Stories
President John DeBettignies welcomed members back to Roosevelt park for another outdoor meeting. Deputy Chief of Richfield Police, Mike Flaherty joined Richfield Rotary for a great overview of RPD’s current operations as well as the response and action plan that followed the death of George Floyd and the unrest in Minneapolis. (Read more) |
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October 1 Meeting ReminderOctober 1, 2020 Meeting Reminder11:30 AM – 12:45 PM - – Woodlake Nature Center This meeting will be a club assembly led by President John DeBettignies. Key topics for discussion and decision-making will include:
Please attend so you can be part of the discussion and decision-making! |
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The Thank Yous Say It All - Richfield Rotary is Making a Difference!![]() Some nice “thank yous” were received in response to Richfield Rotary’s Spanish-English Dictionary and Book Project and our contributions toward the City of Richfield Dog Park and Universally Accessible Playground projects. Read on to see some wonderful messages! |
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![]() In response to new Federal guidelines during the coronavirus outbreak, face-to-face meetings for Richfield Rotary will be suspended until further notice. We will still meet virtually, via Zoom! Prior to the meeting, you will receive an e-mail from the meeting host, with a link to log in. (Note: We won’t be at Local Roots, but you can still munch on your lunch while we meet!) |
Announcing Two Membership Applications
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Club Membership - Tracking Our Progress
![]() On March 2, District 5950 will conduct an online meeting focused on membership, including a short video recording describing Richfield Rotary’s Relaunch initiative. The video outlines some of the ways we have grown and changed in the first six months of this Rotary year:
Note: If Cassandra Nickell and Linay McCrady are brought into membership, we’ll be at 20 members, evenly split between men and women, and with an average member age just under 48! Let’s continue our efforts to increase awareness of Richfield Rotary and engage even more people who have a service orientation and are connected to the City of Richfield. |
Richfield Rotary Relaunch Continues!

The Rotary Club of Richfield MN has been serving the Richfield community for nearly 70 years. We are neighbors, friends and community leaders who come together for networking, fun, and to create positive, lasting change in the Richfield area and around the world. We are part of an international network of 35,000 Rotary Clubs with 1.2 million members worldwide, reaching across boundaries to expand our impact.
A “Richfield Rotary Relaunch” began in July 2019, with a focus on expanding membership and strengthening connections with the Richfield community. Our goal is to create what is essentially a new club with a majority of members that live, work and/ or do business in Richfield.
Some wonderful new members have come on board over the past few months, including Richfield Mayor Maria Regan Gonzalez and City Manager Katie Rodriguez. Our new members range in age from 21 to the mid-50’s, and represent various professional backgrounds. All of the new members live, work, and / or do business in Richfield, and are eager to have others join them to further expand the club’s impact!
If you live, work, and / or do business in the Richfield area and would like to support the Richfield Community, please attend one of the Richfield Rotary Relaunch Informational meetings scheduled for:
February 27, 11:45 AM – 12:45 PM at Local Roots, 817 E. 66th Street, Richfield MN 55423 (Come a few minutes early if you want to order lunch.)
Feel free to check out a regular meeting as well! Club meetings are the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month, 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM, also at Local Roots Restaurant. (The first 15 minutes is for ordering lunch, signing in, and networking; the meeting starts at 11:45 AM.)
For more information, answers to questions, or to get on the Richfield Rotary mailing list, contact Barbara Devlin (richfiedrotary@gmail.com). For more information about Rotary, go to https://www.richfieldrotary.org/ or check out the Rotary Club of Richfield Facebook Page.
Applications Invited for Rotary Peace Scholarships
Promoting peace is one of Rotary’s main causes. The fully funded Rotary Peace Fellowship, which covers tuition and living expenses, increases the capacity of existing leaders to prevent and resolve conflict by offering academic training, field experience, and professional networking. Clubs and districts have the power to shape the next generation of peace leaders by recruiting and nominating peace fellows, and keeping them engaged after the fellowship ends. Districts interview and endorse qualified candidates, which is required before The Rotary Foundation can consider a candidate. Clubs help by recommending and coaching qualified candidates. The application process is now open, with a due date of May 31 for applications to be submitted to Rotary Districts. Click here for additional details regarding the application process and qualifications. If you know someone you think would make a good candidate, please refer them to Rotary International using this online form. If the person is interested in applying, let me know so we can meet with the individual and decide whether to endorse the application as a club. |
Special Message on Rotary Foundation from DG Russ Michaletz
![]() In a recent letter to club presidents, DG Russ Michaletz wrote, "The Rotary year reached the halfway point at the end of December, and….it’s time to push The Rotary Foundation fundraising into high gear. What we do this Rotary year will impact our project activity at home and around the world, including specifically what our district Rotarians will have available for matching grants 3 years from now. Last Rotary year, our district Rotarians gave $271 per capita. ..We hope to match or exceed that number this year. " District 5950 would like EVERY ROTARIAN, EVERY YEAR, to make a contribution to the Rotary Foundation. The District invites a commitment to TRF of at least $1 per day (or whatever you can afford), and our club invites an additional contribution to the Richfield Rotary Foundation (RRF). Members are asked to complete and submit the attached 2020 TRF / RRF Combined Pledge Form on or before our March 19 Rotary meeting, when District Governor Rus Michaletz will be our special guest. It would be great to be able to announce 100% club member response on that date! Thank you in advance for your generosity. |
Star Tribune “Remembering” Article on Tommy Thompson

Virtual Meeting Reminder
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Meeting Highlights
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Richfield Rotary Relaunch Continues! Help Needed From Club Members!
A “Richfield Rotary Relaunch” began in July 2019, with a focus on expanding membership and strengthening connections with the Richfield community. Our goal is to create what is essentially a new club with a majority of members that live, work and/ or do business in Richfield. The Relaunch is continuing, with one additional Relaunch Information Meeting scheduled for February 27, 2020, 11:45 AM - 12:45 PM at Local Roots. Please share the attached flyer with friends and acquaintances who live, work, and / or do business in Richfield. Encourage them to attend one of the meetings and, if possible, attend the meeting with them!
A Message of Peace

She recently received an email with the chilling title “We see you Jew.” The email recited personal information about Ellen and her work and was intended as a threat to intimidate and frighten Ellen because of her work and her status as a Jew. Here is a link to an article Ellen published in the St. Paul Pioneer Press describing the impact of receiving this type of hate directed at her personally from a cowardly, anonymous author. https://www.twincities.com/2019/12/01/ellen-j-kennedy-we-see-you-jew/
I cannot say that I truly understand what it is like to be on the receiving end of this type of hate. As as an old, white, Christian-raised male, I believe it is important for Rotarians like me to recognize that in today’s world, our daily Rotarian experience is fundamentally different than the experience of those Rotarians living as a Jew, or a Latino or an African American, or as someone differently colored, gendered, oriented or of a different faith. We cannot be silent to this kind of bigotry and be true to our Rotarian values.
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Pizza Luce Fundraising and Fun!
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Area 3 Rotary Clubs Honor Veterans




Announcing Applicants for Membership



Richfield Mayor Maria Regan Gonzalez and City Council Member Simon Trautmann have previously been announced and will be inducted as shared members at a future meeting.
Nari Gunjan Benefit a Success


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Q1 Meeting and Activity Schedule
Club Meeting Schedule
- Four meetings, 7:30 – 8:30 AM on the following Thursdays: June 27, July 11, August 15, September 12
- Location – Local Roots, 817 E 66th St, Richfield, MN 55423
- The July 11, August 15 and September 12 meetings will provide an opportunity for debriefing and planning regarding the relaunch. Programs will be Rotary and club-related.
Club Service Activities
- Continue Bread of Hope - See “Richfield Rotary in Service” article for a list of volunteers to date and open sign-up slots.
- The Club will conduct at least one service project during the first quarter. See July 11 meeting highlights for details regarding the selected project.
Relaunch Information Meetings
- Attendance: Richfield Rotarians plus anyone interested in the Richfield Rotary Relaunch
- Four information meetings planned to date:
- Thursday, June 20, 5:30 – 6:30 PM, Local Roots
- July 24, 7-8 PM, City Hall, Bartholomew Room
- Thursday, August 22, 7:30 – 8:30 AM, Local Roots
Wednesday, September 11, 3:45 - 4:45 PM, Central Education Center, 7145 Harriet Ave So., Multi-purpose Room
Formal Relaunch and Installation of New Members – Tuesday, September 24, 5:30 – 7:00 PM (Location TBD)
Bandshell Opening Recognizes Current and Former Rotarians





Richfield Rotary Relaunch Underway
The Rotary Club of Richfield MN has been serving the Richfield community for over 60 years. We are neighbors, friends and community leaders who come together for networking, fun, and to create positive, lasting change in the Richfield area and around the world. We are part of an international network of 35,000 Rotary Clubs with 1.2 million members worldwide, reaching across boundaries to expand our impact.
As club members have retired and / or moved away, fewer Richfield Rotarians have maintained direct connections to Richfield, making it more difficult to effectively serve the community.
A “Richfield Rotary Relaunch” is now underway, with a focus on creating what will essentially be a new club with members that live, work and/ or do business in Richfield. Under the Rotary International umbrella, the new club will set its own schedule and determine its own goals and activities, based on members’ interests and personal commitments.
Informational and planning meetings will take place this summer, in preparation for a formal Relaunch in September, 2019. Updates and scheduled meetings will be posted on the web at richfieldrotary.org and on the Rotary Club of Richfield Facebook page.
For more information or to get on the relaunch e-mail list, contact Barbara Devlin or Chip Groth.
LFL Build Day a Success!

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Mid-Term Assembly Offers Insights and Ideas


Congratulations to Chris and Denise!!


Little Free Library Project Generating Interest
At left is the "deluxe" model of the Little Free Library, which will be raffled off to help provide additional funds for the project. Thanks to Jay Clark for contributing his time and talent!
Latino Three Kings Celebration a Success








Highlights - April 18, 2019 Vocational Ethics Day


Heart of Dance Volunteering Brings Smiles!
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November 29 Meeting Highlights
December Service Project - Heart of Dance Event

Saturday, December 8, 2018
DoubleTree by Hilton Bloomington - Minneapolis South
7800 Normandale Blvd
Minneapolis, MN 55439
- Registration/Dancer Check-In: Before each competition begins, you will help check in participating students, collect permission slip signatures if any are missing, and direct students to their school’s section.
- Audience/Volunteer Check-In and Passing Out Programs: Throughout the competition, you will help to orient audience members, answer any questions they may have, ask guests to sign up for more HOD updates and information, and pass out programs. You will also help check-in volunteers and direct them to their positions if need be.
- Team Coordinators: You will make sure the correct students get to the on-deck area for each dance throughout the competition. You will also help pin sashes and color names to each dancer’s clothing, and assist parents in signing up for alumni dance opportunities and filling out surveys. More details to come day of.
- Deck: You will help get students to the on-deck area, and manage overall flow of the event by assisting Team Coordinators with managing students.
- Scoresheet Runners: During the competition, you will take score sheets from the judges to the scrutinizer to calculate points.
November 29 AM Meeting Reminder

Richfield Rotary Seeking Community Input
Tommy Thompson Update
OPTIMISTS / ROTARY SHARE TABLE AT PENN FEST
Sunday, september 15, 1-5 pm
November 8, 2018 Meeting Highlights

Thought for the Week, Happy Dollars and Announcements
- Recently, one of Jay Clark's patients told him about the eastern Indian holiday, Diwali. See the Thought for the Week section for inspiration from Diwali, "the festival of lights."
- John Devlin shared greetings from our most senior member, Tommy Thompson. Tommy is currently residing at Tower Light Senior Living, 3601 Wooddale Ave S, St Louis Park, MN 55416, and welcomes visitors!
- HaeKyung Thompson is in the process of scheduling dictionary deliveries to 3rd graders in all Richfield schools. Stay tuned for more details and a chance to volunteer.
- Chip Groth shared that the student Richfield Rotary sponsored for Camp Enterprise was selected as the CEO of her team’s company! The student and her DECA advisor will be invited to a future club meeting.
- Chip is arranging for distribution of hats and mittens to the Richfield Schools.
- President Kirsten Nelson proposed that Richfield Rotary provide volunteer assistance at an upcoming Heart of Dance “Colors of the Rainbow Team Match,” on Saturday, December 8, as our December volunteer project. There was general agreement, with 11 AM – 1PM as the preferred volunteer time slot. Kirsten will confirm and get back to us with more details.
Program: Barb Devlin - “Unraveling the Mysteries of ClubRunner”.jpg)
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November 8, 2018 Meeting Reminder
Reminder: November 8, 2018 Morning Meeting, 7:15 - 8:30 AM, Richfield / Bloomington Honda 2nd floor Boardroom
Thought for the Week: Jay Clark
Greeter and Happy Dollars: Jean Fox
Program: Barb Devlin, "Unraveling the Mysteries of ClubRunner!"
Past President Celebration Highlights

Saint Paul Saints Game a Hit!
Hail to the Chief! Kirsten Nelson Elected Club President for 2018-2019
Mid-Term Assembly Attendance Sets Record

"People of Action: Join the Campaign"
“The Opioid Epidemic: Time to Act”

Sprague concluded by saying that the Edina Club remains committed to combatting the opioid crisis. Their 2018 Action Plan is set up an online curriculum ($9200) and an interactive website and video intended for HS students. Participating clubs would have access to and be able to promote the resource in their own communities. Edina has a grant proposal for a District match, but would like other clubs to participate for as little as $100.
December 28, 2017 Meeting Highlights
January 4, 2018 Meeting Reminder
Highlights - Annual Veterans Day Luncheon
In Memoriam - Herb Perry
We were saddened to learn that former Rotarian Herb Perry died on October 13 following a heart attack, at age 81. Herb’s business partner posted a notice on Herb’s Facebook page, along with information about Herb’s life. Herb spent 35 years serving clients in both the Las Vegas area and his home state of Minnesota. He grew up near St. Cloud and was married for 59 years to his wife, Darlene, who died in 2016. He is survived by his daughter and an adopted daughter, a boat person from Cambodia who he and his wife adopted during the 1970's.
Herb spent winter months in Las Vegas and summer months in Richfield. He was a volunteer deputy sheriff for many years in Hennepin County, MN. He was also public affairs director of CBS radio for 20 years at KXNT radio in Las Vegas and hosted the Sunday public affairs show.
He was an AIDS activist. His 25-year-old son was one of the disease's first victims due to a lab accident, where an open wound was exposed to contaminated blood. His only son died 25 years ago.
Our sympathies are extended to Herb’s daughters.
Important Tips from ClubRunner
Clubrunner Tips - Richfield Rotary’s Web and Newsletter Platform
Gaining Member Access; Editing Your Own Member Profile
All club members have a member account on ClubRunner, our website and membership service.
If you have not already done so, please create a password for our website by clicking the attached link or pasting the URL below into your browser:
http://www.crsadmin.com/Gen/PasswordRecovery.aspx?aid=6743
Once you've reset your password, you can then login and access the secure member's area of our website. Please note that the Membership tab includes contact information for all club members. In this section, you can also add to or edit your own profile information.
Click here to learn more about ClubRunner and visit the ClubRunner knowledge base.
How to Avoid Blocking e-Spokester
Recently, a Richfield Rotarian reported that he was no longer receiving the e-Spokester. Other Rotarians have reported this from time to time as well.
Denny Fox contacted ClubRunner Support, who noted that the block occurs when the Rotarian reports a ClubRunner document as spam (usually a District 5950 e-mail message or notice), which then blocks all future ClubRunner documents, including the e-Spokester. ClubRunner Support recommends, “If someone gets an unwanted email from ClubRunner their best bet is to delete it. If they choose report as spam it can stop future emails.”
Note: Click here to view how to remove blocked emails.
Possible Program Presenter
July 27, 2017 Meeting Highlights
New Member Induction
Chris Walsh, a member of the Webb Group at Remax Results in Edina, was inducted into Richfield Rotary, and Chip managed to “pin” Chris without drawing blood! Chris commented, “I love living in Richfield and Rotary is a great way to become more involved in the community.”
Happy Dollars
There were lots of Happy Dollars in honor of Chris Walsh and HaeKyung Nielsen’s upcoming wedding. There were other reasons for happiness too!
- Jean Fox shared the thrill of watching her Son- in- law Paul became a US citizen. Jean noted that the ceremony included people from all over the world, and especially appreciated the presiding judge’s “beautiful message” on the importance of immigrants.
- Jay contributed $30 happy dollars in honor of his 30th wedding anniversary.
- David Butler was pleased to announce that, after a five-year battle, the City Council gave final approval to construction of the Richfield Band Shell. If he looks tired, it’s because he still needs to raise another $30,000 to finalize the project! David warns, “I may be calling you….



Announcements / Club Business
Chip provided a list of Richfield Rotary projects and activities, many of which take place or commence in the fall. He noted that our next club assembly will focus on how to support these and other projects and activities.
Kirsten Nelson (right) provided a brief update on the Richfield Rotary CORE Group and invited club members to participate in a planning / fellowship meeting on the evening of July 27. (See separate article below on Richfield Rotary CORE Group News.)
There will be no morning club meeting on August 17. Instead, our club will join the Edina Noon club for lunch and a presentation by Neel Kashkari of the Minneapolis Federal Reserve.
President Chip encourages club members to attend the upcoming District training on September 15. (See separate announcement under Upcoming Events)
Program: HaeKyung Nielsen, "A Korean Wedding"
HaeKyung Nielsen was born in Korea but was raised in the United States. Although her mother wanted HaeKyung to become “Americanized,” HaeKyung developed a strong interest in other languages and cultures. In preparation for her upcoming wedding in August, HaeKyung set out to learn more about Korean weddings, and plans to incorporate some Korean traditions into her own celebration.
A few facts about Korean weddings today:
- The couple doesn’t meet each others’ parents until marriage is being considered.
- No engagement ring
- Large, formal engagement photo that is painted and presented to the parents of the bride and groom
- Weddings are often held outdoors and incorporate Buddhist elements even if the couple is Christian. The parents determine the guests.
- The Pyebaek (family ceremony) is complex, with vows that must be memorized. The couple has a year to prepare.
- Very expensive! The average cost is $100,000, compared with $35,000 in the U.S. Features adding to the cost include multiple events, each requiring a separate wedding dress. Dresses include white (signifying purity) western-style dresses and the traditional Korean gown, called a Hanbok. HaeKyung will be wearing a Hanbok at her wedding.
- The reception is more of a family dinner, with a money tree in lieu of gifts. Dishes, etc. are passed down within families.
- After the wedding, the bride remains dressed in the traditional Hanbok until the mother of the groom certifies that she can properly take care of her son- usually @ 2 days.
- Duck carvings serve as an ongoing barometer of the marriage relationship. If the ducks are facing each other, all is harmonious. However, if one or both ducks are turned away, one or both members of the couple are dissatisfied, which prompts them to work to resolve the problems.
HaeKyung - May the ducks in your marriage always be facing each other!
Richfield Rotary Evening
Group News
Group News

District Conference - A Play in 3 Acts!


UPCOMING EVENTS
Richfield Tourism Board Meetings
Tuesday, January 7:
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Richfield Community Center; 7000 Nicollet Avenue South
Saturday, January 25:
9:30-11:30 a.m.
Wood Lake Nature Center; 6710 Lake Shore Drive South
They will have refreshments, and will ask us to think about Richfield’s tourism assets. Please come ready to talk and share with your fellow community members!
District 5950 Midterm AssemblyTheme - Maximize The Global Value of Rotary! |
Jan 18, 2020 9:00 AM - Jan 18, 2020 12:00 PM (Breakfast included)(1:15 PM for President-Elects, Assistant District Governors and Rotaractors; lunch included) |
Minnetonka Community Center |
No charge to members. (The cost included in club training fee, which is built into member dues.) Click here to register. |
SAVE THE DATE! District 5950 Governor Russ Michaletz’ “Rotary 101” presentation at Richfield Rotary Club,
Thursday, March 19, 2020, 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM.
Please mark your calendar and make every effort to attend this important meeting!
March Madness Fun-Raiser for Polio Plus
barb busted the BRACKETS for polio plus!!
Meeting Assignments through September 2019
65 Year Celebration a Success!
Thanks to all who helped to make the 65th Richfield Rotary Celebration on January 6 a great success! Proceeds from the silent auction and wine raffle drawing totaled about $1000.
The near-capacity crowd enjoyed mingling and bidding, followed by a delicious dinner catered by Beautiful Day Catering.
Left: District Governor Mark Hegstrom and his wife Connie enjoyed dinner with President Chip Groth and his wife, Deanna.
Above: Elected officials and representatives of MIRA and Richfield Schools responded to a "mannequin challenge," while Mike and Jorina Andrews looked dignified, as usual!
Kirsten Nelson emceed an enjoyable program, which included highlights from Richield Rotary history, punctuated by music from Shar Salisbury and back-up singers Barb Devlin and Steve Larson.
District Governor Mark Hegstrom awarded an honorary Paul Harris Fellowship to Hennepin County Commissioner and former Richfield Mayor Debbie Goettel. Debbie stated, “I am honored to receive this award, and want to express my appreciation to the Richfield Rotary for its community involvement, support and service.” Debbie added, “While I will be undertaking a new role, I am not going away. I will still be a part of the Richfield community.”
The party was a great way to celebrate our club's contributions to the community, kick off the next 65 years of Richfield Rotary service!
Click here to read “Richfield Rotary Through the Years,” prepared by Barb Devlin.
Special thanks to the planning committee (Barb Devlin, Jean Fox, Chip Groth, and Kirsten Nelson) and to Dave Kostik for making arrangements for us to use the City Bella Community Room.
REMINDER - NO MEETING ON JULY 13
After surveying members and discovering that over half of us will be on vacation, President Chip decided to cancel the July 13 meeting. He hopes to see us all again on July 20! In the meantime, have fun with whatever you're doing on your summer vacation!
Chip Groth to Serve as Temporary e-Spokester Editor
Barb and John Devlin will be AWOL from January 20 – February 19, so Barb will be unavailable to do the e-Spokester for the weeks of January 29 and February 5, 12 and 19. Thanks to President Chip Groth for volunteering to serve as temporary e-Spokester editor during Barb's absence.
News and information turned in between January 20 - February 18 should be submitted to Chip. Thank you.
A Plea from District Governor Elect Bob Halligan!
If you haven't already done so, District Governor Elect Bob Hallagan asks you to please respond to the District 5950 Rotary Survey no later than Wednesday, January 11. It will take you only 10-15 minutes, and the results will help inform decisions at both the Club and District levels. Click here to link to the survey.
Thank you!
HELP NEEDED for January 6 Celebration!!
Thanks to all Richfield Rotarians who have volunteered to help out with our January 6 celebration. Following is a list of volunteer tasks, the names of volunteers to date, and volunteer help still needed. Let Barb Devlin know if you can volunteer. We'll finalize the list of volunteers at the January 5 meeting.
- Silent Auction donations are still needed. Click here for ideas. Contact Jean Fox or Kirsten Nelson to confirm your auction contribution(s), and bring them to Kirsten's office or to our January 5 meeting.
- Loan holiday table cloths or place mats for the evening - Mary Martha Butler, Barb Devlin, and Pam Serdar. Please bring table linens to the meeting on January 5.
- Help out the day of the event. Rotarians who have already signed up are listed below. Let Barb Devlin know if you are willing to help out where help is still needed:
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- Help with set-up for auction, dinner and program (4-6 PM) - Barb Devlin, Jean and Denny Fox, Kirsten Nelson
- Serve as event greeters (Need 2 people inside the front and rear entrances to the City Bella lobby to admit guests and direct them to the 2nd floor party room.
- 5:50 - 6:30 PM - Chip and Deanna Groth
- 6:30 - 7:10 PM - Pat and Patti Dale
- Be one of the Richfield Rotary Singers during the program! (Shar Salisbury will have the lead on all songs, so we’ll be back-up on all songs!) Barb Devlin and Kirsten Nelson; could use more volunteers
- Help with auction check-out - John Devlin Need 2 more volunteers
- Help with clean-up - Barb and John Devlin, Chip Groth; could use more help.
Rotary Merchandise for Under the Christmas Tree!
Several Rotarians have requested information about how to orders Rotary-themed clothing and merchandise. Several blue Rotary tee shirts are available for borrowing in men's sizes (large and extra large). However, Russell Hampton and National Awards are two websites with clothing available to match your body size and personal taste, along with other Rotary merchandise. Just click on each name to get to each company's website.
Richfield Rotary Fills Pizza Luce
November 14 - Richfield Rotary Night at Pizza Luce
Yesterday, Richfield Rotary received 25% of the pre-tax proceeds from meals purchased at Pizza Luce from folks presenting Richfield Rotary flyers. One of the managers commented last evening, "We have seen lots of flyers, beginning with folks coming in earlier in the day."
Proceeds will support our “Warm Hands, Heads and Hearts” project, which provides winter hats, gloves and mittens for needy elementary and secondary students in the Richfield Public Schools.
Thanks to Richfield Rotarians, family members and friends who helped spread the word and who supported the fund-raiser by dining at Pizza Luce. We enjoyed great food and fellowship while doing good in our community!
President Chip will have a report soon regarding fund-raiser proceeds.
July 20 Meeting Reminder
Sergeant at Arms - HaeKyung Nielsen
Thought for the Week - HaeKyung Nielsen
Program: Becca Erickson - “Equipping Single Mothers to Emerge as Confident Women and Caring Moms”.png)
Rebecca(Becca) Erickson, Co-founder and Executive Director of Emerge Mothers Academy, is a former Target Executive, parenting-mentor, wife and mother of three. Becca is passionate about effective parenting, co-parenting and single parenting. Through her own journey she has seen the value of completing an education and committing to personal growth, even as a single mother.
Emerge Mothers Academy offers parent support services to mothers in partnership with other local service sites [Hope Academy, Banyan Community, Open Door, NLFS First Care] . Becca will tell us how Emerge Mothers Academy works with moms to help change patterns of generational poverty, encourage positive parenting, personal growth, emotional maturity and financial independence.
A Fun Time Was Had By All!
Thanks to Chip Groth for organizing a wonderful Past President’s gathering! The tour of the James J. Hill House was terrific, followed by a delicious lunch at Moscow on the Hill. Of course, all of this was to thank Anthony for his leadership last year. Jean Fox took some great photos - enjoy!
October 20 Meeting Reminder
Sergeant At Arms: Barb Devlin
Thought for the Week: Jean Fox
Program: Club Assembly
JOINT FOUNDATION FUND DRIVE CONTINUES
At its June meeting, the Richfield Rotary Foundation (RRF) Board decided to undertake a fund drive for the benefit of both the RRF and The Rotary Foundation (TRF).
The last joint fund drive was conducted in the spring of 2015, with contributions extending through the 2015-2016 program year. This fund drive is intended to extend and build upon contributions made in 2015-2016.
The Rotary International website highlights the importance of contributions to TRF, including Polio Plus:
The Rotary Foundation transforms your gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. As the charitable arm of Rotary, we tap into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into our priorities, such as eradicating polio and promoting peace. Foundation grants empower Rotarians to approach challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, and malnutrition with sustainable solutions that leave a lasting impact.
While TRF’s reach is broad in scope. our own Richfield Rotary Foundation (RRF) supports charitable projects and activities of the Richfield Rotary Club, which has been serving our local community for the past 65 years. A gift to the Richfield Rotary Foundation will help our club continue its legacy of service to the Richfield community.
As noted in an e-mail from President Chip Groth, members are encouraged to complete and return the attached pledge form to either Chip or RRF President Lynne Alexander at your earliest convenience. Questions may be directed to either Lynne or Chip.
Richfield Rotary's New Digs!
Richfield Rotary is now meeting in the 2nd floor Conference Room of
RICHFIELD / BLOOMINGTON HONDA, 501 W. 77th Street in Richfield
To get there: From Lyndale Avenue, drive east on 77th Street Park. Park on the east side of the building, enter the building through the service entrance, go through the glass doors on the right, and take the elevators or stairway to the second floor. Once you’re on the second floor, walk past the restrooms, take a right, and the conference room is the last door on the left, just before the opening into the auto showroom. (If you wander around long enough, you’ll find it!!)
Breakfast Buffet: For just $10, you'll enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet prepared by Beautiful Day Catering.
Come and Join Us!!
District 5950/5960 Joint Conference a Success!
Jean Fox and Barb Devlin represented Richfield Rotary at this year’s District Conference.
The keynote speakers and breakout sessions were excellent, thanks to the fact that Districts 5950 and 5960 were both sharing in the cost.
The keynote luncheon speaker was author, leadership speaker, and wilderness guide Chris Heeter, who used some of her favorite sled dogs to highlight some important lessons about leadership and teamwork:
- Need to try different approaches with different people
- Everybody has gifts. We just need to look for them.
- It’s not enough to show what you know; first, you need to show that you care.
Mary Beth Growney Selene, a Rotary International Director from 2013-2015, served as the official RI Representative at the Conference. Mary Beth also facilitated excellent breakout sessions on attracting and engaging membership, and designing local and international projects that last.
In addition to formal meetings, conference attendees also visited the “Hall of Friendship” to learn about other Rotary Clubs’ projects and activities, and helped with the “Service in a Day” project, to assemble feminine hygiene kits to benefit girls around the world. The goal was to assemble 450 hygiene kits, but over double that number were completed by the end of the day!
The District Conference is a great way to learn more about Rotary, get new ideas, and meet some great Rotarians from other clubs. Make a commitment to attend next year!!
ROTARIANS AND STUDENTS ATTEND AREA 3 ETHICS LUNCHEON
Richfield High School Principal Latanya Daniels brought 12 High School Juniors and Seniors to the annual District 3 Ethics Luncheon held at Edina Country club. Students enjoyed a delicious lunch and important conversation with Rotarians and listened to a powerful presentation by Dave Irvin who talked about what happens when good people make bad decisions.
Dave Irvin had a privileged upbringing and as an adult was a father of 4, coached a youth hockey team and held an executive position. On a dare, one day he tried cocaine, and gradually became dependent. Because he could afford it, he started buying cocaine for himself and friends in larger quantities. He thought he was just being efficient and helpful to his buddies and never realized he had moved into the classification of dealing. He was finally caught when he was set up by a friend who had been recently arrested for cocaine use.
When he was arrested he immediately thought "what will I tell my family, what will I tell my work colleagues, and well now I can finally quit." Rather than fight the arrest conviction he decided to take full responsibility for his actions and ended up serving a year and a day in a federal prison in Duluth. He remembers the officer telling him after the arrest that "you may not believe it now but this will be good for you"
The loss of dignity and respect was devastating but he is now rebuilding his life, renewing friendships whenever possible, gainfully employed (although not at his former executive position) and is seeking to make amends.
April 9 District Assembly Highlights
Barb and John Devlin attended the April 9 District Assembly, led by incoming District Governor Mark Hegstrom of the Edina Morningside Rotary Club.
Mark’s used a stool to encapsulate his key messages. Mark reminded us, “Each of the support legs to make our clubs successful, vibrant, and to better serve humanity.”
Some highlights of Mark’s remarks:
“A club in motion has emotion. Vibrant clubs are active; they do things.”
“Vibrant clubs have fun while engaging in service.”
“Clubs can convey vibrancy through publications, websites and Facebook pages that include pictures of members doing things and having fun.”
The break-out sessions included a grant-writing session led by (L to R) Don Stiles, Todd Bollig and Irene Kelly, attended by Barb Devlin. John attended sessions on visioning and engaging members.
The May 12-13 District Conference will provide another opportunity for members to learn more about and contribute to Rotary.
A Fun Time Was Had By All!
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New Member Applications Received
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Alyssa Swanson (right), Director of the Richfield Historical Society, has been attending the Richfield Rotary evening CORE group, and has submitted her application for membership in Richfield Rotary. Alyssa has previously served as a presenter at morning Richfield Rotary meetings. In her membership application, Alyssa wrote, “I am not involved in any community organizations and looking for one that fits my ideals and passions,” which include parks and the environment. Regarding the CORE group, Alyssa adds, “I love the idea of a young adults coming together to help better the community. Many cities struggle with youth involvement; however I believe this to be a great group to spark interest with the Richfield community.”
Richfield Rotary Foundation Audit Completed
At the request of outgoing Treasurer Jay Clark, Barbara Devlin conducted a financial audit of the Richfield Rotary Foundation from August 2010 to September 2015. A copy of the audit report has been shared with current and past club presidents, and incoming Richfield Rotary Foundation Treasurer Chip Groth. Other club members may receive a copy upon request to Barbara Devlin.
Thank you to Jay Clark for his five years of diligent service as Foundation treasurer!
August 25 Meeting Reminder
Sergeant At Arms: Steve Jedlund
Thought for the Week: Jay Clark
Program: David Feinwachs and Diane Peterson - “HMO Fraud in Minnesota”
The primary presenter will be David Feinwachs, a health care attorney, advocate and expert on our state’s public policy regarding health care. He will be joined by Diane Peterson, a high school classmate of Steve Larson’s who also is a health care advocate. They will discuss the Five Billion dollars annually of taxpayer dollars that are unaccounted for in Minnesota’s HMO system. This will be a great meeting to invite visitors to as this is a topic that affects all of us!
Richfield Rotary Represented at One Rotary Summit
Thanks to Chip Groth, Pat Dale, Barb Devlin and Jean Fox for representing Richfield Rotary at the One Rotary Summit, held on September 15, 2017.
District Governor Bob Halagan set the stage for the summit, which focused on ways to grow our membership, particularly among women which are under-represented in many Rotary clubs. The DG’s goal is for District 5950 membership to reflect the proportion of women in the State as a whole (50.3%). Halagan noted, “This goal can be reached by adding 1000 female members as a District, which equates to 5 per club.”
Halagan observed, "By adding and diversifying our membership, Rotary can grow the Foundation, add energy and ideas for new projects, and strengthen our public image,” all goals of Rotary International.
The opening session was followed by facilitated small-group discussions focused on processes and structures to increase membership and participation. While specific suggestions varied, key themes that emerged included:
- Be inclusive.
- Be intentional.
- Be flexible.
- Be welcoming.
- Share great ideas.
District 5950 will prepare a detailed summary of the ideas generated, which will be share with each club.
E-Spokester Schedule for October
Barb and John Devlin will be out of town from September 30 - October 26. A big thanks to Denny Fox, who will do one e-Spokester before he and Jean leave for vacation on October 10, and Chip Groth, who will do the remaining e-Spokesters until my return. (Chip is being trained in by helping with this issue of the e-Spokester!)
Richfield Rotary Foundation Board Elections Held
The following people were elected to the Richfield Rotary Foundation last week at our club meeting. This re-establishes the 3 classes of members as per our by-laws so that we have a rolling membership. These elections should be held at the end of June each Rotary year.
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
CLASS ends June 30, 2016
David Melcher
Pam Serdar
CLASS ends June 30 2017
Lynne Alexander, President
Steve Larson
CLASS ends June 30 2018
Jay Clark
Marlene Evenson
PAST PRESIDENT ends June 30 2016
John Devlin
EX OFFICIO
Current President Anthony Bradford
President Elect Chip Groth
President Elect Elect Pam Serdat
Treasurer Chip Groth
Associate Treasurer Laura Briggs
Chair of The Rotary Foundation Steve Jedlund
Celebrating Rotary Attendance and Participation
Richfield Rotary Club recognizes every member who is willing and able to attend regularly. Participation in club projects and outside Rotary meetings and activities count as make-ups for missing regular meetings. Over the last seven weeks we have five members with perfect attendance: President Anthony , Chip G, Barb D, John D and Jean F! Close behind are David B, Pam S, David M and Tommy T with only one missed meeting.
Our weekly meetings and activities are essential to everyone and each one of us has an important role to perform. Thanks for being here. Be sure to let club secretary John Devlin also know when you attend other clubs and participate in club projects .
Summer is a busy time for all of us; even so we are averaging 68% attendance. WOW!
October 1 Meeting Highlights
Happy Dollars
Paul Harris Society Awards
Holly Callen (District Paul Harris Society Chair) presented Paul Harris Society Membership pins to Lynne Alexander and Jean Fox. The Paul Harris Fellow designation is given to individual Rotarians who have committed to give $1000 or more to the Rotary Foundation each year as long as they are able to do so.
Program - Lung Cancer Awareness

Prevention includes not smoking, talking to your Doctor about any of the symptoms above, and lowering your own risk factors. Rotarians who attended the meeting were offered free radon testing kits.
The Breath of Hope Foundation, which was founded in 2008 by patients, families and their nurse, works to end the stigma, to achieve fairness in Federal Funding, increase insurance coverage to include low dose CT's and an eventual cure. They believe that every life is worth fighting for!
Richfield and Bloomington Clubs Conduct Joint Visioning Session

On Thursday, August 20, District Visioning Team leaders Gayle Noakes (left) and Russ Michaletz facilitated a joint visioning session that included 5 representatives each from Bloomington Daymakers and Richfield Rotary Clubs and the President of the Bloomington Noon Rotary Club. President Anthony Bradford, John and Barb Devlin, Jean Fox, and President-Elect Chip Groth represented the Richfield Rotary Club. District Governor Tim Murphy also attended.
Club Similarities and Differences
Representatives of each club shared highlights regarding club membership; priorities; community, international, and vocational service activities; and fund-raising.
Similarities noted among clubs included a focus on youth (especially teens); active member engagement in projects (“sweat equity”); international project focused on India; all have membership and fund-raising as priorities.
Differences include Richfield’s efforts to reflect the community’s diverse demographics in membership recruitment, service priorities, and club activities. Differences in club size also create differences in communication and fund-raising strategies and results.
Areas of Consensus
Following small group discussion and sharing, the whole group identified the following areas of consensus:
- No merger of clubs at this time
- Pursue opportunities for collaboration among clubs such as periodic joint service projects and meetings. JSchedule periodic multi-club social / networking events A representative of Bloomington Daymakers will convene
- Expand cross-club communications to increase awareness of make-up, networking and service opportunities across clubs.
Small group reporters included Barb Devlin (far left), Mark (center) and Jason (right) from the Bloomington Daymakers Club.
Next Steps
- Club presidents will ask their respective club service chairs (David Butler and/or Marlene Evenson for Richfield Rotary) to discuss possible collaborative service projects.
- Jean Fox volunteered to meet other club representatives to plan some joint meetings.
- Mark from the Daymakers Club will convene the club social chairs to plan one or more joint club social / networking events.
Special thanks to Daymakers President Stephanie Smith for making the meeting arrangements, to Gayle Noakes and Russ Michaletz for facilitating, and to District Governor Tim Murphy for his attendance and support.
Getting to Know the Bloomington Daymakers
Bloomington Daymakers President Stephanie Smith and Richfield Rotary President Anthony Bradford are planning opportunities for members from both cubs to interact and get to know one another.
To get things started, Anthony is seeking 3-5 members to attend the Daymakers meeting on Friday, August 14, 7:29 AM at the Bloomington Hilton, 3900 American Blvd. West. Volunteers to date include Jean Fox, Steve Larson and Pam Serdar. Let Anthony Bradford know if you would like to attend as well.
Those attending should be willing to give a mini-classification talk of up to 6 minutes that includes 1-2 minutes about each of the following topics:
- yourself / background
- Your profession and / or major volunteer work
- What attracted you to Rotary and why you stay active
Visual aids are encouraged. As an example, Stephanie’s role as a Mom is represented by car keys for driving around her son Caleb; her work in sports medicine is represented by a stethoscope, and her commitment to Rotary is signified by an End polio pin.
REMINDER - NO MEETING NOVEMBER 22

RICHFIELD ROTARY GARAGE SALE A SUCCESS!



INFORMATION AND EVENTS OF INTEREST

Nari Gunjan Fund-Raiser
Sandhya Gupta invites Rotary members to attend the annual fundraiser for Nari Gunjan community, scheduled for Tuesday July 14, 6-9 pm at Indian Zayka Restaurant, 1260 Town Centre Drive, Eagan 55123. The cost is $75 per person.
Click here for more details and to register.
Transition to ClubRunner Website is Complete
Combined Foundation Pledge Drive Concluding April 2
RICHFIELD ROTARY - 65 YEARS STRONG!
Copy of ClubRunner Website is Up and Running
Thought for the Week - Who Said It?
Quote of the Week - Who Said It?
Mark Your Calendars!
Security and Integrity of Your Data
Data on the server is protected by TCP/IP filtering, firewall and anti-virus software that protect against any unauthorized intrusion. Backups of data are made daily and stored off-site.
Integrated eBulletin for Easier Communication
Welcome to our new website!
Welcome to our Rotary Club!