Stories
|
WDM Writes Poetry Night! |
WDMCS Reads Author Visit: Laurie Halse Anderson |
WDMCS Reads 2019 |
Bulletin for March 26, 2019 |
Oktoberfest Fundraiser - September 22 |
Bulletin for July 10 |
Bulletin for July 10, 2018Bulletin July 10, 2018 |
Bulletin for 3/27/18Bulletin for WDM Rotary for 3/27/18 |
Bulletin for January 9, 2018March 20, 2018 bulletin |
Bulletin for March 20, 2018Bulletin for March 20, 2018 |
Bulletin for March 20, 2018Bulletin for West Des Moines Rotary Club |
Rotary Wheel November 7 |
No meeting September 5Hopefully none of you showed up at Des Moines Golf and Country yesterday, as there was no meeting. |
Rotary Roadside CleanupMark your calendars for Saturday, October 14th it's time for a morning walk along I-235. Rotary Roadside cleanup - it's taking a hike for a good cause... the environment! |
Volunteer for OktoberfestWe need you to Volunteer for Oktoberfest! Sign up Here We have an early and a late shift and all sorts of tasks. This event needs you to make it successful! |
Weekly UpdateMeeting Updates June 20, 2017Polio UpdateThe eradication of Polio is the number one goal of Rotary. No New Cases were reported the past eight weeks in 2017: Pakistan 2 cases in 2017; 20 cases in 2016, down from 54 in 2015. Afghanistan 3 cases in 2017, 13 cases in 2016, down from 20 in 2015 and Nigeria 0 cases in 2017; 4 cases in 2016, up from zero cases in 2015. Note two cases were reported in the Republic of Congo but this had to do with oral vaccination. These are not counted only wild cases are counted.
Other Fundraising Opportunities!
|
Indian Hills Bicycle Giveaway |
April 3 Rotary Foundation Day Proclamation in West Des Moines by Mayor Steve GaerOn April 3 some of our West Des Moines Rotary Members attended the West Des Moines City Council Meeting to hear the Proclamation for Rotary Foundation Day on April 11, 2017. |
Committee Update DayCommittee Update Day
Amy Fetters Led the Committee Update with a review of the West Des Moines Rotary Strategic Plan.
Our Vision
To Become a Great Service Organization in West Des Moines
We will do this through active and engaged members focused on Education and Community
Club Goals and Priorities:
Membership Attributes:
Club Administration:
Vocational Service:
Community Service:
Services to Youth
International
Fundraisers
Rotary Foundation
Public Relations
We will Grow our Membership by six members per year for the next five years.
|
Featured Speaker- Donald Goering, D-6000 Endowment Fund ChairD-6000 Endowment Fund Chair, Donald Goering joined the meeting as our featured speaker. Donald provided an overview of the Rotary Foundation and Endowment. All Rotarians are encouraged to support the foundation through Paul Harris Fellow donations of $100 per year. Our club average for 2015-2016 was $95.48 per member. We are also encouraged to support the Endowment as a benefactor or a member of the Bequest Society. The Rotary Foundation has a solid reputation and has been rated by Charity Navigator as a Four Star Foundation. As a Rotarian, our support of our Foundation enables the support of many causes that are important to our organization such as Disease prevention and treatment, Water quality and sanitation and educational literacy to name a few. We are a great club that is very generous in our contributions to Operation Warm, Our Bike Project, Xicotepec and many more great organizations. Our financial support of the Foundation is another great way to make sure this support is ongoing!
|
Installation of New Board Members 2016-2017 and Visitor From IndiaNew Board Members 2016-2017From Left to Right: Amy Fetters, Kristin Pike, Naura Godar, Russ Ver Ploeg, Bob Start, Brad Brown, Linda Hulleman, Harold Hulleman, Linda Leave.
Visitor From India Exchanging FlagsNaura Godar, President 2015-2016 and Amy Fetters, President 2016-2017 of Rotary Club of West Des Moines exchanging flags with Sadagopan Govindan from India. Also Sadagopan is visiting his son who lives in West Des Moines. The meeting was also attended by his wife, grandson, and daughter-in-law. Sadagopan will be in West Des Moines for about three months and would like to help out with any volunteer projects we have going on.
|
2021 West Des Moines Rotary Club VisionDave Cook from the Rotary Club of Boone lead members from the West Des Moines Rotary Club through a strategic visioning session. What will the Rotary Club of West Des Moines Look like in 2021. See full plan under download files to the left. File uploaded is Power point or PDF Versions.
|
February 10th, 2015Bulletin for February 10th, 2015
The Saxophone Section Session / Club Social at Java Joe’s (02-15-15)
Bicycle Repair for Kids Without
Three Minute Speaker
Brian Schurz is one of our newer members, brought in by the one and only, Al Cross.
Although Brian’s original routes are from beer, bear and cheese country (Wisconsin), he grew up in Spencer, Iowa (Tigers!). He received his Business and History degrees from UNI, and is now a financial advisor with Edward Jones.
Brian is a runner (marathons and half-marathons). He and his wife, Laura, have three daughters active in sports, so he watches a lot of softball and basketball. He enjoys cheering on the Minnesota Vikings and Milwaukee Brewers.
Welcome to the Club Brian!
Business Network Day (Member-Speaker)
Starting in March we will have one member be the speaker, every 5th to 8th Tuesday. This will provide a two-fold service for members:
I’m glad I thought of this. No, wait! It was Al Gore or Brian Williams. No, it was Naura Heiman Godar and the Rotarian Officers & Directors that are implementing this change.
Speaker
Lewis Majors, Naturalist with The Polk County Conservation, enlightened us with many intriguing comparison between the undomesticated canine and feline species still roaming in Iowa.
Lewis spends almost everyday outdoors teaching kids and adults about animals and plants. Kids today are getting further disconnected from the outdoors and nature. Lewis gave us an example of how and what he does to reach out and educate. His engagingly creative approach, along with skulls, paw casts and pelts, was very impressive.
Here are some highlights:
Dogs (canines):
Cats (felines):
|
Copy of February 10th, 2015 |
Bulletin for February 3rd, 2015Membership Casual Gathering (Short Notice!)
This Thursday, February 5th from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at The Club Car (University Ave.) Contact Carolin Gibson if any questions, or just show up.
Speaker for Tuesday February 3rd 2015:
Our speaker was Dave Schwartz, President of the WDM Chamber of Commerce. Dave shared his educational and business career history leading up to his new position, along with his plans for the Chamber.
His dynamic theme was “Adapting to Change”. From his roots in Dubuque, Iowa, Dave went to St. Thomas University in Minneapolis for his Bachelor degree. After receiving his Masters at UNI, he was a managing director at Marsh (Insurance). After 17 years with Marsh, they downsized significantly, forcing a new career path. In 2004, Dave and several others started a new insurance agency, Bearance Management Group.
After open-heart surgery in August 2012, Dave was ready for a new path. Steve Gaer, Mayor of WDM, suggested he run for President of the WDM Chamber. In 2014, he became the new President.
From the Mission Statement to the look of their website, he has reviewed, with others’ input, all aspects of the Chamber’s service, and made changes. There are 2800 businesses in WDM, and only 500+ are members of the Chamber. Dave wants to increase membership. To do this, he wants to create more interest in the Chamber services and networking. Here are some of the details:
Three-Minute Speaker/Sergeant at Arms:
Al Cross was born in Mt. Ayr, Iowa. He may have been the first to break his Amish roots, but I may have that wrong. Al received his Accounting degree from AIB, and recently retired from a career as a financial advisor at Edward Jones. Al’s community service included board membership of the WDM Chamber.
Al’s daughter lives in Decorah, Iowa, with her husband and family.
Al has held almost every position as a member of the WDM Rotary Club. He has been a very active member throughout his career, and was instrumental in providing dictionaries to grade-school kids in the WDM community.
Al enjoys woodworking, Bucks Hockey games and has recently started his artistic talent now that he is retired.
Bicycle Project:
Harold Hulleman is looking for people to help upgrade used donated bicycles.
Please contact Harold if you can schedule time. Here are the dates and time:
Saturday 02-07-15: 9:00 AM to Noon
Thursday 02-12-15: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Saturday 02-14-15: 9:00 AM to Noon
Sgt. at Arms - Changes are Coming
Starting at our March 17th meeting, we will have a Member be the speaker. The plan is to have a member-speaker about every three weeks, giving them a chance to talk about their passions within their personal, volunteer and or business career. More to come on this, so stay tuned!
*******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
|
Rotary Wheel for January 27, 2015 |
Rotary Bulletin for December 23, 2014 |
Bulletin for December 16, 2014 |
Bulletin for December 2, 2014 |
Rotary Bulletin October 7 and October 21Today is a very special Rotary Bulletin! Included are notes from TWO meetings in October!
|
Rotary Wheel September 30Announcements - Just 4 weeks remain of the Orange Juice Stand. Please help, please sign up. This weekly service/fundraiser is our club's primary fundraising event each year, and its success depends on the ability to staff and work from 8-12 until the end of October. - The Bike Shop is being reorganized. Sign up today to help! |
Rotary Wheel July 15 and July 22Announcements There will be no meeting September 2 Outreach update: It is amazing that we brought 8 clubs together and packaged over 72,500 meals. Everyone should feel proud of their contribution to make that happen. Working with people committed to the cause made chairing the event a pleasure – A big thanks to all from our club that attended! Al Cross is working with Smiles for Kids in Need gathering money for 3,000 coats for children in district 6,000. Each coat is $16.11, and you can donate through October. Carolyn Gibson is gathering school supplies for children in West Des Moines - donate supplies or money through the end of the month. Sign up to make Root Beer Floats on August 16, with Linda Leave. All proceeds go to the Special Olympics
Send on your ideas for a signature West Des Moines Rotary event to President Mike Foss We are still looking for two host families for Augustina, our exchange student, she arrives on August 17. Have you considered greeting her at the airport?
|
Rotary Wheel 7/8/14Announcements Kristin Pike has requested her membership transfer to West Des Moines. We currently have 84 members, President Foss has set the goal for 95 members by the end of his term. Bring a friend and introduce them to the club! RYLA is Rotary Youth Leadership Academy, a week-long event that works with teens to grow leadership skills in the context of Rotary. This event is this week, and Rotarians can attend July 15-17. There is a dues increase of $25 per quarter, beginning this quarter. It is the first time we have raised dues in four years. During this time Des Moines Golf and Country has raised our meal prices twice. There will be no meeting September 2 Send on your ideas for a signature West Des Moines Rotary event to Mike We are still looking for two host families for Augustina, our exchange student Bring in school supplies for West Des Moines students now to August, Carolyn Gibson has a basket at Rotary each week. |
Rotary Wheel 7/1/14Installation of Officers for 2014-2015 |
Rotary Wheel June 24, 2014Last week’s OJ stand- made about $900. Also- please note, there is no need to bring ALL of the OJ stuff up- old juicers can stay downstairs! Carolyn Gibson will run this years WDSM human services school supply drive. More information forthcoming, but note- all supplies must be received by August 8! Chris Nelson discussed our outbound and incoming exchange students: The outbound student is having a great time, he is in Brazil listening to the city watch the World Cup and traveling and speaking to promote rotary and dental health. Inbound student is Augustina from Paraguay. We are still looking for two host families! Join in the WDSM 4th of July Parade! Meet at 5:15 (no later than 6) for a 6:30 parade start. Call Amy Fetters 515-240-8629 if you have questions. |
June 17, 2014 |
June 10, 2014 |
Rotary Bulletin for June 3, 2014Announcements: Check the calendar for your assignment to volunteer at the Farmer's Market. To sign in, go to the google calendar, sign in – wdmrotary, and password is market2012. If you can't work on your assigned weekend, please find a replacement. In place of our meeting on June 17, we are invited attend the meeting on Friday, June 20 at the Olmstead Center at Drake sponsored by the Rotary Club of Des Moines A.M. The featured speaker will be Naomi Tutu, daughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Breakfast will be at 7:15 with the program beginning at 8:00. A sign-up will be available in advance. Program: We welcomed this year's high school scholarship recipients: David Herzog, Jessie Olson, Lillian Sanchez Garcia, Shirdharsha Mailachalam, Lucille Gee, Tara Shattuck, and Samantha Garth. Giving their commencement speeches were Gus Gustafson and Tanvi Yenna (who gave her speech as a poem – impressive!). Congratulations to these young people and to all graduating students. |
Bulletin for May 27, 2014Bulletin for May 27, 2014 |
Rotary Bulletin for May 20, 2014Rotary Bulleting for May 20, 2014 |
May 13, 2014 BulletinBulletin for May 13, 2014 |
Rotary Wheel 4/29/14Upcoming dates: This weekend was a Rotary-full weekend. Hopefully, you took part in one of the three events: 1. District conference (with the Bunny Harper golf tournament) 2. Roadside pick up along I-235 3. OJ stand Reminder: Host families needed for our exchange student. If you or someone you know lives in the WDSM school district and is willing to be awesome for a few months during the 2014-2015 school year contact Chris Nelson.
|
Rotary Wheel April 22, 2014 |
Rotary Wheel - April 15, 2014 |
Bulletin for March 25, 2014Bulletin for March 25, 2014 |
Tuesday, March 25th, 2014 |
Tuesday March 18th, 2014 |
Bulletin 1-21-14Announcements: Tickets are still available for the Iowa Energy Basketball game against the Erie Bayhawks on February 8th. The price is only $16, with $8 going towards polio plus. If you don't want to use the tickets yourself, you can donate them to Amanda the Panda or Mosiac. It may not be riding weather just yet, but we are "gearing up" to repair bikes for school-age kids who don't have one of their own. Work days are on Saturday mornings at Bob Start's warehouse from 9-noon. You too can quickly move from an apprentice to an expert in no time at all under the teaching of Harold Hulleman. Speaker: We welcomed John Viars, the executive director of the Des Moines Playhouse. The Des Moines Community Playhouse was founded in 1919 and is unique in that it has operated continuously, under various names and in various homes, since its founding. With more than 90 years of uninterrupted service, the Playhouse is among the six oldest continuously-operating community theatres in the U.S. It is also the second largest community theatre in the U.S. The organization has 1,700 volunteers, 55,000 attendees and 12,000 participants in education programs each year. Cloris Leachman, Phyliss Love, and Ronald Reagan can be included as a Playhouse alums. The Playhouse moved to its current location on 42nd Street in 1953. All actors have been volunteers with only two exceptions. Upcoming attractions include One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Les Miserables, and Boeing Boeing. |
Rotary Wheel 10/29Presentations and Announcements Congratulations to our High school students of the month- this month from Dowling. The president of Dowling presented Kelly and Mason. He noted that volunteering and civic involvement is very important to Dowling. Dowling currently is represented by over 45 zip codes, and 99% of their students go on to college. Kelly is an incredibly involved senior. Of her many interests, she noted that student council and best buddies were her two favorite activities. Mason is also quite involved as a junior in several sports, and is a student ambassador for Dowling.
On our last outing of the Farmer's Market season the OJ stand made $540. A solid showing for the end of October- total fundraising efforts will be announced at a later date. Foundation dinner is November 9- it is in West Des Moines, sign up today!
Longtime West Des Moines rotary member Dave Carlson with Superior Printing and Promotion is the only authorized rotary dealer in the state. He has put together a great and affordable collection of NEW ROTARY ATTIRE! Get online or call Dave to purchase today through November 15. Approved membership for Brad Brown.
Three Minute Speaker Mike Powers hails originally from southern Illinois. He has an accounting degree, and currently runs the Iowa Credit Union League. He has lived in many locations around the Midwest, and moved to the Des Moines area about 5 years ago. He has been married 35 years. Mike joined Rotary for the opportunity to serve others.Today's Presentation Peter Wolf, a Senior operations analyst at DuPont spoke about the Strengths of Organizations. His presentation centers on the Strengths Finder book that many organizations are using: http://www.strengthsfinder.com/home.aspx
For someone that has worked at several organizations that emphasize the importance of strengths (finder), it was incredibly interesting to hear Peters suggestions on how to further an organization by building on your strengths rather than improving your weaknesses. Wolf notes that the most successful people build lives upon greatest talents and invent ways to use talents. |
Rotary Wheel 10/15ANNOUNCEMENTS: There is just one week left of the Farmer's market. Your last chance to volunteer! Please fill out membership profile- on Club Runner- under "Edit my Profile" Welcome to our newest corporate member- Embark IT Please turn in your membership survey to Tom as soon as you can, they help the board a great deal. Wednesday's bicycle give away will donate 22 bikes to Crossroads Park Elementary
MARK YOUR CALENDARS: World Polio Day Oct 24 District 6000 dinner is Nov 9 at the WDM Marriott (registration due 10/21) Students of the month will arrive October 29
PRESENTATIONS: Congratulations to our new Paul Harris Fellows. They are individuals that have donated $1000 to the Rotary foundation. Chris Nelson 1st Harold Hulleman +1 Bob Start +2 Todd Wishman +2 Bill Reese +5
3 MINUTE SPEAKER: Jeremy Dyvig of the YMCA healthy living center is originally from Humbolt. He attended to ICCC, then the U of I He has two children: Audrey 9 and Abram 7. |
Rotary Bulletin for October 8Announcements: Saturday morning 7:45-9:45 is the semi-annual Rotary Roadside cleanup. Only 3 rotarians have signed up so far. It is a great chance to get out for a nice walk on a Saturday morning and make a difference. We'll meet at the Roosevelt parking lot at 7:45 (yes, there will be donuts). Dress in layers and bring gloves to protect your hands! Email Naura Ngodar@rdgusa.com if you are able to help out. After you are done at the walk- or if you are unable to walk along a somewhat challenging terrain, please consider volunteering for the Orange Juice stand. Volunteers are needed- sign up on the google calendar, or respond to Jim's email from earlier today.
|
Rotary Bulletin for October 1, 2013 |
Bulletin for September 3, 2013 |
Rotary Wheel August 20, 2013 |
Rotary Bulletin June 25, 2013 |
Rotary Wheel June 11,2013 |
Rotary Wheel June 4, 2013 |
Rotary Wheel 5/21This week we heard about Iowa filmmaking, and tomorrow we'll be hearing from the valedictorians and scholarship winners from Valley and Dowling.
|
Rotary Wheel 5/16We started out the meeting right with inductions! Welcome to Chris Holman and Amy Fetters! These two new members (and five more soon) have put us so incredibly close to the goal of eighty members in the club.
|
May 7, 2013Announcements Have you checked out our rotary website lately? Look yourself (or a friend) up at http://www.clubrunner.ca/Portal/Home.aspx?cid=1675 Please update your information, upload a photo and find other club contacts. If you have troubles or questions contact Al Cross.
The bike project has a few upcoming handouts, talk to Harold Hulleman for more information.
This fall we will be hosing a boy exchange student and are still looking for host families. If you are in the WDM school district district and have a high school age boy you would be the perfect candidate! |
June 19, 2012 Rotary WheelAnnouncements: No meeting on July 3rd.
If you are interested in participating in the West Des Moines 4th of July parade, which features our bicycle project, please contact Harold Hulleman. Contributions of candy are also appreciated. Farmers' Market - a small procedure change. Please have a bucket of hot water on one of the tables to wash your hands (even though we are using gloves). Also, make sure to clean all equipment and utensils at the end of the day, so they are clean for the next week. The Rotary Club of Jefferson gave a $500 donation to be used for our Xicotepec project. Roger Petersen announced that 25 members of the Alenmedingen, Germany Brass Band will be in Des Moines from July 30 - August 14. The Band will be playing several concerts throughout the metro, as well as participating in the State Fair Parade, a concert at the Fair, the playing at the Adel Sweet Corn Festival. Host families are needed. Watch for a separate e-mail with details. Sgt. at Arms: Jim Stafford has been a Rotarian since 1979. He graduated from Roosevelt High School, and received his degree in advertising and marketing from Drake. Jim and his wife have 4 grown children. Jim works for Strategic America, the largest independent marketing firm in Iowa and serving clients throughout the U.S. and Canada. Program: Jim Ballard from "The First Tee" presented our program. The organization's mission is to impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values, and promote healthy choices through the game of golf. The organization was founded in 1997 through an initiative of the USGA and World Golf. Nine core values are taught - honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility, perseverance, courtesy, and judgment. There are 200 chapters, located in all 50 states and 6 international countries. The local chapter began in 2007, and last year, 237 youth between the ages of 9-17 years old participated. Three Des Moines golf courses are used (Blank, Grandview, and Waveland). Jim ended by saying, "In teaching the game of golf, we teach the game of life." |
June 12, 2012 Rotary WheelAnnouncements: There is no meeting on July 3rd. However, all are encouraged to participate on our "float" in the West Des Moines parade that evening. We will be featuring our bicycle project.
Northwest Club is sponsoring the Charles Gabus Memorial Ride on June 23rd. There are several routes, from a family ride to longer routes - up to 73 miles (great for those training for RAGBRAI). Incoming Officers: President - Chris Nelson President Elect - Tom Narak Vice President - Al Cross Secretary - Harold Hulleman Assistant Secretary - Norm Pogemiller Treasurer - Doug Hillman Service - Adam Nelson Administration - Tyler Price Membership - Mike Foss Past President - Jamie Bunn Sgt. at Arms: Todd Wishman grew up in Urbandale and majored in Finance at the University of Iowa. He began his career working for several different banks which were successively purchased by another bank. Todd is now the VP and Senior Lending Officer at Bankers Trust. He's married to Stephanie, and keeps busy with 4 children and their activities. Speaker: We welcomed Todd Richardson, from Patch.com, a community-specific news, information, and engagement platform specifically designed for a particular community. Patch.com has 860 "locations," and 9 specific to Iowa - one right here in West Des Moines. Patch is built so that community members can post announcements and photos, participate in discussions, and learn more about the local businesses. Local businesses can advertise, which can actually raise the Google ranking of the business. The web-site is updated several times throughout the day. If you haven't had a chance to check it out, the site is at westdesmoines.patch.com. |
June 5, 2012 Rotary WheelAnnouncements: No meeting on July 3
Bunny Harper Golf Tournament: After holding the trophy for the past several years, our team had to relinquish it to the Des Moines AM club; however, our very own president, Jamie, was a medalist. Bike Project: We have completed our first full year with this project. During that time, we have collected nearly 200 bicycles, and 102 have been given to students in four West Des Moines Elementary Schools. Thanks to Harold Hulleman for heading this project, and to all the volunteers who repaired and cleaned bikes, helped present them to students, and photographed our events. Thanks also to Bob Start who has been storing our tools and the bicycles. Sgt. at Arms: Ryan Wedermeyer was raised in Guthrie Center and graduated from UNI. He began his career in the Twin Cities, but moved back to Iowa and is currently a commercial lender at West Bank. He and his wife Jennifer have three children. Sholarship winners: Doug Hillman announced our 2012 high school scholarship winners. Congratulations to the following students: Micheong Lee (Valley) is planning to attend the Univeristy of Iowa Matter Manzer (Dowling) is planning to attend Iowa State University Zachary McEntee (Dowling) is planning to attend Simpson College Tarin Phillips (Valley) is planning to attend Iowa State University Samantha Wipperman (Valley) is planning to attend Wartburg College Speaker: We welcomed Augustin Villa, the valedictorian of Dowling Catholic High School, to present his commencement speech. He encouraged his fellow students to strive for excellence in everything, push yourself beyond what you think you can do, and to set your goals high. These are great words for all of us to follow. |
May 28th Rotary WheelGuests- Chris Nelson brought some potential corporate members from Mercy Medical Center; Lori Connor and Shannon Duval
Announcements- No meeting on July 3 Janet Nelson will be gathering school supplies for West Des Moines Schools. Bring items for any grade collecting all summer! Due by August 1 Pick up your Orange Juice stand t-shirts at our meetings! June 5th's meeting is student speakers Later in June- Chris Nelson's trip to Bancock Longtime member Bill Sprague has passed away New member induction- Congratulations to Mike Greene Sgt. at Arms: Dave Carlson Originally from Fort Dodge, he was drafted out of college and was a bomb squad member! He has 4 kids, and has been married to his first wife for 40 years! He started Superior Printing in 1986. He plays tennis three times a week with other Rotarians. He is the man to go to for all of your custom printing needs, from pens to shirts, and brochures to towels, you name it, he has it! |
May 15th Rotary WheelWe have a new member Michael Green, he is an attorney will be joining Rotary. FARMER'S MARKET VALLEY HIGH SGT OF ARMS |
May 8th Rotary WheelLast Tuesday we were joined by Harlan "Bud" Hockenberg, who shared with us his business CEO Independent Advisor, LLC. He is an independent consultant for CEOs.
|
ROTARY WHEEL for March 6th 2012ROTARY WHEEL for March 6th 2012
March Off-Sight Meeting Location Calendar
LAST WEEK 02-27-12:
Peter replaced Tom Narak who retired in 2011. Peter is a Dutch immigrant moving to the U.S. when he was four years old, and grew up outside Seattle, Washington. While working on his engineering degree in Wyoming, he switched to a teaching degree at the University of Wyoming. After two years of teaching in Wyoming, he became school superintendent. He eventually migrated back to the state of Washington where he spent the last 20 years before taking the position here in WDM. His wife, Pam, will officially move here in March.
WDM Educational Challenges NCLB (No Child Left Behind): By 2014, objective is to have every student become 100% proficient in math and science by the time they graduate.
Opportunities
Goal is consistency starting at the elementary level, so that the transition to junior high and then to high school is as smooth as possible for the student. Some schools will receive tailored resources to meet demographic needs.
“Time on Task” –Some kids need more time and effort to comprehend material in certain areas compared to other students. Goal is to have teachers available to help such students, without lowering the standards of the class or curriculum for the other students.
We need to keep better students challenged and help those (time) that find a subject challenging. Quality of the teacher will be integral in keeping these issues in the cross hairs.
Three-Minute Speaker/Sgt. At Arms
Larry is active with Sacred Heart Church. He and his oldest son, Van, are Eagle Scouts. Jason Wolfe introduced him to WDM Rotary Club membership.
Announcements
The Taco Boys are Going South of the Border Again! Tom Narak and Tom George are preparing for their trip to Xicotepc, Mexico March 10th to March 18th. Most of us already know this is to help a local community with the educational infrastructure. This includes better housing, water, uniforms, shoes and learning materials. Donations
Bicycle Donations
Need volunteers to help with giving the bikes to kids. We want to work in pairs when sizing the kids for the right bike and helmet, including any adjustments. Harold, Bob Start and others have prepared these donated bikes for road use. Each school has discretely targeted the kids in need. Now the time has come to give these special gifts away to the kids.
Mentors for Crestview Elementary Students
District 600 Conference
Big Band Music at Java Joe’s |
Bulletin for December 13, 2011Bulletin or December 13, 2011
|
Bulletin for September 6, 2011 |
Bulletin for September 6, 2011Bulletin for September 6, 2011
|
Bulletin for August 23, 2011 |
Bulletin for July 19, 2011Bulletin for July 19, 2011 |
July 12, 2011 BulletinJuly 12, 2011 Bulletin |
Salvation Army Bell RInging Dec 4SALVATION ARMY BELL RINGING DECEMBER 4 Signup today for your two hour shift for Saturday, December 4 at the Hy Vee on Jordan Creek Drive in West Des Moines. The shifts start at 8 am and the last shift is at 6 pm. Email Al Cross at wcross1122@aol.com and let him know a time slot you would like. He will confirm it. Thanks Dave Carlson, Chairperson |
West Des Moines Schools Rotary Dictionary Project |
Rotary Bulletin for January 20, 2015 |
Rotary Wheel for January 13, 2015 |
Bulletin for December 9, 2014 |
Rotary Wheel - April 29, 2014 |
April 8th, 2014 |
Rotary Wheel - October 29, 2013 |
Rotary Bulletin for September 24, 2013 |
Rotary Bulletin for September 17, 2013 |
Bulletin for August 27, 2013Rotary Bulletin for August 27, 2013
|
Rotary Wheel August 13, 2013 |
Rotary Wheel - August 6, 2013 |
July 30, 2013 BulletinJuly 30, 2013 Bulletin
|
Bulletin for July 23, 2013Bulletin for July 23, 2013
|
Bulletin for July 16, 2013West Des Moines Rotary Bulletin for July 16, 2013
|
Rotary Bulletin for July 9, 2013Rotary Bulletin for July 9, 2013 |
Rotary Wheel May 28Guest: Mike Powers CFO from Iowa Credit Union Reminders/Updates: - Please update your profile on our clubrunner website. Add your picture, it helps new (and old) Rotarians remember names! - The Bike Project handed out 19 bikes at Clive last Wednesday! - Orange Juice stand is looking for volunteers at the early shift on June 22, and the late shift of June 29 - Know of someone in the Valley school district that has a high school aged boy? They would be perfect to be a exchange student's host family! - The American Diabetes Association's Father of the Year celebration is coming up June 13. Buy your tickets (or table of tickets) today!
|
April 30, 2013 ROTARY WHEEL |
Rotary Wheel for April 23, 2013 |
Rotary Wheel April 16, 2013 |
Rotary Wheel 8/14/12 |
Rotary Wheel |
Rotary Wheel - July 31, 2012 |
Bulletin for July 24, 2012 |
July 17, 2012 BulletinNewsletter for July 17, 2012
|
July 9, 2012 Club BulletinBulletin for July 9, 2012
|
May 22nd Rotary Wheel
Guests/Announcements Dr. Lee Holmes, our assistant district governor attended the meeting to let us know… Rotary International has met the polio plus goal of $200 million! We actually raised $215 mil as of May 1st. Gates is giving additional $50 million towards eradicating Polio. India has not had a new case for 1.5 years, so that means only three countries with new cases remain: Nigeria, Afghanistan and Pakistan. Congratulations to Alison Carlson and Russ Hamilton who exchanged their red badges for blue badges. Three weeks in a row we have sold out at the Orange juice stand. As of last weekend we are $230 in the black. Rotary t-shirts, will be available starting tomorrow. June 2 Val-air ballroom Big Band Dance and concert June 4 defend title at Bunny Harper Hopefully some of us attended the 50s sock hop at Prairie Meadows on the 25th benefiting the Special Olympics of Iowa! |
Rotary Wheel 5/1/2012Rotary Wheel – May 1, 2012 From the April 24, 2012 meeting: REMINDER - Northwest Rotary Club Fundraising Project: Brad Helgamo from the Northwest Club was in attendance. He shared information regarding a fundraising project: The Charles Gabus Memorial Ride for bike riders of all abilities. The ride will start at the Gabus Memorial Tree Park in Urbandale (next to the Urbandale Library) on June 23, 2012. Rides are as short as 5 miles and as long as 70 miles with several options in between. Cost is $10/individual or $25/family. For more information, please check www.cgm-br.com or call Brad at 689-0004. REMINDER - Bicycle Project: Speaking of bicycles, don’t forget about our own bike project! Per Harold Hulleman, we are still taking donations of good used bikes! Help is needed to recondition them too. Please contact Harold to sign up and assist. REMINDER - Farmer’s Market: By now we have received the Farmer’s Market sign up information from President Jamie Bunn. To make this project as successful as possible, please follow the instructions to sign up to serve! If every club member does their part and works just 4 shifts (just two full mornings), that is all that should be needed. Everyone needs to help! The first Farmers Market is May 5! You can register at Google Calendar. Log on information is wdmrotary@gmail (or gmail.com) with the password of Market2012. IF YOU DON’T SELECT A TIME, THEN TIMES WILL BE SELECTED FOR YOU. REMINDER - Clean Up I-235: Adam Nelson is again heading this up. The date is May 5 and he needs a few more people to help out. This is a great way to have family involved. The plan is to meet at Roosevelt High School in Des Moines at 7:45 a.m. The time commitment is only about 1.5 hours. After that, you can enjoy the rest of your day and possibly check out the Farmers Market that also starts that same day! Contact Adam if you can assist! ROTARY SHIRTS. T-Shirts are available for $10/each. These would be good to wear to the Farmer’s Market. Please order yours today! 3-Minute Speaker – Kurt Subra. Thanks Kurt! Kurt is a UNI grad and has been with the West Des Moines schools for 6 years. SPEAKER – Elizabeth Presutti. Elizabeth is the head of Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART). From the DART website (www.ridedart.com) comes the following information: Dart is the largest public transit agency in Iowa, serving 19 cities in and around Polk County to varying degrees. Those include Ankeny, Altoona, Alleman, Bondurant, Carlisle, Clive, Des Moines, Elkhart, Granger, Grimes, Johnston, Mitchellville, Pleasant Hill, Polk City, Runnells, Sheldahl, Urbandale, Windsor Heights, West Des Moines. The agency is operated with the support of local property taxes and fare revenue. Residents are represented by a nine-member board of commissioners. Local and state leaders created the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority, or DART, out of the Des Moines Metropolitan Transit Authority, or MTA, in 2006. The move has enabled the agency to begin evolving into a more regional transit system. From the Rotary presentation came the following: - 4.18 million annual trips - Ridership up 12% this year - 15 employers purchased unlimited access for their employees - DART operates 151 buses and 118 Rideshare vans - 2,500 bus stops - 35,706 bike rack users - 2013 budget is $25.7 million. Of this amount 32% is from operating revenues (fares) with 68% being public and other support (other includes advertising). |
Rotary Wheel – April 24, 2012From the April 17, 2012 meeting: RYLA: The annual Rotary Youth Leadership Award conference was held April 17, 2012. This was the final year that the event was being hosted by West Des Moines Rotary. The reigns for this event will now be turned over to District 6000 and other District 6000 Rotary Clubs. The 2012 conference was held at Lutheran Church of Hope in West Des Moines. The event was a day-long leadership program designed for sophomore students. Participants learned methods of responsible and effective voluntary youth leadership through this training experience. Participants came from throughout our Rotary District 6000. Included among the participants were 10 foreign exchange students representing five different countries. Special thank you’s are in order for the chairperson (Ken Angersola). Without Ken’s contributions, this event could not have occurred. Thanks are also in order for Linda Leave (who served as treasurer) and Bob Start (who served as the master of the soundboard). The contributions of others were likely many. Ken will likely recognize those that helped with this event at an upcoming Rotary luncheon. ANY GOLFERS OUT THERE??? - Memorial Golf Event. Tyler Price mentioned that on April 28, 2012, a golf tournament in memory of his mother will be held at Copper Creek. Please contact Tyler for more details. - Bunny Harper Golf Event. Greg Kenyon mentioned that June 4 is the day and Honey Creek is the location. Clean off those clubs and practice so you can help defend our Rotary trophy! If interested in golfing, please let Greg know. REMINDER - Northwest Rotary Club Fundraising Project: Brad Helgamo from the Northwest Club was in attendance. He shared information regarding a fundraising project: The Charles Gabus Memorial Ride for bike riders of all abilities. The ride will start at the Gabus Memorial Tree Park in Urbandale (next to the Urbandale Library) on June 23, 2012. Rides are as short as 5 miles and as long as 70 miles with several options in between. Cost is $10/individual or $25/family. For more information, please check www.cgm-br.com or call Brad at 689-0004. REMINDER - Bicycle Project: Speaking of bicycles, don’t forget about our own bike project! Per Harold Hulleman, we are still taking donations of good used bikes! Help is needed to recondition them too. Please contact Harold to sign up and assist. REMINDER - Farmer’s Market: By now we have received the Farmer’s Market sign up information from President Jamie Bunn. To make this project as successful as possible, please follow the instructions to sign up to serve! If every club member does their part and works just 4 shifts (just two full mornings), that is all that should be needed. Everyone needs to help! The first Farmers Market is May 5! You can register at Google Calendar. Log on information is wdmrotary@gmail (or gmail.com) with the password of Market2012. REMINDER - Clean Up I-235: Adam Nelson is again heading this up. The date is May 5 and he needs a few more people to help out. This is a great way to have family involved. The plan is to meet at Roosevelt High School in Des Moines at 7:45 a.m. The time commitment is only about 1.5 hours. After that, you can enjoy the rest of your day and possibly check out the Farmers Market that also starts that same day! Contact Adam if you can assist! |
Rotary Wheel - April 10, 2012 |
Rotary Wheel - April 3, 2012Rotary Wheel – April 3, 2012 From the March 27, 2012 meeting: Xicotepec, Mexico: If you have not yet contributed (and wish to do so), Harold Hulleman is still taking donations for our projects. If you wish to contribute, please let Harold know. Bicycle Project: Also from Harold, we are still taking donations of good used bikes! If you have some or know of someone who has some bikes, let Harold know. District 6000 Conference: The district conference Is set for April 12-14 at Riverside Casino/Hotel in Riverside, Iowa (near Iowa City). If you wish to attend, you best make arrangements soon! Senior Citizen Luncheon: Larry Everett is heading up this effort this year. The luncheon is schedule for April 14 at West Des Moines Christian Church. If you can help, please let Larry know. The time he requests you be there is from about 10:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Memorial Golf Event: Tyler Price mentioned that on April 28, 2012, a golf tournament in memory of his mother will be held at Copper Creek. Please contact Tyler for more details. Foreign Exchange Student: Our club will host a young lady from Italy next school year. If you have an interest in being a host family or in learning more about it, please contact Tom Narak. Farmer’s Market: Jamie Bunn reminded us that the Farmer’s Market fundraiser is rapidly approaching. Watch for more details in the near future. If every club member does their part and works just 4 shifts (just two full mornings), that is all that should be needed. Everyone needs to help! Speaker: (note: some of this material was taken directly from the Grandview website in addition to luncheon notes) Mary Elizabeth Stivers arranged for our program on March 27. She introduced our speaker: Kent Henning, President, Grandview University. Mr. Henning is an Iowa native (raised near McGregor), he graduated from Wartburg College (Waverly) in 1980 and went on to earn his MBA from Duke University. He joined Grandview about 10 years ago & prior to that time worked 20 years in college advancement. Mr. Henning is the 13th President of Grandview University. Since Henning's arrival at Grand View, the University has experienced growth in virtually every area, including full-time enrollment, residential student population, expansion of University facilities, and addition of academic programs. Mr. Henning pointed out that Jim Noyce of our Rotary Club is a long-time board member of Grandview. Enrollment is now approximately 2,230. Of that total, approximately 1,650 are traditional full-time students. About 800 of these students live on campus. Enrollment growth has average over 6% for the past two years annually. Reasons for success and optimism were the following: 1. Affordability. With available financial aid, the true cost can be as or more affordable than of the state universities. 2. Location. The Des Moines location gives access to cultural amenities and work opportunities. The location helps contribute to its high placement rate (95% within 6 months of graduation). Approximately 92% of the most recent class remained in Iowa. 3. Focus on Strengths. The focus in on being an excellent private liberal arts and church based institution. Students will experience individual growth and have athletic, leadership, and many other opportunities for involvement made available to them. In 2000, 200 students lived on campus. That number is now 800 and plans are in the works for additional on-campus student housing. When Kent Henning arrived on campus, 7 sports were offered. Now 24 sports are offered that involve 650 students. In addition, clubs, inter-murals, and organizations provide for additional involvement opportunities. Athletic teams have also enjoyed much recent success. 4. Academics. The university has a strong reputation for its academics! |
ROTARY WHEEL for March 27th 2012ROTARY WHEEL for March 27th 2012 March: Off-Sight Meeting Location Calendar LAST WEEK 03-20-12:
Here is some preliminary information:
Announcements
Senior Citizen Luncheon Larry announced that this event will be on Saturday, April 14th. He will have a sign-up sheet for volunteers to help serve the chronologically gifted and others. Or call Larry at 270-0909.
Taco Boys are back from Xicotepc Tom Narak and Tom George just got back last week from their trip to Xicotepc, Mexico. They will share more on this later. However, this is the tenth year of the project, and they were on the water project team. They used to help provide uniforms for two schools. Now they outfitted three schools.
Bicycle Donations
Mentors for Crestview Elementary Students
District 600 Conference
|
March 20th at Johnny's Hall of Fame on SW Corner of 3rd & Court AvenueROTARY WHEEL for March 20th 2012 March: Off-Sight Meeting Location Calendar LAST WEEK 03-13-12: From 1980 to 2010, Iowa’s population level has remained fairly level at 3,000,000 people. Iowa’s revenue stream and expenditures tracked side-by-side until around 1990. At that time, expenditures started to increase more than revenue. Since 2002, we have had a constant increase in the Gap each year. 2011 budget will have an 18% gap. David’s entertaining presentation dealt with reality (Iowa’s true total costs to pay for expenses). When expenditures exceed our revenue (taxes and fees), “fund shifting” has been our legislature’s method to pay the bills. For every dollar taken in by the State, $1.18 will be paid out. Concerns
The Good News-Concerted Effort to Run a Clean Ship Sgt. At Arms Bill was born in Jewell, Iowa in 1933. He was one of five kids living in a two-bedroom home with a wood-burning stove in the middle of the living room, and no plumbing. After graduating from high school in 1950, Bill joined the Marine Corp for three years, including eight months in Korea. Married in 1954 and started his family. In 1954 they moved to Des Moines, where they put each other through college at Drake along with his GI bill. Bill worked for a large accounting firm while his wife taught kids at Smouse and Woodlawn (special needs kids). In 1971, Bill started his own accounting firm. In 1996, he sold his interest to his partners. We all know Bill has a heart. However, he has proof based on by-pass surgery in 1997 and 1999. Thanks for all your Rotary support Bill! Announcements Senior Citizen Luncheon Donations for Xicotepc Donations Bicycle Donations Mentors for Crestview Elementary Students District 600 Conference Swingers Summit 3 |
Rotary Wheel, 2-7-12Wheel 2-7-12 There will be a board meeting before the 2-14-12 meeting. Mark your calendars for alternative sites during March, as Des Moines Golf will be closed!!!! Congratulations to Naura Godar on being a new member of the 40 under 40 Club!! (Naura thanked Linda Hulleman for writing a recommendation for her.) Tyler Brady, our 3 minute speaker, wins the prize for combining the most major life events in one year! Last year he got married, is now an expectant father of a son, and changed jobs. He has taken a position in C.B. Ellis/Hubbell Commercial Real Estate. On the side, Tyler is a referee for basketball games. Based on his knowledge of the rules in his quiz, we learned that he is always right! Our speaker, Stacy Sign (sp?), also had a quiz for us regarding the Blood Bank, which is now called Life Serve Blood Center. There are two locations in the Des Moines area, as well as locations in other areas of Iowa, and it supplies blood to 3 other states, as there are shortages on the East & West Coast. Since normal blood donations only last 3 to 5 days, there is constant need for donations. Newer machines, called "double red cell machines," enable donors to donate 2 units of blood at once. The average person who needs blood uses 3 units of blood, but I found it disturbing that 30% of blood transfusions are considered unnecessary, according to our speaker. In addition to the blood donations, LifeServe Blood Center has over 200 voluteers who prepare supplies, deliver blood & do clerical work. Blood drives organized by churches, companies & civic organizations supply half of the donated blood. Without increases in donors, however, by 2030, there will be widespread shortages. |
Club Bulletin for January 3, 2012 |
Bulletin for August 16, 2011 |
Bulletin for August 9, 2011 |
Bulletin for August 2, 2011 |
Bulletin for July 26, 2011Bulletin for July 26, 2011
|
Rotary Polio Sign on MarriottSign projected on Marriott Hotel during Rotary President's recent visit.
|
Fall Roadside CleanupA good turnout for the fall roadside cleanup. Thanks to all that helped. |
Fall Roadside Cleanup 2010A good turnout for the fall roadside cleanup. Thanks to all that helped. More pictures in Photo Journal. |
Wheel 10-12-10Rotary Wheel, Oct 12, 2010
Our guests included a school administrator who is a Rotarian in Germany, introduced by Roger Petersen & a guest from Arizona, introduced by Chris Nelson. While weather is still nice, Al Cross is wisely recruiting bell ringers for Sat Dec 4! Chris Nelson announced that Wildwood Ranch will be clearing debris from paths on Nov 6, so you may see him if you'd like to help out. On Nov 30, our meeting will be at Broadlawns Medical Center & we may car pool or go by bus, due to parking limitations there. Bob, how much was your concert on Sun? President Todd Wishman invited Cory Garrison & Dan Withrow to the podium to exchange their red badges for blue ones!
Cory Garrison served & sargeant today. He hails from Oklahoma, but spent most of his school years in West Des Moines, followed by graduation from Drake. His wife, Amy, is an elementary school teacher & they are proud parents of 3 young children. Cory worked in Chicago for GE Capital before joining Hamilton Executive Search Firm in Des Moines. Cory brought us some surprising statistics from his industry, including the fact that up to 80% of resume's have inaccurate information & up to 20% have fraudulent degrees.
Greg Kenyon introduced our guest speaker, Dr Rachael Cauldfield, a professor of political science at Drake. She was formerly with the Brookings Institute & is currently serving as research & program consultant to the American Judicature Society. Dr Cauldfield's purpose is to help inform voters understand how the merit selection of judges works and to relate its history. Merit selection of judges started in Iowa in 1962 with a committee who evaluates the applications and submits three names to the governor and he then selects a judge from this group. Every six years the judges are on the ballot for the public to vote on their retention. Iowa is fifth in the nation for being one of the most exemplary systems & for public accountability. The retention vote is not intended to retry the cases, as the juducial purpose is to decide cases based on the laws. The Chamber of Commerce supports merit selection of judges, as it is more ethical, is less controled by large donors to a campaign, & tends to have judges who are more effective. Other ways that a judge may be removed from office include impeachment by the House of Representatives or a recommendtion by the Superior Court.
After Dr Cauldfield's information, Greg Kenyon spoke on behalf of the judges currently on the ballot. As an experienced attorney in Des Moines, Greg pointed out that these judges are well-qualified for their positions and are exercising their duties on difficult & controversial cases and should be retained as judges.
|
Senator Grassley Visits |
Beijing Flag Exchange |
District Governor Visits |
Yuki and PaintballCheck out in the photos Yuki's paintball outing with Chris Nelson. More photos on the website. |
Yuki Football Game |
West Des Moines Rotary Wheel 7-21-09 |
Bulletin for 7/14/09 |
Xicotepec School Uniforms |
Bulletin for Novmeber 11, 2008WDM Rotary Bulletin 11/11/2009 |
Bulletin for 7/8/08Rotary Bulletin for 7/8/08
|
Bulletin for April 15, 2008Rotary Wheel for April 15, 2008 |
Bulletin for April 8, 2008Bulletin for April 8, 2008
|
October 30, 2007 bulletinBulletin for October 30, 2007
|
October 16, 2007 bulletinBulletin for October 16, 2007
|
October 2, 2007 BulletinOctober 2, 2007 Bulletin |
April 10Russ introduced the two guest speakers Dean of Engineering at UNI Barry Butler and the Dean of Engineering at ISU Mark Kushner.
The name of their presentation was Rising Above the Storm Energizing and Employing America for a brighter future
|
Rotary Wheel for March 27, 2007
|
March 20, 2007 Rotary Wheel |
March 13, 2007 BulletinMarch 13, 2007 Bulletin by William (Bill) Kalianov
|
No Meeting Tuesday, February 27th 2007 |
Bulletin for January 30, 2007Bulletin for West Des Moines RotaryJanuary 30, 2007
|
January 23, 2006 BulletinJanuary 23, Bulletin
|
12-19-06 Rotary Meeting |
Photos
Check out the Photo Journal Site. You might be in one of the pictures.
|
12-12-06 Meeting |
Rotary Meeting 12-5-06 |
Bulletin for December 5, 2006Bulletin for December 5, 2006.
|
Club Bulletin for November 28, 2006Club Bulletin for November 28, 2006
|
Rotary Meeting 11-7-06 |
Rotary Meeting 10-31-06 Program |
Christmas Bell Ringing Dec 2
Rotarians will ring the Salvation Army Bells December 2
|
CENTENNIAL PROJECT COMPLETED |
Bulletin for Election Day 2006Bulletin for November 7, 2006
|
Vocational Day on October 31, 2006Mark Critelli wants to remind everyone of the upcoming vocational day on October 31, 2006 at the Des Moines, Golf and Country Club. Its easy to show your business.
Call Mark at 255-8750
|
Last Weeks Program 10/17/2006Last Weeks Program (10-17-06)
Russ Ver Ploeg introduced Lisa Hein with Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation.
The mission for this foundation is: Protecting Iowa's land, water and wildlife for the future generation. She talked about current projects and the importance of having land protected or set up for recreational trails.
|
PANCAKE BREAKFAST BIG SUCCESSPANKCAKE BREAKFAST A BIG SUCCESS
|