our longtime secretary, Kari Shea, and treasurer, Brad Fong, for their tireless work on behalf of Rotary and the Dickinson Rotary Club. In keeping with Rotary's environmental theme, we presented them with Gerber daisies to beautify their homes.
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THE MAGIC OF ROTARYSubmitted by: Kay Perries
Greetings District 5580 Rotarians, A new Rotary year is starting. New goals, new ideas, and new projects. I look forward to visiting and meeting all the Rotarians throughout District 5580. You are extraordinary people who give your time, energy, and money to support projects that benefit many. Rotary International President, Stephanie Urchick’s, theme is “The Magic of Rotary”. As we start the year what “Magic” can you create in your clubs and your communities? As another Rotary year comes to an end a new year begins! Thank you to District Governor Dave and District Governor Nominee, Elaine, for their leadership the past year and the passion they brought to leading District 5580! I feel very fortunate that I was able to be a part of this team. Let’s Make Magic Happen throughout District 5580! Kay Parries DGE 5580 |
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BISMARCK CLUB ENJOYS A NIGHT THE BALL PARKSubmitted by: Christi M. Stonecipher, Bismarck Rotary Club
Bismarck Rotary Club members enjoyed a night out at the ballpark on Monday, June 10, that included a ballpark meal of hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, and watermelon (among other offerings). After a rain delay, members cheered on the Bismarck Larks as they played the Minot Hot Tots in the Northwoods League. The club also sold 50/50 raffle tickets - this fun, fellowship event was also a fundraiser for the club's Arboretum project.
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JUNE ECO CHALLENGESubmitted by: District Environmental Committee  Bee pollinator garden photo challenge! BEE PART OF THE SOLUTION by Marg Woods, Thunder Bay PA Rotary on June 3, 2024. What is a pollinator garden and why is it important? A garden that features flowers that bloom throughout the summer and provide food to pollinators such as bees, butterflies and other species. Sadly pollinator population size and diversity is on the decline in North America due to habitat loss, invasive species, pesticides and disease. Conserving pollinators is critical — and you can help! Plant your seeds or native flowering plants in your yard or balcony, take a photo by August 31 and submit to envirocomm5580@gmail.com. Your district environmental committee will choose a winner and the photos will be published in the September district newsletter. https://davidsuzuki.org/living-green/how-to-attract-pollinators/ WWF: https://wwf.ca/stories/how-to-grow-native-plant-pollinator-garden-bees-butterflies/ |
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DOES YOUR CLUB NEED A WEBSITE OR SOCIAL MEDIA?Submitted by Linda Marrin  Can your Rotary club be found online? Would I be able to see where and when you meet? Would I find information about your club’s activities?
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SUPPORT UKRAINE, PURCHASE A T-SHIRTSubmitted by: Georgette Wondolkowski, Rotary Club of Superior
Rotary Club of Superior Will Purchase a Second Ambulance for use in Ukraine The Rotary Club of Superior recently was approved for a district grant for its campaign Twin Ports Uniting with Ukraine. These funds will assist in the purchase of a second ambulance with medical supplies to be used in Ukraine. They have already purchased one ambulance stocked with medical supplies which is actively being used in Ukraine. This project involved Rotarians from many areas. Once all the funding is secured, the ambulance and supplies will be purchased by partnering Rotarians in Whitstable, United Kingdom. This ambulance will be part of a caravan driven from the UK to Ukraine, nearly 1,200 miles. Members of Rotary Club Ukraine Unity in Lviv are also part of the procurement and delivery team. They receive the aid and distribute it throughout their country.
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WELCOME NIPIGON NEW MEMBERSubmitted by: Linda Nicol, Nipigon Rotary Club  Welcome Ashley Davis! Ashley was born and raised in Red Rock, Ontario, and returned in 2019 after attending Carleton University, Algonquin College, and working along the North Shore of Lake Superior. She is currently the Community Development Officer/Project Lead for the Township of Red Rock, managing projects from major infrastructure replacement to plan development and implementation. Ashley is a RYLA and Rotary Youth Exchange Alumnus, having spent her exchange year in Cahors, France. |
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DONORS PROVIDE LAPTOPS TO INDIGENOUS GROUPSSubmitted by: Brian Walmark, Port Arthur Rotary  Left to right: Ken Liddicoat, DFC teacher accepting the donation from Arne Wohlschlegel, President and Managing Director of Siemens Energy Canada and Philip Schaus, President and CEO of Corporations for Community Connections Rotary HIP and Toronto-based Donors Provide Refurbished Laptops to Indigenous Groups in Thunder Bay Thunder Bay, ON – A collaborative effort from Siemens Energy Canada, a German-based company with a subsidiary in Canada, Corporations for Community Connections and Honouring Indigenous Peoples (HIP) from Toronto and Montreal brought much-needed technology to Indigenous organizations in the Thunder Bay area. During May 8th and 9th, the visitors distributed refurbished laptops to Nokiiwin Tribal Council, the Ontario Native Women’s Association, Dennis Franklin Cromarty School, Fort William First Nation and Mishkeegogamang First Nation, aiming to shorten the digital divide and enhance educational opportunities for First Nations youth in the region. “The need is much greater,” said Brian Walmark, a HIP volunteer, I hope our visitors have seen that this donation only scratches the surface of the need across the North.”
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ROTARY MOTTOSSubmitted by Thomas Riley  Most Rotarians have heard one or the other of the two mottoes of Rotary. The first of these, “One Profits Most Who Serves the Best”, was the earliest motto and dates from 1910, when Art Sheldon of the Rotary Club of Chicago, Club No 1, said in a speech “He Profits Most who Serves his Fellows Best.” At the second Association of Rotary Club’s Convention in Portland, Oregon, in1910, the motto “He Profits Most Who Serves the Best” was adopted as the official motto of the organization.
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THE ROTARY SONGBOOKSubmitted by Thomas Riley  Singing has been a staple of many Rotary Clubs for more than a hundred and eighteen years. Harry L. Ruggles, the fifth member of the first Rotary Club in Chicago, made it a regular part of Rotary meetings there as early as 1906, and singing spread to many clubs early on. |
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DISTRICT AWARD WINNERSSubmitted by: Rozanne Casey, District Awards Chair Congratulations to all the District Award winners! Distinguished Rotarians Club Service - Mark Tilbury, Port Arthur Community Service - Janelle Stoneking, Dickinson Vocational Service - Hector Dougall, Port Arthur Rotarian of the Year - Heather Ranck, Fargo-Moorhead PM |
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BISMARCK ROTARIANS RAISE A GLASS TO RAISE FUNDSSubmitted by: Christi M. Stonecipher  Bismarck Rotarians Raise A Glass to Raise Funds Stonehome Brewing in Bismarck creates a special beer in their microbrewery every year, specifically for the Bismarck Rotary Club. A small group of select Rotarians enjoys appetizers and drinks (courtesy of Rotarian Dave Mason) and determine a moniker for the concoction. Stonehome then donates $1 for every pint sold to our PolioPlus campaign. This year's brew? "Pucker Up and Do Good Sour Ale" is a plum and sweet cherry ale with pineapple added during the fermentation process. Come to Bismarck and order a pint for yourself and Do Good! |
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SCOUTS REPORT TO THE GOVERNORSubmitted by: Christi M. Stonecipher  The Bismarck Rotary Club hosted the 102nd Annual Boy Scouts Report to the Governor at their meeting on February 14.
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DISTRICT CONFERENCE EARLYBIRD PRICING EXTENDED!THE DISTRICT CONFERENCE WILL FOCUS ON OUR MENTAL WELL-BEING, SHARING HOPE AND PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT. Come and explore Nature’s powerful benefits for our communities’ mental health and well-being and the ways Rotary can create hope for our planet and the people who live here through our international connections with the world around us.  5 Enviro Friendly things you can do before & on the way to the District Conference 1. Pack your own reusable water bottle to help us keep single-use items out of the waste stream. 2. Bring your excitement about projects and plan to join the Environment Committee breakout session to discuss how to make them happen with your club. See you there! 3. Share a ride! Carpool, take the train, organize a bike caravan. 4. Plan to dress for the weather so that you can get some fresh air and stretch your legs - we'll help make that happen throughout the conference. 5. Visit the communication center once you arrive - no printed materials necessary (though some will be available). Plant a tree instead! |
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WATER AND SANITATIONSubmitted by: Karl Everett (Karl_everett@q.com), District 5580 Water & Sanitation Chair
We recently traveled to Bolivia to visit our Rotary District projects that included medical clinics and water well projects.I’m happy to report that all projects have been successfully completed and functioning. The Rotary 5580 Laguna Sulti Water Well Projects in Chirusi Rosario & Tajamar are in operation and serving these Communities. The Chirusi Rosario water tank was completed on October 26, 2022, and they claim that this water tank with its ROTARY logo is the tallest in the whole wide world. |
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4 WAY TEST ESSAY CONTEST WINNER!
The Four Way Test Essay Contest is complete and we have a winner! The panel of judges from throughout our district read and ranked each of the essays submitted by clubs across the district. This year’s Overall District Winner was Brooke Hoogland, sponsored by the Moorhead Rotary Club. A huge THANK YOU to all of the youth and clubs that participated and the judges who read and ranked all of the essays. Congratulations to Brook Hoogland!! The winning essay can be view HERE. |
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PORT ARTHUR ROTARY 100 YEAR ANNIVERSARY GALAThe Port Arthur Rotary Club is hosting a Centennial Anniversary Gala on April 20 at the Delta Hotel Ballroom in Thunder Bay. Here is your invitation!   |
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WORLD ROTARACT WEEK Did you know it is Rotary International’s World Rotaract Week??? “Every year, Rotaractors and Rotarians around the world celebrate World Rotaract Week during the week of 13 March (Rotaract Day) to commemorate the founding of the first club in 1968. World Rotaract Week is a time for celebrating the success and importance of the Rotaract program. |
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ROTARY AWARENESS DAY AT THE CAPITAL On February 19, 2024 DG Dave Long and Rotarains from District 5580, 5950, and 5960 attended Rotary Awareness Day at the MN State Capital to speak up in favor of Rotary and our service projects. They introduced a Rotary license plate bill to create proceeds directed to our foundations. It was a time to socialize, tell our Rotary story to legislators, and to hear from them about state efforts related to our programs and values. There were several Rotarian-legislators who greeted everyone. |
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2024 ROTARY DISTRICT 5580 CONFERENCE Registration is open for the 2024 Rotary District 5580 Conference!! HEALTHY MINDS - HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT The Rotary International 2023-24 Theme is "Create Hope in the World" and the District 5580 Conference will focus on our mental well-being, sharing hope and protecting the environment. So come and explore Nature’s powerful benefits for our communities’ mental health and well-being and the ways Rotary can CREATE HOPE for our planet and the people who live here through our international connections with the world around us. |
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MINNESOTA TO HOST THE 2029 ROTARY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION!The Rotary International Board of Directors recently awarded four Zone 29 districts the right to jointly host the 2029 Rotary International Convention, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA! The announcement was made to the general public on Monday, February 5, 2024 at a press conference given by Minnesota Governor Tim Waltz, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, Bloomington Mayor Tim Busse, and Rotary International Vice President Pat Merrywather-Arges.   |
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PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENTSubmitted by: District Environmental Committee  Hey, District 5580 - let’s take collective action for the planet in 2024! Your district Environment Committee is here to help. Our mission: To advocate for environmental sustainability in our district by providing resources, tools, and inspiration to help our district's clubs thrive in a way consistent with Rotary International's focus area of the environment. Now a year and a half old, we’ve been working behind the scenes to bring you tips and ideas on how to live more gently on the planet. For the rest of this Rotary year we’re also looking forward to hearing from clubs who complete an environmentally-related project and would like to be reimbursed $100 for their efforts! Buy some tools, purchase materials, match a grant, treat your volunteers to pizza – anything goes as long as your project is focused on making a positive environmental impact. All you need to do is send a quick email to us at envirocomm5580@gmail.com telling us what you did, how many people participated, and how you spent your $100. We’d love to see photos or a video, too! DG Dave Long’s goal is for every club to do something in honor of the newest Rotary Area of Focus. Need ideas? Check out our new tab on the district 5580 website (under “Club Support”): https://rotary5580.org/sitepage/protecting-the-environment. You’ll find a simple project report form and a handful of project templates posted. We’ll continue to add more, plus links to other resources such as speaker ideas, EcoChallenges and the latest from ESRAG (the Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group). Let us know what other resources would help spur your club into taking action. |
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UNLOCKING PROFESSIONAL GROWTHSubmitted by: Jim Herrington, District Learning Facilitator  Unlocking Professional Growth with Rotary's Learning Center In my previous professional experience, I had the privilege of benefiting from a dedicated individual who provided personalized career insights and professional development plans. While this support was invaluable, I realized that sustained growth required proactive measures on my part. Choosing a cost-effective approach, I turned to readily available resources like audiobooks and podcasts, many of which are accessible through public libraries. Although these tools were beneficial, I craved a more structured and customizable learning experience. Enter Rotary International, a game-changer in the realm of professional development. Through the Learning Center on My.Rotary.org, Rotarians gain access to a comprehensive library of courses, with a dedicated section on Professional Development. Whether it's honing your speechwriting or perfecting your delivery skills for an upcoming business event, the Learning Center has you covered. From conflict management to communication skills, the Professional Development section offers a diverse array of courses tailored to your needs. What sets this apart? It's all included with your Rotary membership. Don't miss out on the opportunity to maximize your Rotary experience. Sign in to My.Rotary.org today and embark on the journey to becoming the best version of yourself.
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PUBLIC IMAGE GRANT DOLLARSSubmitted by: Linda Marrin, District Public Image Chair  We’re waiting to hand out money… are you ready to receive it? Scott Soderberg and the Public Image Team are waiting to provide public image matching grant money for your approved project. If you’ve never received district public image grant dollars, you can get up to $400 in matching funds. You’re eligible for up to $250 if you’ve received a district public image grant in the past. Is your club wondering what to do? Contact Scott (rotaryscott5580@gmail.com or any Public Image team member for ideas, here are a few for starters:
We can provide templates for you to make it easier. You can have the brochures or cards printed locally to support one of your local businesses. Keep checking the newsletter for public image project ideas and projects completed by other district clubs. |
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SPORTS PSYCHOLOGIST AIMS TO ELEVATE ATHLETE PERFORMANCESubmitted by: David Long, District Governor  Sports Psychologist Works to Get Best Out of Athletes’ Performance, Life The guest speaker at Thursday’s meeting educated club members of the many challenges facing today’s youth, specifically young athletes. As a sports psychologist, Dr. Kelly Gast is committed to helping young athletes improve their performance and life by addressing issues such as confidence, mental health and coaching methods. In her presentation, Gast pointed our that anxiety levels, brought on by things like technology, school shootings, the Covid pandemic and others, are significantly higher for youth today that 50 years ago.
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PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENTDoes your club have an idea or project to help the environment? District 5580 is committed to supporting activities that strengthen the conservation and protection of natural resources, advance ecological sustainability, and foster harmony between communities and the environment. District 5580 is offering $100 to clubs to support a project of their choice to Protect the Environment. Need Ideas? Project Examples To apply simply submit the following to envirocomm5580@gmail.com.
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MENTAL HEALTH INITIATIVE Mental Health Initiative Rotary District 5580 supports RI President Gordon McInally in his initiative to break stigma, raise awareness & increase access. Club’s will receive up to $100 towards a Mental Health Initiative. Learn more and get ideas at https://www.ragonmentalhealth.org/. To apply simply submit the following to District Administrator Gloria Mink.
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INTERNATIONAL FALLS BOOK DISTRIBUTIONSubmitted by: Carol Grim, International Falls Rotary Club  Kindergarten class at Falls Elementary The International Falls Rotary Club distributed books to all pre-school and kindergarten students as a part of their Love Of Reading Early program or LORE. This is a plan to make the community and each child’s home a literature rich environment. The books included a letter to the parents about the importance of reading with children and some suggestions for reading activities.
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PUBLIC IMAGE GRANTCould your club benefit from up to $250 to $400 for Public Image projects? Here's how:
SIMPLE right?! Here’s what a couple of our 5580 clubs have done with Public Image grant money: |
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NEW ROTARY CLUB!! It's official!! As of November 28, Rotary District 5580 has a new club! Congratulations and welcome to the 22 charter members of the new Rotary Club of Missouri River, ND, USA. Thanks to your efforts along with the support and guidance of DG Dave, Advisor Blaine, and many others, you’ve now joined the network of over 1.4 million members and 34,000 clubs that are doing good in the world. By starting this new club, you are People of Action! |
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2024 DISTRICT CONFERENCE SAVE THE DATE The District Conference Team has been hard at work preparing for the 2024 Rotary District 5580 Conference! Save the dates, April 11-13, 2024. More info to come! |
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SELECTION OF DISTRICT GOVERNOR 2026-2027Submitted by: Gloria Mink, District Administrator  The District Nominating Committee, Chaired by Past District Governor Keith Brokke, is pleased to announce that Peter Nelson has been selected to serve as the District Governor of Rotary District 5580 for the 2026-2027 Rotary year. Congratulations, Peter! |
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NORTH DAKOTA MOVIE PRODUCERSubmitted by: Heather Andrea Ranck
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TWIN PORTS PAUL HARRIS DINNERSubmitted by: Club 25, Harbortown, and Superior Rotary  We have chosen the theme "All is Possible with Hope" and will have Dick Beardsley as our keynote speaker. Dick is an accomplished long distance runner, best selling author and world class speaker. District 5580 will be giving us an update on the Foundation. Displays from the Twin Ports Clubs will showcase the incredible projects we all have been working on. Please RSVP by Wednesday, October 18th. The cost is $40 per person. Visit paulharrisdinner2023.eventbrite.com to register. |
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OCTOBER ECO CHALLENGESubmitted by: Jill Baum, Environmental Committee  Schedule or Conduct a Home Energy Audit ‘Tis the season to crank up the heat! Have you examined your furnace lately? How about sealed your home against the elements? Now’s a great time to look for leaks and to work to improve the efficiency of your home’s systems. This can save significant energy and money, as well as provide a satisfying way to spend part of a lovely fall weekend before winter arrives. There are many easy tasks you can do yourself – or take advantage of the opportunities available through your utility or municipality. Check out the links below for more ideas and information. Then snuggle in and let it snow! https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/do-it-yourself-home-energy-assessments https://www.energystar.gov/saveathome/heating_cooling/maintenance_checklist https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x92uoKQMHmQ https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/advice/home-maintenance-checklist/ |
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MINNESOTA HOMELESS STUDYSubmitted by Karin Cianco, Rotary Club of St. Paul  On October 26, the Wilder Foundation is conducting its statewide Homeless Study. The study occurs every 3 years. More than 1,000 volunteers at over 400 locations statewide will interview Minnesotans experiencing homelessness on that day, gathering information about their experiences that will be used by policymakers and researchers to better understand the causes and conditions of homelessness and propose solutions that will further accessible, affordable housing options. In the spirit of the Four-way Test, the study will search for the truth about homelessness in a way that will be fair to all concerned; it will provide an opportunity to build goodwill and better friendships with Wilder, its study partners, other volunteers, and the people experiencing homelessness; and the results of the study will be beneficial to all concerned. You can learn more about the study at this link: https://www.wilder.org/mnhomeless Volunteer sign-up link: https://www.wilder.org/mnhomeless/volunteers. |
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WELCOME NEW MEMBERSCongratulations to the Rotary Club of Fergus Falls Sunrise and the Rotary Club of Grand Rapids Centennial and their new members. Welcome to Rotary!Rod Spidahl (Fergus Falls Sunrise) Rod is a retired pastor. He has served as a missionary in Africa. He enjoys maple syruping in the spring, working the family concession stand at the Minnesota State Fair and being with grandkids. Jeremy Danielson (Fergus Falls Sunrise) Jeremy is in the retail business. He has volunteered in various organizations such as Kids against Tobacco, Humane Society of Ottertail County. He joined Rotary with hopes to play a role in the continued success of our community. Kirk Adams (Grand Rapids Centennial) Kirk is in Bank Management. Shane Skelly (Grand Rapids Centennial) Shane is in Financial Management. Jayson Newman (Grand Rapids Centennial) Jayson is a Civil Engineer. John Kelsch (Grand Rapids Centennial) John is a Museum Curator. Britta Arendt (Grand Rapids Centennial) Britta is the Director of Development for the Local Boys and Girls Club. |
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NEW MEMBER GIFT All new members inducted into District 5580 Clubs from July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024 are eligible to receive a new member gift of a Rotary shirt shown in the graphic. To receive the shirt the Club President or Secretary needs to email Mark Leutgeb, District membership Chair, at mvleutgeb@gmail.com with the name and brief bio of the new member, male or female shirt size, and mailing address. Shirts will not shrink. The shirt will be shipped and the new member will be announced in the District newsletter. We hope that our new Rotary District 5580 members will wear their shirts proudly throughout their communities sharing the news about the good work that Rotarians do. |
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4 WAY TEST ESSAY CONTESTSubmitted by: Rozanne Casey, District 4 Way Test Essay Contest Chair  School is in session and the annual District 5580 4-Way Test Essay Contest is now underway! Clubs are encouraged to begin contacting their schools and distributing materials as soon as possible. Additional information and materials are available for download at: https://rotary5580.org/sitepage/four-way-essay. Are you interested in helping with the contest? We are looking for Rotarians to read and rank essays. If you are interested please contact Rozanne Casey. Thanks! |
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WAHP-BRECK ROTARY HOSTS BLOOD SCREENINGSubmitted by: Pam Erlandson  |
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FOUNDATION UPDATE - 2022-2023Submitted by Tim LeClair, District 5580 Foundation Chair 2023-2025
Foundation wrap up - 2022-2023 fiscal year The fiscal year 2022-23 came to a close on June 30, 2023. As I mentioned in previous articles, our Annual Fund giving goal is $100 per capita ($100 average per Rotarian in our district). While we did not achieve our annual fund goal, we had a very successful year closing out the year at approximately $92.42 per capita. That is the 2nd highest per capita contribution in the past 5 years! Considering we were sitting at $67 per capita in May 2023, the Foundation Committee extends a huge THANK YOU to the Rotarians that responded and impacted our Annual Fund giving! In addition, we had a very success year raising funds for the PolioPlus Fund raising $141,522 for the year ending June 30, 2023. That amount is the largest contribution in the past 5 years! Thank you for your support of the PolioPlus Fund. |
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SPAGHETTI GARDENSubmitted by Mark Leutgeb
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ROTARY DAY AT THE NATIONAL EAGLE CENTERThe National Eagle Center is having a special event just for Rotarians on Sunday, July 30th. The invitation outlines how you can get up close with live bald eagles as well as an opportunity to meet Preston Cook and see some of his incredible eagle collection. For more information on the National Eagle Center visit: https://www.nationaleaglecenter.org/  |
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ECO CHALLENGESubmitted By: Jill Baum, The Environment Committee July EcoChallenge from your friendly District Environment Committee: Bring your own to-go container!  Did you know that packaging constitutes nearly 30% of municipal solid waste? Food to-go containers make up a significant portion of that trash and tend to be particularly plastic-based, from Styrofoam to liquid containers with lids to bags. Plastics, in turn, affect over 700 species of marine animals… And on it goes, right on down the food chain. What can we do about it? How about something radical like bringing your own containers when you go out to eat! If remembering to bring your own bags to the store is already challenging, this may ramp things up a bit – but challenge yourself to give it a try this month! July 28th is World Nature Conservation Day. Keep those marine animals – and everyone else – in mind the next time you head out to eat. Thanks for being a role model. Bon Appetit! |
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LEWIS AND CLARK RIVERBOATSubmitted by: Christi M. Stonecipher, Bismarck Rotary Club  Bismarck Rotary Club members enjoyed an hour and a half cruise along the Missouri River in the Lewis & Clark Riverboat on June 26. The event was a fundraiser for their arboretum and raised $2,994 for future projects.
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MILES FOR MONEYSubmitted by: Brian Behrens, Park Rapids Rotary President Elect  Rotarian Katy Bloomquist and her husband Scott Freitag are starting an 11,000 mile bike tour that will take them around the outside of the United States (touching 33 states). Scott is doing this to raise money for Prostate Cancer and Schizophrenia. Scott is hoping to raise $500,000 by completing this bike ride. The Park Rapids Rotary Club donated $5,000. 1% down and 99% to go. The website that explains their journey is called milesformoney.org. Miles for Money challenges/request other clubs to donate to these two causes. Learn more about Miles For Money and follow Scott's journey on milesformoney.org. |
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ELY WELLNESS CARNIVALSubmitted by: Craig Loughery, Ely Rotary  In keeping with the spirit of Mental Health Awareness Month, student members of the Ely Rotary Interact Club and the Ely Kiwanis Key Club worked together to host a Mental Health Resources Fair for high school and middle school students. It was held Friday, May 19, at the Ely Hockey Arena. |
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D5580 MEMORIAL VIDEOSubmitted by: Gloria Mink, District 5580 Administrator Let us take a moment to remember those who found true happiness in service for others. Through the example of these celebrated lives, help us to manifest a harvest of understanding and peace.  |
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REHT Music Festival 2023 Video message from Mary Kay Verkennes (Central Lakes Rotary) Chair, REHT Music and Camping Festival  Volunteers needed to help at this year’s REHT Festival July 28-29! |
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PUBLIC IMAGE VIDEO MESSAGEMessage from Stephen Margarit, District 5580 Public Image Chair  |
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ROTARY PLAY HILL GROUNDBREAKINGSubmitted by Heather Andrea Ranck  You're invited to the Rotary Play Hill Groundbreaking! See you there!
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A SUCCESSFUL TRI-DISTRICT CONFERENCECheck out the drone footage from the 2023 Tri-District Conference!  |
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IMAGINE MELBOURNE
The annual Rotary International Convention is where friendship and learning come together to inspire you. Whether you’re new to Rotary or a longtime member, the convention in Melbourne, Australia, will awaken your imagination and offer you an unforgettable experience! |
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BISMARCK ROTARY HAS BUSY SPRINGSubmitted by Christ M. Stonecipher The Bismarck Rotary Club has been busy this spring!  On Thursday, April 20, the Frontier Trails District of the Northern Lights Council of Boy Scouts presented the Bismarck Rotary Club with their "Outstanding Community Partner" award at their spring banquet. The Bismarck Rotary Club has hosted the Boy Scouts Report to the Governor for over 100 years! Dan Schreck accepted the award on behalf of the club from fellow Rotarian and Boy Scout leader Tamie Schmidt. |
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ANNUAL FUND GIVING UPDATE 2023Submitted by: Tim LeClair, D5580 Foundation Chair
If you have heard my Foundation presentation, you will know I strongly encourage supporting The Rotary Foundation (TRF) annual fund. Your contributions to the annual fund are invested by TRF for three years and then are made available to our district and world fund to fund the grants that enable us to have a positive impact on our local and international communities. Your dues to Rotary International do not fund our grant programs. It is your contributions to the Annual Fund that fund our District and Global Grants. |
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50TH ANNUAL PICNICSubmitted by Mark Leutgeb  |
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REHT Music & Camping Festival 2023 |
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LAKE PARK-AUDUBON STUDENT HONOREDSubmitted by: Kathy Michaelson  Detroit Lakes Breakfast Rotary Club surprised high school senior Sam Bestge, by honoring him with a Paul Harris Fellowship Award. The award was presented in front of a cheering Lake Park-Audubon student body and faculty in the high school auditorium. Paul Harris Fellowships are named after the founder of Rotary. In Sam’s case, it was given to him in recognition of being an example of the the Rotary Motto, “Service Above Self”. Sam was instrumental in starting “Sam’s Meals For Many”. This program originated as a “Pay-It-Forward” project of his Sunday School Class at Cormorant Lutheran Church. This program has grown from providing an eight-meal Christmas season food package to one family (6 members) to 66 families with 301 members in the most recent Christmas season.
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FOUNDATION UPDATE APRIL 2023 |
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DISTRICT AWARDS The District Awards are open for nominations! Our District Awards Chairperson, Rozanne Casey, would like to encourage every club to submit at least one nomination for an award. We have fantastic clubs in District 5580, and great Rotarians!! Let’s recognize them with the awards they deserve. Award winners will be recognized in the District Newsletter and some select awards will be presented at the District Governor Change of Gavel Event. Submitting the award is very easy. Go to District Awards to choose the award you wish to submit, fill in the information and submit. All nominations must be submitted by April 30, 2023. |
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DISTRICT GOVERNOR MESSAGE District Governor: Kay Parries (bio) pictured with her husband Dan Parries November is Rotary Foundation Month The Magic of Giving November is a particular time for Rotarians around the world. It’s Rotary Foundation Month, a time to celebrate The Rotary Foundation's incredible impact and renew our commitment to its mission of “Doing Good in the World.” The Magic of the Rotary Foundation There’s a certain magic to The Rotary Foundation. It’s the magic of turning a single donation into a life-changing opportunity. It’s the magic of bringing people from all around the globe together to work towards a common goal. And it’s the magic of creating a lasting impact that will be felt for generations to come. We just finished visiting the Clubs in District 5580. In our Club visits and travels across District 5580, I’ve seen and experienced the “Magic” you bring to your clubs and communities. You are people of Action! |
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TRI-DISTRICT CONFERENCE 2023 Did you know that there is a virtual option for attending IMAGINE 2023? Don't miss out on the opportunity to attend the Rotary Tri District Conference! If something prohibits you from attending in person we encourage you to attend virtually. Register today! |
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BISMARCK HOSTS SCOUTS REPORT TO THE GOVERNORSubmitted By: Chrisi M. Stoncipher, Bismarck Rotary  The Bismarck Rotary Club was proud to again host the Scouts Report to the Governor. This has been an annual tradition of the club almost since its beginning with this year marking the 101st Scouts Report. The Northern Lights Council of the Boy Scouts of America covers the entire state of North Dakota, 18 counties in northwest Minnesota, and 2 counties each in Montana and South Dakota.
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BISMARCK ROTARIANS RAISE MONEY FOR SALVATION ARMYSubmitted By: Chrisi M. Stoncipher, Bismarck Rotary  The Bismarck Rotary Club once again helped raise money for the Salvation Army red kettle campaign during the holiday season. Members took 2-hour bell-ringing shifts and many brought family members along. Some even sang Christmas carols for passersby!
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ROTARY AND TOASTMASTER CLUBSubmitted By: Matthew Villella, Rotarian and Toastmasters
Rotarians in District 5580 and 5590 We have an amazing opportunity for you, an opportunity to charter a club and help Rotarians and Rotoractors be the best they can be. Toastmasters and Rotary has changed the lives of millions of people, this is a great partnership between both organizations, and we want this to flourish. |
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CHANGEOVER TRAINING SERIES 2023 |
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ROTARY 4-WAY TESTSubmitted By: Brian Davis
International Baccalaureate Programme Student Wins Triple Standing in Essay Contest David Harris, a student at Superior Collegiate and Vocational Institute was recently awarded a $500 top prize in the Rotary 4-Way Test Essay Contest which was sponsored by the three Thunder Bay Clubs and the Nipigon Club. According to Rotary Essay Contest Chair Lee Davis who is the Youth Services Chairperson for the Rotary Club of Nipigon, David's essay won because of its logical structure and personal application of the 4-Way Test as a moral and ethical compass in everyday interactions. Also winning locally were Anson Moorey from Superior CVI who was awarded a $200 prize for his second place essay, and Keira Meakin from St. Ignatius High School won $100 for placing third. The winning essays were chosen by a panel of judges from entries submitted to Thunder Bay and Nipigon Rotary Clubs. Harris's essay went on to compete against winning essays coming from the remainder of the 64 clubs within Rotary 5580 District which includes North Dakota, northern Minnesota, and northwest Wisconsin. David's essay was chosen 1st overall and won the Regional Prize of $250 U.S. and the District Prize of $1,000 U.S.. The contest runs annually and students in their final two years of secondary school are eligible to participate. |
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NIPIGON ROTARY IN THE WORLDSubmitted By: Brian Davis
The Rotary Club of Nipigon is committed to supporting projects locally, in our region, nationally, and internationally. We have contributed to projects in India, Bolivia, Guatemala, and Ethiopia to name a few. |
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CRAFT BEER & WINE EVENTSubmitted By: Georgette Wondolkowski, Co-Chair - Craft Beer and Wine Tasting Superior Rotary Club  |
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ESSAY CONTEST WINNER ANNOUNCED!
The Four Way Test Essay Contest is complete and we have a winner! The panel of judges from throughout our district read and ranked each of the essays submitted by clubs across the district. This year’s Overall District Winner was David Harris, sponsored by the Port Arthur Rotary Club. You can watch for his printed essay in an upcoming edition of “Cross Currents. A huge THANK YOU to all of the youth and clubs that participated and the judges who read and ranked all of the essays. Congratulations to DAVID HARRIS!! The winning essay can be view HERE.
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FEBRUARY ECO CHALLENGESubmitted by: District 5580 Environmental Committee  February Eco Challenge: Learn about Road Salt Pollution and Help to Reduce It It’s definitely winter here in the Northland! Have you needed to use salt on your driveway? According to this article from the US Environmental Protection Agency, road salt can contaminate drinking water, kill or endanger wildlife, increase soil erosion and damage private and public property. But best practices and alternatives exist! |
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ROTARY'S ANNIVERSARY! February 23rd is Rotary's anniversary! World Understanding and Peace Day takes place on February 23 every year. This day is actually a commemoration of the first meeting of Rotary that was held. This meeting of businessmen, which aimed to be a space where their backgrounds didn’t matter, started the chain of events that led to the formation of Rotary International. An international organization dedicated to humanitarian service as well as peace and goodwill throughout the world, Rotary International began in Chicago, U.S. Follow this link to read more: https://nationaltoday.com/world-understanding-and-peace-day/ |
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ROTARY GIVEAWAYIt's time for the 19th annual $15,000 Rotary Giveaway!
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ROTARY HISTORYSubmitted by: PDG Thomas Riley  Rotary International’s Council on Legislation The Rotary International Council on Legislation (RiCL, or COL) is a legislative body responsible for determining the policies and procedures of Rotary International. The council meets every three years to review and vote on proposed changes to the Rotary Constitution and Bylaws. The first RICL was held in 1910, and since then it has played a crucial role in shaping the direction and future of the organization. |
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FEBRUARY IS PEACE AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION MONTH |
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NORTH CENTRAL PRESIDENT ELECT TRAINING REGISTER TODAY AT: https://www.northcentralpets.org/ Presidents-elect - be sure to use Code 5580PE23 at checkout!!! |
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ONE SUMMIT We are excited to announce that our District will be presenting One Summit, formerly known as One Rotary Summit, emphasizing how we can take “Imagination to Action”. Rotarians and Rotaractors united in club membership will enhance personal skills that will benefit and impact others in our communities. |
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CREATE HOPE IN THE WORLD The Theme for the 2023-2024 Rotary Year Has Been Announced!! Let's Create Hope in the World 🕊️ During the International Assembly, Rotary International President-elect R. Gordon R. McInally announced his presidential theme, Create Hope in the World. "By continuing what we do best, by remaining open and willing to change, and by keeping our focus on building peace in the world and within ourselves, Rotary helps create a more peaceful world — a more hopeful world." How will you lead the way toward new possibilities? Let's bring lasting change to the world, one restored or newly created hope at a time. 2023-24 theme logo and materials (download) |
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WEARING BLUE ON HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS DAYSubmitted by: Blake Crosby, District Assistant Governor  Fargo Moorhead AM Rotary Club president, David Dietz, and his team at Preference Employment Systems wore blue on National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. Human Trafficking Awareness Day was held on January 11 to raises awareness of the persistent issue of human trafficking. Though the entire month of January has already been recognized as National Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention Month, this day is specifically dedicated to awareness and prevention of the illegal practice. |
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DGE MESSAGE FROM INTERNATIONAL ASSEMBLYSubmitted by: Dave Long, District Governor-Elect Video Message from International Assembly with special appearance by the 2018-2019 Rotary International President, Barry Rassin!  |
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JANUARY IS VOCATIONAL SERVICE MONTH |
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ROTARY AWARENESS DAY AT THE CAPITAL ROTARY AWARENESS DAY Purpose is to socialize, tell our Rotary story to legislators, and to hear from them about state efforts related to our programs and values. We have several Rotarian-legislators who will be greeting us. Know a Rotary member-legislator? Invite them, or schedule an office visit now. REGISTER AT: https://rotarymidwest.org/aware If you plan to attend or would like additional information please contact DGE Dave Long or DG Kay Biga.
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ROTARY FOUNDATIONSubmitted by: Molly Herrington, Grants Subcommittee Chair  Rotarians across District 5580 contribute their skills, expertise, and resources to help solve some of the world’s toughest problems. From providing clean water to addressing local community needs to promoting peace worldwide, Rotary grants bring service project ideas to life. Since it was founded more than 100 years ago, the Rotary Foundation has spent more than $4 billion on life-changing, sustainable projects through Rotary grants. District 5580 has numerous grant projects driving positive change. A few recent projects include:
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PUBLIC IMAGE GRANTSSubmitted by: Stephen Margarit, D5580 Public Image Chair  Public Image Grants For more information, check out: |
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ROTARY GOES TO BOLIVIA I'd like to invite you on an adventure to Bolivia scheduled April 13th - 23rd+/-, 2023 to visit the many Rotary projects you have helped support. Please contact me for a Harbortown Rotary / Mano a Mano brochure describing the adventure. if you have any questions or need additional information. Karl Everett, Duluth Harbortown Rotary |
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PANCAKE KARNIVAL Dickinson Rotary Club annual Pancake Karnival. The Dickinson Rotary Club members recently posed at weekly meeting with a BIG CHECK for PolioPlus. The $6,500 donation was earned at the annual Pancake Karnival in October. |
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BOLIVIA DREAM FUND On Wednesday, Karl Everett (Karlos) received a check from the Dickinson Rotary Club for $1000 to support the Bolivia Dream Fund student scholarships, that Matt Thibodeau initiated and spoke about on Foundation Day. Also, the Dickenson club provided the final donation needed to receive the matching grant from the District for the Viente de Septiembre medical clinic in Bolivia. Once we receive the grant money, we can move forward with Mano a Mano Bolivia to initiate the construction of the project. They plan to start the construction in December and complete the project in four months. They are planning to have the clinic in operation by April 2023. You are all invited to attend the dedication of the clinic, which will be a spectacular event, and visit with the Dream Fund students. We are planning The Great Bolivia Adventure on April 13th to the +/-23rd 2023. Please join us. Contact Karl Everett for more information and to reserve a place on the trip.
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ROTARY'S 7 AREAS OF FOCUS?Submitted by: Travis Stone, District Trainer
Rotary 101 Factoid: What are Rotary’s 7 Areas of Focus? The causes we target to maximize our impact are called our areas of focus. Our most successful and sustainable projects and activities fall within these areas. • Promoting peace • Fighting disease • Providing clean water • Saving mothers and children • Supporting education • Growing local economies • The environment |
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RICHARD C. BRICKER (Richard C. “Rick” and Susan Bricker) Past District GovernorRick Bricker Richard C. “Rick” Bricker, Rotary District 5580 Past District Governor (Written by Gregory D. Carlson)
Richard C. “Rick” Bricker, Past District Governor for Rotary District 5580 and member of the Brainerd Noon Rotary Club, passed away November 16, 2022, at age 68. Rick’s life exemplified Rotary’s motto “Service Above Self” in every aspect of his life. In addition to his service in the U.S. Army, he also served extensively within his church, community, and in Rotary. With the Brainerd Noon Rotary Club, Rick volunteered in many community and international service projects including the Brainerd Rotary Park, and work in Haiti. Rick served as Rotary District 5580 Governor in 2019-2020, a year that will always be remembered for the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in Spring 2020. Rick was instrumental in beginning a Rotary District 5580 initiative to fight human trafficking and child abuse, along with Rotary Districts 5950 and 5960. Rick was the first of three consecutive District 5580 Governors to passionately embrace this important cause. This partnership would also form the basis for future collaborative work among the adjoining Rotary Districts. |
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DECEMBER IS DISEASE PREVENTION AND TREATMENT MONTH |
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PUBLIC IMAGE GRANT Does your club need to enhance their PUBLIC IMAGE? District 5580 is here to help with up to $150 towards your clubs public image. This could include, but is not limited to; signage, brochures, advertising, billboards, etc.. A few examples of brochures and downloadable materials to get you started can be found at the Rotary Brand Center. All clubs are eligible provided they are current on their RI and District Dues and have their club goals posted on Club Central. To apply simply submit the following to District Treasurer Elaine Hansen.
Questions can be directed to the District 5580 Public Image Chair Stephen Margarit. |
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IN MEMORIAM
Bruce HoweJuly 2, 1932 — October 9, 2022 Longtime Rotarian Bruce Howe , 90, died October 9. He joined Rotary in 1969, marking 49 years and 6 months of service. He established the Howe Law firm, which later became Howe & Howe when his daughter Carmi joined the firm. Bruce became an honorary member of the Dickinson Rotary Club in 2019 and continued his membership until his death. He was a Paul Harris Fellow +2, and was president of the club from 1977-78. Services are pending. (photo from a 2016 club meeting) https://www.stevensonfuneralhome.com/obituaries/bruce-howe |
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NOVEMBER ECOCHALLENGESubmitted By: Jill Baum and the Environment Committee  Brrrrr - it would appear that winter is upon us. Now's a great time to think about your energy use. Before turning up the thermostat, consider adding a sweater instead. Did you know that if everyone in the US lowered their thermostat by 1 degree F, we could reduce carbon emissions by 7.2 teragrams? That's equivalent to the annual carbon usage of 1.4 million people (https://atmos.utah.edu/anthro_now/thermostats_101.php). Still not convinced? Check out a few more reasons to consider keeping cool for the planet: https://thriftyhomesteader.com/6-reasons-turn-down-your-thermostat/ Enjoy those lovely winter sweaters this season!
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NEW PLAYGROUND OPENS IN HERMANTOWN |
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DICKINSON ROTARIANS GIFT OF LITERACYSubmitted By: Kris Fehr Dickinson Rotarians  Dickinson Rotarians continue to give the gift of literacy and during the month October the Rotary Club members distributed dictionaries to third grade students in all public and private schools in Dickinson, South Heart and Belfield. It's a tradition spanning more than 15 years, organized by Rotarian Glenice Hansen for most of those years. This year, 480 dictionaries were placed in the hands of students during a two-week period. It's an effort that takes Rotarians into the classroom, where they meet students, hand out dictionaries and point out ways to use a dictionary. Students can use the dictionaries in school and at home, too. The project is one of the club members' favorite activities, Hansen said. It's more than a dictionary, it's one way our Dickinson Rotary Club can help foster a love or learning and spread the gift of literacy.
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REHT MUSIC FESTIVAL 2023 SAVE THE DATE for the REHT (Rotary Ends Human Trafficking) Music & Camping Festival Friday-Saturday, July 28-29, 2023, at the Lakes Music & Event Park in Pine River! It will be Country Music and we are planning to book two nationally known bands! For Ticket & Camping information visit the website at: www.rehtmusicfestival.com What’s Happening in your Club for programs? The REHT committee would like to share a program with your Rotary Club, on Rotary Ends Human Trafficking with current statistics and to ask for your support for the upcoming event. |
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CONCESSION STAND AT PAPA'S PUMPKIN PATCH The Bismarck Rotary Club ran a concession stand at Papa's Pumpkin Patch three weekends in October to raise money for their international project this year. Papa's is THE place to go in the fall in Bismarck with lots of activities (including ziplines, haybale mazes, and a pumpkin catapult!) and, of course, pumpkins for the old and young at heart. (One October weekend set a new attendance record - over 10,000 people!) The club coordinates with local high school students to help fill all the shifts, exposing the next generation to the Service Above Self mentality. Early estimates are that the club will net over $10,000 for their efforts.
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BISMARCK ROTARIANS CHEER ON RUNNERS Members of the Bismarck Rotary Club manned a cheering station for several hours on a very wet Saturday morning to encourage runners in the Bismarck Marathon. The event on September 17 included a 10K, half-marathon, relay marathon, and full marathon. Over 2,300 runners participated in various events over three days. The Bismarck Rotary Club scholarship fund will receive a $500 donation from the Bismarck Marathon organizing committee as a thanks for their support.
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Video of District 5580 Projects |
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Planning Your TripPlanning your trip to the 2020 District Convention? Here are additional fun things to do if you’re tagging along for the conference!Link to information on Maddens Resort: https://www.maddens.com/ Book a spa appointment: https://www.maddens.com/the-spa-at-maddens/ Things to do: Visit Nisswa: http://www.nisswa.com/ Downtown Brainerd: https://www.facebook.com/downtownbrainerd/ Local Breweries and Winery: Jack Pine: https://www.jackpinebrewery.com/ Big Ax: http://www.bigaxebrewing.com/ Roundhouse: http://roundhousebrew.com/ Dennis Drummond Wine Company: https://ddwco.com/ Alternative Lodging to Maddens: |
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PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO THE 2020 DISTRICT CONFERENCE?Planning your trip to the 2020 District Convention? Here are additional fun things to do if you’re tagging along for the conference! Link to information on Maddens Resort: https://www.maddens.com/ Book a spa appointment: https://www.maddens.com/the-spa-at-maddens/ Things to do: Visit Nisswa: http://www.nisswa.com/ Downtown Brainerd: https://www.facebook.com/downtownbrainerd/ Local Breweries and Winery: Jack Pine: https://www.jackpinebrewery.com/ Big Ax: http://www.bigaxebrewing.com/ Roundhouse: http://roundhousebrew.com/ Dennis Drummond Wine Company: https://ddwco.com/ Alternative Lodging to Maddens: |
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Welcome to Brainerd |
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Roarin' 20s Speakeasy | Historic Downtown MinotBelieve it or not, Minot has a past checkered with tales of bootlegging through hidden tunnels and flourishing dance halls earning it the name of “Little Chicago” during the roaring 20s. Pack your flapper dress and beads, and grab your pocket watch and bow tie for Friday night's roarin' Rotarians at the speakeasy!  |
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2019 District 5580 Conference Speakers Evan Burrell | Keynote SpeakerEvan is a 36r year old Rotarian and member of the Rotary Club of Turramurra in D9685 in Sydney, Australia. Evan has been an active part of the Rotary family for nearly 20 years, serving many of those years as a dedicated Rotaractor. Evan certainty gets around, at the 2014 Rotary convention in Sydney; you may have seen him walking around taking hundreds of “Service Above Selfies” with convention attendees. Or you may have run into him immunizing children against polio in India, or worked alongside him across the district. Evan was even known for teaching the 2013-14 RI President Ron Burton how to dance to Korean singer Psy’s “Gangnam Style” a few years back. Evan proves that Rotary isn’t all business! Evan’s message is “Let’s have fun in Rotary” and it’s with this message that has him passionately promoting Rotary’s digital story via his active social media presence. One of Evan’s great skills is that he uses social media to show that Rotarians are not only making a positive difference in the world, but they are having fun doing it! He presents Rotary in a lighter more personally engaging way, showing the more fun and humorous side to our organisation, He finds it grabs people’s attention, member and non-member alike. This makes the idea of Rotary more relatable, especially to new generations, who may feel disconnected with some of the formalities of Rotary but are avid users of social media. Evan is also the Digital Media Coordinator for the regional magazine Rotary Down Under as well as keeping himself busy managing his own digital consultancy start up, and building his career as a budding actor amongst many other things. Rotaract/Rotary Roles • Past member of St Ives Rotaract 1999-2011 • Past President St Ives Rotaract • Past x2 District Rotaract Representative D9685 • Past President Rotary E Club of Greater Sydney • District 9685 Youth Chair 2016- • Member Turramurra Rotary 2011- • Past member RI Rotaract & Interact Committee 2013-2016 • Past Member RI Alumni Committee 2015-2016 • Zone 7b and 8 Australian/NZ representative 2018 Rotary International Toronto Convention promotions committee • Member RI Communications Committee .jpg) Clint Romesha | Keynote SpeakerClinton Romesha is a former U.S. Army Staff Sergeant noted for his heroic actions during the Battle of Kamdesh, a key moment during the War in Afghanistan. On October 3, 2009, Sergeant Romesha took quick and selfless action while under aggressive fire from the Taliban. Despite taking shrapnel wounds to his neck, shoulders, and arms, he carried out a counterattack that not only eliminated Taliban machine guns, but allowed for wounded soldiers to be taken to an aid station. Throughout the 12-hour battle, Romesha told himself he was merely doing what any solider would have done for his comrades; everyone else, however, saw him as a hero. Romesha’s valor and humility have been widely celebrated. In 2013 he was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Barack Obama, making him the fourth living recipient of the honor for the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. In the same year, he was inducted into the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes. Since receiving these accolades, Romesha has carried his Medal of Honor with him wherever he goes – not out of pride, but as a constant reminder that within every single person lies the same qualities responsible for Romesha’s own heroic actions. His 2016 memoir, Red Platoon: A True Story of American Valor, was immediately recognized as an instant classic. It is not only admired for providing a clear-eyed account of one of the most crucial battles in recent military history, but also as a powerful account of how one person, committed to doing the right thing, can make a bigger difference than they ever imagined. Romesha revisited the story of the battle that made him a hero in the Netflix original series, Medal of Honor. As a speaker, Romesha not only reminds audiences of the power of ordinary people have for extraordinary bravery, but remains deeply committed to telling the stories of the soldiers who served with him, both living and gone. Romesha forges a connection between his audience and soldiers around the world, telling the stories of those who remain unrecognized, and who continue to make tough, brave choices in the service of others.
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Keynote Speaker Clint Romesha Clinton Romesha is a former U.S. Army Staff Sergeant noted for his heroic actions during the Battle of Kamdesh, a key moment during the War in Afghanistan. On October 3, 2009, Sergeant Romesha took quick and selfless action while under aggressive fire from the Taliban. Despite taking shrapnel wounds to his neck, shoulders, and arms, he carried out a counterattack that not only eliminated Taliban machine guns, but allowed for wounded soldiers to be taken to an aid station. Throughout the 12-hour battle, Romesha told himself he was merely doing what any solider would have done for his comrades; everyone else, however, saw him as a hero...Read more about Clint Romesha on the Conference Speakers page! |
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Keynote Speaker Evan Burrell Evan Burrell of the Rotary Club of Turramurra in Sydney, Australia, has been an active part of the Rotary family for nearly 20 years. He is past president of the Rotary E Club of Greater Sydney, and a member of the RI Communications Committee, as well as an Assistant Rotary Public Image Coordinator for the whole of Australia in Zone 8. Evan's message is "Let's have fun in Rotary" as he passionately promotes Rotary's digital story via social media. Evan is a Digital Media Consultant for the regional Rotary Down Under magazine, He manages a digital consultancy start up, drives buses, is a big Superman fan and is building his career as a budding actor, amongst many other things.Read more about Evan Burell on the Conference Speakers page! |
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DISTRICT AWARDSThe Virtual Rotary District 5580 Conference is just around the corner and the District Awards are open for nominations!  Our District Awards Chairperson, Rozanne Casey, would like to encourage every club to submit at least one nomination for an award. We have fantastic clubs in District 5580, and great Rotarians!! Let’s recognize them at our virtual District Conference, with the awards they deserve. Submitting the award is very easy. Go to our District Website, https://rotary5580.org/50019/Page/ShowSitePage?ClassCode=SitePage&Slug=awards-updated-march-2022 to choose the award you wish to submit, fill in the information and submit. All nominations must be submitted by April 1, 2022 |
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2018 DISTRICT CONFERENCE LODGING
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2018 DISTRICT CONFERENCE TRANSPORTATION We have a transportation option for conference attendees! This transportation option includes a FUN experience at a GREAT PRICE! |
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2018 DISTRICT CONFERENCE REGISTRATION APRIL 26 – 28 THUNDER BAY, ONTARIOThe 2018 District Conference is scheduled for April 26-28, and our Canadian Rotarians in Thunder Bay (Fort William), Thunder Bay (Port Arthur), Thunder Bay (Lakehead) and Nipigon Rotary Clubs are ready to welcome you to the Valhalla Inn for an exciting weekend of “Building Bridges, Goodwill & Friendship.” What could be better than coming together to “Make a Difference” and to celebrate our International goodwill and friendship? Thunder Bay, ON is a great city with much to enjoy. The Conference will be a fantastic event, long remembered as one of the best. Join us, won’t you! More information: District Conference
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MAP OF DISTRICT 5580 |
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DISTRICT NEWSLETTER |
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Follow Us on Twitter!Are you on Twitter? Follow FM AM Rotary to stay updated on news and events!
www.twitter.com/fmamrotary
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Like Us on Facebook!Fargo-Moorhead AM Rotary is on Facebook! We invite you to LIKE our page to get updates on club announcements and other happenings! www.facebook.com/fmamrotary
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DISTRICT GOVERNOR, TIM KAMINSKIDistrict 5580 welcomes 2014-2015 District Governor, |
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MAPS OF DISTRICTS AND ZONES |
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HELPING MINOT
Clubs and Individuals can help the Minot Area Flood Recovery.
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DISTRICT GOVERNOR 2011-2012
DG DON CAVALIER and MARY Congratulations to Don Cavalier as District 5580 Governor for 2012-2013. To download a Bio of District Governor, just click on the link in the box at the left side of this page. Tom is a member of the Rotary Club of Crookston, MN USA.
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FOUR WAY ESSAY CONTEST
The 2010-11 District 5580 4-Way Essay Contest is now underway! Download all materials now and get them to your high schools. The deadline for District submission is March 15, 2011.
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Learn more about your District 5580:
Click here to download the PDF profile, that explains more about the details our your District 5580 Rotary!
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2010 L.E.A.D. Training
L.E.A.D. Training 2010 Power Point Presentation is now
available.
Click
here
Learn More Here...
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Keep Up with the GSE Japan Team! |
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Future Vision Plan for District 5580
Read Tully's letter with regard to Rotary's Future Vision Plan
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Rotary Club Public Relations |
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Meet the Outbound & Inbound GSE Sweden Teams! |
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DISTRICT GOVERNOR 2008-2009 |
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Rotary Club Survey |
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RI Service Above Self Award
District 5580's Marty Byrnes receives Rotary International's "Service Above Self" Award.
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Russian Delegation to visit Hibbing
The Rotary Club of Hibbing and the Hibbing Chisholm Rotary Club will jointly host a delegation from the
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Our 2006-07 RI Theme & Logo
Rotary takes the leadership in many programs throughout the world. The greatest is our Polio Plus Project. Can your next project "Lead the Way"?
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RYLA Reservations due Feb 17th, 2006
Your Club must reserve a spot(s) for this year's RYLA Camp by sending $425.US per student by Feb 17th, 2006, as per Yellow PostCard. |
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Dave Finn - Service to Humanity Award
Over 150 Rotarians gathered at the Detroit Lakes Rotary Club meeting on the 13th of October to honor Dr. David Fihn.
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Rotaract and Interact |
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New Interact Clubs Formed
Three new Interact clubs have been form in District 5580.
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2006 District Conference - Williston North Dakota |
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District Conference - Great Attendance - See Pictures
Attendance at the District conference was 814 - a great turn out, and judging by the pictures, was well enjoyed. Please click on the District Link -- District Conference Pictures and when directed to the MSN Groups claudet website, click on pictures to view - several pages of pictures.
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Meet North Dakota's Up and Coming Movie Producer - Daniel Bielinski
Video Message
Host Hotel - Valhalla Inn .jpg)
