In Review - August 8 Meeting

Club President Josh Sprague called the meeting to order and introduced his oldest son Charlie, who highlighted Rotary’s six areas of focus (Peace and conflict resolution, Disease prevention, Water and sanitation, Maternal and child health, education and literacy, economic and community development). President Sprague then introduced the current officers on the Board of Director and thanked the volunteers helping during the meeting. 

The day’s guest introductions were done by Fred Sylvester during which some members from the Bloomington Noon club (pictured) made an announcement about an upcoming golf event on Monday, August 19^th at Crystal Lake Golf Course in Lakeville benefiting The Eagle Group, which provides support for current military, military veterans (as well as spouses and families) during times of transition. Katy Campbell and Gary Pederson made announcements about this year’s gala fundraiser which will take place at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Bloomington. Early bird tickets are on sale now! https://edinarotary.ejoinme.org/MyEvents/2019EdinaRotaryFoundationFundraiserGala/tabid/1039590/Default.aspx

International Services Director, Shelly Loberg, gave a short presentation on the recent service trip to Coban, Guatemala delivering water filters that a handful of 5950 Rotarians recently participated in this last April. This recent service opportunity is a great reflection of this Rotary year’s current theme, “Rotary Connects the World.” Shelly is seen here with Tim Murphy, Edina Rotary 52nd President serving 2006-2007 and as past District Governor 2015-2016.  

District 5950 Governor, Russ Michaletz, was our speaker for the day. He is in the company of Tom Gump, Edina Morningside Rotary Club Past President 2016-2017 and Steve Slyce, Edina Rotary Club 59th President, 2013-2014. Governor Michaletz gave an overview of the Rotary International Strategic Plan and outlined goals of increasing impact and reach. He also highlighted the importance of returning to encouraging members to talk about their business (one of the original reasons people would make a decision to be involved in Rotary) and do business with one another. When Rotarians serve together they know they can trust each other in business matters. Member retention will also be an important focus this year for Russ.