Family Promise Check Presentation Murray Strong (L) is shown presenting a check from Helena Sunrise Rotary to Family Promise Executive Director, Renee Bauer. The check represents proceeds of a Trivia Night fundraising event held by Sunrise Rotary in November, 2023. Thank you Family Promise for partnering with Rotary! For more information about Family Promise, please see: familypromisehelena.org. |
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Lewis & Clark Library Our speaker on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, was John Finn, Director of the Lewis & Clark Library (L) shown here with club member, Murray Strong. John updated the club on library operations and events. For more information, please see: lclibrary.org |
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United Way of the Lewis and Clark Area Our speaker for Tuesday, December 5, 2023, was Maggie Bernstein (pictured with club member, Gary Carlson) of United Way of the Lewis and Clark Area. Maggie updated us on UWLCA's effort to focus on housing needs. Housing is a foundational source for battling poverty. For more information, please see: https://unitedwaylca.org/ |
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Family Promise of Greater Helena Community guest speakers for Tuesday, November 14, 2023, were Renee and Tom Bauer, shown here (left and center) with club member, Marie Mullarkey. Renee is the Executive Director of Family Promise of Greater Helena. She and Tom (her #1 volunteer) updated us on FP's efforts to end homelessness for families with children. For more information, please see FP's website: https://www.familypromisehelena.org/ . Thanks Renee and Tom! |
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Helena Avenue Theatre Speaking on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, were Claire and Terrance Jose (shown pictured with club member, Alice Hinshaw) from the Helena Avenue Theatre ("HAT"). Claire led discussion about the Theatre's upcoming and ongoing programs, much of which was previously unknown to several club members. HAT is a member of the Montana Playwrights Network and more information may be gained at www.montanaplaywrights.org. Thanks Claire and Terrance! |
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Northwestern Energy Our speaker on Tuesday, June 6, 2023 was Howard Skjervem, shown above with club member, Dewey Bruce, Community Relations Manager for Northwestern Energy. Howard did an excellent job of explaining and discussing the challenges of delivering energy to consumers over a complex and multi-faceted power grid. More may be learned at northwesternenergy.com. Thanks Howard! |
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Shodair Hospital Shodair Children's Hospital CEO, Craig Aasved, and Major Gifts Manager, Adrienna Hines (shown above), were presenters at our May 16, 2023 meeting. Shodair provides a myriad of services, including a world-class genetics research program as well as inpatient and outpatient psychiatric services for adolescents. A major upgrade to Shodair's operations is a new hospital building in the final stages of completion. The $66MM project is funded by a combination of fund raising and bond debt. Efforts to enhance donations of all amounts are underway to sustain operations and continue to keep the physical plant up to date. Shodair is a wonderful addition to the Helena community. For more information, see: https://shodair.org/ |
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Rocky Mountain Development Council Our May 2, 2023 speaker was Laurie Ladas, Executive Director of Rocky Mountain Development Council (shown above with club member, Gary Carlson). Laurie reviewed all of RMDC's program work which includes senior, child and family, utility, and housing services. RMDC does a fabulous job reaching Helena community members in need. For more information, see: https://www.rmdc.net/what-we-do/ |
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Helena Food Share Helena Food Share CEO, Bruce Day (r) and Tim Joyce, HFS Development Director, spoke to Helena Sunrise Rotary on Tuesday, April 18, 2023. Food Share is our local non-profit agency partnering with us on our next Trivia Night fundraiser. Bruce and Tim updated us on the status of operations as well as progress on a new building to house Food Share’s services in Helena. A building campaign has raised bit over $7MM out of a $10.3MM goal. It is unfortunate that the need is so acute in our community, but reality indicates Food Share is a lifeline for many families and individuals. Thanks Bruce and Tim!!
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Marcia Wall, Angel Func April 4, 2023. As follow to a recent Trivia Night fundraiser by Helena Sunrise Rotary, The Helena Angel Fund founder, Marcia Wall spoke to the club and gave a history of its founding and growth over the years. Angel Fund does an amazing job of partnering with the Helena Public Schools to provide supplies and clothing to children meeting qualification guidelines. Marcia, as a former teacher, saw the need early in her career and led the program for many years, building a team who carry the work forward. Thank you Marcia for being a dedicated and faithful community servant to those in need! Marcia is shown above (R) receiving a check from Helena Sunrise Rotary club president, Kristina Warren for proceeds of the club's recent Trivia night event.
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Helena School District March 21, 2023. Helena Schools Superintendent, Rex Weltz (R) and School Facilities Director, Todd Verrill (L) made a thorough and detailed presentation to the club about the physical footprint of Helena Schools and upcoming school levy votes. (Also joining but not shown was Lisa Cordingly of the Helena Education Foundation who helped arrange the program). The Helena Public Schools are housed in many buildings on multiple campuses to fit the "neighborhood" characteristics Helena voters have shown preference for, but raise significant challenge for maintenance and safety needs, as well as keeping up with demographic changes in student populations. The upcoming levy votes will cover a portion of the overall needs that school staff have deemed most essential although actual infrastructure needs are much higher. All are encouraged to vote on the levies. Thank you Lisa, Rex and Todd!
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Food Share Kid Packs Tuesday, February 28, 2023 saw an industrious crew of Sunrise Rotarians bagging Kids Packs for Helena Food Share. "Baggers" included (left to right) Murray Strong, Kristina Warren, Brad Lancaster, Michelle Vanisko, Gary Carlson, Tony Perpignano and Greg Duncan. Leading us was Food Share Program Manager, Mo Shirley (taking the picture). We were pleased to load 448 bags for kids identified in our schools as needing a bit of a nutrition boost, especially over weekends.  |
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Angel Fund Our speaker on Tuesday, February 7, 2023 was Nick Radley, board member of The Angel Fund (above [L] with club member Gary Carlson). Angel Fund assists Helena school children (eligible for free/reduced lunch) with clothing, school supplies and other necessities. Nick is also principal of Central gradeschool in Helena, so sees the significant impact of Angel Fund. The Angel Fund is our February Trivia partner on February 15.
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Friendship Center Our speaker this morning was Eric Parsons, Outreach and Education Coordinator for The Friendship Center (pictured above with club member, Marie Mullarkey - Marie is also a member of the Center's board of directors.) Eric updated us on the mission of the Center: To be a safe haven for those affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking and to empower our community to flourish in relationships free from violence. The Center services Lewis & Clark, Broadwater and Jefferson Counties. Thanks Eric! |
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Behaviorial Court Our speaker on Tuesday, December 20, 2022 was Morgan Davis, Case Manager with the Behavioral Health Court of the Montana State Public Defender's office (pictured above right with club member, Greg Duncan). Morgan updated us on the efforts of the court to alter behaviors of individuals so as to avoid incarceration and the challenges of drug addiction to the legal system. |
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Helena Education Foundation Trivia check Club representative, Murray Strong, presents a check for $500 to Lisa Cordingly, Executive Director of the Helena Education Foundation. The HEF was a recent partner with Helena Sunrise Rotary for the club's Trivia night fundraiser. HEF supporters came out in force and generated a very successful result. THANK YOU HEF! |
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Lewis & Clark Humane Society Our speaker on Tuesday, November 6, 2022 was Cassidy Cook, Director of Development and Communications with the Lewis & Clark Humane Society. Cassidy updated us on the Society's work and the volume of animals cared for and housed. She also acquainted us with the Society's foster care program which has been a successful option for many animals who otherwise would have bleak alternatives.
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Brad Langsather, City of Helena Our speaker on Tuesday, November 15, 2022 was Brad Langsather, City of Helena Open Lands Manager. Brad oversees the significant volume of open space land adjoining Helena, including efforts at fire fuels mitigation, which was the subject of his discussion. In short, it takes a lot of funding, labor and constant land management to keep up with mother nature. Comparative photos of Helena over the last 150 years were starkly revealing as to the amount of vegetation that poses fire threat to the city and surrounding areas. Part of the mitigation effort includes slash burning as demonstrated in the photo above. City of Helena Open Lands Manager, Brad Langsather spoke to the club regarding fire fuel mitigation efforts in the areas surrounding Helena on Tuesday, November 15, 2022. Brad is shown above (L) with club member, Gary Carlson. |
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Club Picture At our business meeting on Tuesday, October 4, 2022, we took the moment for a group picture of those present. Shown in front are Kristina Warren (President) and Michelle Vanisko. Standing from left to right are: Brad Lancaster, Michele Steele, Gary Carlson, Murray Strong, Marie Mullarkey, Greg Duncan, Dewey Bruce, Tony Perpignano and Gary Williams (Secretary/Treasurer). Attending virtually on Zoom was Monica Lindeen. Absent were: Jock Palmquist, Jordan Hinshaw and Alice Hinshaw. A great group of people who welcome guests who may be interested in what Rotary is all about.
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Visitors from Tarpon Springs, FL Jerry and Jean Coleman, both past presidents of The Rotary Club of Tarpon Springs, Florida, were visitors to the club on Tuesday, September 6, 2022. The Colemans are touring the country and enjoying new sights and geography. It was a pleasure having Jean and Jerry with us. They are shown in the above photo making a banner exchange with Helena Sunrise Rotary president, Kristina Warren (r).
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Charlene Porsild, Helena Rotary Club Our guest speaker for Tuesday, September 6, 2022, was Charlene Porsild (pictured above [r] with Sunrise Rotary President, Kristina Warren), President of the Rotary Club of Helena (aka "the noon club" by Sunrise Rotary members). Charlene updated us on RCH's activities, events, meeting venues and held general conversation on Rotary causes. We look forward to continued partnering with RCH in doing the good work of Rotary. |
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Fabulous Firsts On behalf of the Rotary Club of Helena Sunrise, Murray Strong presents a check for $4,850 to Charlie Crawford, co-owner of the Montana Book Company, to help purchase books for the Helena Education Foundation’s Fabulous Firsts program. Also shown are Lisa Cordingly (3rd from the left), Director of the Foundation, and Chelsia Rice, co-owner of the bookstore. Under the Fabulous Firsts program, every 1st grader within the Helena School District is given their own new book.
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District Governor Matthews Club Visit District Governor Barry Matthews (r) from Miles City and guests ( Lindsay Matthews and Josh Austill) joined us for our meeting on July 19th. He passed out the new pins, promoted the District Conference in Miles City and discussed the new Rotary theme “Imagine.” Barry made a very positive impression on those present. He encouraged all to invite someone to a meeting - the best way to improve membership strength.
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Montana State Auditor Our speaker for Tuesday, April 12, 2022, was Troy Downing, State Auditor. Troy is pictured above with Helena Sunrise Rotary Club President and former State Auditor, Monica Lindeen.
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Montana Historical Foundation Our speaker for Tuesday, March 29, 2022 was Molly Kruckenberg, Montana Heritage Society Director (shown here with Rotary member, Greg Duncan). Molly updated us on the construction of the new Historical Museum. Cost overruns from construction materials and labor cost inflation have been a constant issue.
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St Peter's Health update Our speaker on Tuesday, March 15, 2022 was Wade Johnson, CEO of St Peter's Health. Wade gave a great update on St. Pete's and health care items in general.
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NO MEETING JANUARY 18, 2022NO MEETING ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 18, 2022 AS PERKINS RESTAURANT WAS NOT ABLE TO OPEN EARLY BECAUSE OF STAFF SHORTAGE. Guest speaker, Wade Johnson, has been rescheduled for Tuesday, March 15, 2022. NEXT MEETING WILL BE OUR REGULAR BUSINESS MEETING ON FEBRUARY 1, 2022.
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Helena Food Share Our speaker to start off the new year was Bruce Day, Executive Director of Helena Food Share (pictured [r] with club member, Tony Perpignano [l]). Bruce gave a great overview of an amazing year-round program that delivers thousands of pounds of food to folks in need. See HFS's website for information: https://helenafoodshare.org/ Thank you Bruce! |
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Premier Dance Company Our guest speaker on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 was Charlene White of the Premier Dance Company/Creative Arts Center |
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Helena Sunrise Rings The Bells |
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ADG Langlinais Our guest for Tuesday, December 7, 2021 (Pearl Harbor Day) was Assistant District Governor, Jeff Langlinais. |
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Helena Education Foundation Our speaker on Tuesday, November 23, 2021, was Lisa Cordingly of the Helena Education Foundation. Most discussion was regarding accomplishing the connections for concluding a Rotary District 5390 grant, but Lisa also passed on the energy and commitment of the Foundation and its volunteer membership.
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Life Houses Helena Our speakers on Tuesday, August 31, 2021, were Anita and Jay Sherley, founders of Life Houses. Life Houses is a faith-based non-profit organization that supports young adults ages 18-25 who are coming from all of life’s various circumstances. Life Houses Inc. was started because the Sherleys saw many young people living visionless, passionless, and sometimes hopeless, lives. Some wandered from job to job, couch to couch, party to party. Some died. Anita and Jay, along with a 9 member board of directors seek to redirect destructive lifestyles by providing safe housing and a healthy environment. Young adults in the program must have a willingness to work with life coaches and mentors who speak truth and help build foundations for success. While living in Life Houses, young adults uncover their strengths, develop life-long friendships, and create their own futures through presence and purpose.
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President Monica Lindeen  New Club President, Monica Lindeen is shown above being sworn in by out-going President, Kristina Warren. Kristina has done a fantastic job leading the club through a most difficult year with Covid 19 pandemic restrictions changing much of the way we meet and operate as a club. President Monica is ready to see us move forward into an even better future! Congratulations to BOTH leaders!
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Dan Rispens - East Helena Schools Our speaker on Tuesday, May 25, 2021, was Dan Rispens, shown here with club members Murray Strong (L) and Tony Perpignano (R). Dan is the incoming Superintendent of East Helena's Public Schools. Dan gave a great update on the rapid growth and change East Helena, its surrounding communities, and the schools have undergone - namely huge growth. More to come from East Helena in future updates!
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Last Chance Audubon Society Our speaker on Tuesday, April 27, 2021 was Dan Ellison of the Last Chance Audubon Society. Dan gave an overview of birding in the Helena and surrounding area via an informative and humor injected slide presentation. Additionally, he offered links and references to additional resources on the subject (below). Thanks, Dan! Resources and References: • Cornell Lab Ornithology - www.allaboutbirds.org • E-Bird - http://ebird.org/content/ebird/ • i-Bird Pro - application for handheld devices • Facebook – Montana Birding Group • L-C Audubon: //www.lastchanceaudubon.org/ • Bird Guidebook – The Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Western North America |
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Cody Dieruf Foundation
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Rotary Peace Fellowship Our speaker on Tuesday, March 30, 2021 was Jennie Eck. Jennie reviewed her Rotary Peace Fellowship and program. She will commence the Fellowship virtually via internet work with plans to eventually travel to Australia for continuation of the program.
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CASA in the Helena area At this morning’s club meeting (by Zoom), Gerry Hill, Executive Director of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) gave an overview of the CASA program in the Lewis & Clark and Broadwater County area. The mission of CASA is to provide volunteer guardians to work on behalf of abused and neglected children to promote their best interests in the pursuit of safe, permanent homes. For more information, see their website: https://www.casaoflcbwc.org/ Funding needs are eternal and the next event for CASA’s behalf is a “Treasure Chest of Hope Rendezvous”. See more information at: https://casaoflcbwc.org/menus/light-of-hope.html Thank you Gerry, for your work in this important area of need! |
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January 19, 2021 - MT Supporting Military Our speaker today (via Zoom videoconferencing) was Liann Meyers of MT Supporting Soldiers (https://mtsupportingmilitary.org/). Liann is highlighted in yellow in the meeting screenshot above. Liann described how teams of volunteers gather and mail care packages to U.S. soldiers deployed around the world. Recipients express great appreciation for the "small" items in life that we take for granted - healthy snack bars, socks, gift cards, boxer-briefs, toothbrushes, toothpicks, toothpaste, deodorants, small batteries and much more (see website.) Liann has been a driving force behind MTSS for several years. For opportunities to help, please visit the "Contact Us" section of the website or call Liann directly at 406-431-7699. |
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DG Sandy Carlson speaks District Governor, Sandy Carlson, was our speaker (by Zoom video conference) on Tuesday, October 27, 2020. Sandy spoke about Rotary International and District 5390 actions and events. She invited interaction and questions from members and is interested in learning more detail about Sunrise Rotary's Trivia Night Fundraisers (currently on hold due to the Covid-19 pandemic health restrictions on group gatherings.) Thanks, Sandy! |
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Let Freedom Ring gathering Speakers today were Liane Taylor and Charlotte Snyder from the Helena area "Let Freedom Ring". Let Freedom Ring is a group of individuals who recently arranged for a community gathering on 80 acres in the Helena valley. The event's goal was to be a family friendly, non-partisan, non-political gathering focused on freedom in a time of great divisiveness. Funded by a multitude of donors, it featured musicians, food vendors and a fireworks show. Charlotte stressed that an additional goal was to give children and youth an opportunity to have fun in a safe setting, away from the stresses society is currently experiencing.
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Next meeting is Tuesday, October 13Our next meeting will be Tuesday, October 13, 2020, 7:00 AM, at Perkins Restaurant (following all Health Department and Perkin's safety rules) for those attending in person. Alternatively, a Zoom connection will be available for those who may not be able to attend in person. For Zoom participation, please e-mail or text Brad Lancaster at mtnhkrmt@yahoo.com - 406-449-3942.
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Next meeting September 29, 2020Our next scheduled meeting will be Tuesday, September 29, 2020, at Perkins Restaurant in Helena. The meeting will be both in-person and via Zoom. For information on joining by Zoom, please contact Brad Lancaster at: mtnhkrmt@yahoo.com. Guest are VERY welcome - just walk in - we meet in the "south" meeting room. Current planning is for meetings every other Tuesday morning. See you there!
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Judge Reynolds spokeJudge James Reynolds continued his presentation on Treatment Court in Lewis and Clark County for our program on Tuesday, September 15, 2020. The program was so riveting that our photographer and story updater forgot to take a photo for the website. Darn! It was a great presentation and incredibly informative and interesting. Thank you Judge Reynolds and may you have a wonderful retirement!
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Judge Reynolds speaksOur speaker this coming Tuesday, September 15, 2020, will be District Court Judge Jim Reynolds with a continuation of his initial speaking engagement at our meeting on August 25, 2020. Judge Reynolds' initial discussion was very interesting and there were lots of questions from attendees. As a result, he was asked to speak more about Drug Court in Lewis and Clark and Broadwater Counties and some of his observations about drug usage and its impact on the justice system (and society in general.) Please join us in person at Perkins Restaurant at 7:00 AM (following all current health department and Perkins Restaurant rules/guidelines) OR by Zoom meeting. For information about how to attend by Zoom, please e-mail Brad Lancaster at mtnhkrmt@yahoo.com. See you on Tuesday, September 15th?
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Meeting July 14, 2020Helena Sunrise Rotary will be meeting at 7:00 AM, Tuesday, July 14, 2020 at Perkins Restaurant. If you are unable to attend in person, please contact Brad Lancaster at mtnhkrmt@yahoo.com or by call/text 406-449-3942 to obtain a link for Zoom video access. Guests very welcome! Social distancing and Perkins Restaurant restrictions will be in place.
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Next MeetingHelena Sunrise Rotary will be meeting next on Tuesday, June 16, 2020, at 7:00 AM at Perkins Restaurant. Our speaker will be club member, Rick Moore, who will be giving a classification talk about his profession in the realm of handling nuclear material. Common sense distancing and the rules of the restaurant will be followed, but table arrangements allow for the club to meet in nearly normal circumstances. For those who cannot make it in person, a Zoom video conference connection is available - to obtain a link to the meeting via Zoom, please contact Brad Lancaster by e-mail at mtnhkrmt@yahoo.com.
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Meetings Resume JUNE 2, 2020MEETINGS RESUME! HELENA SUNRISE ROTARY IS RECOMMENCING IN-PERSON MEETINGS AT PERKINS RESTAURANT EACH TUESDAY MORNING AT 7:00 AM. WE WILL BE FOLLOWING CURRENT HEALTH GUIDELINES FOR GATHERINGS AS WELL AS GUIDELINES AND RULES OF PERKINS.
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MEETINGS CANCELLEDHELENA SUNRISE ROTARY IS TEMPORARILY SUSPENDING ITS REGULARLY SCHEDULED TUESDAY MORNING MEETINGS AT PERKINS RESTAURANT AS PART OF COMPLIANCE WITH HEALTH RESTRICTIONS RELATED TO THE COVID-19 VIRUS PANDEMIC CURRENTLY SWEEPING THE WORLD. THE NEXT MEETING DATE IS DEPENDENT ON THE STATUS OF THE DISEASE AND REGULATORY APPROVAL FOR GATHERINGS OF PEOPLE, AS WELL AS PERKINS RESTAURANT AUTHORIZING GROUP MEETINGS ON SITE. UPDATES WILL BE PROVIDED AS THEY BECOME AVAILABLE. BE SAFE AND REFER TO THE MONTANA.GOV WEBSITE FOR INFORMATION: https://montana.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=7c34f3412536439491adcc2103421d4b
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Moore's trip to Guatemala  On Tuesday, February 15, 2020, Rick and Silvia Moore presented a travelogue of their recent trip to Guatemala visiting Rotary Projects with Maya Pedal and Sustainable Global Coalition. The Coalition is comprised of 11 of the District’s 40 clubs, principally from Northwest Montana. The trip began with a Rotary Project Fair in Antigua, a UNESCO Heritage site, with narrow streets and courtyard type architecture. From there Rick and Silvia visited Corrales along with Dave Renfoe to observe several Maya Pedal projects including a corn cobber, water filter, and blender. The next stop was Mission Santo Tomas la Union to view Carrol College Engineers Without Borders water project. This was followed by Mazatenango, a rather unsafe city of 40,000 where they had a chance to meet with a host Rotary Club. Rick and Silvia then visited 3 projects that the District’s coalition has been involved in. All involved community drinking water projects and leveraging funding. The first was El Progresso, a community of 240 individuals relocated from the Highlands after the Civil War. The project included a well, pump, and chlorination at a cost of $62,000. The club’s portion was $17,000. The next stop was the village of Pasac, with an organic coffee cooperative. The Kootenai Valley Club put up $31,000 and leveraged the remaining $60,000 towards upgrading an antiquated water system, including 4 kilometers of piping. The last stop was La Vega, a town of 1,340 residents. The Rotary Club of Kalispell is proposing a two-phase project, the first of which is $315,000. To-date, they have garnered $268,000. Thank you Rick and Silvia! |
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Head Start and TRIVIAGreat turnout last night to support Head Start at our Trivia Night. We had a record teams - 24! We raised $1,640 to support Head Start and our Rotary Club’s charitable causes! Thanks to everyone who attended!
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KIVA Belle Marie (L), a past club member and George Nemie (R), a senior at Carroll gave a presentation on Kiva, an international micro-loan organization (www.KIVA.org). The Carroll Chapter of Sigma Beta Delta manages donations from the Helena community and funnels them into Kiva. 20 students are involved in vetting the potential benefactors. Kiva has been around since 2005 and allows individuals to give loans to individuals who would not otherwise qualify for loans, generally due to destitute conditions. Loans can be made in $25 increments. The Carroll Chapter has a portfolio of $1,350 and has made over 134 loans in 34 different countries. 81% of the loans have gone to women. Very interesting! And, it felt good that our monthly voluntary contributions from club members, although modest, has made such a difference in people's lives. |
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Helena Habitat Morgan Marks (L) and Julie Pharmer from the Helena Area Habitat for Humanity updated the club on Habitat's work at our meeting on Tuesday, January 28, 2020. Habitat is doing a great job in bringing affordable housing on line, having completed 6 new homes in 2019 and starting an additional 6. The future will hopefully bring 4 units in the Red Fox subdivision. All housing projects are "self-help" and homeowners must contribute time to earn equity and qualify for financing programs. Finding affordable building lots is a significant challenge and plans are in process to leverage USDA grant money to enhance housing in Helena and throughout the state of Montana. Julie and Morgan presented an energetic and positive update on great things happening. |
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Helena Xpress Singers At our meeting on Tuesday, January 21, 2020, Sandy Smith and Barb Leland provided the club with an insight into who the Xpress Singers are and the service they provide to the Helena community. The organization is a chapter of the Sweet Adelines, a world organization. The chapter has been in Helena since 1974 and currently has 32 members. The chorus provides 4-part a cappella harmony, similar to a barbershop quartet. A fun meeting with energetic Xpress Singers! |
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Salvation Army.jpg) Major Lawry Smith (center) and Major Philip Smith (right), Corps Officers of the Salvation Army in Helena, pictured above with club member, Alice Hinshaw, spoke on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, updating us on the SA and its mission. Pointing out that the SA is first a church, they expanded to reacquaint us with how the organization impacts hunger, poverty, housing needs, youth programming, transportation for the non-driving, and other needs of a healthy community. Helena Sunrise rang "silver bells" last Saturday at Walmart in support of SA (see separate article and pictures) and Lawry and Philip expressed much appreciation for the club's help, pointing out that volunteers inject huge value to the fundraising. Great program!
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Bell Ringers
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Christmas Family.jpg) Town Pump of Montana gave Helena Sunrise a grant this December to provide a Christmas for a family in need. Club member, Jordan Hinshaw, helped us identify a family who have increased their number to 6 with the addition of 2 foster children, that the grant would fit quite nicely. On Saturday, December 17, Jordan and her family shopped (and connected with Santa) to gather gifts to cover a Christmas tree (see above.) THANK YOU Jordan!! Jordan will also be following up with a thank-you letter to Town Pump for this generous gift.
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District Governor, Sandy Wong   Rotary District 5390 Governor, Sandy Wong and her husband, Scott Wilm attended Helena Sunrise Rotary's December 10, 2019 meeting during her annual tour of all clubs in the District. Sandy gave an interactive and thought-provoking talk to and with members. She pointed out that polio is not yet eradicated and we need to keep our focus on generating action and money for that cause. Additionally, and with up-beat and positive discussion, she encouraged the club to ponder its favorite activities, its impact on youth, and what projects may be undertaken in 2020 to carry the Rotary message. Pictured above with Sandy and Scott are Past District Governor and Helena Sunrise member, Rick Moore and current Helena Sunrise President, Murray Strong who presented Sandy with a club banner and a box of Parrot candy as a token of our appreciation. Thanks, Sandy and Scott!
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Holter Museum gift The Holter Museum of Art received a gift from Helena Sunrise Rotary to be used in an after-school program for youth that uses art as a mechanism to enhance learning. Club Member, Tony Perpignano, is shown above presenting the check to Kelly Crevier, Development Director and Membership Manager of the Holter. For more info about the Museum, please see: https://www.holtermuseum.org/ .
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Literacy Council check presentation Helena Sunrise Club President, Murray Strong is shown presenting a check to Mary DuVernay of the Lewis and Clark Literacy Council. The check represents proceeds from the September, 2019, Trivia night fund-raising.
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Lewis and Clark County Extension Service Our speaker on Tuesday, November 26, 2019, was Matt Walter, Agricultural Extension Agent for Lewis and Clark County. Matt is new to the Agent position, but gave a great update on the program. MSU-Lewis and Clark County Extension is a county, state and federal partnership dedicated to improving the well-being of families, communities and agricultural enterprises by providing research-based knowledge and innovation.
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YWCA Final My Little Library Club members, Dewey Bruce, Monica Lindeen, Gary Carlson and Brad Lancaster are shown with the fully installed (November 17, 2019) My Little Library box at the Helena Area YWCA. SPECIAL THANKS to Gary Carlson for coordinating the purchase of the library and all of the materials for the structure, as well as coordinating installation. It looks great, Gary!
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Youth Dynamics Jordan Hinshaw, Associate Clinical Director of Residential Services at Youth Dynamics (pictured here (r) with her sponsor and g-ma, Alice Hinshaw), acquainted the club with what YD is and how it impacts the lives of children it serves. Youth Dynamics provides family focused behavioral health treatment founded on the principles of an actively caring and trauma sensitive culture in which people can realize their full potential. The impacts Jordan described were powerful. For more information, see: https://www.youthdynamics.org/
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St. Peter's Health Today's meeting offered an update on activities at St. Peter's Health, Helena's largest medical provider. CEO, Wade Johnson (r), Brian Lee, VP of St. Peter's Medical Group (c) and Jacque Smith, Public Relations Coordinator (l) spoke on a range of subjects, including recruitment of doctors and improving St. Peter's billing system. Wade pointed out that St. Peter's has a staff of 1,600 and is the 2nd largest employer in the area, next to the State of Montana. Wade promised to return to speak to the club again at a future date with a goal of discussing even more positive changes.
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YWCA Little Free Library   YWCA October 18, 2019. Helena Sunrise Rotary Club members, Gary Carlson, Greg Duncan, Rick Moore, Dewey Bruce and Brad Lancaster installed a post and platform that will later house a Little Free Library along side the Helena Area YWCA (https://www.ywcahelena.org/). For more information on Little Free Library, see: https://littlefreelibrary.org/ . The library box will be installed later, after the concrete base has cured.
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Helena Area YWCA Jennifer Gursky, Executive Director of the Helena Area YWCA updated the club on "Y" activities and programs and the impact these items have on lives in distress. YWCA is our partner agency for Trivia on Thursday evening, October 17, 2019. |
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Helena Area YMCA David Oclander, CEO of the Helena Area YMCA (shown here with club member, Jock Palmquist) spoke to us on Tuesday, October 8. David gave a positive and frank update on "Y" operations and changes in directions in process, including updating equipment, spring cleaning and reinvigorating usage of facilities, including Camp Child.
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Tony Perpignano fishing Club member, Tony Perpignano, provided the program on August 27, 2019. Tony discussed fishing in British Columbia and is shown here with some of his wonderful artwork tied to his fishing passion. To put it mildly, Tony loves to fish! |
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Maya Pedal      Our speakers on Tuesday, August 13, 2019 were Dave Renfro (Left), Melody Jaurez (Center) and Ruby Davis (Right) who introduced Maya Pedal. Maya Pedal is a program focused in Guatemala that provides bicycle-driven devices for multiple purposes ranging from a blender to make cleaning soaps to corn grinders and water pumps. Dave, a member of The Rotary Club of Columbia Falls, along with Melody (visiting from Guatemala) explained how such devices may be powerful tools to help people who otherwise may be driven to leave Guatemala and seek entrance to the USA and aggravating the border crisis (Dave believes the border crisis is only beginning.) To help raise funds for the bike/machines, Maya Pedal is selling coffee bags (with coffee!) and shoulder bags made in Guatemala. Machine costs vary, but $1,000 would set up approximately 3. A wonderful example of Rotary helping others help themselves. For more information, please see http://www.Maya-pedal.org/ .
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Sylvia Schell, 2019 RYLA Camper Our speaker on Tuesday, July 30, 2019, was Sylvia Schell (pictured here with her mother, Marie and club member/Past District Governor, Rick Hill). Sylvia shared with the club her experiences at RYLA 2019 and what a wonderful experience it was for her. From initial apprehensions on day one to not wanting to leave on the last day, Sylvia stressed what a positive and growing experience it was for her. Thanks Sylvia! Good luck becoming a counselor at future camps! |
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Dave Addor, Rotary ShelterBox Our Tuesday, July 23, 2019, speaker was Dave Addor, our representative for the Rotary ShelterBox program. The impact Rotary can have in disaster situations around the world is nothing short of amazing. For more information, please see: https://www.shelterboxusa.org/home-page/partner-with-us/rotary/ . Thanks Dave! |
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Helena Police Department Our speaker on Tuesday, July 16 was Steve Hagen, Acting Chief of Police for the City of Helena. Pictured here with club member, Marie Mullarkey, Steve has also served on the Friendship Center's board of directors. Steve updated us on the police department structure, activities and budget. Thanks Steve!
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Welcome newest member, Jordan Hinshaw.jpg) .jpg) Alice Hinshaw formally inducted Sunrise Rotary's newest member, Jordan Hinshaw, on Tuesday, July 2, 2019. Jordan gets a bonus hug from her grandmother at the same time! Welcome, Jordan!!! |
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Thank you, President Michelle Incoming Club President, Murray Strong, presents outgoing Club President, Michelle Vanisko with a Paul Harris Fellow award from Helena Sunrise in appreciation for her excellent leadership during the past year. Thank you Michelle - and congratulations!! |
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Welcome President Murray Strong Outgoing Helena Sunrise Club President, Michelle Vanisko formally swore new Club President, Murray Strong at our business meeting on July 2, 2019. We look forward to a "Strong" year under Murray's leadership.   |
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Thank you (Immediate Past) District Governor, Rick Club President Murray Strong (right) presents Immediate Past District Governor, Rick Moore, with a Paul Harris Fellow award from Helena Sunrise Rotary in appreciation of Rick's tireless and extremely dedicated service to District 5390 AND his home club (Helena Sunrise.) Rick, we are most appreciative of the time, effort and dedication you (and your spouse, Sylvia) poured into Rotary for the past several years. We are confident you will continue this dedication, but... we hope you take a bit of time and get some rest!! And... congratulations on finishing the year on a high note with your "Paul Harris +4!! |
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Helena Food Share.jpg) Tuesday (June 25) morning’s speaker was Bruce Day, Executive Director of Helena Food Share. Bruce gave a positive and upbeat message about the difficult subject of hunger in our community. HFS was founded in 1987 to help provide emergency food to our neighbors who face hunger. HFS provides emergency food for 1,500 local families each month, serves nearly 1,100 elementary school students every week with the Kid Packs program and distributes nearly 6,000 pounds of food to local families in need each day. The agency’s mission is, “Serving our neighbors in need by providing food in a respectful and dignified way and by working with others to eliminate hunger in the greater Helena area.” More information may be found at: https://helenafoodshare.org/ |
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Helena Food Share Tuesday (June 25) morning’s speaker was Bruce Day, Executive Director of Helena Food Share. Bruce gave a positive and upbeat message about the difficult subject of hunger in our community. HFS was founded in 1987 to help provide emergency food to our neighbors who face hunger. HFS provides emergency food for 1,500 local families each month, serves nearly 1,100 elementary school students every week with the Kid Packs program and distributes nearly 6,000 pounds of food to local families in need each day. The agency’s mission is, “Serving our neighbors in need by providing food in a respectful and dignified way and by working with others to eliminate hunger in the greater Helena area.” More information may be found at: https://helenafoodshare.org/ |
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Girls State.jpg) Theresa Vanisko (r), daughter of club president, Michelle Vanisko, (l) presented a program about the American Legion Auxilary Girls State program. ALA Girls State is the premier program for teaching young women about the democratic process and how our republic works at the state and national levels. Theresa has been a counselor for the program since she attended as a participant a few years ago and her passion for the program was quite evident in her presentation. Thanks Theresa! |
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Nakusp, BC flag exchange Club president, Michelle Vanisko (r) exchanges banners with Mayumi van der Pol, president of the Rotary Club of Nakusp, British Columbia.
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The Indus Peace Park Kees (“Case”) [L] and Mayumi (“May-u-me”) [C] van der Pol, pictured with club member, Greg Duncan [R], spoke to the club on Tuesday, June 11, 2019, about peace parks, particularly a park in process of creation on the border of Pakistan and India. Kees and Mayumi are from Nakusp, British Columbia. Kees is a past governor of District 5080 and Mayumi is the current president of the Nakusp Rotary Club. Rotarian Action Group for Peace (RAGFP) members in Rotary District 3011 and District 3070 (India) have joined with other Rotarian Action Group for Peace members in Rotary District 3272 (Pakistan) to create a Peace Park, called The Indus Peace Park Project, within the disputed borders of Pakistan and India. The mission is to “create an international peace park on the border of India and Pakistan by August 2022. To promote lasting peace, goodwill, and collaboration between the peoples of Pakistan and India and to put a stop to unnecessary loss of life across the border.” This Peace Park is supported by other voluntary members in Rotary districts worldwide, including 1130 (UK). Districts 5390, 5080 5370,and 5360 include Rotarians and RAGFP members in the USA and Canada. Rotarians in Africa of District 9212 also support this peace project. Rotarian Action Group for Peace is also a partner in this project. More information may be found at: https://www.rotarianactiongroupforpeace.org/the-indus-peace-park-project/ |
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The Holy Land Our own Arne Bergland spoke to the club on Tuesday, May 28, 2019, about his trip to The Holy Land in January, 2019. Arne presented slides and narrative about what he saw and learned and gave great insight on the historical, social and political situations in that part of the middle east. Very interesting! Arne will also be leading a Holy Land Tour at a future date that is open to all who may be interested.
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Rotary Foundation Eric Thompson from the Rotary Foundation (shown here with Helena Sunrise President, Michelle Vanisko and District 5390 Governor, Rick Moore) spoke to Helena Sunrise on Tuesday, April 30. Eric is in Montana to attend the 2019 District Assembly, where he will be presenting information and reflection on the work of the Foundation. Rotarians AND non-Rotarians are encouraged to view the Foundation's good works at: https://www.rotary.org/en/about-rotary/rotary-foundation
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Montana Girls State.jpg) Guest speaker at our meeting of March 12, 2019, was Jen Dalrymple, Director of Montana Girls State. Girls State is sponsored by the American Legion Auxilary. ALA Girls State is the premier program for teaching young women about the democratic process and how our republic works at the state and national levels. As a MT participant, the girls are assigned to fictional cities named after gem stones in Montana whereupon they embark in the full democratic process of seeking office, holding elections and making/enforcing laws. It is a unique and exciting government-in-action learning program. This year’s ALA Girls State Program will be held on the campus of Carroll College in Helena from Sunday June 9 through Saturday June 15, 2019. Applications will be accepted January 1, 2019 until April 30, 2019. A great program educating youth about how American government works!
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Gary in Tasmania.jpeg) Helena Sunrise member, Gary Williams, recently spoke to the Rotary Club of Hobart, Tasmania in February, 2019. Gary and wife, Lynne are touring Tasmania after hosting Rotary Exchange members from Tasmania in two years ago. We look forward to a program from Gary upon Lynne's and his return!
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Friendship Center update Jenny Eck, Executive Director of the Helena Friendship Center (right, pictured with club President-Elect, Murray Strong) gave the club an update on the FC's activities and its impact on the lives of individuals and families suffering domestic violence and safety issues. Usage of the Friendship Center's services continues to grow, unfortunately, and several cases per month must be turned away and referred to alternative, temporary solutions. A change in FC's planning for 2019 is the decision to not hold an Empty Bowls fundraising event, which Sunrise Rotary has assisted with for the past few years. Empty Bowls is being evaluated for the significant amount of work required of limited staff (who are needed to provide program services) to put on this fundraiser.
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Helena Head Start - Trivia Partner.jpg) Jaymie Shaldahl (left) and Erica Vallance (center) of the Helena Head Start Program are shown here with club member, Gary Carlson. Jaymie and Erica gave the club background and update on Head Start's impact on Helena and surrounding communities. Finding endless opportunities for funding, Head Start will be our Trivia fund-raising partner this coming Thursday, January 17, 6:00 PM at the Staggering Ox Restaurant. Jaymie and Erica have created expanded posters and have explored options to maximize the amount of funds that may be raised on Thursday. Head Start is a wonderful Sunrise Rotary partner!! |
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Michele Steele joins Sunrise Rotary Michele Steele (left) is officially welcomed as member of The Rotary Club of Helena, Sunrise, by District Governor, Rick Moore and Sunrise President, Michelle Vanisko. Michele brings a rich history in Rotary having been a member of the Rotary Club of Helena (the "noon" club), including service as Past President. Work scheduling makes Sunrise an option for Michele to continue her Rotary service. Welcome, Michele!! |
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The History of Luggage Guest Pat Seiler (shown here with club member, Russ Cargo) presented a very informative and entertaining program on "The History of Luggage." Pat led us through the evolution of the bags we all use for travel, pointing out that we put a man on the moon in 1969, but did not put wheels on suitcases until 1972! Thanks, Pat! |
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YWCA Receives Trivia Funds.jpg) Gary Williams presents a check to Monica Lindeen, Executive Director of the Helena YWCA (and Sunrise Rotary Club member) representing proceeds from a successful Trivia night partnership between the "Y" and Sunrise Rotary.
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Holter Museum Reimagined Deb Halliday, board chair for the Holter Museum of Art, spoke to the club on Tuesday, December 11, 2018, about current and upcoming events at the museum. Helena is truly fortunate to have an art center of the Holter's caliber and it was a pleasure to hear Deb's positive presentation. Club members, Russ Cargo (left) and Tony Perpignano (not shown), are both Holter board members.
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Townsend Trivia Night On November 29, another successful Trivia fundraising night was held in Townsend, MT in partnership with the Townsend Rotary Club. Over $1,400 was raised to help fund a Townsend Interact trip to Guatemala. Over 70 community members turned out to share the fun. Great job, Townsend and Sunrise members, Gary Williams, Greg Duncan, Rick Moore and Carol Wilcox!
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Kalli Kind, Helena Public Schools.jpg) Kalli Kind, Director of Support Services for the Helena Public School system, pictured (R) with club member, Tony Perpignano, gave us an update of the construction and ongoing maintenance needs of the large physical infrastructure of our local school system at our meeting on November 27. |
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L&C Literacy Council receives check.jpg) Club member and President-Elect, Murray Strong presents a check to Mary DuVernay, Executive Director of the Lewis & Clark Literacy Council. The Literacy Council is one of our Trivia Night fundraising partners and the check represents another successful and fun evening for both organizations. |
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City Mayor, Wilmont Collins Club member, Gary Williams (L) enjoys a laugh with Helena Mayor, Wilmont Collins at our November 13, 2018 meeting. Mayor Collins discussed a broad range of subjects concerning the city of Helena, its operations, its future and its management as well as fielding several questions from members. Thanks Mayor Collins! |
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Book Drops Installed  Club members, Dewey Bruce (top) and Gary Williams complete installation of book drops for the North Jefferson County Library on October 25, 2018. NJCL was a beneficiary of a Rotary District Grant and is near and dear to a number of club members who live in the immediate area. Thanks Dewey and Gary!!
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Ian Marquand - Kumamoto Sister State.jpg) Ian Marquand, pictured (left) above with club member, Gary Carlson, spoke to us about Montana's Japanese sister state, Kumamoto Province, Japan. Ian was interesting and entertaining and provided a great update on trade relations and history with Japan. |
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Montana Joining Community Forces Our speaker on Tuesday, October 16, 2018, was Steve Garrison of Montana Joining Community Forces (joined in the above photo by club member, Carol Wilcock.) Montana JCF works with local service providers on local needs to determine available services for Veterans and their families. They then educate Veterans & their families of those services, and coordinate the services for those in need of them. MJCF is the Trivia fundraising partner for October. |
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Helena YWCA Speaker Kiley Gage and member Monica Lindeen presented program about the Helena YWCA at the Tuesday, August 21, 2018 meeting. |
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Erin Bohlman, RYLA camper Erin Bohlman and her mother, Vickki attended our meeting on Tuesday, August 1. Erin spoke to us about her experiences at the recent RYLA camp, which in short was a great experience for her. In addition to speaking, Erin treated us to a wonderful rendition of a song she performed for talent-time at camp. |
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Peter and Debbie Italiano.jpg) District Governor, Rick Moore, officially inducts Peter and Debbie Italiano as the newest members of Helena Sunrise Rotary. Congratulations and welcome, Debbie and Peter! |
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Peter and Debbie Italiano |
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6th Ward Garden dedication.jpeg) Helena Sunrise member/Rotary 5390 District Governor, Rick Moore (left of center in Rotary cap) are joined by Sunrise members, Greg Duncan and Dan McLean (to Rick's right) at the 6th Ward Garden Park to dedicate improvements to the park arranged by the Club. Contributions by CWG Architects, Valley Bank, First Interstate Bank and The Helena Realtor's Association made a new pergola, benches and sign work possible. Thank you sponsors!!! |
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Michelle Vanisko takes over as President Incoming 2018-2019 Rotary Club of Helena, Sunrise President Michelle Vanisko is congratulated by District Governor, Rick Moore (also a Helena Sunrise member.) Additionally, outgoing president, Dan McLean (to Michelle's right) and President-Elect Murray Strong were recognized. Many thanks to Dan for his leadership this past year and congratulations to Michelle and Murray! |
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NO MEETING JULY 3NO MEETING ON TUESDAY, JULY 3. HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!
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Walk to End Alzheimer's On Tuesday, May 8, 2018, we heard from Jayme Klehfoth, shown above with Sunrise Rotary member, Greg Duncan, about the upcoming Walk for Alzheimer's fundraiser on Saturday, September 8, 2018. Alzheimer's is the 6th leading cause of death in the U.S. and currently cannot be prevented, cured or slowed. The upcoming walk supports the Alzheimer's Association, which is is a global organization, working to advance care, support and research across the world to treat this awful disease. From face-to-face support to online education programs and promising worldwide research initiatives, the money raised makes a difference in the lives of those facing Alzheimer's. Volunteers are encouraged to walk in support of the fundraising and/or support other walkers by sponsorship. |
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Rick Moore is District 5390's newest Governor District 5390 Governor Rick Moore and his wife, Sylvia. Congratulations Sylvia!! Rick Moore is sworn in as District Governor for Rotary District 5390 on Saturday, April 28, 2018. Congratulations, Rick!!! |
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Passing of the Banner.jpg) Incoming District Governor, Rick Moore, passes on the District Governor Elect Banner and Pin to incoming DGE, Sandy Wong at the District Conference held in Butte on April 27 and 28, 2018. Immediate Past District Governor, Joe McBride, is shown to Sandy's right. Congratulations Sandy! AND, Congratulations Rick! We look forward to another great year in Rotary under your leadership! |
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World Montana Our speaker for April 17, 2018 was our April Trivia partner, WorldMontana® World Montana is an affiliate of the National Council for International Visitors (NCIV) based in Washington, D.C. It is one of 88 U.S. non-profit centers dedicated to promoting global understanding through citizen diplomacy. One of the ways they try to foster global understanding is by facilitating the International Visitor Leadership Program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. In Montana, they host approximately 150 international leaders through this program each year. Pictured above are Sasha Fendrick, Executive Director and Sunrise Rotary member and District Governor Elect, Rick Moore. |
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Cancer Action Network.jpg) Our speaker on April 10, 2018 was Keri Yoder with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. ACSCAN works to end suffering and death from cancer in every state and over 100 communities across the country. From state legislatures to local city councils and county commissions, ACSCAN is working to pass laws and regulations that move us closer to the day when no one has to hear those three scary words, "You have cancer." |
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KIVA micro-lending program.jpg) Kiva is an international nonprofit, founded in 2005 and based in San Francisco, with a mission to connect people through lending to alleviate poverty. Working through local micro-lenders throughout the world, KIVA assists entrepreneurs with loans as small as $25. Carroll College’s Sigma Beta Delta club sponsors a KIVA chapter in Helena. SBD representative, Caroline Crapo and Faculty Advisor, Belle Marie spoke to the club about KIVA’s good work. At conclusion of the meeting, Sunrise Rotary Club President, Dan McLean, presented Caroline with a check from the club for $90 which represents 4th quarter 2017 donations from club members to support SBD’s KIVA chapter’s work. Great program! Thanks Sigma Beta Delta! .jpg) |
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YWCA  The Helena YWCA's new Executive Director, Monica Lindeen, pictured here with member, Dewey Bruce, spoke to the club about the Y's current events at the meeting Tuesday, February 13. The YWCA was also our Trivia partner on Thursday, February 15, in which over $800 was raised (top picture!) Great turn out for the Y! |
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DG-Elect, Rick Moore receives Paul Harris + 2 award District 5390 Governor-Elect, Rick Moore receives a Paul Harris +2 award from Club President, Dan McLean at our meeting on Tuesday, February 13, 2017. Thanks Rick, for your dedication to Rotary and its causes - more to come during your time as District Governor!
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Key work crewKeys to Trivia success.jpg) Russ Cargo, Gary Williams (standing), Jock Palmquist and Gary Carlson are great examples of the leaders we have in our club. In this shot, they take a moment away from tallying Trivia Night scores to smile for the camera during another successful fund-raising night. |
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CASACourt Appointed Special Advocates
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Our RotaryOUR ROTARY Rick Moore, District 5390 Governor-Elect, spoke to club members on Tuesday, December 19, 2017 on the subject of "Our Rotary." Rick gave a great outline of Rotary, its beginnings, structure, programs and international scale. He also explained how demographics are changing with membership challenges in the U.S. and our Zone. We are all encouraged to note and take action on the Rotary Vision to "Join Leaders! Share Ideas! Take Action!" Rick is doing a great job dedicating his time and energy giving leadership to the District, while simultaneously supporting Helena Sunrise. Thanks, Rick! |
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North Jefferson County Library drop boxesNorth Jefferson County Library Drop Boxes.png) North Jefferson County Library Director, Carly Delsigne and NJCL board member, Marty Clark (shown below with members Dan McLean and Rick Moore), joined our meeting on December 12. Carly and Marty explained the need for the library to do repairs and maintenance on drop boxes located at various points around north Jefferson County. The library is heavily used and given the large number of Jefferson County residents who are members of Rotary, a Rotary District Grant is being pursued to help with these needed rennovations. More to come later as grant application work is done. .jpg) |
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Habitat receives Sunrise Rotary check Club members, Marie Mullarkey (L) and Brad Lancaster present a check to Habitat For Humanity of Helena Executive Director, Jacob Kuntz and Habitat Volunteer Coordinator, Sophia Webb. The check represents a share of recent Sunrise Rotary Trivia night fund-raising. Good job, Habitat! |
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Bridges - Rev. Rick HulbertBridgesOur speaker, Reverend Rick Hulbert, spoke on Tuesday, November 28, 2017 on "Bridges." Bridges is a community outreach program of the Helena United Methodist Ministries, hosted by Covenant United Methodist Church in collaboration with AARP Montana. Bridges offers specialized educational programs and workshops that focus on challenges and opportunities of aging. Rick did an excellent job of re-capping some of the issues that accompany aging and how many, perhaps most, people do not adequately plan for the inevitable issues arise as we become less able to care for ourselves. Rick (left) is shown with member, Arne Bergland, who arranged for Rick to speak.  |
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Life HousesLife Houses Jay and Anita Sherley, speakers on Tuesday, November 21, 2017, are people passionate about community. Jay is part owner at Capital Sports and Anita works as a real estate broker with Big Sky Brokers. Over the years they have been involved in their community in many aspects: serving on the Fairground board, running the Stampede rodeo, as Elders at Mount Helena Community Church, organizing monthly YAP (Young Adult People) gatherings and events, working at Food Share, and as coaching staff for kids. But their biggest passion within the city is young adults. Over the last two decades, they have invited many young people in need of a place to live into their home. Convinced that when a young person comes to understand their value, purpose, and belonging, they are empowered to strive toward a powerful, positive and dynamic life style that changes legacies and the communities they live in, Jay and Anita founded Life Houses, Inc. in 2008. Life Houses now meets an important need in the Helena community, as a non-profit that provides young adults homes that are safe, positive and develop leadership. A home where they are valued, have a purpose, and belong to a family. For more information, please see website: https://life-houses.org/ |
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American Foundation for Suicide PreventionSuicide Prevention speaker, Dorea Wilmoth Dorea Wilmoth (shown here with Club Chair, Dan McLean), Board Chair for the Montana Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention was our speaker Tuesday morning, November 14, 2017. Dorea gave an excellent program on a difficult subject that touches nearly everyone. Montana has the 3rd highest suicide rate per 100,000 of population, trailing only Wyoming and Alaska. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. Men die of suicide 3.5 times more than women. Please view more statistics and information at the Montana AFSP website: https://afsp.org/chapter/afsp-montana/ |
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Dan McLean receives 3rd Paul Harris Fellow award
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Montana Club changesMontana Club Changes.png) Russ Cargo, in addition to being a Helena Sunrise Rotary Club member, serves as Chairman of the Montana Club, a long-standing private club located in downtown Helena and we were treated to an interesting update on Club operations at our meeting on October 18, 2017. Established in 1885, the Montana Club is one of the oldest institutions in Helena and Montana. Long a private entity open only to members, a new direction is being taken by converting the club to a Cooperative entity, and opening the club to the general public. A commission has been formed to accept subscriptions for patronage shares to provide initial capitalization for the new co-op. For more information, please e-mail mtclubcoop@gmail.com, or Russ would undoubtedly be happy to visit in person for those who prefer it. |
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Bench Work on the 6th Ward Garden ParkBench and Pergola Installation  The crackerjack crew of Michelle Vanisko, Russ Cargo, Tony Perpignano, Marie Mullarkey and Alice Hinshaw combine brain, brawn and general good looks to install bench and pergola parts at the 6th Ward Garden Park. Thanks to funding from a Rotary District 5390 grant and contributions from CWG Architects, Valley Bank of Helena, The Helena Association of Realtors, and First Interstate Bank of Helena, this wonderful community park/garden is rapidly becoming a showpiece of Helena. Thanks crew!! |
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Gary and Rick receive Paul Harris Fellow recognition  Gary Williams and Rick Moore, two of the hardest working members of our club received well deserved Paul Harris Fellow recognition on August 29, 2017. Gary works tirelessly and cheerfully as our Secretary/Treasurer and contributes mightily to the club's success. He also does much of the coordination and all of the accounting for our major fundraising via Trivia nights. Rick is District Governor Elect and faithfully and consistently represents and upholds the values of Rotary. In addition to his District Officer duties, Rick keeps very active in our local club, volunteering for projects, hosting exchange members and generally being a cheerleader for the Club, the District and Rotary International. Gary and Rick - we are very fortunate to have both of you in our Club!! Thank you and CONGRATULATIONS!!!
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RYLA Speaker, CharlieAnn BedfordRYLA 2017 Atendee, CharlieAnn Bedford Rotary Youth Leadership Academy ("RYLA") 2017 representative student from Helena, CharlieAnn Bedford and her parents, Jan and Pete Petek (pictured L-R) spoke to the club on Tuesday, August 22. CharlieAnn gave a thoughtful, excited and emotional presentation about how RYLA camp touched her and left her with new friends from around the state. She has also applied to be a counselor for future camps. Thank you CharlieAnn! |
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Rotary Club of Helena Sunrise Honors Past President Brad LancasterRotary Club of Helena Sunrise Honors Past President Brad Lancaster Club President Dan McLean presented Past President Brad Lancaster with a Paul Harris Fellow Pin at our meeting this week. Our Club decided to honor Brad with a Paul Harris Fellow in recognition of his many accomplishments during his year as President of our Club. Brad made Membership his top priority. During his year as President, our Club almost doubled in size, and increased significantly in diversity, with many more women and younger members. Brad also made a significant effort to educate Club members on The Rotary Foundation and how to make contributions to The Rotary Foundation on line. In addition to all that he does for Rotary, Brad also provides many hours of service to charitable organizations in our Community. Many thanks Brad for all that you have done for our Club and our Community. |
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Tough Things FirstRay Zinn, author of "Tough Things First" Our speaker for August 15, 2017, was Ray Zinn, the longest serving CEO of a Silicon Valley company. Ray was joined by his wife, DeLona and spoke to the club about his belief that a strong work ethic is essential to success in business and in life. At the conclusion of his talk, he presented the club with a copy of his book, "Tough Things First" to give away by raffle, which was won by Rick Moore. As incoming District Governor, Rick advised that he plans to read and then share the book with the District. Ray and DeLona also invited all members and their families to their annual 4th of July fireworks, music and patriotic speaking event at their ranch located at the base of McDonald Pass. Read more about Ray at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ray_Zinn . Pictured are DeLona Zinn, Ray Zinn and club members, Dewey Bruce, Dan McLean and Tony Perpignano. |
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Helena Association of Realtors GiftHelena Realtors present gift for 6th Ward Park.jpeg) Freda Wilkinson and Mark Simonich (right) of the Helena Association of Realtors present Helena Sunrise Rotary President, Dan McLean with a check for $3,000 to help cover costs for the 6th Ward Park project. Thank you Helena Realtors!!!! |
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Highway Clean-up A dedicated group of volunteers did "round two" of cleanup work on Spokane Creek Road on Tuesday evening, July 25. Trash was not as plentiful as with the first cleanup and leader, Murray Strong, advises that a couple of times per year appears adequate to keep this section of highway clean. Thanks Murray for your leadership with this community service!! |
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Habitat For HumanityHelena Area Habitat For Humanity Sophia Webb, Volunteer Coordinator and Mark Leland, Construction Foreman from the Helena Area Habitat For Humanity spoke to the club on Tuesday, August 8, 2017 (the guy with the Habitat shirt is member, Brad Lancaster). In addition to working on several homes in Helena, Habitat is preparing to build 5 homes simultaneously in a development located south of the new Blue Cross/Blue Shield campus between Helena and East Helena. Volunteers always welcomed and appreciated on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Check them out at: http://www.helenahabitat.org/ |
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Townsend Fall FestTownsend Fall Fest is coming! The Townsend Fall Fest is approaching and will be held September - October 1, 2017. Pat Platenberg spoke to our club at the monthly business meeting on Tuesday, August 1. In addition to being a lot of fun, Pat offered the opportunity for club members to volunteer and help with various events. The Fall Fest has grown significantly in recent years and is more challenging for for the Townsend Rotary Club to manage alone. For information, please contact Pat at - 406-431-4615. Pictured (below) and showing both thoughtfulness and excitement are Marshall Gingery (L) and Pat. .JPG) |
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Valley Bank GiftValley Bank Gift Helps 6th Ward Park Allison Atkinson, Marketing Officer for Valley Bank of Helena, joined the business meeting on Tuesday, August 1, 2017 and presented a check for $4,500 to Helena Sunrise Rotary. Member, Greg Duncan, who was instrumental in contacting Valley Bank for this funding, is shown receiving the check from Allison. This gift is a significant boost in helping our club gain matching Rotary Grant funding for benches and other improvements for the 6th Ward Garden Park in Helena. Thanks Alison! Thanks Valley Bank of Helena! Thanks Greg! |
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Forest Timber Sales and ComplicationsGary Carlson Outlines Timber Harvest/Thinning Challenges Our speaker on Tuesday, July 25, 2017, was Gary Carlson. Gary spoke from the perspective of being a rancher on his family operation near Bernice, Montana (between Helena and Butte.) More specifically, Gary outlined a situation in which the U.S. Forest Service, landowners and other stakeholders in the area have agreed to collaboration for a thinning/harvesting/fire mitigation project that has now commenced with an 18 month USFS environmental study. Part of Gary's explanation of the situation was that ranchers are good stewards of land and must be to survive over the long run, and such projects are not supported without a great deal of fore-thought and planning for the best results. He noted that litigation against such sales after conclusion of a USFS study is often driven by a few national not-for-profit entities who automatically file suit to stop such timber work without regard to merit of the project or the long-term best interest of the forest, landowners or surrounding communities. |
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Old Glory salute to Dewey BruceDewey Bruce Receives Old Glory Recognition  Sunrise Member, Dewey Bruce, was recognized by Bob Henkel of the Old Glory Landmark Committee for his work in promoting the changing of the flag ceremony on the 4th of July the past 3 years. Dewey has volunteered many hours and worked tirelessly and with his usual upbeat manner in contributing to the success of this reinvigorated annual recognition of celebrating our country's independence. GREAT job Dewey!!! |
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Helena Business Improvement Districti Downtown Helena and Business Improvement District.jpg) Our speaker on Tuesday, July 18, 2017, was Renee Bauer, Executive Director of the Helena Improvement District and Downtown Helena, Inc. Renee explained the functions of the two entities and also led discussion on events and business happenings in the downtown area. |
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Sunrise Rotary Member, Gary Carlson, receives award.jpg) Gary Carlson presented with community service award The Montana Society of Certified Public Accountants (MSCPA) has announced that Helena CPA, Gary Carlson, shareholder at Anderson ZurMuehlen, was awarded the Society’s inaugural Community Service Award on June 22, at MSCPA’s 104th Annual Conference. This award is a celebration of the many contributions CPAs make in their communities. Throughout his career, Carlson has been involved with Rotary, many local and statewide organizations, and the Rocky Mountain Development Council (RMDC). In 2000, along with representatives from Rocky Mountain Development Council, Inc., Carlson spearheaded the inaugural Spirit of Service day in Helena, Montana. Spirit of Service is an opportunity for business, not-for-profits, governments and their employees to give back to the community in which they live through lending a helping hand to homeowners in need. GREAT JOB, GARY! |
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NO MEETING JULY 4, 2017  NO MEETING ON TUESDAY, JULY 4, 2017. PLEASE CELEBRATE THE RECOGNITION OF OUR COUNTRY'S INDEPENDENCE DAY. COME TO MEMORIAL PARK FOR EVENTS AND CHECK ON ROTARIANS WORKING THE "BOUNCE HOUSES." NEXT MEETING WILL BE TUESDAY, JULY 11, 2017 AT PERKINS RESTAURANT.
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Head Start Receives Check Helena Sunrise Rotary member, Gary Carlson, presents Helena Head Start Program Director, Ashley Pena-Larsen. Head Start was our Trivia partner for March, 2017. |
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June is Rotary Fellowship Month |
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Fred Krepps speaks to the club Fred Krepps, Financial Services Advisor for D.A. Davidson was our speaker on May 30. Fred gave an interesting and informative perspective on current financial market conditions. Above, left to right: Fred, Gary Williams, Kristina Warren, Dewey Bruce and Jock Palmquist.
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Montana Conservation Corps Our speakers on Tuesday, May 9, 2017 were Madie Padon, Youth Program Coordinator (left) and Adam Hein, Regional Director for the Montana Conservation Corps, Central Division. MCC is a program of outdoor volunteer service on Montana's public lands. Member, Alice Hinshaw is pictured to Adam's right. |
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Women In Rotary  Women in Rotary were celebrated Saturday evening, May 6, 2017. Organizer, Marie Mullarkey did an excellent job of arranging for speakers, Jackie Lavelle, Malinda Schafman and Sheila Sterns (the first woman Rotarian in Montana) to give humorous and insightful presentations. The evening concluded with a dessert auction by master auctioneer, Rick Moore (unfortunately no picture!) Women have been a GREAT addition to our club! |
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Save The BrainSave The Brain was the subject of our speaker on April 25, 2017, Stacy Tureck (left). Our own Katherine Comer-Tuss is pictured above with Stacy.
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Big Brothers Big Sisters Our speaker Tuesday, April 18, 2017, was Chris Siders, Match Support Specialist with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Helena. Chris gave background and story to the impact that "Bigs" have on "Littles." BBBS was also our partner agency for our Trivia Night fundraiser on Thursday, April 20, 2017. |
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First Interstate Contribution First Interstate Bank President, Rich Bruner, presents a check for $1,000 to Club Treasurer, Gary Williams to assist in funding improvements to the 6th Ward Community Garden. More information to come later on the Garden project. |
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Durham, NC club visit Russ Cargo presents a banner from his recent visit to the Rotary Club of Durham, North Carolina to President-Elect Dan McLean at our April 11, 2017 meeting. |
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Soup for Friendship Center   Rotarians from the Helena Sunrise Rotary Club and the Helena Rotary Club volunteered this morning helping with the Friendship Center's Empty Bowls event. They spent the morning picking up soup and bread from area restaurants and delivering it to the Lewis and Clark Fairgrounds where it will be served up tonight. Shown are 40 gallons of soup in Rick and Sylvia's car trunk and 20 dozen rolls in the back seat. Kyle and Jonette are shown with their car load. |
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Check presented to YWCA Club Secretary/Treasurer Gary Williams presents a check from Sunrise Rotary to Kellie Goodwin-McBride, Executive Director of the Helena YWCA. The Y was a recent partner in our Trivia Fun Night. |
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Rick Moore program on Tasmanian Cultural Exchange   Club member Rick Moore and his wife, Sylvia recently returned from a Rotary Cultural Exchange trip the first week in February. Fellow Rotarians from around Montana joined the Moores and they report a wonderful time connecting with Tasmanian exchange team members (Alera is shown in the first picture above) who visited Montana last year. Rick also made new friends (picture two). The Montana exchange group is shown in the third picture. Rick presented a great program and slide show about the trip at our meeting on March 28, 2017. |
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Arne Bergland inducted as new member. President-Elect Dan McLean welcomes Arne Bergland as the newest member of the Rotary Club of Helena, Sunrise at our meeting on March 28, 2917.
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Russ Cargo speaker 3-21-17March 21, 2017 speaker, Russ Cargo..JPG) March 21, 2017. Speaker was Russ Cargo. Russ discussed the status of non-profit entities, with focus on charitable non-profits. Russ highlighted the responsibilities, both legal and moral, that come with administration of such organizations. Several points from his presentation have direct application to Rotary. .JPG) March 21, 2017 - Guest, Pat Seiler (left), speaker, Russ Cargo and attentive members, Brad Lancaster, Fred Krepps, Roy Hockett, Dewey Bruce and Gary Carlson listen to Russ discuss the world of non-profits. |
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March 2017 Trivia NightJoin us for Trivia Night to Support Head Start of Helena
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Membership MattersMembership Matters
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Literacy CouncilOur Speaker this Week was Peggy Benkelman, Lewis and Clark Literacy Coucil
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YWCA Trivia NightTrivia Night for the YWCA
We had a great turnout for our January Trivia Night! Over 60 people attended. We raised over $600, to be split between the YWCA and our club's charitable activities. Thanks to everyone who came out to support great causes!
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Helena YWCA (Kellie Goodwin McBride).JPG) Our speaker today was Kellie Goodwin McBride, Executive Director of the Helena YWCA. Kellie reviewed the Y’s history and mission of empowering women who are transitioning to permanent and stable housing by providing training and program opportunities to break the cycles of poverty and racism. Educational growth, help with obtaining employment, learning financial budgeting skills and initiating self-care activities are examples of some of the techniques used to help the women in the “Y’s” programs. For more information, see the “Y’s” website: http://www.ywcahelena.org/ The YWCA will be our club's partner at Trivia night on Thursday evening, January 19, 2017 - 6:00 PM at the Staggering Ox Restaurant.
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Trivia Night to Benefit YWCA of HelenaTrivia Night to Benefit the YWCA of Helena
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Helena Industries Receives Funds from Trivia NightHelena Industries Receives Funds from our Trivia Night
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No meeting reminderHappy Holidays! No meeting on Tuesday, December 27. See everyone at the next meeting on Tuesday, January 3, 2017!
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Lora Belmer speaks on school kids program.JPG) Guest speaker at the November 29 meeting was Lora Belmer, who is also president of the Helena Rotary Club. Lora discussed changes to the former “Clothes for Kids” program to a more general assistance model that helps kids meet school needs year-round, but particularly in August when parents are trying to meet buying needs for new school years.
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Adam tells us about the Montana National Guard ExerciseOur Member Adam Tells us about His Recent MT National Guard Experience.jpeg)
Our speaker Tuesday, the 25th was our own Adam Klippenstein who related some of his experiences from a recent training exercise the Montana National Guard 1-163 Combined Arms Battalion held in Romania. Adam spoke to the pride we should all feel in our Montana National Guard and the quality it presents - particularly when compared with other military forces in the world. Adam also reviewed some exercises recently completed with military personnel from Kyrgystan. It was refreshing to hear how the United States has friends in the world who share in feelings and actions in the battle against terrorism. Thanks Adam!!
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Helena IndustriesJoin Us Thursday Night to Support Helena Industries at Trivia Night!
Our speakers this morning were from Helena Industries, our charitable organization partner for Trivia Night on October 20th. The speakers were Russ Cargo, President and CEO; Katie Gallagher, Marketing Director, and Toni Broadbent, Director of Development. Helena Industries is a private, nonprofit corporation dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities. They reach their objective by providing training, work opportunities, and case management services tailored to the individual’s interest and abilities.
Helena Industries provides employment through a variety of businesses that include: textile products, wood products, janitorial services, document destruction, electronic recycling, mailing services, and a retail thrift store. More details about these services are available on their website: www.helenaindustries.org/.
Helena Industries provides programs which help disabled individuals train for and find jobs in their local community. These community and facility- based services include:
Community Placement
Supported Employment
Faculty
Job Preparation
They are excited about one of their new product lines from their Benchmark Industries. They are now producing products for Punkin Futz, a company dedicated to providing products specifically designed for children with disabilities. Katie brought a Punkin Pie, a small bag specifically designed to attach to a wheel chair. Helena Industries is featured on their web site as their manufacturer who employs individuals with disabilities.
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Trivia Night in TownsendWe Take Our Award Winning Trivia Night on the Road Next Month! Join us in Townsend on November 10th for Trivia Night to support Canton Church Restoration. And don't forget our own Trivia Night this week at the Staggering Ox! |
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October 2016 Trivia NightOctober Trivia Night to Benefit Helena IndustriesJoin us at the Staggering Ox for a night of fun. All proceeds go to support Helena Industries and our Club's charitable project.
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DG Malinda's Visit to our CoubDistrict Governor Malinda's Visit to our Club
District Governor Malinda and her husband Dave visited our club in September. Club President Marie presented her a check for $26.50 to The Rotary Foundation as a symbolic gesture of the 100th Anniversary of the Foundation. President Marie has challenged every member to contribute $26.50 by agreeing to match every contribution. After the meeting, she took a tour of Rotary Projects in the Helena area, including the bench at Food Share donated by our Club.
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Summer PicnicSummer Picnic - View all the pictures by selecting the Album and clicking on "Slideshow."
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Welcome two new Members!Our Club Inducted Two New Members This Week!Our Club inducted two new members this week. Michelle Vanisko was sponsored by Alice Hinshaw. Kathryn Comer-Tuss was sponsored by Dan McLean. We are pleased to welcome this two new members, who will contribute their knowledge, skills and connections to our Club.
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World MontanaWorld Montana brings Iraqi Visitors to Helena
We had two delightful young women from Iraq visit our club this morning. They are visiting the United States thanks to World Montana, a nonprofit organization furthering the cause of citizen diplomacy through global exchanges, community engagement and leadership development. Eleven Iraqi students have been here for about a week. A group from Mexico arrived last night. To see more pictures of the Iraqi students and their activities while in Helena and Montana, visit World Montana’s Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/WorldMontana/. World Montana Program Director Sasha Fendrick told us about their programs and the people that the programs as brought to Montana.
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Club President Marie presents Dan with a new Rotary PinNew Rotary Pins! Club President Marie gave each member of the Helena Sunrise Club a Rotary Pin with the new Rotary Logo. Thank you Marie for helping us improve our public image! |
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Past President Brad Lancaster Honored for His Year of ServiceClub Honors Past President Brad Lancaster with a Paul Harris Fellow
Rotary Club of Helena Sunrise honored Past President Brad Lancaster for his year of service by presenting Brad with a Paul Harris Fellow. During his year as Club President, Brad truly reenergized the Club. Through his leadership, the Club received a Governor’s Citation as Best Small Club Growth Award at the District Conference this year. Brad made membership his number one priority. He started each meeting with “membership, membership, membership.” He asked members for prospective members. He took identified candidates for membership to lunch and told them about Rotary. During his year, the Club changed is membership from a gradual decline to a sharp increase. The Club went from 13 members at the start of the year to 21 members at the end of the year. And just as important, the diversity of the Club’s members shifted dramatically. From a club made up primarily of “old, retired guys,” the club went from 15% female to 30% female members. The club went from 46% of its members being retired to only 28% retired. Many of the new members are young members.
Brad also encouraged members to contribute to The Rotary Foundation during his year as President. In fact, he made an online contribution as a Paul Harris Sustaining Member during one of our meetings, demonstrating to the Club members the way to make a contribution through the Rotary web site. A contribution to The Rotary Foundation is an investment in the ideal of good will, peace and understanding. That is an ideal held high by Rotarians the world over, and one that Brad clearly shares.
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Krys Holmes of the Myrna Loy was our speaker this weekKrys Holmes tells us about the Myrna Loy Center
Krys Holmes, Executive Director of the Myna Loy Center, was our speaker this week. Montana’s First Lady of Film was born Myrna Williams, on August 2, 1905, in Radersburg, Montana, 40 miles southeast of Helena. Her father, David Williams, served in the Montana state legislature. He was the youngest person ever elected to the Montana State legislature. At age seven, Myrna moved with her father, mother, and brother to Helena, where they lived on 5th Avenue, a few blocks from the Lewis and Clark County jail, which is now the Myna Loy Center. Krys told us that the Center was named after Myrna Loy because she had given almost everything she had to support the Arts.
We all know the Myna Loy as a great movie theater, specializing in Indie films that would otherwise not be available to the Helena audiences. But she told us that the Myrna is much, much more. As a Center for the performing arts, the bring in many challenging and culturally enriching programs.
They have an Art Education program that brings in artists to help inform students in Helena schools about the arts. They will also partner with other organizations to help them with their missions. For example, they recently partnered with the YWCA for a special showing of the film Suffragette, with the proceeds from the film going to the YWCA. They are one of the few organizations in the northwest that provide grants to aspiring artists, many of whom have gone on to become nationally recognized for their works.
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Dawn Apple Joins our ClubPresident Brad Inducts New Member Dawn Apple into our Club
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Helena High School Speech and DebateJosh and Michael Fuller from the Helena High Speech and Debate Team
Our speakers this week were Michael and Josh Fuller, members of the Helena High School Speech and Debate Team. They have qualified for the National Speech and Debate Finals in Salt Lake City next month. The twin brothers will be presenting their Duo Interpretation, which is where two competitors team up to deliver a ten-minute performance of a published play or story. Using off-stage focus, competitors convey emotion and environment through a variety of performance techniques focusing on the relationships and interactions between the characters. No props or costumes are used. Michael and Josh selected a story about the Brothers Grimm fairy tales, and how they have been changed by Disney to be more vanilla flavored than the original versions. Their presentation was fun to watch!
Since the Helena School District does not support travel for the Speech and Debate Team, they are raising funds to cover their cost of attendance at the national competition.
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Engineers without Borders Receives Trivia Night CheckEngineers without Borders Receives Trivia Night Check
Greg Duncan presents a check for $255 to John Scharf, faculty adviser for the Carroll College Engineers without Borders, who were our supported charity for the April Trivia Night.
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Trivia Night for the Helena YWCATrivia Night for the Helena YWCA
We had a great turnout last night at our Trivia Night. The charity we are supporting this month is the Helena YWCA. With well over 60 people in attendance, we raised more than $600 to be split between the YWCA and our Club’s charitable activities. Thanks to all who attended last night! There were teams from the YWCA, Carroll College, Townsend Rotary, Helena Rotary, and others. This was the last Trivia Night for this season. We will start up again in September.
 Greg announced, Roy collected answer sheets, and Marie and Murray scored. Great teamwork!
 The Brainiacs were the winning team.
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YWCA is the Charity for Trivia Night This WeekKellie McBride, Executive of the YWCA Was Our Speaker this Morning
Our speaker this morning was Kellie McBride, Executive Director of the YWCA. Kellie shared with us her excitement about having the historic YWCA renovated to modern standards to better serve homeless women in the Helena area. She invites everyone to tour their great new facilities on the twelfth of each month at noon – 12th at 12.
Kellie also shared information about the many programs that they provide for women and children in the Helena area. The YWCA is the charity that we will be supporting this week at our Trivia Night. Come join us and help raise funds for this wonderful Helena institution. Thursday night at the Staggering Ox from 6 to 8 PM. |
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May Trivia NightMay Trivia Night to Benefit the Helena YWCA
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Tasmanian Professional Development Exchange
Tasmanian Professional Development Exchange Team visits Helena
PDE Team members Sarah, Zac, Ross, Simone and Allira
Our Club had the pleasure of hosting the Tasmanian Professional Development Exchange Team this week. Team members include Ross (the Rotarian Team Leader), Allira (a police office), Sarah (a pharmacist), Simone (an outfitter/fishing guide), and Zac (a paramedic). They are truly a delightful group of young professionals. They provided us with an overview of themselves and Tasmania at our meeting. Sarah is a Rotaractor. Other team members indicated that the experience has taught them the value of Rotary, and look forward to becoming a Rotarian in the future.
Ross and Club President Brad exchanged Rotary Club Banners. Ross then presented Brad with a Tasmanian pin depicting a kangaroo.
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Club President Brad Checks in to the District Conference
Club President Brad Checks in at the District Conference Registration Desk
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Club Donations for the Silent Auction
Club Donations for the District Conference Silent Auction : Framed print called “Blackfoot River Native” numbered and signed with museum quality printing and paper. Artwork was done by Helena Sunrise Rotary’s own Tony Perpignano. Framing was commissioned and donated by fellow member, Gary Carlson.
Gift basket includes an Igloo travel cooler, a perfect companion for your day out on the river, a Yeti can cooler and a Yeti stainless steel tumbler so if the fish aren’t biting at least your drinks will stay cold, along with a river rock necklace as memento of a great day fishing or as a gift for someone special who didn’t get to go.
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District Governor Nominee Home Club BannerDistrict Governor Nominee Home Club Banner
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Club Picks up Awards at District ConferenceClub President Brad Lancaster Recieves Governor's Citation Our Club took home to awards at the District Conference – Small Club Membership Improvement Award and the District Governor’s Citation. The Governor’s Citation was awarded to clubs that accomplished the Governor’s goals set in the areas of Membership, Service, and the Rotary International Theme of “Be a Gift to the World.” The Membership Improvement Award was awarded based upon our Club’s net growth of 5 new members this year. Congratulations to our Club and to Club President Brad Lancaster for a very successful year! |
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Engineers without Borders
Engineers without Borders
Our speakers this week were Carly Coligan, the President of the Carroll College chapter of Engineers Without Borders Chapter, and John Sharf, P.E., their faculty advisor. They shared information about their projects in Mexico, Guatemala, and St. Lucia. EWB-USA is an international, non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in developing countries through sustainable engineering projects. The Carroll College chapter includes students from many disciplines besides engineering. Carly is a nursing major, for example. She joined EWB because she has a strong desire to participate in international service projects. Carly was a member of an Interact Club in High School, and looks forward to getting involved with Rotary again in the future.
Over the past eight years, CC-EWB members have established a strong and enduring relationship with the Santa Maria del Mexicana Orphanage near Colon, Mexico. There are currently two CC-EWB projects at Santa Maria. The first project was a waste-water treatment system that allows the orphanage to clean its waste-water. The second project was the development of a mile-long pipeline from a nearby reservoir to five local spice fields. By selling locally-grown crops/spices, the orphanage is able to pay for more of its kids to go to college. The next step was to install sprinklers and drip irrigation in the various fields.
CC-EWB is currently working to reinforce the structures at La Asunción, the local school in Santo Tomás La Union, Guatemala. In the event of an earthquake, the prior to reinforcement, the buildings were at a very high risk of collapsing.
CC-EWB’s first trip to St. Lucia in January 2015 was an assessment trip. The goal was to ascertain the problems with the Marian Home's water system and then draft alternative designs based upon observations made on trip as well as community input. Future trips will involve the implementation of our improved system as well as monitoring of it.
Engineers without Borders will be Rotary Club of Helena’s partner in Trivia Night on April 21st at the Staggering Ox. The event starts at 6:00 PM, and will raise funds for Engineers without Borders and our Club’s charitable activities.
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Trivia Night for Engineers without Borders
Trivia Night
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Splashes of Joy
Splashes of Joy
Our speaker this week was Jeannie Huntley, Founder and Chairwoman Emerita of Splashes of Joy. This is a Montana-Based, nonprofit organization that provides gifts and services to ill or homebound people. They help rekindle their internal joy that may have been temporarily lost in the maze of illness or age. Services provided by their volunteers include creating homemade cards, home visitation, house cleaning, landscaping, meals, small home repairs, and prayer support. Local businesses donate a variety of products ranging from landscaping materials, flowers and balloons to massages, manicures and haircuts.
In the past six years, they have served 0ver 160 recipients, their caregivers and members of their families. This included over 2,700 hand crafted cards, over 1,600 home-cooked meals, thousands of dollars of donated landscaping work, household and pet help, balloons, flowers and gifts. They have provided wigs for those losing their hair during chemo and helped others with items not covered by insurance.
Their Annual 2016 Spring Gala will be held on April 23rd, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Radisson Colonial Hotel in Helena. Individual tickets cost $45. Please consider going to this event to support a great organization here in our community. Tickets are available at Leslie’s Hallmark or by calling (406) 459-5652.
Our speaker this week was Jeannie Huntley, Founder and Chairwoman Emerita of Splashes of Joy. This is a Montana-Based, nonprofit organization that provides gifts and services to ill or homebound people. They help rekindle their internal joy that may have been temporarily lost in the maze of illness or age. Services provided by their volunteers include creating homemade cards, home visitation, house cleaning, landscaping, meals, small home repairs, and prayer support. Local businesses donate a variety of products ranging from landscaping materials, flowers and balloons to massages, manicures and haircuts.
In the past six years, they have served 0ver 160 recipients, their caregivers and members of their families. This included over 2,700 hand crafted cards, over 1,600 home-cooked meals, thousands of dollars of donated landscaping work, household and pet help, balloons, flowers and gifts. They have provided wigs for those losing their hair during chemo and helped others with items not covered by insurance.
Their Annual 2016 Spring Gala will be held on April 23rd, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Radisson Colonial Hotel in Helena. Individual tickets cost $45. Please consider going to this event to support a great organization here in our community. Tickets are available at Leslie’s Hallmark or by calling (406) 459-5652.
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Montana Legal Services Receives Check for Trivia NightMontana Legal Services Receives Check from Trivia Night Proceeds
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Westslope Cutthrout Trout
Our Club's District Conference Silent Auction Donation
“NATIVE” limited numbered glicee’, museum quality print
• Westslope Cutthroat Trout
• Blackfoot River
• Print is of an acrylic on canvas
• Artist: Anthony Perpignano Frame donated by Gary Carlson-
One of Tony’s passions is fly fishing. For over thirty years he has been chasing fish all over rivers in the Northwest. Occasionally he takes time out from the river and picks up a brush to capture some of these events. The subject of this piece is one of Montana’s treasures, the beautiful Westslope Cutthroat Trout. The Westslope has called Montana home since the last ice age but now it is mostly protected in its remaining habitat. Here we are down at the fish’s eye level, getting a glimpse of its home.
Print donated by Tony Perpignano, framing donated by Gary Carlson
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Food Share benfits from Trivia Rotarian Gary Williams is shown presenting a check for $250.00 to Helena Food Share Director Bruce Day as part of the proceeds from the January Trivia Night held to benefit Food Share. Thanks to Helena Food Share for being an important part of helping our neighbors in Helena put food on their tables.
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Induction of Murray Strong
Induction of New Member Murray Strong
This week we inducted Murray Strong as the latest new member into our Club. Murray is an environmental engineer. Welcome Murray! |
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North Jefferson County Library Program
North Jefferson County Library District Presentation to our Club
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February Trivia Night
February Trivia Night at the Staggering Ox.Please join us for Trivia Night on February 18 at the Staggering Ox. The Salvation Army is our charity for this month. Fun for everying! |
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SocialHelena Sunrise Rotary Club Social We had a wonderful time at our Club Social last night, which was hosted by Russ Cargo in his beautifully restored and renovated 1890's mansion. Food was great - provided by Bad Betty's BBQ. The highlight of the evening was Russ describing the history of his home, followed by a tour. The third floor turret has a fun mural painted on the round walls and ceiling. The walls depict an underwater scene, with various aquatic life. When you look up at the ceiling, you see the surface of the water as seen from below, complete with the bottom of a boat above your head. 
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Prickly Pear Land Trust.JPG)
Prickly Pear Land Trust.JPG)
Mary Hallow and Lanie White of the Prickly Pear Land Trust (PPLT) were our speakers this week. They told us about the many projects that PPLT has played an instrumental role in completion and their planned future projects. PPLT’s Mission is to “Protect the natural diversity and rural character of the Prickly Pear Valley and surrounding lands in Lewis and Clark, Jefferson, Broadwater and Powell counties through voluntary and cooperative means. The land trust is dedicated to perpetuating the recreational, wildlife, scenic, agricultural and historic values of the land.”
One of their signature projects has been the “Mt. Ascension Natural Park Expansion Project: The Backdrop Initiative.” Mt. Ascension and Mt. Helena provide a stunning natural backdrop to the State capital. To preserve this backdrop in its natural state, PPLT has been working since 2006 to acquire the private land inholdings on Mt. Ascension to place them in public ownership to prevent future development. They recently acquired that last four parcels necessary to preserve the backdrop.
PPLT has also been involved in the development and maintenance of numerous trails in the Helena area. They recently worked with other partners on the Centennial Trail Extension. This extension of the trail will connect the Montana Wild Center on Broadwater Avenue to the existing trail. This extension will soon become a reality. They have recently initiated a study for the possible greenway linking Montana City with East Helena. This trail would follow Prickly Pear Creek, and take advantage of the existing trail along the creek at Ash Grove’s Sunderlin Park.
PPLT is preparing to celebrate its 20th Anniversary! They will be celebrating this milestone during the coming year. Information about upcoming events, trail maintenance schedules and their projects can be found at www.pricklypearlt.org.
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January 21 Trivia NightTrivia Night for Food Share We had a great Trivia Night at the Staggering Ox to benefit Food Share Helena. Over 50 people turned out to play Trivia and to support Food Share and the Helena Sunrise Rotary Club's charibable activites. We raised $490, with $250 going to Food Share and the rest to our charitable activities. In a very tight finish, Food Share team won the event, taking home a $40 Gift Certificate to Food Share. Thanks to all the teams that contributed to this great event. Special thanks to the Townsend Rotary Club, who brought 10 Rotarians from Townsend to compete on two teams.
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IntermountainKay Garnder tells us about Intermountain Community Services Programs Our speaker this morning was Kim Gardner, Lead Clinical Supervisor for Community Services Programs of Intermountain, which is a visionary non-profit agency that has been impacting the lives of children and families in Montana for more than 100 years. With holistic, integrated services and a relationship-based approach, they help families create and sustain nurturing, healthy environments where children can thrive and grow. They offer a wide range of residential and outpatient services in the Helena area. Learn more about their programs at www.intermountain.org. |
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Welcome to New Member Marci WilliamsPresident Brad Welcomes New Member Marci Williams President Brad Lancaster presents new member Marci Williams with her Rotary Pin and Helena Sunrise Rotary Club name badge. Marci is the Development Coordinator for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Helena.
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Speakers from Women's Foundation of MontanaSpeakers from the Women's Foundation of Montana
Our speakers at our meeting this week were Jen Euell and Kelsey Mahoney of the Women’s Foundation of Montana. The Women’s Foundation of Montana’s work benefits women and girls as well as our communities overall. As the only statewide fund dedicated to funding for women and girls, donations are leveraged through an endowment. Their research, initiatives and grant-making are focused on lasting change for women and girls. Issues that they address include closing the gender pay gap, increasing financial independence for Montana women and girls, and tracking the status of women in Montana.
A recent project is Powerhouse Montana, an initiative with the goal of connecting Montana women with the resources, mentors and opportunities they need to create thriving businesses and thriving lives and increasing the number of Montana women in leadership roles. The web site for this initiative is www.PowerHouseMT.org.
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Big Brothers/Big Sisters Trivia NightTrivia Night Benefits Big Brothers/Big Sisters We had a great turnout for our Trivia Night benefiting Big Brothers/Big Sisters. Around 70 people joined us for a night of fun. As you can see from the photos, people of all ages joined us. We raised $550 to be split between Big Brothers/Big Sisters and our Club’s charitable activities. The winning team was Big Brothers/Big Sisters. The team decided to donate the prize of a $40 gift certificate to the Staggering Ox back to their organization. This will be used to allow “Bigs” to take their “Littles” to the Staggering Ox for a lunch out! Thanks to all who participated. We will take a short break next month, and resume our Trivia Night on January 21st. Food Share will be the beneficiary that month. We hope to see you there!To see more photos, click on the link for the photo album to the right.
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Townsend Trivia NightTownsend Trivia Night The Rotary Club of Helena Sunrise took our award winning Trivia Night on the road this week to Townsend. In a joint project with the Townsend Rotary Club, we put on a Trivia Night at the American Legion Post. Over 70 people showed up to support the charity Fun for Life, a nonprofit Broadwater County organization that grants scholarships to local youths interested in studying music, art, theater and foreign language.The Townsend Rotary Club provided chili and snacks for the participants. Teams representing the many aspects of Townsend included the Townsend Rotary Club, Townsend Electric, Broadwater County 4-H Council, BHC Auxiliary, Broadwater Health Center, Broadwater Democrats, Townsend Schools and the Townsend Lions Club. Special guests included Montana Rotary District Governor Bill Spath and his wife Mary Lou. Through the player registration fees, we raised $710. Anonymous donors “B” and “P” promised to match additional donations up to $200. The participants quickly filled the donation bowl with ones, fives, tens and twenties, donating another $250! We raised $1,160 for Fun for Life in one evening of fun and games. The Townsend Rotary team won the trivia contest, taking home a gift basket full of delectable goodies. Special thanks to Townsend Rotarian Nancy Marks for managing the event, and to the 7 Helena Sunrise Rotary Club members who took the trip down the road to Townsend to put on Trivia Night in Townsend. |
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Rotarians at the Townsend Trivia NightRotarians from Helena Sunrise and Townsend
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Big Brothers/Big Sisters Speakers at our MeetingBig Brothers/Big Sisters of Helena Representatives Speaking to our Club Our speakers this week were Colleen and Marcie, representing Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Helena, which is the charity that the Sunrise Rotary Club of Helena is supporting with our Trivia Night this week. Big Brothers/Big Sisters provides one on one mentoring of children, pairing a “Big” with a “Little” for quality time together. Their Mission is to provide children facing adversity with strong and enduring one to one relationships that change their lives for the better. Started in Helena in 1967, Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Helena expanded to include Boulder in 2011. They currently serve an average of 120 children in the community based program and 200 children in 9 local elementary schools and 2 middle schools in the school based program. Come out Thursday night to the Staggering Ox for a great night of fun at our Trivia Night, and support a great organization. |
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Helena Industries Receives CheckHelena Industries Receives Check from our Club for Trivia Night
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Youth Exchange Student Oscar Po-Yo LaiRotary Youth Exchange Student Oscar Po-Yo Lai was our Speaker this Week Oscar told us about his home in Taipei, Taiwan. The presentation included a description of Taiwan, their customs, foods and holidays. He also introduced us to his family and his school. |
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Helena Sunrise Club Contributes to Dictionary ProjectHelena Sunrise Rotary Provides Additional Funds for the Dictionary Project The Helena Sunrise Rotary Club presented a check to Montana District Governor Bill Spath and Past District Governor Roy Beekman for the Montana Rotary District Dictionary Project. We decided to double our contribution to the Dictionary Project this year to help make of for the increased cost of dictionaries. We hope that other Montana Rotary Clubs will follow our lead on this and help prevent any shortages of dictionaries this year. |
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Significant Achievement Award |
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Helena Sunrise Rotary Club Receives RI Significant Achievement AwardHelena Sunrise Rotary Receives RI Significant Achievement Award
Rotary Club of Helena Sunrise receives the Rotary International Significant Achievement Award for its Trivia Night. Past Montana Rotary District Governor Roy Beekman presented the award on behalf of Rotary International Past President Gary C.K. Huang. This award recognizes a Club for a project that addresses a significant need in the local community, involved most or all of the club’s members in personal rather than monetary service, enhanced the image of Rotary in the community, and been able to be emulated by other Rotary clubs.
A Rotary District may only nominate one Club from the district to be considered for this prestigious award. Past District Governor Beekman said that he received seven nominations from clubs in Montana for his consideration. The Helena Sunrise Rotary Club’s Trivia Night was the unanimous choice by the selection committee that he appointed to select the nomination for the award from Montana.
Rotary International makes the final selection of Clubs to receive the award each year. Out of 33,000 Rotary Clubs worldwide, Rotary International only selects between 150 and 200 clubs each year to receive this award. The only other time a Montana Rotary Club received a Significant Achievement Award was in 2004 when the Red Lodge Rotary Club received the award.
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October Trivia NightTrivia Night at the Staggering OxThis month we are supporting Habitat for Humanity. Please come out and support this great organization.
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Induction of New Member Russ CargoInduction of New Rotary Member Russ Cargo
Assistant Governor Rick Moore inducted Russ Cargo into the Rotary Club of Helena Sunrise at our meeting this week. Russ was sponsored by Tony Perpignano.
 Tony presented Russ with his Rotary Pin.
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District Governor Bill Spath's Visit to Montana City LibraryDistrict Governor's Visit to the Montana City Library is News in the Boulder Monitor District Governor Bill Spath and Mary Lou's visit to the Montana City Library as part of their District 5390 Literacy Project made the front page of the Boulder Monitor this week.Great publicity for their Literacy Project, for Montana Rotary, the Helena Sunrise Rotary Club, and the North Jefferson County Library District.
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District Governor Bill Spath and Mary Lou Visit our ClubDistrict Governor's Club VisitDistrict Governor Bill Spath and his wife Mary Lou visited the Rotary Club of Helena Sunrise on September 1, 2015. He presented our Club with the flag of the Rotary Theme for 2015: “Be a Gift to the World.” DG Bill and Mary Lou have initiated a Literacy Project as part of their visits to Montana Rotary Clubs. The clubs are encouraged to identify an appropriate organization within their community to receive a book from Bill and Mary Lou. They are encouraged to donate books of their own to their selected organization. The book that Bill and Mary Lou are donating is “Who was Walt Disney,” a book in a series of biographical books for children. Their hope is that children reading this book will want to read other books in the series. Each book they donate will have a label placed on the inside cover with the Rotary Four Way Test, the Rotary Seal, and the theme logo for 2015. The label says, “The Montana Rotary District 5390 2015-2016 Literacy Project. This Book Presented by the Rotary Club of Helena Sunrise and by District Governor Bill Spath and Mary
Lou.” Our Club was provided with 20 labels to place in books that we donate.
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We Welcome New Member Adam KlippensteinNew Member Adam Klippenstein This week we welcomed new member Adam Klippenstein to our Club. Adam was sponsored by Roy Hockett. Assistant Governor Rick Moore presented Adam with his Rotary Pin and new member welcome packet. |
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Pompano Beach, Florida Rotarian in HelenaOn Saturday August 22nd, members of the First Special Service Force from WWII were in Helena for the annual memorial to the FSSF members who lost their lives in the European Theater during WWII. The First Special Service Force, which became the "Green Berets" trained in Helena prior to their deployment in WWII. One of those in attendance was Fred Conrad , a Rotarian from Pompano Beach Lighthouse club. Fred wanted to exchange club banners and was met at the ceremony by Gary Williams to facilitate the exchange. Our thanks goes out to these veterans who fought to keep our country free. Have a safe trip home to Florida.
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RYLA Campers Told Us About Their Experience
Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) Campers Alex, Olivia and Brenden Three RYLA campers and their parents and grandmother attended our meeting this morning to share with us their experience at RYLA this summer. All three campers told us that they were somewhat hesitant about attending, but by the end of the week they didn't want to leave. This year the Helena Sunrise Club sponsored two campers and the Helena noon club sponsored three campers. |
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Trivia NightWe are pleased to announce the Fall Schedule for our popular Trivia Night at the Staggering Ox. Join us every third Thursday from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM for an evening of fun!
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Bill Woon talks about the First Special Services Force
Our speaker this morning was Bill Woon. He is the son of one of the original members of the First Special Service Force. He told us about the history of the unit, which began its training at Fort Harrison in Helena. |
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March Trivia NIght
Townsend Rotary Club came with a team to support our Trivia Night. The Noon Rotary Club Supported Trivia Night with two teams. |
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Trivia Night Off to a Great Start in 2015
The Helena Sunrise Rotary Club Trivia Night on January 15th, 2015 had a great turnout! Our Partner for the event was Head Start. We raised $560 to support Head Start and the Sunrise Club’s charitable activities. The Townsend Rotary Club brought a team to the event. Their enthusiasm and humor added to the event! Many thanks to the Townsend Rotarians who made the trip up to Helena. The winning team was “Tequila Mockingbird,” representing the Helena Noon Rotary Club. They received a gift certificate to the Staggering Ox. Thanks to all who attended and supported this great event! |
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Family Promise of Helena receives check for Trivia NightGary Williams is shown presenting a check for $270.00 to Abbie Chermack of Helena Family Promise. The donation was raised at the Trivia Night held on March 27 at the Staggering Ox. |
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Helena Women's Club benefits from Trivia Night FundraiserJanet Herold and Tony Perpignano present a check for $370.00 to Penny Cope of the Greater Federation of Helena Women's Clubs as their portion of the Trivia Night proceeds from February's Trivia Night fundraiser. A special thanks goes out to Janet Herold who prepares the Power Point presentation we use each month for the Trivia Night.
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Trivia Night raises funds for Salvation ArmyRotarian Gary Williams presents a check to Lt. Rob Lawler of the Salvation Army for $430.00 that was raised by the Sunrise Club at their Trivia Night in January. Trivia Nights are held once a month at the Staggering Ox October thru April.
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ShelterBoxesAccording to the Dec 2013 Rotary Magazine:
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Sunrise Rotary presents $600.00 check to Friendship Center
Rotarian Marie Mullarkey is shown presenting a check for $600.00 to the Helena Friendship Center. Additional Trivia Nights are scheduled for this Winter and Spring.
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Salvation Army receives donation from Helena Sunrise Rotary
Rotarian Gary Williams presented a check to Rob Lawler of the Salvation Army for $500.00 to assist in funding the Men's Transitional Center now being constructed by the Salvation Army. The funds were raised by the Sunrise Rotary Club at a Dessert Auction and Social held earlier this last year. Rob Lawyer is also a member of the Sunrise Rotary Club, and the two service organizations have worked together in the past during the annual Red Kettle drive and on other projects as well.
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Polio Plus -Carroll College Quilt 2011
Helena Sunrise sold tickets at the Carroll College Home Football Games $1000 for Polio Plus and $300 Carroll College Athletics Fund.Judy Simmons is the winner of the Quilt.
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Holt Gibson of the Helena High Speach and Debate Team was our Speaker this MorningOur speaker this morning was Holt Gibson, President of the Helena High School Speech and Debate Team. A very dynamic young man. Their team has qualified three people to compete in the National Competition in Dallas this summer. They need to raise funds to cover the costs of their attendance at the tournament. They are selling raffle tickets and accepting contributions as well. They have almost reached their goal, but need a few more dollars. |
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Our Club is the Best Small Rotary Club in Montana!
Montana Rotary District Governor Roy Beekman named the Rotary Club of Helena Sunrise as the Best Small Rotary Club in Montana at the District Convention in Kalispell. Governor Beekman said that the award was, "Well deserved." He had special praise for the Club's Trivia Night, which raises funds for local charities and the Club's charitable activities. He noted that Trivia Night also is a great public awareness tool that "Lights Up Rotary" in the community. Assistant Governor Rick Moore presented the award to Club President Belle Marie on behalf of Governor Beekman.
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RotaryBirth Place of Rotary-year 1905- Room 711, 127 North Dearborn St-Downtown Chicago
Matching Grants-One of the most rewarding programs of the Rotary Foundation is Matching Grants, which assists Rotary clubs and districts in conducting international service projects. Since 1965 more than 24,000 grants have been awarded for projects in nearly 170 countries totaling more than US$243 million. Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) Each year thousands of young people are selected to attend Rotary sponsored leadership camps or seminars held in districts throughout the world. In an informal atmosphere groups of outstanding young people ages 14 spend several days in challenging program of leadership training. The RYLA program was began in Australia in 1959. The RYLA camp is held at at Luccock Park, United Methodist Church Camp, Livingston, MT. Women in Rotary-1989 Council on Legislation changed the RI Constitution voted to eliminate the "male only" provision for all of Rotary. |
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General Federation of Women Clubs Receives a Check from our Trivia NIght
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Youth Connections Director Recieves Check for Trivia NightPresident Belle Marie presented a check to Youth Connections Director Coleen Smith. Youth Connections was the charity that we selected to participate in our Trivia Night in March. |
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Karin Janssen is welcomed as a new member of our ClubThis morning we welcomed Karin Janssen into our Club! Assistant Governor Rick Moore sponsored Karin's membership into Rotary. He presented Karin with her Rotary pin. Welcome Karin to the fellowship and service of Rotary.
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February Trivia NightOur speaker this morning was member Rob Lawler, Director of The Salvation Army. Rob told us about The Salvation Army's Transitional Housing Program. The Salvation Army is the charity that we are supporting this week at our Trivia Night. It should be a fun evening with a lot of people attending. Come join us at the Staggering Ox, Thursday, February 19th from 6 to 8 PM.
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Rotary Club of Helena Sunrise Facebook pageWe now have a facebook page. Find us at HelenaSunriseRotary on Facebook, or go to https://www.facebook.com/helenasunriserotary?success=1
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Down But Not Out-RI President Ron BurtonMay 2014 Issue Page 63 of The Rotarian- For the past decade, Rotary membership has lingered around 1.2 million. That means for every person who has joined in the past 10 years, another person has left. Todays numbers show Rotary is not only stagnant but in decline in many years.Our membership total as of 1 July 2013 was 1,185,000-lowest figure n almost a decade. What are we doing about it? In this issue, we talk with RI Ron Burton about the challenges facing the organization and the $3 million effort to help clubs get and keep members. We explore the four pilot programs that 700 clubs around the globe are testing to keep current members engaged and attract others. We also talk to leaders in areas where Rotary is growing rapidly and ask, "whats your secret" Read on to find out what they say and get ideas to grow your club.
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Sunrise Rotary Goals for 2014-2015See attached Goals for 2014-2015 which may be used at P.E.T.S. in Denver this year. Document may still be altered with Board input and approval. Sunrise Rotary Goals for 2014 - 2015 1. Service Projects · Ongoing use of Trivia Night as fund raisers for charitable giving and club projects. Trivia Nights are already scheduled for Winter of 2014 - plan to resume again in Fall 2014 thru Winter 2015. · Plan for a Fall Club Social as a fund raiser. · Continue ongoing fund raising / service projects such as: Food Share Collection each Board Meeting Kiva Pig collection at first monthly meeting for Carroll College K.I.V.A. project Empty Bowls White Chili Clothes for Kids Bell Ringing for Salvation Army Adopt a Family for Salvation Army 2. Membership Goals · Attract 3 new members · Reach out to inactive members · Maintain high attendance of 75% 3. Website Goals and Communication · Re-establish the use of the Weekly Bulletin with new, fresh information each week. 4. Sustaining Memberships / Paul Harris Fellowships · Encourage participation in the Every Rotarian / Every Year · Encourage participation in Sustaining Memberships 5. Better understand the Rotary International Grant Application process and identify future projects to participate in. 6. Define Participation in the Elementary Student Dictionary project. Further identify if Lions Club will be working on this or if Helena will be a Rotary project. 7. Identify and define participation of a Rotary Branded Identification for Sunrise Rotary - i.e. shirts, caps, vests - to wear at community service projects which identify and promote Rotary participation. 8. Continue formal, printed agendas for use by Presiding President for all meetings.
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Red Kettle Bell Ringers ring home huge haul for Salvation Army. - $1,201.13On Saturday Dec 14th, members of Sunrise Rotary participated in the first "Red Kettle Ring Off" for Salvation Army. Local service clubs each adopted a location and set up shop to ring the day away as Bell Ringers rang to cushion the coffers of the Salvation Army. Sunrise Rotary made camp at the grocery entrance to Walmart and showed what a dedicated group can do by raising $1,201.13 !! Way to go! Thank you to the members who rang : Tony, Jock, Greg, Dewey, Brad and Barb, Marie, Roy, Gary W., Gary C. and Rob.
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Trivia Nights raise funds for local Charities 2013Helena Sunrise Rotary held Trivia Nights on 10/24/13 and 11/14/13 at the Staggering Ox in Helena and proceeds were used to help two local charities: The Friendship Center and the Y.W.C.A. We raised $1500.00 on these two nights and will donate $360.00 to the YWCA, $600.00 to The Friendship Center, and the remaining funds will be used to help RYLA and Clothes for Kids, both Rotary Programs we have supported in the past. Thanks go out to all those Rotarians who helped, especially Marie Mullarkey and Janet Herold who organized the events, Catherine McKillips for taking pictures, Rick Moore, Gary Carlson and Belle Marie for being "runners" and helping to collect and tabulate scores, and Greg Duncan and Gary Williams for being Master of Ceremonies for the evenings. A fun evening was had by all who attended, and future Trivia Nights are scheduled for January, February and April to benefit The Salvation Army and other charities to be confirmed. A big thank you also goes out to the Staggering Ox for hosting the event and providing a venue at no cost to our club.
See Photo Albums below for more pictures!
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Contruibution to Helena Food Share aids hungry in Helena area
Helena Food Share was the recipient of a $500.00 gift from the Helena Sunrise Rotary Club. This donation was made possible by the fundraising efforts of the Rotary Club at a recent Dessert Auction and Social.
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Helena Industries benefits from fundraiser.by Gary Williams
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Rotary at a Glance-MembershipAs of June 2012 Members- 1,230,551 Clubs- 34,404 |
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Check out the photo album for all the pictures.
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This morning we presented a check to the Helena General Association of Women's Clubs for their Placer Pantry. This is their share of the proceeds from our last Trivia Night.
