Home Page | Rotary Club of Sterling

Sterling Noon Rotary - Everyone is welcome!

Service Above Self

We meet Tuesdays at 12:00 PM
The YWCA of the Sauk Valley

421 1st Avenue
Sterling, IL 61081
United States

District Site

Bulletins

Venue Map

Mark Mench

Jul 17, 2018

Greeters - Majeski & McCoy Sgt. at Arms - Meminger & Mitchell Invocation - Munson

Chris Mitchell

Jul 24, 2018

Greeters - Munson & Mench Sgt. at Arms - Ortgiesen & Pettenger Invocation - Schlomer

Steve Munson

Jul 31, 2018

Greeters - Porter & Potthoff Sgt. at Arms - Saunders & Schlomer Invocation - Coester

Dave Murray

Aug 07, 2018

Scott Porter

Aug 14, 2018

Gunnar Ortgiesen

Aug 21, 2018

Club Assembly

Aug 28, 2018

Pat Pettenger

Sep 04, 2018

District Governor

Sep 11, 2018

Ron Potthoff

Sep 18, 2018

Loren Schlomer

Sep 25, 2018

Ed Saunders

Oct 02, 2018

Tim Schwingle

Oct 09, 2018

Ray Sharp

Oct 16, 2018

Russ Siefken

Oct 23, 2018

Russ Spitzer

Oct 30, 2018

Mike Sprague

Nov 06, 2018

Festival of Trees

Nov 13, 2018

Ed Andersen

Nov 20, 2018

Jan Andersen

Nov 27, 2018

Jon Berens

Dec 04, 2018

John Berge

Dec 11, 2018

Christina Berry

Dec 18, 2018

NO MEETING

Dec 25, 2018

NO MEETING

Jan 01, 2019

View entire list...

News & Notes - July 10, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $57- great job - Dave M. & Larry

50/50 - $89 No Winner Today

Guests -Leo Patterson from Dixon Rotary and Josh Johnson - new director of WACC and guest of Jerry Binder

Brice Taylor - outbound exchange student

Program -

Dirk Meminger introduced Kris Noble for the Sauk Valley Area Chamber. Kris presented information on the "Millenial Project" This project goal is to identify the interests of this generation to draw them and retain them in the Sauk Valley Area. A panel of 21 - 35 year olds was established and items wee identified that would be important to this generation. Such as; high speed internet - an investment in youth and youth activities - support for entrepreneurs - night life other than "bars". Seems like a worthwhile endeavor for the chamber to participate in.

Thanks Kris & Dirk.

Club Assembly on Aug. 28 - mark your calendars and plan to attend
Please get your programs to Carolyn in advance so we can include in the newsletter.

"Be the Inspiration"

News & Notes - July 3, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $100 - great job - Dave M. & Dave L.

50/50 - $81 No Winner Today

Guests - Cassidy Heffelfinger - guest of Ed Andersen winner of our Rotary $500 scholarship to SVCC.

Program -

Dana McCoy presented an informative program on their trip to France. Her son is in the marching Band at UNCC and they were invited to play at a celebratory event in Normandy marking the 74th anniversary of the invasion at Normandy.

Next year marks the 75th anniversary of this historical event and France has planned elaborate events to honor those who invaded Normandy as a part of Operation Overlord to get the Allied armies onto the continent of Europe. I think we all felt moved as we were reminded of the lives lost in the fight for freedom.

We are still needing to add another board member - please let Christy know if you are interested.

Please get your programs to Carolyn in advance so we can include in the newsletter.

"Be the Inspiration"

News & Notes - June 26, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes -

50/50 - $69 No Drawing today

Kevin Heller will be moving off the board at the end of June and we will still need another board member. Please see Mike or Christy if interested
Please get your programs to Carolyn in advance so we can include in the newsletter.

News & Notes - June 19, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $132

50/50 - $69 No Winner today

Guests - Leo Patterson from Dixon Rotary, Stacy McCaskill, guest of David Hellmich, Dir. of Small Business /Economic Outreach at SVCC- Courtney White from First Federal Bank, guest of Scott Porter, Nick Olds CGH intern and guest of Dana McCoy and Brice Taylor, Outbound Exchange Student

Program:

Dave Lowe introduced Kim Smeja, leading the fundraising team to restore the Blackhawk Statue. the concrete statue was erected in 1908 and has deteriorated over the years. While it continues to be a popular tourist attraction for cur area, it is in need of restoration. The Black Hawk team has been established to lead this project. $500,000 is needed to continue the restoration project and ensure sustainability for generations to come. Here are some ways you can donate:

1. - Credit card https://www.ilcf.org/portal/fundraisers?PFR=8 - complete the donor page

2. Send donations to Oregon Together/Black Hawk team PO Box 574, Oregon, IL 61061

3. Contact Kim at 815-994-0803 or email to iamcowgirl54@gmail.com

thanks for a great program!

Announcements:

Welcome to Barb Majeski, our club's newest board member.
Kevin Heller will be moving off the board at the end of June and we will still need another board member. Please see Mike or Christy if interested.
Note - Rock Falls Rotary club will be meeting off site on June 25 @ Rotary Park in Rock Falls
Please get your programs to Carolyn in advance so we can include in the newsletter.

News & Notes - June 12, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $128

50/50 - $57 No Winner today

Guests - Leo Patterson from Dixon Rotary, Roger Wait from Sunrise Rotary and Brice Taylor, Outbound Exchange Student

Program:

Nick Lareau introduced member Gary Camarano who spoke about introducing Solar Power to Whiteside County utilizing the landfill property. Great job Nick & Gary.

Announcements:

Thank you to all who worked the BBQ on June 5. Financial update provided soon.
Kevin Heller will be moving off the board at the end of June and we need a board member. Please see Mike or Christy if interested.
Note - Rock Falls Rotary club will be meeting off site on June 25 @ Rotary Park in Rock Falls
Please get your programs to Carolyn in advance so we can include in the newsletter.

News & Notes - May 29 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $83

50/50 - $50 No Winner today

Guests - Leo Patterson from Dixon Rotary, Doug Kruzan, Associate Pastor of Worship at Abiding Word Church, guest of Scott Porter

Program:

Willie Hewitt introduced Tim Pletkovich, author of "Civil War Fathers:Sons of Civil War in World War II

Tim provided us the background story of his book which originated from a class project of his middle school students. The book is comprised of narratives of WWII veterans whose actual fathers fought eighty years earlier in the American civil War. Incredible historical stories. Thanks Willie and Tim for an enjoyable program.

Announcements:

Noon Rotary BBQ on June 5 - Ticket price: $7. Each member is asked to sell or purchase at least 10 tickets. Also, don't forget to sign up to help that day.
Kevin Heller will be moving on the board at the end of June and we need a board member. Please see Mike if interested.
YWCA Entrance - The doors to the YWVCA will be locked at all times. To enter the building, press the buzzer, and you will hear a chirp, which means the door has unlocked for opening. To exit the building, press the green button to your left.
Note - Rock Falls Rotary club will be meeting off site on June 25 @ Rotary Park in Rock Falls
Please get your programs to Carolyn in advance so we can include in the newsletter.

News & Notes - May 22, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $67

50/50 - $50 No Winner today

Guests - Leo Patterson from Dixon Rotary, Mike Sullivan, guest of Jerry Binder

Program:

Wolf Koch presented today. He provided a very interesting program on energy, specifically relating to Biofuel Mandates and Energy Cost and Pricing. I am certain we all learned new information from his presentation. Thank Wolf!

Announcements:

Noon Rotary BBQ on June 5 - Ticket price: $7. Each member is asked to sell or purchase at least 10 tickets. Also, don't forget to sign up to help that day.
Kevin Heller will be moving on the board at the end of June and we need a board member. Please see Mike if interested.
YWCA Entrance - The doors to the YWVCA will be locked at all times. To enter the building, press the buzzer, and you will hear a chirp, which means the door has unlocked for opening. To exit the building, press the green button to your left.
Note - Rock Falls Rotary club will be meeting off site on June 25 @ Rotary Park in Rock Falls
Please get your programs to Carolyn in advance so we can include in the newsletter.

News & Notes - May 15, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $96

50/50 - $50 No Winner today

Guests - Leo Patterson from Dixon Rotary and Brice Taylor,outbound exchange student.

Program -

Tom Jensen introduced Korey Gabler of Steel River Systems in Rock Falls. This business is located in the former Rocket Lanes in Rock Falls. Korey owns and operates this company which is a call center that collects on delinquent student loans. The business has 50 employees and currently has responsibility to collect on 750 million dollars of past due student loans. Korey did an excellent job in explaining their process and the regulations they must follow to ensure compliance. Thanks Korey & Tom for an excellent program.

Announcements:

Noon Rotary BBQ on June 5 - Ticket price no $7. Each member is asked to sell or purchase at least 10 tickets. Also, don't forget to sign up to help that day.
Note - Rock Falls Rotary club will be meeting off site on June 25 @ Rotary Park in Rock Falls
Please get your programs to Carolyn in advance so we can include in the newsletter.

News & Notes-May 8, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $95

50/50 - No Winner today

Guests - Greg Brown, guest of John Berge - Leo Patterson from Dixon Rotary and Brice Taylor,outbound exchange student.

Deb Kelly and Mitch Lower from NHS and Jeff Gale from SHS

Students from SHS led the meeting today, assuming responsibilities as President, Secretary, Greeters and Sgt at Arms.

Students from NHS presented excerpts from their musical Shrek. Very enjoyable.

Great Job students and congratulations on your successful year as seniors at your respective schools.

Announcements:

Please get your programs to Carolyn in advance so we can include in the newsletter.
Upcoming Events:
Noon Rotary BBQ on June 5 - more info to come.
Note - Rock Falls Rotary club will be meeting off site at the following sites on the following dates:
June 25 - Rotary Park in Rock Falls

News & Notes - April 10, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $59

50/50 - $63 - No winner today

Guests - Leo Patterson - DX Rotary, Brandon Schreiner, guest of John Berge and Brice Taylor, outbound exchange student.

Student Guests - NHS - Jillian Roe & Natalie Amezola

SHS - Chloe Halverson, Mitchell Petrosky, Cara Alexander, Richard Jones

Program: Reed Hutchcraft introduced Dale Pfundstein. Dale spoke about his cattle operation with 1500 cattle on feed daily. He and his partners have reopened the former rock River Provision butcher shop on Rte. 30 in Rock Falls, Open 9 - 6, M-F and 9 - 1 on Sat. You can purchase frozen pies, bundled boxes of various cuts of beef. A brand new item are the smoked roasts. They sell to restaurants as also participate in fundraisers for local not for profits. Thanks for a great program.

News & Notes - April 3, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $86

50/50 - No 50/50 today

Guests - John Mandrell - Sunrise Rotarian - Shane Beckman from Raymond James guest of John Berge and Brice Taylor,outbound exchange student.

Student Guests - NHS - Jillian Rowe & Natalie Amazola

Program: Lee Kraut introduced Dan Hawkins, Chairman of White Eagle Boy Scout District.

Dan provided updates; Introducing a Lion Program for pre-cub scouts for kindergarten age youth. Girls are now able to be in boy scouts beginning with 1st grade age. Thanks for a great program.

News & Notes - March 27, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $59

50/50 - $50- no winner today

Guests - Leo Patterson - Dixon Rotary; Cheryl Faber - RF Rotary club - Cheryl announced Relay for Life on June 2 at Hinders Field in RF and asked for our club to sponsor as we have in years past.

Student Guests - No student guests today

Program: David Hellmich introduced Steve Nunez and Katelyn Brown from the Rotaract club at Sauk Valley College.

This club is relatively new and is sponsored by our club, Twin cities Sunrise, Rock Falls and Dixon Clubs. The club has 2 ideals; Development Professional and Leadership skills and Service Above Self. They also have service projects planned such as reading to students in the Morrison Schools and held a book drive so the kids may keep the books. Planting Trees at Sauk Valley college which is a Rotary Goal as well. Thanks for a great program.

News & Notes - March 20., 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $69 Thanks to Tim & Ray

50/50 - $50- no winner today

Guests - Brice Taylor - Outbound Exchange Student

Student Guests - NHS - Lindsay Oswalt & Hannah Wilson SHS - Turner Garcia & Sebastian Herren.

Announcements: Brice has had contact with his host family and learned he will actually be living in a village in the south of France called Pennautier.

Program: David Hellmich introduced a panel of individuals discussing the Sauk Valley Community Leadership Program. David indicated the program runs from August through May and includes the following: Direct experience with community topics like economic development and local/state government; public speaking, strategic planning and a volunteer project. John G. was one of the instructors and spoke about his curriculum which was using a real life situation and providing interactive discussion with the class. Shannon Richter, was a student in the class and spoke about her experience in the class. she indicated all of the classes were very helpful for her new position as CEO of SBM. Thanks Dave, John & Shannon.

News & Notes - March 6,2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $108 - Thanks to Tim & Ray

50/50 - $50-

Guests - Brice Taylor - Outbound Exchange Student

Student Guests -

Brook Richardson, Carter Giering, Cassidy Templeton

Program: Tim Schwingle introduced Matt Birdsley, Principal of Challand Middle School to provide an update on the new addition at CMS. The new addition is approximately 51,000 Square Feet and will house a new gymnasium as well as space to house the fine arts programs. This additional space allows the CMS student athletes who have been practicing at Westwood to stay at CMS for practice which allows for students to finish earlier in the evening. It also allows for multiple games and practices to take place at the same time without the students having to travel off campus. Sounds like a much needed addition. Thanks Matt & Tim.

News and Notes - March 13, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $105 - Thanks to Tim & Ray

50/50 - $50- no winner today

Guests - Brice Taylor - Outbound Exchange Student

Student Guests - Turner Garcia, Sebastion Herren, Jozlin Garcia, Hannah Wilson, Elizabeth Oswalt

Announcements: Brice, with his parents attended his Outbound Orientation over the weekend and learned he will be going to Lamoix in the South of France. He will arrive there on August 28 to begin his adventure.

Christina Berry provided follow-up info on Unite Service Camp - local mission program for local youth sponsored by several local churches. She distributed a flyer and sponsorship information to the club.

Program: Kevin Heller introduced Clark Mortensen, candidate for Whiteside County Sheriff. Clark comes from a family of law enforcement, his father being an Illinois State Trooper. His goals are to Protect the Safety and Security of Residents; Expand and Create County Programs; Build Relationships and Resource Networks. Thanks Clark and Kevin.

News & Notes - Feb. 27, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $89 - Thanks to Jim and John for your efforts

50/50 - $56-

Guests - Brice Taylor - Outbound Exchange Student

Guest Rotarians -Leo Patterson - Dixon Rotary - Alan P.& Darryl Wahler from Sunrise Rotary

Other Guest - Teresa Knie - Parent of guest speaker

Student Guests -

NHS - Brook Richardson, Carter Giering, Cassidy Templeton

SHS - Madison Cornwell, Mitch Clodfelter

New Member: Trish Klaver, Executive Director of the YMCA in Sterling, was inducted into Rotary. We thank her and welcome her into our club and the Rotary experience.

Program: John G. introduced Keeley Knie. Keely participated in a mission trip called "World Race" in 2017. She visited 11 countries in 11 months. Prior to the trip she participated in a 10 day training to prepare. While on her trip, they connected with other organizations to help others and share gospel. She shared with us that the experience brought her closer to her faith and allowed her to better appreciate the blessings of living in the United States. She witnessed much poverty and living conditions unlike anything in America. Thank you for sharing this remarkable experience.

News & Notes - February 20, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $165 - funds raised will be used to send Brice to RYLA

50/50 - $204- Congratulations to Brice Taylor - Outbound Exchange Student for Next School Year

Guests - Brice Taylor - Outbound Exchange Student

Guest Rotarians -Leo Patterson - Dixon Rotary - still has Shrimp Boil Tickets available

Student Guests from NHS shared their future plans- Hannah N.- Computer Science and/or Cyber Operations & Abby Felps - Psychology and/or Behavioral science

Program: Pastor Christina Berry spoke about a new local mission program in the Sauk Valley. 5 area churches have come together to support a program called "Unite Service Camp". This is an opportunity for local youth to experience mission work in their community. The first camp is scheduled for June 5 - 8 and the project goal is to paint 5 houses in 3 days. The youth will stay at Bethel Reformed church during the experience. The churches are anticipating the cost to be $14,000 for supplies, and resources and seeking donations. The motto for this mission experience is" Love God, Serve Your Neighbors, and Unite Churches." Thank you for sharing.

News & Notes - February 13, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $37

50/50 - $184- No Winner Today - Only One Card Remaining

Guests - Brice Taylor - Outbound Exchange Student

Guest Rotarians - Darryl Wahler - Sunrise Club

Student Guests - NHS - Hannah N. & Abby Felps

Program: Gary Camarano introduced Kim Ewoldsen, Executive Director of Morrison Area Development Corp. Kim spoke to an exciting program whose goal it is to "Promote Morrison as a regional arts' destination by providing a venue for local artists, to create, promote and sell original art and to foster arts' education through lessons and programs." They have created LOFT 112, a new facility in Morrison where this goal will be accomplished. They have currently 27 artists showing their work in LOFT 112, and are adding additional artists quickly. The Loft is a membership organization and Kim distributed a brochure which lists the different levels of membership available. To find out more information call 815-772-4005. Thanks Gary & Kim for sharing.

News and Notes - February 6, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $120

50/50 - $173- No Winner Today

Guests - Brice Taylor - Outbound Exchange Student to France for next school year.

Guest Rotarians - Bob S. from RF Rotary, selling their annual raffle tickets. Roger Wait and Alan P. from Twin cities Sunrise Club. Leo Patterson from Dixon Rotary.

Student Guests - SHS - Stella Luna & Kassidy Kenney

NHS - Cael Sanders and Haylee Verdick

Program: Steve Munson introduced Jana Groharing, Executive Director of Sterling Main Street and Sterling Today. Jana shared that SMS needs volunteers to help with the many events such at the Wine Walk and Hops on the Rock and the Spring Green and Clean taking place at the end of April. Sterling Today was instrumental in turning the Lawrence building into residential lofts and at this point all have been rented. The have also been renovating the old Mercantile Building (Bose Building). It is ready for occupancy and is designed for primarily retail space on the first level. Use for the upper level has yet to be determined. Thanks Jana for providing an update on all that Sterling Main Street and Sterling today are doing to improve our community.

News & Notes - January 30, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $83

50/50 - $159- No Winner Today

Guests - Brice Taylor - Outbound Exchange Student to France for next school year.

Guests Rotarian - Bob Songderoth from RF Rotary, selling their annual raffle tickets. He will be back next week.

Student Guests - SHS - Joseph Sivits, Jerry Rodriguez & Kassidy Kenney

NHS - Catalina Desmond, Hayley Verdick and Cael Sanders

Program:

Chris Mitchell introduced Kris Schmidt, candidate for Whiteside County Sheriff and Rachel Crandall his campaign manager. Kris told us about his transition to Sterling from DeWitt, Iowa in 2001 and in 2009 he was promoted to Sergeant. Two big problems facing Whiteside County are Opiod usage and a need for continued training/education. Kris is married with 6 children and is passionate about his service in law enforcement.

Thanks for a great program.

News & Notes - January 23, 2017

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $46

50/50 - $147- No Winner Today

Guests - Brice Taylor - Outbound Exchange Student to France for next school year.

Student Guests from SHS - Joseph Sivitz (sp?) & Jerry Rodriguez

Program:

Jerry Binder introduced a panel to talk about the ne Manufacturing & Technology program at WACC. In partnership with SVCC and area manufacturers there has been an effort to educate the public, students and adults about the opportunity for manufacturing jobs in the Sauk Valley. WACC & SVCC have invested in purchasing two CNC (Computer Numerical Controlled Machinery) for WACC. This partnership allows area students/adults to attend classes in the manufacturing/technology area and to intern at participating companies in the area. This program helps to develop skilled workers for the available jobs in this industry within our own communities. Panel consisted of Josh West of SVCC, Steve Beerdman, WACC instructor, John G. from Frantz with input from Jerry Binder and Dave Hellmich. We are the first in Illinois to have such a progressive program and hopefully will be something others will model after.

thanks for a great program.

News & Notes January 9, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - No Collection Today

50/50 - $128-

Guests - Brice Taylor - Outbound Exchange Student for next school year. Brice just discovered he will be going to France.

Many, many guests today, too numerous to list, attended to hear the program on Ag education at SHS

Program:

John Berge introduced Elise Baker, Ag Ed instructor at SHS and Jessica Smith. They shared some great information about ag education at SHS and the depth of knowledge in many areas which leads to employment opportunities in several fields.

Students, Haley Schmidt, Brooke Linton and Zach Witmer, all members of the FFA club at SHS each spoke about the learning opportunities available as a result of this program and FFA membership. Thanks John for a very informative and interesting program.

News & Notes Dec. 12, 2017

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $118.92

50/50 - $115-

Guests - Brice Taylor - Outbound Exchange Student for next year

Dan, Executive Director of Timberlake Playhouse

Paul, the new Creative Director of Timberlake Playhouse and his wife, Felicia -

LuAnn Gvozdjak - Kathy Binder - Janet Clites, Office Administrator for the Big Red Church

Weston Henry - Musical Director at SHS

Alex shared his experiences from the prior week. This was Alex's last meeting and we wish him well on his travels back to Taiwan and his pending knee surgery.

Program:

SHS Madrigals - What a talented group of young people. Very enjoyable concert!

News & Notes Dec. 5, 2017

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $58

50/50 - $96-

Guests - Brice Taylor - Outbound Exchange Student for next year

Alex shared his experiences from the prior week. He went to Chicago with the Taylor family and helped with the Boy Scout Tree unloading and enjoyed the sights. He shared that he will be leaving in early January to have surgery on hi torn ACL. We are still seeking activities for Alex during the time he is here. Ideas are: Invites to dinner (likes spicy) movie, playing video games, sporting events and day trips would be very welcomed. If any one is traveling over winter break, Alex would be thrilled to be included even at his own expense.

Program:

Ed Anderson introduced Dr. Paul Steinke, CEO of CGH Medical Center - Dr. Steinke shared some information about CGH, such as being the largest employer in the area with 1500 employees and that they are a municipally owned hospital, one of three in IL. During employee orientation they impress that CGH is in the business of caring and often the care provided is a defining moment in a patient/family life. We are fortunate to have a state of the art and caring medical center in our community.

News & Notes - Nov. 28, 2017

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $58

50/50 - $96-

Guests - Leo Patterson - DX Rotary, Brice Taylor - Outbound Exchange Student for next year

Alex shared his experiences from the prior week. He also shared that he had an MRI on his injured knee and the diagnosis is a torn ACL which requires surgery. His plan is to go home in January and have the surgery in Taiwan. In the meantime he will remain with his current host family. We are seeking activities for Alex during the time he is here. Ideas are:

Invites to dinner (likes spicy) movie, playing video games, sporting events and day trips would be very welcomed. If any one is traveling over winter break, Alex would be thrilled to be included even at his own expense.

Program:

Ed Anderson introduced Heather Sotelo, Executive Director of the GSDC. Heather told us the GSDC evolved from the Sterling Industrial Commission that is still in existence. one of the reasons for its formation is as a 501c3 which has no requirements to comply with the Open Meetings Act which helps to ensure privacy of discussions. She also shared they are moving a warehouse on the former NWSW property to the meadowlands to be used as warehouse space for local business. Heather also updated up on other projects taking place in Sterling. Very informative - thank you Heather.