Bell & Gavel held hostage by Rush the service dog.  After our March 7th meeting, our speaker’s service dog Rush was not happy with the noise created by our bell and gavel- so he took them and held them for ransom. Our club raised $300 to go to SD Service Dogs as ransom and Rush returned the bell & gavel at our March 21st meeting. He and his handler were also presented with the history of Rotary’s bell. Thank you Rush for being such a conscientious service dog!
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Micro aggressions President Jennifer Rollins spoke on micro aggressions, words or actions that offend people and what to do. There is a great tutorial on ClubRunner under the learning center. |
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Mark Barry Donates Chair/Plantstands  Mark Barry shared his latest creation, a beautiful plant stand/chair. He has donated these as a district raffle prize and an auction item at this years Children’s Home Gala. Nice work Mark! The district raffle tickets are on sale. They would like each member to sell a book, which is $100 worth of tickets. Contact Kerry Lassaux kerry@unitedwayblackhills.org. |
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2023 Membership Contest It’s that time of year again! The Membership contest begins 3/15 and ends 6/15. Guys vs. gals. See the above flyer for points breakdown.
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RYLA camp 2023 Rene Sorenson spoke about RYLA camp this summer July 9-13 in Maxwell, NE. It is open to current sophomores or juniors. There are no kids from our district going so we really need some applicants and to promote RYLA here. Students don’t need to provide their own transportation to camp. Please contact Rene with applicants and to get more information on this amazing leadership opportunity. reneinak@gmail.com
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2023 Youth Exchange We heard from Bill Spindle, youth exchange chair for the district. He talked about the program returning after Covid shut it down. This year we will have inbound students. He is looking for 3 clubs in our district to host 1 student each for the school year this fall. There will be outbound students in 2024. Host families don’t need to be Rotarians. If interested or you would like more information please contact Bill. William.spindle@sdsmt.edu. (907)227-4970
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February Bingo Social at the VFW     Great bingo social tonight at the VFW. Many winners and a lot of fun! Thank you Larry for your incredible bingo calling skills and Deb for being our Vanna!
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Happy 118 Birthday Rotary 2/23/23 is Rotary’s birthday! 118 years ago today was the first Rotary meeting. Let’s celebrate this wonderful organization.
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Paint A Bowl Fundraiser for Volunteers Of America
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Black Hills Children’s Home Gala 2023
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Social at Zymurcracy 1/27   The February Social was at Zymurcracy Brewery. It was well attended despite the falling snow. The club coin check was called, but only 2 people remembered their coins- not sure who had to buy! Don't forget next time.
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Romania Wheelchair DistributionWe have a modified wheelchair distribution trip scheduled for March 11 - 19, 2023. Attached is an itinerary. We will travel to Bucharest, interact for an evening with a local Bucharest Rotary Club, then go to Barlad. In Barlad, we will participate in a one-day wheelchair distribution, view the new Hope Haven International facility in Barlad and interact with local Rotarians in Barlad. Then we will travel to Brasov and Sinaia, tour Peles Palace, Dracula's Castle in Brasov and enjoy the mountains for a bit. We will finish in Bucharest and then home. I estimate the costs for this trip to be around $2,000 per person. If you have questions, please email me at: msiemons@hopehaven.org. Or call me at 712.470.0298. I am looking for 2 - 4 people to fill our team. I would like to book air travel next week. Hope you can join us for this trip!
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February 7, 2023 Meeting
 Our speaker today was Matthew Connor, Information Director for Box Elder Growth & Development. His presentation was by Zoom. The City of Box Elder is expecting continued growth with Ellsworth AFB and the new B-21 Raider Bomber coming in 2025. With the larger population they will require housing, infrastructure, shopping and entertainment in order to become a vibrant place to live. A new micro brewery/restaurant will be built right outside of the Liberty Gate and they have plans for a children’s museum with Black Hills hands on, high tech themes. Thank you for the informative talk.
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Sean Binder Receives Paul Harris Award  The highest award in Rotary is the Paul Harris Award. It is given to a Rotarian or a member of the community that has made an outstanding contribution to the community. The Paul Harris recipient goes above and beyond in serving our community through promoting change and understanding. It has been awarded to Rotarians and others that have shown that they are prepared to go that extra mile in support of people in need. The Rapid City Rushmore Rotary Club honored Sean Binder, Internship Coordinator with Rapid City High School, with the distinguished Paul Harris Fellowship Award. Sean was instrumental in developing the City of Rapid City Youth Council, serves on the Lifeways board and is dedicated to youth development and work-based learning programs in the community and school. Sean has nurtured the partnership with Rapid City High School and Rapid City Rushmore Rotary. Congratulations Sean. |
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St. Thomas Moore Interact Blue Out On Friday, January 13, the St. Thomas Moore Interact Club had a "blue out" fundraiser to raise money for Human Trafficking Awareness. They decorated the school with blue streamers and made posters about statistics on Human Trafficking. Students donated $5 in order to wear blue. They are donating all of the funds to the Cornerstone Women's and Children's Shelter on January 19 at 11:30. The Interact Club will be at Rushmore Rotary’s meeting this Tuesday. Donations are welcome!
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Whiteclay Makerspace featured on Nebraska Public MediaWe are happy to share this recent news story produced by Nebraska Public Broadcasting. The equipment you will see was purchased by our Global Grant. While equipment and supplies purchases have slowed, the artists are busy creating and marketing their products. Holly Albers, marketing manager, is currently recruiting additional artists. They will have opportunities to attend quilting and sewing equipment training in Rapid City this winter. Also, skills classes on various craft/art subjects will be offered. Our grant will reimburse travel and class expenses. Global Grant committee members are happy to respond to any questions regarding this project. Ina Winter, Hot Springs Rotary, D5610 PDG 2019-20 kristine.ina.winter@gmail.com Linda Peterson, Rushmore Rotary, PDG 2014-15, RPIC 2018-20 linda4rotary@me.com Tom Katus, Rushmore Rotary, Omniciye Committee tmkatus@gmail.com |
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Denmark Friendship Exchange 2023 WOULD YOU LIKE TO GO TO DENMARK? There is a Rotary Friendship Exchange with Denmark this year, the group from our district will go July 1 to 12 or 14 and the group from Denmark will come here September 15 to 27 or 29. This is a wonderful way to explore Southern Denmark, learn about Danish culture and make new friends. If you are interested, please contact Pat Sutliff 605-593-2896, <pmsutliff@gmail.com> |
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Story Book Island Gala deadline for sign ups Storybook Island’s Gala to save the 100 acre woods is Saturday, February 11, 2023. If you haven’t already bought your tickets please note the deadline is January 31st. Please come out and support this great cause.
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School of St. Jude UpdateWatertown Rotary challenged Clubs in District 5610 to match their $25,000 for The School of St. Jude. The district achieve this goal and $50,000 was donated to the school. Rushmore Rotary donated $8,000 through our fundraising dinner event held in October. Thank you to Pat Sutliff who serves as our International Chair and Liaison to the school.  |
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January 3 2023 Speaker - Mark BarryOur own Mark Barry shared his hobby of woodworking at our meeting on January 3rd. Mark has been doing woodworking over the last 39 years and has created a wide variety of pieces including a shed for his wife, tables, rocking horses, highchairs, doors, and unique pieces (wine rocker, crosses, urns) for friends and family. He was introduced to Rotary through a project he completed at Black Hills Children's Home (and we are glad he joined Rushmore Rotary). Mark uses several types of tools and saws, and a variety of woods including hickory, birch, maple, walnut, oak, redwood. One of Mark's favorite sayings is "in a world where you can be anything--Be Kind! And that he is!   |
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Rotary Foundation Giving Match begins 1/1/23 Recall that when you contribute to Happy Bucks, the money is donated to Polio Plus (one branch of the Foundation). With each dollar we receive, the club receives one point. Points can then be used to reward an individual (a fellow Rotarian or community member) with a Paul Harris Fellowship (this takes 1,000 points). This is a big deal! Of note, this is the same for you personally. As you donate you acquire these points. For example, with your $10 or more contribution to Happy Bucks, one point per dollar is given to you. Once you have collected 1,000 points you can choose who to honor. The Board decided to match, in points, all donations made by a member who donates to the Foundation between January 1 and May 31, 2023, one point per dollar. In other words, for those of you who are close to receiving a Paul Harris Fellowship, your donation in this window is essentially doubled and may put you over the 1,000 mark to achieve this special recognition. For those of you just starting a contribution or one time donation, this match will give you a great jump start to eventually reach Paul Harris Fellowship recognition. Our Foundation is the lifeblood of our organization, please consider giving. |
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National Human Trafficking Awareness Day 1/11In support of National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, January 11th, #wearblueday, Rushmore Rotarians wore blue to Tuesday’s meeting.  January is National Slavery & Human Trafficking Prevention month.  #WearBlueDay | Homeland Security (dhs.gov) #WearBlueDay | Homeland Security - DHS National Human Trafficking Awareness Day is recognized each year on January 11 th. In recognition of this important day, and throughout the month of January, Blue Campaign hosts several special events and educational activities. |
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New members Toni Owan and Brittany Rimington Toni Owan Toni was born and raised in Williston, ND. She graduated from Williston High School in 1981. Toni spent 15 years in Hawaii and both of her sons were born in Hawaii. At the age 26, as a single mom, she decided to go to college. She received her 4 year degree, then a law degree from the University of Hawaii. In 2000, she accepted a job as a foreclosure attorney in Denver. She then started her own foreclosure firm in 2003. In 2010, se reconnected with a guy friend from high school who is now her husband (thank you facebook) and gained a daughter and 2 grandkids. She was tired of practicing law so she sold her law firm and in 2021 and moved from Denver to Summerset, SD. She is still employed at the firm that purchased her firm, working from home as their Chief Financial Officer. Her one son teaches English in Seoul, South Korea, the other son is a Sergeant in the U.S. Army stationed in Stuttgart Germany and her daughter is a 7th grade science teacher in Williston, ND. Toni will turn 60 in January and you are all invited to her 60’s hippy themed 60th birthday "Peace Love & Party" at Kickstands Juke Joint Bar & Grill on Saturday 01/14/23 at 5pm where wearing a costume is highly recommended. Brittany Rimington Brittany just moved here from Eugene Oregon in May. She has a 6 year old St. Bernard named Albus. Brittany is a Quality Assurance Analyst and originally went to college for English Literature. In her time off time she volunteers at the public library. She is an avid reader and also enjoy sewing, cross-stitching and crochet. Brittany hopes to learn to garden in the next couple of years when she has the space for it. Welcome! We are so glad to have you both as part of our club. |
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Weather Update For Tuesday Dec 13thWeather Update for Tuesday December 13th, 2022. Due to the pending weather in the area, below are some guidelines I am putting into practice with respect to Rushmore Rotary Club meeting. 1. Please be safe! If you do not feel you can drive do not try. Remember, unless we are off-site, we always have the zoom option. 2. If the Rapid City area schools close for the day (due to inclement weather), then Rushmore Rotary will not meet in person, but will still have the zoom option (note the speaker/program may change). 3. Recommend checking the news upon waking up and before heading out to determine if Rushmore Rotary in-person is available. If not, stay home and login to zoom to join us virtually. 4. For RUMMBLE Meeting (second Wednesday of each month), a similar policy is in effect. If schools are closed due to inclement weather, then RUMMBLE will be cancelled (no zoom option available). NOTE: The Rushmore Rotary Christmas party (originally scheduled for December 13) has been postponed. Stay tuned for more details to the new date. Be Safe, Rotarians. Jennifer |
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Giving Tuesday
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November Social at Pour 54   The November social at Pour 54 was well attended and a great time with great food and plenty of beers to try. |
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Hope Haven Wheelchair Distribution
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Sturgis Rotaract Music Trivia NightShow your support and join the Sturgis Rotaract and Northern Hills Rotary for their Music Trivia Night fundraiser at Sturgis Brewing Company on Wednesday, November 30th from 6-9 pm.  |
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Rapid City High School Assembly
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Dan Cox named District Governor for 2025-26
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World Polio Day Rapid City, SD has declared today World Polio Awareness Day. Celebrate with us by supporting #endpolio. Visit endpolio.org for more information.  |
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October 4th Speaker - Corey DavisCorey Davis, Scout Executive and CEO of Black Hills Area Council/Boy Scouts of America (BSA) introduced us to Grace (pictured), the first female Eagle Scout in the Black Hills as part of his presentation. We all learned something new about BSA, its localized funding, new policies and and its restructuring to support their goals to incorporate family activities, prepare leaders, explore careers, and have adventures. For more information on BSA go to blackhillsbsa.org   |
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Swedish Friendship Exchange VisitLast month, we had a wonderful time hosting a contingent of Swedish Rotarians as part of the Rotary Friendship Exchange. We showed off our top tourist locations in the Black Hills as well as a few Rotary led projects such as Whiteclay Makerspace and Storybook Island (SBI). We loved learning about Sweden, especially during their briefing at SBI...that is until the sprinklers made us reach an abrupt end.    |
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Fundraiser for The School of St Jude 10/14 On Friday, nearly 40 Rotarians and community members enjoyed a wonderful evening raising money for the School of St Jude, Tanzania while feasting on a local Tanzanian meal of beans and rice plus watermelon. At the end of the night while the women tallied the money raised, the men did the dishes. Have to love the embrace of equality!      |
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District Governor John Schneider to visit Rushmore Rotary
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RI A Look At The Year Ahead
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Storybook Island UpdateSafe and Sweet Trick or Treat is scheduled for October 29th. Contact jackie@storybookisland.com to volunteer. They are in need of candy donations for the event. Bring to our weekly meetings or drop off at SBI.
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SBI Adult Fun Night 9/23/22 PLEASE NOTE THE DATE CHANGE. THEY COULD USE SOME VOLUNTEERS TO ASSIST WITH THE DUNK TANK, JENGA STATIONS AND SELLING 50/50 RAFFLE TICKETS.
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August 2022 social-family picnic       Saturday 8/13 was the August social at Canyon Lake Park. Rotarians from neighboring clubs joined in the fun. As always the food was good, the fellowship great, and the corn hole competition fierce!
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Visit to Whiteclay Makerspace/Trading Post       On Friday, August 5, 2022 a group from Rushmore Rotary visited the Whiteclay Makerspace and Trading Post, a District 5610 Global Grant project. It was wonderful to see the ongoing progress on location, including an updated professional photo booth, expanding bead and yarn shop, and a second quilting long arm. After a productive meeting with the partners involved, the group attended the Pine Ridge Pow Wow. Despite the 108-degree weather, the group enjoyed visiting the vendors, talking with Pine Ridge locals and other visitors to the Pow Wow, and watching the setup of the teepee building competition.
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Fun time at the July Social    The July social at the Baker’s house was a great time! Everyone brought great food and enjoyed Bob’s home brew! Great fellowship was enjoyed by over 40 Rotarians and guests. |
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Football Book Sales Are On!Football books were handed out at the 7/12 meeting. Everyone should have received an e-mail with your team captain information. They will be getting your books to you. It is important that everyone sells their books so we can continue to support Story Book Island, The Black Hills Children's Home, International Projects, Student Achievement, and various donation requests that come up throughout the year. This year the football books committee will be holding drawings for $25 gift card rewards to encourage members to sell all their books. Here's how it works: 1st drawing will include those who sell 8 books within the first 2 weeks. 2nd drawing will be a month later with 1 entry for every 10 books sold. 3rd drawing will be for the top sellers(25 or more books). 1 entry for every additional 10 books sold. So get your books sold and see your captain for additional books!
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Rotarian of the Year Paul Harris Award Rotarian of the Year, Cathy Quinlivan, received a Paul Harris Fellow as part of her award. This makes Cathy a Paul Harris +1. Congratulations!
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The Rotary Foundation
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Trip to School of St. Jude Tanzania Many members of Rushmore Rotary were part of the larger group of 37 people from District 5610 that had the pleasure of traveling to Tanzania in May 2022. The purpose of the trip was to visit the School of St Jude and attend the graduation ceremony for many of the students we sponsor. But the trip and the school were so much more! The School of St Jude is unique in many aspects. It started in 2002 with a vision of a young Australian Gemma with only three students. Today, with much help from many Rotary clubs, districts, and supportive individuals it has a student body of 1800. This is school is one of a kind in East Africa and arguably all of Africa. Their mission is to end poverty through education, and it is working! Those of us who visited observed this firsthand. For example, of the approximately 900 graduates, they have positively affected their families and friends. But, also during their community service year after graduation, many teach at public schools. Graduates raised the academic level of the 80,000 public school children to whom they taught. See article published in the RC Journal for more details on School of St. Jude. A huge thank you to Pat Sutliff for organizing this trip.The second part of the Tanzania trip was a safari. Our group was privileged (and a bit lucky) to have observed all the big game in their natural environment. Some species are rare to see (cheetahs), some really rare to see (leopards), some nearly extinct (rhinoceros), some really smelly (hippopotamus), some gracefully tall (giraffe), and some are just really cool (lion, elephants). Despite the big seven, there were countless other animals, birds, and plants of amazing beauty. The spectacular trip was only eclipsed by the marvelous group of Rotarians with whom we travelled!!
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North Middle School District 5610 Four Way Test Essay Winners District 5610 does a Four Way Test Essay Contest with 6th graders. Each club in District 5610 can run their own Four Way Test Essay Contest choosing a first, second and third place winner. Colby Christensen has been running our contest at North Middle School (NMS) in Rapid City and presented our winners at a recent club meeting. Jennaya's essay regarding the value of friendships as it relates to the Four Way Test was read to our Club. We awarded gift cards and sponsor a pizza party for the participants at North Middle School. Each club sends their first place winner to the District contest where they are judged and winners are announced for the district. The first place district winner reads their essay at our District Conference in the fall. Congratulations to the following North Middle School students: Jennaya (1st place); Jaselle (2nd place) and a tie for 3rd place Matthius and Ken (not pictured). Thank you to Colby and Becca (NMS English teacher) for their assistance in this contest. Also pictured with the group is Darla Crown from Rushmore Rotary. |
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Rotary's Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Code of ConductWhat we say and how we behave matter. Although free expression is important, we must take responsibility for ho
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RCHS Four Way Test Essay WinnersThe Four-Way Test is an ethical guide for Rotarians to use for their personal and professional relationships. The test has been translated into more than 100 languages, and Rotarians recite it at club meetings. Each year Rushmore Rotary Youth Advocacy Committee sponsors an Essay Contest at Rapid City High School based on the Four Way Test. We are proud to announce the winners for 2022: 1st place--Jasua, 2nd place--Kevin, 3rd place--Rayven, and 4th place--Kaylee. Jasua’s essay was read at our weekly meeting and it made a great connection between Rotary’s guiding principles and the expectations set out for students at RCHS. Congratulations all. Pictured with the students are Sean Binder, RCHS advisor and Scott Van Dam, Club President.   |
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Storybook Island's Grand Re-Opening May 28th Come and explore the place where magic happens. Lots of new updates have been made in the park to discover. Saturday May 28, 2022 from 9am to 7pm. Cake and beverages served (first come basis). |
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Whiteclay Makerspace Workday May 7th We have set a workday at Whiteclay for Saturday, May 7. Projects include: 1. Cleanup and painting of back room to prepare for second quilting machine (arriving mid-May)! 2. Cleanup and setup of woodworking equipment in workshop, possibly installing a garage door 3. Yard cleanup and preparation for gardening projects, pruning crabapple trees. Contact Linda and Norm Peterson if you are planning to go. 605-341-5006, cell 605-390-0800 |
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Membership Contest Social April 20thYou missed a fabulous Thai meal prepared by our own April Malik and a fun night of corn hole competition. First place went to Bruce Nearhood and Tiffany Gikling; second place to Scott Van Dam and Kim Baker and third place to Deb Niemi and Scott Kenner. There was no lack of form or function! Thank you to Heidi and Bruce for organizing the celebration. Our club is currently at 74 members!! Be sure to invite a guest to an upcoming meeting.         |
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Friendship Exchange to Sweden - Openings for June 17-28There is a Friendship Team going to Sweden from June 17 to 28, 2022 and they have 4 openings. It will be a really great trip, you will be celebrating Midsummer there. This is their biggest celebration of the year with lots of flowers, bonfires, great food dancing and more. This is truly a cultural experience. You will fly in and out of Gothenburg and can add on travel to other places if you wish. The Swedes will come here from September 18 to 27, 2022. If interested please contact Pat Sutliff <pmsutliff@gmail.com> or 605-593-2896
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Disaster Relief for UkraineAs one of the world’s largest humanitarian organizations, we have made peace the cornerstone of our global mission. We join the international community in calling for an immediate cease fire, withdrawal of Russian forces, and a restoration of diplomatic efforts to resolve tis conflict through dialogue. As Rotarians, we have two options for contributions to disaster assistance: 1. Consider Contribution to the Rotary Disaster Relief Fund now through 30 April 2022 at https://my.rotary.org/en/disaster-response-fund Contributions will go into the Disaster Response Fund to address a variety of issues affecting Ukraine: Refugee assistance, transportation to safety, lodging, food, clothing, water, medical care, other needs. 2. Due to the relationships built between Rotarians of District 5610 and Romania through the Hope Haven wheelchair projects, we have direct connections with Rotarians that are supporting refugees in Romania. To make a contribution go to www.hopehaven.org and click on the Give button in upper right corner of the homepage. The money will be used to buy food, clothing and other essentials for the Ukrainian refugees. I hope you have you can join us in this effort.
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School of St. Jude Graduation
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Children's Home Advocacy Center GalaMaking a Difference for Generations Gala was held on March 19th to benefit the Children's Home Child Advocacy Center. Thanks to Golf sponsors, Gala Sponsors, InKind donors, Rushmore Rotarians, ALL the volunteers, auction package donors and buyers, attendees, Gala committee, Childrens Home board members, and EVERYONE who made it possible, we raised over $45,000 for the Children's Home Child Advocacy Center. Best ever ! A HUGE THANK YOU.!!!          |
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Strategic Planning Session April 11thPlan to attend the April 11 Strategic Planning Session from 5:30 to 7:30 at our regular meeting location: Howard Johnson Express. During this second meeting members will focus on the activities, timeline, and tracking needed to ensure success. Rushmore Rotary is already a strong and healthy club. These assemblies are meant to set the path to make the small improvements and encourage continual growth in a positive direction to best align in providing service needed by the community, large and small.
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January 11 Join the Blue Campaign The U.S. Department of Homeland Security plays a large role in the fight against human trafficking with efforts called the Blue Campaign. January 11 has been designated Human Trafficking Awareness Day and our club wore blue to raise awareness of human trafficking. Visit the following website to learn more as well as other ways to participate. https://www.dhs.  |
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Diversity Strengthens our Club Invite prospective members from all backgrounds to experience Rotary. New members from different groups in our community bring fresh perspectives and ideas to our clubs and expand Rotary's presence. Refer a member: myrotary.org/member-center |
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Rotary Rocks!If you found one of our painted rocks...welcome to our page. We hope you check out Rushmore Rotary or another Rotary organization (rotary.org) whereever you live. Send us a note if you found one. Happy New Year!
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Rotary Plaza Update Carmen Hansen shared an update on the Rotary Plaza constructed in memory of George Lyons at Rapid City High School. Pictured are Carmen and Dana Foreman with the new plaque that will be installed in Spring 2022, followed by an official dedication ceremony. The plaque recognizes several businesses and individuals who have contributed to this project: Rushmore Rotary, Lind Exco Inc, KLJ Engineering, Western Dakota Tech, Timber Ridge, Bob Quinn Construction, Pat Peel, Roger & Chris Heacock, and Carmen & Gary Hansen. As previously mentioned, benches and skateboard racks designed by Western Dakota Tech are already being used by the students and staff at Rapid City High School. Thank you to members who have helped with installation/site preparation. |
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Meet our Newest MembersLET'S WELCOME OUR NEWEST MEMBERS TO THE ROTARY FAMILY!  April Malik is the Executive Director of Minneluzahan Senior Center and owner of Thai To Go. She has been in Rapid City for 21 years. April assisted our Club with the Children's Home Society fundraising efforts during the pandemic, which we are so thankful. Her experience working with our energetic Club was why she joined Rotary and she looks forward to networking opportunities. She is a mother to 5 daughters, the reason that she started the Thai To Go business in 2010. April recently returned from getting three of her daughters settled into college in New York City, Minnesota and California. When she's not working, cooking, or spending time with her daughters, she enjoys walking and beekeeping. A sign in her office tells it all: "No Job is More Important than Your Family."  Rene Sorenson was born and raised in Anchorage, AK and obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and minor degrees in Economics and Communication Arts. Her work experience includes positions with Microsoft (Recruiting Assistant), FDIC, and State Farm (claims adjuster). Rene and her husband Clark returned to Rapid City in 2021 (Clark’s hometown) after he retired from a civil engineering career in the oil and gas industry. They have a beautiful blended family of five adult children and four grandchildren. Rene was a member of the Russian Jack Rotary Club and served on fundraising committees for the Anchorage Symphony Pops Concert, Anchorage Museum and Catholic Social Services charity balls. She and Clark enjoy hiking, golf, biking, pickleball, camping and spending time with family and friends.Stacy Johnson spent her early years on their family ranch in Northeastern Wyoming. She is a new citizen of Rapid city, moving here in January 2021. She holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Finance from the University of Wyoming and built a career of financial advisory in Casper for 18 years. Between college and financial advisory, she spent 10 years with two statewide non-profit organizations. This experience sealed her love for serving people including youth ministry, cooking, teaching, mentoring, playing and singing. She served as a child advocate with CASA, and served in an advisory role in statewide church leadership, a local credit union, and Casper’s planning and zoning committee. Her hobbies include riding motorcycle (which introduced her to the Black Hills), knitting, reading, and hiking. Stacy served alongside her former husband in the Casper Rotary Club for many years. She is inspired by our club’s involvement with youth through Story Book Island and the Children’s Home Society and the many community action projects.
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World Polio Day For more than 30 years, Rotary and our partners have driven the effort to eradicate polio worldwide. Our PolioPlus program was the first initiative to tackle global polio eradication by vaccinating children on a massive scale. Today, we have reduced polio cases by 99.9 percent, and just two countries continue to report cases of wild poliovirus: Afghanistan and Pakistan. The infrastructure we helped build to end polio is also being used to treat and prevent other diseases (including COVID-19) and create lasting impact in other areas of public health. Thank you members for your support of the Polio Plus Program! |
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Benches are in at RCHS "Rotary Plaza" project
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District Governor Nominations being accepted (2024-2025)Nominations are being accepted for the following District 5610 position: District 5610 Governor Nominee (serves as District Governor 2024-25). Those seeking this position must have served as a club president (per Rotary International bylaws). Nominations or expressions of personal interest should be forwarded to Past District Governor Dan Little no later than October 18, 2021. If you have any questions, please contact Dan Little at 5610dlittle@delittledvm.com or call Dan at 605-695-3732. |
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Community Action Highway Cleanup Sept 25thThanks to all who participated in the Highway Cleanup. Great job everyone!  |
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Rotary's Areas of Focus |
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White Clay Makerspace Grand OpeningGrand Opening was held on Sunday October 17th, following the District Conference. Several District and Club members were in attendance and got to experience first hand the hard work that has been put in on this District 5610 Global Grant by members and Lakota artists. Whiteclay Makerspace Inc. building owner, Jon Ruybalid is handling the building and the management of the facility while Rotary is equipping the makerspace with needed equipment and supplies. Candi Red Cloud is the store manager, and recruits the artists.   |
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FOOTBALL BOOK FUNDRAISER - GET YOUR STUBS AND MONEY IN BY SEPTEMBER 12 We have two more weeks to sell football books and all of you have done a fantastic job!! We decided to print 100 more books. So if you want more books to sell, let Cathy Q know. Please be thinking about getting your stubs and money together and turned in at the meetings, at Print Mark-et, or give one of us a call (Q: 381-0661 or Linda: 431-2886). We would love to get everything in by September 12th or 13th (first Monday Night Game). Thanks again for selling your books! |
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District Governor - Doug Lind On July 1, Rushmore Rotary's own Doug Lind assumed the volunteer post of Rotary International District Governor for 2021-22. As Governor, he coordinates the community and international service projects of the 40 clubs in District 5610 encompassing all of South Dakota, northwestern Iowa, southwestern Minnesota and northeast Nebraska. Lind will serve through June 30, 2022. Lind is one of only 535 Rotarians worldwide serving as a district governor this year. He has served as the president and on numerous committees of our Club. Additionally, he has attended two International Rotary Conferences and participated in Rotary friendship exchange trips to Japan and Sweden. DG Lind shared his vision as District Governor at our meeting on July 6, 2021. Congratulations! We look forward to a great year. |
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Leadership Transition Rushmore Rotary's transition picnic was held on June 30 to welcome incoming president Scott Van Dam and to thank Dana Foreman for his year of service to the club, particularly during our adjustment to "zoom" meetings. Great job Dana! Dr. Van Dam joined Black Hills Oral Surgery in 2007. He completed his dental training at Creighton University and received his medical and surgical training at the Mayo Clinic. He is Board Certified as a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and is a member of the American Dental Association, the South Dakota Dental Association, the American Medical Association, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology, and member and past president of the Black Hills District Dental Society. Dr. Van Dam is an active member of the Medical Staff at Rapid City Regional Hospital and Same Day Surgery Center. He has served on several Rotary committees, and chaired the Children's Home Gala Committee. We look forward to a a great year. |
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SAVE THE DATE - DISTRICT CONFERENCE OCTOBER 14-16 DEADWOODSave the Date of October 14-16, 2021 for the District Conference - to be held at Cadillac Jacks Hotel in Deadwood, SD. There are great speakers lined up, some really interesting breakout sessions planned and the opportunity to network. Please put it on your calendar! Watch for additional details coming this summer. Bruce Nearhood and Pat Sutliff are Co-Chairs of the District Conference.
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SAVE THE DATE OCTOBER 14-16 - DISTRICT 5610 CONFERENCE IN DEADWOOD |
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GOLF COMMITTEE RENEWS PLEDGE TO CHILD AVOCACY CENTER The Golf Committee voted to extend another $250,000 pledge to the Child Advocacy Center Endowment over the next 3 years. The current group has indicated their willingness to commit to that dollar amount and time frame. That will bring us to the 35th golf tournament. The Committee will be looking for volunteers to work the tournment in July. |
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Whiteclay Makerspace District Project Update Workday rescheduled for May 8th -- painting to get ready for an upcoming soft opening in May. Rapid City Area Volunteers: We will depart at 7:30 AM Saturday, May 8th from the parking lot at SDSU Native American Nursing Center, 1220 Mt. Rushmore Road. The Whiteclay Makerspace has proven to be an excellent project for Rotary DIstrict 5610. Additional information can be found on handout under download page. |
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Happy Schools - International ProjectsThe Happy Schools project of Rotary India project aims to adopt 1,000 elementary schools across India to provide infrastructural and/or co-scholastic facilities to make them secure, attractive and happy learning-teaching places for students and teachers. Here are a few pictures of the difference our club is making towards 16 Happy Schools project.    |
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RYLA CAMP 2021 Applications AvailableSee video on the excitement from past campers: https://youtu.be/ |
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ROTARY FELLOWSHIPBeing part of a fellowship is a fun way to make friends around the world, explore a hobby or profession, and enhance your Rotary experience. Rotary has over 100 Fellowships. They can be found at More Fellowships | Rotary International. While not officially registered Rotary Fellowhip groups, Rushmore Rotary members recently participated in two activities: skiing and hiking.
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YFS COVID RELIEF FUND This past December, members of Rushmore Rotary and Rapid City Rotary clubs stepped up in a big way to support families in crisis who are enrolled in programs at Youth & Famity Services. Many of the families YFS serves were struggling to make ends meet prior to the onsetof the COVID-19 pandemic. Connie Olson, YFS Director, shared that an increasing number of families are now facing the very real possibility of becoming homeless. Thanks to Willis Sutliff for establishing a partnership between YFS and Rotary organizations. Within a few weeks, Rotarians raised $13,500 for the fund to help cover utility bills, rent, day care costs, and to purchase necessary supplies for children and their families. Just another great example of the impacts we make in our local communites. Thank you to such caring, committment and compassionae individuals. |
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School of St. Judes - International Update Gemma Sisia started the School of St. Jude in Tanzania with the help of Rotary in 2002--to educate disadvantaged, bright students from the Arusha District to become moral and intellectual leaders in their country. Rotarians around the world (including our Club) have provided support over the years through sponsorships, purchase of buses, buildings, and equipment. The school started with 1 teacher and 3 students and today it has over 1800 students and hundreds of graduates. Our club currently sponsors three students: John, Furahini and Abdulkadir. There are several ways you can help support students: 1) Individually sponsor a student. Full sponsorship for a student for a year is $2,640 or you can do a 1/2 sponsorship for $1,320. Visit the website: afstjude.org. 2) Make a tax deductible donation to the school and/or students by sending your check to: AF School of St Jude, PO Box 3994, Rapid City, SD, 57709 3) Through our Rotary Club by donating monthly Highmark Federal Credit Union- Pat Sutliff has forms and information.
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WHITECLAY MAKERSPACE PROJECT UPDATEAnother great workday at Whiteclay Arts Makerspace Rotary 5610 District project! Delivered power tools for the woodworking shop, assembled a cabinet and countertop for sewing center, and had a great fellowship time with Rotarians from three clubs!  |
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Rapid CIty High School Students of DistinctionWe are excited to announce the following students from Rapid City High School as the 2020-2021 1st Semester Rushmore Rotary Students of Distinction! Congratulations and keep up the good work: 9th Grade- Ariana; 10th Grade- Lillian; 11th Grade- Chad; 12th Grade- Adrianna (not pidtured) We miss being part of the in-person Prize Patrol, but look forward to the day we can join back in the celebrations!     |
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Year End Drawing for Football Book FundraiserCongratulations to Jim Scull, Tommy Barbour and Lindsay Willits who were winners in the year-end drawing for our football book fundraiser. We made it through a complete season of Monday Night Football!! Thank you to members who sold the books in support of many great Rotary projects.  |
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Exciting News for School of St. JudeThe 40-year-old Australian actress, Rebel Wilson, appeared on "Who Wants to Be a Millionnaire" and was raising money for the charity of her choice -- School of St. Jude in Arusha, Tanzania. Rebel served as an ambassador and once sponsored a student. She won a total of $250,000 and donated her entire winnings to the School of St. Jude. Very exciting news for St. Judes.   |
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District Grant for COVID ReliefThe  District Governor and the members of the COVID-19 Disaster Response Grant Taskforce are happy to announce that thirteen District 5610 clubs have been awarded funds to help with projects in their communities to lessen the impact of COVID-19. These funds were allocated from a $25,000 Disaster Response Grant awarded to District 5610 this fall and will be used by the clubs between now and April 2021. With support from our members, Rushmore Rotary and District 5610 were able to provide financial help, food donations, prepare 800 backpacks for children during the holiday season and package holiday meals for distribution to help Feeding South Dakota.   |
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COLLECTING STOCKING STUFFERS FOR WAVIAs part of our December 20, 2020 meeting, we will be collecting Stocking Stuffers for WAVI, who will be our program speakers that day. Suggested items for donation include: colors, markers, color books, books, activity books, games, puzzles, matchbox cars, miniature dolls, chapstick, hair ties, Christmas candy, suckers, etc. Be creative! Items can be brought to the December 8th in person gathering or Linda Rabe will be collecting items on December 19th at Baken Park parking lot from 10:00 am to noon (corner of Mt. View and Canyon Lake Drive). If you have any questions or need to arrange a separate time to drop off items, please contact Linda direct. Thanks for your participation.  |
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DISTRICT ZOOM CONFERENCE HELD NOVEMBER 6, 2020The District Conference 2020 was well attended and well received by participants. District Governor Dan Little provided an introduction and opening remarks were shared by RI President Elect Nominee Jennifer Jones. Several presentations were made on Global Grants (Human Trafficking), Growing Rotary, the Foundation, Polio Plus, and local Club projects. If you were unable to join the meeting, the presentations can be found on the District website https://www.rotary5610.org/ under "downloads". Thank you to several members of our club who served on the different committees for this conference.
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ACHIEVING SUCCESS AT ST. JUDE
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Recognition GatheringThe Club held an in-person gathering September 29th at Old Storybook Island to recognize new members (Kyle Bargmann) and Paul Harris Fellows: Mike O'Connor (+8), James Huff (+6), Kent Musegades (+4), Willis Sutliff (+4), Penny Lind (+2) and Mark Schreiner (+2). Paul Harris recognizes members who contribute $1,000+ to the Rotary Foundation. Dana Foreman (current president) gave a summary of our ongoing projects and grants. Doug Lind, District Governor Elect, gave a preview of the 2021 District Conference scheduled for October 2021 in Deadwood. Jennifer Rollins gave a preview of the 2020 District Conference (including the Human Trafficking initiative) which will be held virtually November 6th. Watch for more details on the link and itinerary. Thanks to all who participated. It was great to socialize even if it was masked and at a distance.   |
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GLOBAL AND DISTRICT GRANT UPDATESRotary Plaza in memory of George Lyons - This project is using funds donated in memory of George Lyons, a Rushmore Rotarian, and supplemented by a District Grant, and in-kind contributions by several project partners to create an outdoor space at Rapid City High School. Concrete has been poured and benches are in the works. We look forward to seeing the final product for the enjoyment of students and staff at RCHS -- in tribute to a great Rotarian and friend.   Global Grant - Makerspace, Whiteclay NE - Work days for volunteers to setup and install equipment and prepare the space have been scheduled for October 2, and 10. Please call us to volunteer! Linda and Norm Peterson, Marcia Whiting, Mary Kenner (Rushmore Rotary), Ina Winter (Hot Springs) and Dr. Ashok Kumar (Rapid City Rotary) volunteered on September 26.    If you wish to make donations for the project, see download file (Whiteclay Donation Form) on this website or District 5610 website. Items needed: table saw, drill press, laser cutter, Mac computer with Adobe Photoshop software, airbrush tool, quilt hoops, leather tooling punches, stamps, awls, mallets, Carpentry tape measures, angles, saws, misc. hand tools, wood chisel hand tools set. District 5610’s Ending Human Trafficking Initiative - At the upcoming District 5610 Virtual Conference scheduled for November 6, the subcommittee plans to invite a victim of human trafficking to speak (or provide a video) to the audience in order to raise awareness of the prevalence of this crime. |
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SERVICE ABOVE SELF -- MASK MAKING KITSSeveral members of Rushmore Rotary volunteered in July and August at WDT Masks for Rapid City putting together mask kits. Masks for Rapid City is an effort to sew and distribute 60,000 masks for healthcare providers, caregivers, and immunocompromised individuals in our community. You can order mask-making kits, or place orders to receive completed masks via Masks for Rapid City facebook page or call the Masks for Rapid City hotline at (605) 718-3088.
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FOOTBALL BOOK SALESMONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL IS IN FULL SWING! Football book winner will be announced weekly during our meeting and checks mailed out while we meeting virtually. Congratulation to all winners and thank you to the Committee and Rotarians for participation in this great fundraiser.  |
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MARK BARRY - ROTARIAN OF THE YEARCongratulations Mark Barry for being chosen as Rotarian of the Year for Rushmore Rotary. Mark is a force in selling football books and plays a very large role in the Children’s Home Golf Tournament every year. Additionally, he has brought guests and new members to the club. He is not only kind to everyone, but goes over and above to volunteer for our Club. He sells many, many books each year - last year 270 books. He does this by speaking to everyone he knows ( I will add his large extended family) and many that he just meets in passing. Mark provides constant support on many Rotary tasks and always with a huge heart. Mark was recognized at the recent Transition Dinner. Pictured with Janet Kahler, Club Secretary.  |
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COVID GrantRapid City Rushmore Rotary Club donated over $2,300 in gift cards from local businesses to the Black Hills Regional Homeless Coalition for those individuals and families affected by Covid-19. With a Rotary grant and donations from its club members, Rushmore Rotary was able to not only support Rapid City downtown local businesses by purchasing gift cards from Philly Teds, Armadillos, Fork Real Café and Colonial House, but also help families. Austin Brummer of Armadillos Ice Cream states, “We love seeing organizations pay it forward and we hope it does not stop there and hope everyone in our community pays it forward.” Food insecurity was identified as a high priority, and Rotary wanted to be part of the solution. In addition, Rushmore Rotary Club wanted to also provide economic relief to local businesses affected by the pandemic. With guidance from Black Hills Area Community Foundation and United Way of the Black Hills, Rotarians decided to partner with Volunteers of America Northern Rockies because they are coordinating the Homeless Coalition and assisting families with emergency resources and housing support. “We are grateful for these gift cards that will be used to feed families and help brighten their day,” says Sara Hornick, VOA Coordinator of Black Hills Regional Homeless Coalition.”  |
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Black Hills Children's Home Thank You LetterHello Rotarians, While it was unfortunate, it sure seems like it was the right call to cancel the Gala at Mount Rushmore. Now, so much more has transpired since that time. We hope you are all staying healthy and safe. We are so very grateful for all the time and effort that went into planning the Gala – thanks to everyone from Rotary who was part of that! We also appreciate very much how the sponsors and intended guests were open to still giving their gifts even after the event was cancelled. It sounds like the event will still raise around $31,000! That’s similar to what the event has made on average over the past few years – that is terrific! As you many know, the funds are designated to endowment for the Child Advocacy Center, our program where we provide forensic interviews and support for children who are alleged victims, most often of sexual abuse, but sometimes severe physical abuse. Over 50% of the funding for the Child Advocacy Center has to come from charitable support, so building the endowment funding to help run the program is so very critical. In 2019 we provided forensic interviews for 341 children.You are all part of a wonderful service club – and part of a terrific group of people in your Rapid City Rushmore Chapter. Thank-you for your many acts of Service Above Self, and for your partnership in our work! Michelle Lavallee Chief Executive Officer Development Director Children’s Home Society Children’s Home Foundation |
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RCHS Student of Distinction Pizza PartyRotarians and Rapid City High School staff honored students of Distrinction nominees for this quarter with a pizza party. Thank you to several members who helped them celebrate.    |
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NOVEMBER FOUNDATION MONTHOver a dozen members took advantage of the Club's match for November's Foundation Month Giving. Thank you to The Board, Norm and Shari for encouraging contributions to a great organization--Funds are returned to our Club in the form of future District Grant Funds. This match is available to the end of the year--so take advantage. End Polio Now: Countdown to History Campaign Certificate of Appreciation: Rushmore Rotary will receive a certification of appreciation for contributing at least US $1,500 to Rotary's polio eradication efforts. Isn't that a tremendous use of our Happy Dollars collection. |
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College Application Day - Rapid City High SchoolSeveral members from Rushmore Rotary volunteered at Rapid City High School during their College Application Day. Members assisted junior and seniors in completing their applications on-line. Application fees are waived for students during this week. Pictured are Dave Dolan, Shawn Binder (RCHS), Mary Kenner, Kathy Quinlivan, and Gene Bilodeau.   |
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Rotary Classification TalksAre you ready? As our club grows, it is important that we get to know more about our Fellow Rotarians. President Gene Bilodeau will be calling on members to share their classification talks and has prepared some guidelines from other clubs. See download files for the full set of guidelines. The talks should be approximately 5-7 minutes and include information on your vocation, personal information (family, hobbies) and Rotary connections (what brought you to Rotary). GO ROTARY!
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Storybook Island - Carousel House Pledge CompleteThanks to Football Book Fundraising we have met our pledge for Storybook Island's Carousel House project in the amount of $50,000. Great job everyone. Special thank you to Dana Foreman for his help with the design and construction specs. Pictured are Darla Crown and Shari West Twitero presenting Connie LeZotte (SBI) the check. REMINDER: Get your Football Books money turned into Cindy Hansen, Shari West Twitero or your team captain!  |
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DISTRICT GOVERNOR INA WINTER VISITDistrict Governor (DG) Ina Winter (Hot Springs) visited Rushmore Rotary on July 25th. Ina shared her goals for the year: membership (2 new groups), Foundation (global grants), and Rotary recognition. Pictured below are former and future DGs from our Club with Ina: Jean Cline, Doug Lind, George Twitero and Linda Peterson. A Deck Party was held later in the week at Norm and Linda Peterson. .jpg)  .jpg) |
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Australian Friendship ExchangeSeveral Club members hosted members of District 9670 from New South Wales, Australia in their homes. Jennifer Rollins organized tours including the Badlands, Mt. Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Wind Cave and a tour of the President's downtown Rapid City and a potluck at Storybook Island. Thank you to all who participated. It was a great time learning about their projects and fundraising and sharing information about our Club. A contingent from our District will visit Australia in October.    |
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Omniciye Satellite Club -- UpdateOmniciye Multi-Cultural Satellite Club gave a great update at Rushmore Rotary on recent projects: 3 Sister Gardens, Little Free Library, 4 Way Test Contest (North Middle School), Pine Ridge Youth Assessment and Global Grant for Art Maker Space. Pictured are Linda Peterson, Kibbe Conti, Colby Christensen, Sheela Farmer, and Tom Katus.   |
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STORYBOOK ISLAND CLEANUPSeveral Rushmore Rotarians enjoyed a spring morning helping cleanup at Storybook Island in April. The dedication for the carousel is scheduled for May 28th at 9am. Hope to see a great turnout.   |
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6th Grade Four Way Test Essay Winners - March 2019North Middle School Kibbe Conte and Colby Christensen presented certificates of participation and gift cards to the students and provided a pizza party for them. Congratulations to Devin, pictured with his mom Keisha, for taking 1st place in the competition for North Middle School 6th graders. .jpeg) .jpg) Southwest Middle School Opal Nelson third place; Scarlet Marcus second place; Bryn Marietta first place. Bryn also won the District 5610 competition CONGRATULATIONS. |
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HOST FAMILY NEEDED ***HOST FAMILY NEEDED FOR OUR CURRENT EXCHANGE STUDENT - ELO from March 1, 2019 to May 31, 2019. Please share with prospective families or individuals. Please contact Cindy Bailie at cabailie@rap.midco.net or Cindy Howell at chowell763@gmail.com Elo, Rotary foreign exchange student from Belgium needs housing for her last 3 months in the USA. She is a straight A student at Stevens HS, has lots of energy and is looking to make her stay in the US as rich as possible. Elo is very easy to be around as she is very interested in others. She needs a bed of her own but can share a room with another female. She will need rides to and from school; however Rotary has many who can help with transportation. She should be treated as one of your family when in your home. Her school lunches are provided by Rotary. If you have conflicts during the time but are still interested Elo has a place to stay for when her family is out of town.  |
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Rapid City High School Service ProjectFor our Christmas meeting in December 2018, the club collected hats, gloves, boots, and coats for Rapid City High School students, as well as gift cards and cash to be used to purchase similar items. The clothing and gift cards were presented to Shawn Binder the Internship Coordinator. Great job Rushmore Rotarians.  |
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MEMBERSHIP UPDATEWelcome Rushmore Rotarians (2018): Fred Folsom, Debra Niemi, Casey Bulyca, Todd Hyronimus, Chris Twiggs, Tyler Trevillian, and Bob Weyrich; pictured with Darla Crown (current President) at a February 2019 meeting.  Latest update on Membership contest: Men 14 - Women 10! Keep up the good work Rotarians. |
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Rotary Foundation MonthNovember is Rotary Foundation month and Tuesday November 27 is Giving Tuesday. This is a great opportunity to review your personal commitment to The Rotary Foundation and its programs. If you have not already made your personal contribution to the Foundation, please support our Foundation by making a contribution before the end of November to help make lives better in our community and around the world. Rotary's 35,000 clubs carry out sustainable service projects that support six areas of focus to build international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world to support our peace efforts and end polio forever. For more information on the Foundation go to https://www.rotary.org/en/about-rotary/rotary-foundation. Contact Sheri West Twitero for quarterly or annual giving options. |
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School of St. JudeRushmore Rotary Club hosts three students at the School of St. Jude in Arusha, Tanzania, East Africa. Pat Sutliff is the International Committee chair.  |
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Rushmore Rotary Highway CleanupThanks to everyone who helped conduct cleanup on Highway 16 for Adopt a Highway Program. We had 17 participating Rotarians and their guests. Several enjoyed pizza after. Thank you Cindy Hansen for organizing. r  ..jpg) |
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Pat Sutliff Honored with Roger Kozak AwardPat Sutliff was honored at the District Conference with the 2018 Roger Kozak Service Above Self Award. It is given in recognition of exceptional service to Rotarians in Rotary District 5610. Congratulations Pat!
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Jessica Dial receives Paul Harris FellowIn October 2018 Rushmore Rotary recognized Jessica Dial with a Paul Harris Fellow for her leadership as a former Youth Intern Coordinator at Rapid City High School. Jessica was designated to receive this recognition as a special expression of appreciation from our Club. Darla Crown, Pat Peel and Jessica Dial are pictured below. .jpg) |
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WORLD POLIO DAYIn recognition of World Polio Day (October 24, 2018) Rushmore Rotary sponsored a Free Movie WONDER at the Elks Club. Thanks to Heidi Bell Gease and Dr. Willis Sutliff for organizing the event. The turnout was light, but the message about eradicating Polio and Rotary's involvement was shared with many.Thanks to club members who participated during the event.  For more information on POLIO PLUS go to: https://www.endpolio.org/
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Keaghan Duffy - Rotary Exchange Student UpdateCindy Bailie gave us an update on Keaghan Duffy, our Rotary Exchange Student to Italy. She is enjoying her experience and shared that the people are so friendly and the country beautiful. Cindy hopes that everyone will try to stay in touch with her at: keaghansiobhan@gmail.com She is writing a blog that can be accessed at https:// The photo is the entrance to the town, Sant'Agata de' Goti (i.e. S'Agata) where Keaghan is staying.
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Friendship Exchange Visitors - ItalyRushmore Rotarians hosted Friendship Exchange visitors from Italy in August. The visitors included 5 members from Milan, including 4 different Rotary Clubs; and the first female Milan Rotary District Governor (40 clubs). Their professions included a university professor of Cultural Policy, notary/Civil lawyer, judge, chemical engineer, and a civil engineer. The visitors enjoyed a trip to Mount Rushmore, Prairie Berry Winery, Reptile Gardens, Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, Delta Missile site, BH Children's Home, Journey museum and a potluck at Storybook Island. They were so moved by the children’s home mission that they ended up making a financial donation before they left!! Jennifer Rollins commented that " it was really fun to talk about combining efforts on current and future Rotary projects; and laying the groundwork for a potential global grant as they would be our International partner. It was an amazing week building upon our initial friendships formed when we visited Milan Italy in 2017. The rotary Friendship exchange is a top notch, well designed program for not only building friendship and fun but truly building culture awareness for the betterment of people as especially the Rotary mission." Upcoming Friendship Exchanges for Australia and Scotland are full for our club, but for future exchanges, please contact Pat Sutliff for information. Thank you to the host families (Lind's, Sutliff's, O'Connor's, Nearhood's, and Jennifer Rollins and the Rushmore Rotary Club for their hospitality. .jpg)  |
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Copy of Belgian Exchange Student ArrivedSeveral Rotarians greeted our Belgian exchange student, Eloise Longhi, at the airport on August 20th. Cindy Howell is her first host family. Elosie attended the Rushmore Rotary meeting on August 21st. Welcome.  |
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Belgian Exchange Student ArrivedSeveral Rotarians greeted our Belgian exchange student, Eloise Longhi, at the airport on August 20th. Cindy Howell is her first host family. Elosie attended the Rushmore Rotary meeting on August 21st. Welcome. |
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Celebrate St. Patrick's Day at Darla & Doug's home!Doug and Darla invite you to their home at 4813 Carriage Hills Drive, on Friday, March 16, around 5:30 pm. Access their home via Sheridan Lake Road to Corral Drive. Bring snacks to share! |
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Membership Matter WorkshopA Membership workshop is scheduled for Black Hills area clubs on May 20. Please signup up on the District website if you are planning to attend this workshop.
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Congratulations!Congratulations to our Students of Distinction! Our students for the first trimester of the 2014-15 school year are (from the left) : Brittaney Hanson for the 9th grade, Susan Brown for the 10th grade, Spencer Alden for the 11th grade and Gunnar Leach for the 12th grade. The Rushmore Rotary Award Patrol surprised them in their classrooms and then invited them to our December 2 meeting where they received their gift cards. What a wonderful bunch they are!!
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Quote of the Week - Who Said It?
We could never learn to be brave and patient, if there were only joy in the world.
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Thought for the Week - Who Said It?
An optimist is the human personification of spring.
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Mark Your Calendars!
Here you can post little tidbits of information, reminders, or anything else!
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November 29, 2022
w our words and actions may affect others. The RI Board has approved a new DEI Code of Conduct to help Rotary members create and maintain an environment that is collaborative, positive, and healthy for everyone. Simply put, the DEI Code of Conduct asks you to:
We have completed many Global Grants with this district in India over the last 10 years, including Happy Schools. It shows us making the world a better place (see Then and Now photos). Thank you for your dedication to Rotary.
St. Jude's is very appreciative of our support to Furahini - the gift of a 100% free, quality education. It is thanks to the generosity of supporters like you that St. Jude's are able to continue fighting poverty through education and nurturing the future leaders of Tanzania! This year, our sponsored student, Furahini successfully transitioned to an Advanced Level (A Level) academic scholarship - she is now in Form 5 at St Jude’s! This will surely be an exciting and challenging leap from her O Level studies due to new responsibilities that accompany higher years of education; however, we are sure that, with continued guidance from our dedicated teachers and secondary staff, Furahini will continue to thrive.
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(L-R:) Laura Hawkins, Tiffanie Pietro and Brandi Tonkel. Laura was the very first forensic interviewer and Rushmore Rotary guaranteed her salary for three years to enable the program to get started. Tiffanie and Brandi are the current interviewers. By creating this program we help to protect children who had been sexually abused from repeated interviews. It has been a tremendous assistance also to law enforcement in handling these cases.
s every April.
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Thanks to the sponsors, volunteers and riders for making this event successful!
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