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

Jan Andersen

Nov 20, 2018

Greeters - Koch & Lareau Sgt. at Arms - Lowe & Majeski Invocation - Munson

Ed Andersen

Nov 27, 2018

Greeters - McCoy & Meminger Sgt. at Arms - Mench & Mitchell Invocation - Schlomer

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 and Notes - Nov. 6, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Secretary was absent so no meeting information available.

Boots & Shoes -

50/50 - $50

Guests -

Student Guests -

Fritiof - Fritiof moving to new host family, the Schlegels.

Program - Mike Sprague introduced Colonel Michael Friedlin, a 1974 graduate of SHS. Michael gave our Veteran's Day program.

News & Notes - Oct. 30, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $118

50/50 - $50

Guests - Leo Patterson, Dixon Rotary - Roger Wait, Sunrise Rotary- LuAnn & Katie Gvozdjak,Patty Berge and Mark Humphreys

Student Guests - SHS - Samantha Hibbard, Gracie Trader, Andrew Iverson

Fritiof - Fritiof reported his Orchestra concert is Oct. 30 @ 7:30 at Centennial Auditorium. He will be changing host families, moving to the Schlegels.

Program - Russ Spitzer introduced our own John G.. John recently was a guest on a refueling mission at Grissom Air reserve Base in Indiana. James Bushman a punch press operator at Frantz Mfg. nominated John. John was one of several in a group that were able to take part in this exciting event. Frantz Mfg. was also recognized for participating in the ESGR program, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve. John spoke about the Frantz commitment to veterans and active reserves that are employed at Frantz. Thanks John and Russ for a very interesting program.

News and Notes - Oct. 23, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $188

50/50 - $50

Guests - Leo Patterson, Dixon Rotary - Bill Shaw- Bob Sondgeroth, RF Rotary

Student Guests - SHS - Lauren Humphreys, Genea Garza,

NHS - Madison Craft, Isaac Blaney

Fritiof - Orchestra concert is Oct. 30 @ 7:30 at Centennial Auditorium. Attended a Stingray swim meet in Peoria. Was presented a t-shirt from member Christina Berry from her trip to Dodge City, KS, her home town.

Program - Russ Siefken introduced Jennifer Heintzelman GM at Sauk Valley Media. Jennifer shared with us about the many changes the newspaper has undergone over the years. Thanks Jennifer & Russ.

News & Notes - Oct. 16, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $95

50/50 - $50

Guests - Leo Patterson, Dixon Rotary - Jana Jacobs, guest of Chris Mitchell, Jim Olson, Don's son, Paul Steinke

Student Guests - SHS - Lauren Humphreys, Genea Garza, Trevor Carroll

NHS - Maddy Jacobs, Spencer Mock

Fritiof - Fritiof shared that he was elected president of the orchestra board. Played at the SHS invitational, played int he regional soccer game.

Program - Ray Sharp introduced Jim Boesen from the AARP tax aide organization. This group of volunteers provides tax preparation to those in need. Jim has been involved for 20 years of the 50 years in service. They are at the YWCA on Thursdays from 11 - 4 and the Whiteside Senior Center on Mondays from 10 - 4 and in Dixon on Mondays & Thursdays. Annually they do 2,000 tax returns for those needing assistance. They could use more volunteers and begin recruiting in Dec. with a 1-2 day training held in January. Thanks Jim for being involved in this important organization and for sharing your story.

News & Notes - Oct. 9, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Due to Club Secretary being out of town last week this is an abbreviated newsletter.

50/50 -

Fun & Frolic -

Program -

Tim Schwingle took club members on a tour of the Challand Middle school new addition. - Thanks Tim

News & Notes - Sept. 25, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

50/50 - $50-

Fun & Frolic - $48

Guests - Inbound student Fritiof - Leo from Dixon Rotary - Roger Wait from Sunrise Rotary

Student Guests -

NHS - Shay Hafner & Meagan Moore

SHS - Carter Kenney, Josh O'Brien, Madison Anderson, Sierra Villarreal

Fritiof shared with us his prior week activities, which included joining other SHS orchestra students in playing with the Clonton Symphony at Centennial Auditorium. He will be attending homecoming with Kaitelyn Grell. He also demonstrated a CUBS alarm clock he received at the CUB game which plays "GoCubsGo". He also came in costume as it was "cartoon character" day at SHS for homecoming.

Program -

Loren Schlomer introduced Lauren Wills who is a chiropractor and a member of the Sunrise Rotary. Lauren is on the board of "Friends of Hennepin Canal" and spoke about the work the group is doing in raising funds to repair Lock 33, on the feeder canal in Rock Falls along with two other locks on the Hennepin. They are holding an Ultra Running event beginning Oct. 6. Three races, 100mile, 50K and 50 miles. they have 450 runners enrolled in the race. The group has raised $25,000 to date and hope to repair Lock 33 first working with the IDNR to accomplish this. Thanks for sharing Loren & Lauren!

News & Notes - Oct. 2, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

50/50 - $50- Dave Lowe Winner - Donated $25 back to club - thanks Dave

Fun & Frolic - $91

Guests - Inbound student Fritiof - Dr. Paul Steinke-guest of Dana, Brian Tribley - guest of Jeff

Student Guests - SHS - Amber Kuhn

Fritiof shared his prior week activities, which included attending the Homecoming parade,game. He thanked Tim for his End Polio Now t-shirt which he will wear during the Oct. 13 walk. He is running for president of the orchestra board.

Program -

Ed Saunders introduced Stephanie Englund a substance abuse counselor from Sinnissippi Centers. Stephanie spoke about the recovery house recently opened for men. It is a 10 bed home which serves as an inpatient residence for men post their 28 day treatment. She explained that after completing treatment it is important that individuals have a safe place to continue their recovery. They hope to be able to open one for women in the future. Thanks Ed & Stephanie.

News & Notes - Sept. 18, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

50/50 - $50-

Fun & Frolic - $71

Guests - Inbound student Fritiof - Leo from Dixon Rotary - Dr. Paul Steinke guest of Dana, Mike Smith, guest of Reed Hutchcraft

Student Guests -

NHS - Shay Hafner & Megan Moore

SHS - Carter Kenney, Joshua B., Madison Anderson, Sierra Villareal

Fritiof shared with us his prior week activities, which included attending a CUB game and although they lost, he had a great time. attended cheese days, and spoke to the Kiwanis club in Sterling.

Program -

Ron Potthoff introduced Tekla Martin of the Sterling Police Dept. and comfort dog, Brinkley. Tekla explained that when the K-9 dog retired, the dept. decided to replace him with Brinkley. Brinkley attends community events, provides comfort to youth and adults involved in traumatic events, and goes regularly to April House to support the children. Brinkley came from a highly regarded trainer in Kalamazoo, MI. After learning how Brinkley was to be utilized the trainer began looking for pups with behavioural characteristics that would make a good comfort dog. Brinkley was one of a litter of 10 pups and exhibited calm and comforting traits. The trainer thought she would be perfect for her role with SPD and that has proven too be accurate. Everyone had an opportunity to pet Brinkley which she loved. Thanks Tekla!

News & Notes - Sept. 11, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

50/50 - $50-

Fun & Frolic - $82

Guests - Inbound student Fritiof & Dr. Paul Steinke guest of Dana, Cheryl Faber, Assistant District Governor.

NHS - David Swegle & Mary Powers

SHS - Nathaniel Stout, Zaina Rumbolz, Tiara Munoz & Katelyn Grell

Fritiof shared with us his prior week activities, which included playing in his first home soccer game at SHS and attending the first home football game which he is he learning more about. He thanked Kevin Heller as Kevin will be taking Fritiof to a CUBS game on Wednesday.

Program -

Christie introduced our District Governor, Kathy Kwiat-Hess from Rockford to a standing ovation. Kathy's background is a retired clinical social worker and one of her proudest and most impactful moments in her life was going to New York after 9/11 providing mental health services.

Kathy spoke to us about our responsibility to engage in Rotary and encourage membership. She shared this year's theme which is "Be the Inspiration" . She explained the logo to us, indicating the blue swirls represent waves which are forces of nature with a heart inside indicating the heart of rotary and a sail on the outside, all of these symbols represent that "Rotarians Move with Heart and Direction". Thank you Kathy for an inspiring message.

News & Notes - Sept. 4, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

50/50 - $50-

Fun & Frolic - $82

Guests - Inbound student Fritiof & Dr. Paul Steinke guest of Dana

NHS - David Swegle & Mary Powers

SHS - Nathaniel Stout, Zaina Rumbolz, Tiara Munoz & Katelyn Grell

Fritiof shared with us his prior week activities, which included riding on a golf cart checking out farmland and buildings, horror film marathon and soccer.

Program -

Pat Pettenger introduced Sarah McFarlane, Adult Education Program Director and Laura Moreno, project VITAL Coordinator.

Sarah has been at SVCC for 8 yrs and spoke about the AED program. Program is funded through state and federal grants. Included offering opportunities such as ;

GED completion, assisting with citizenship application, basic educational skills, learning English.

Some goals of AED are to assist students with becoming more employable, assisting parents in a successful partner in their children's education, improving a students participation in the community. This program had 40 GED grads last year.

Laura spoke about her work with Project VITAL beginning with her background- Laura came to the US from Mexico 8 years ago. During this time, she learned English, completed an Associate's at Sauk and completed a Bachelor's degree through Western IL University. She now leads the Vital program.

The goal of VITAL is to assist individuals to learn to read or improve their reading skills. Students are considered completing the program when they can read at the 9th grade level. This program is in great need of tutors. A flyer is attached to the bulletin about the fall VITAL training.

Thanks Pat and Dave for another great program.

News & Notes Aug. 28, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

50/50 - $50- Greg King was the winner today!

Fun & Frolic - $139 - great job today!

Guests - Inbound student Fritiof -

Christy read a lovely note from Brice thanking the club for the opportunity to go to France as an exchange student.

The basket was passed for a collection for St. Jude ride and $80 was collected which will be forwarded to Bob Sondgeroth.

Program -

Club Assembly- Christy led a lively discussion on club goals. Items discussed were:

Why as individuals did we join Rotary?
What does Rotary do?
What are our membership goals?
What are our donation priorities?
Cost of membership.
Financial responsibilities of members.
Weekly duty responsibilities of members.
Members suggested club socials where prospective members may be invited.

Thank you Christy for leading this important discussion.

News & Notes - Aug. 21, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

50/50 - $172- Josh Johnson was the big winner today! Congratulations!

Fun & Frolic - $172 - great job today!

Guests - Brice Taylor, outbound exchange student and Fritiof Fagergren inbound student om Sweden. Mr. & Mrs. Tom Burns - Leo Patterson of Dixon Rotary and Josh Johnson, prospective member, of WACC

Fritiof shared with us his activities of the past week which included, a plane ride with pilot Dave Murrary, Joining the soccer team, and attending Gardenstock.

Brice shared a few words with us, thanking us for his opportunity to be our club's exchange student to France. Brice will be leaving for France on Tuesday, Aug. 28. We wish him Bon Voyage and good times.

Program -

Gunnar introduced Bob Sondgeroth. Bob spoke about the St. Jude's ride he participates in. A group of bikers raise money for st. Jude's children's hospital by obtaining donations and riding their motorcycles from Rock Falls to Memphis, where St. Jude's is located. 100% of funds raised go directly to St. Jude's hospital. Families of patients treated at St. Jude's never receive a bill for treatment, housing or food. Thank you Bob for your commitment to this worthy cause. Bob's goal is to raise $5,000 this year and donations may be sent to Bob's home at 2202 Scott Street in Rock Falls.

News & Notes - Aug. 14, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

50/50 - $158 - No winner today!

Fun & Frolic - $213 - great job today!

Guests - Brice Taylor, outbound exchange student and Fritiof Fagergren inbound student om Sweden.

Scott Porter's parents and his wife, Terry in attendance. Our Speaker's wife, Diane and his parents, Mr. & Mrs. Lindsley. Mayors Skip Lee and Bill Wescott. One of our scholarship winners, Tanner Dornan. Phil Hartman and Michael Krabenhoff of Sauk Valley Media. Nathan Wright, youth pastor at Abiding Word Church.

Program -

Brigadier General Walter Lindsley of the US Air Force spoke to us today. He took us through his military beginning with his entering the Air Force immediately after graduating from Rock Falls High School. His distinguished career took him to many countries and missions throughout the world and now to a few weeks from retirement. His message included sharing his time at the Pentagon on September 11, 2001. This is a day that we will never forget yet could not imagine what it would have been like for those directly under attack. His story was powerful, emotional and riveting. September 11 caused many of us to reevaluate our lives including the General. He left us with this message "Cherish each day and live each day being the best version of yourself." Thank you Brigadier general Walter Lindsley

Sterling Noon Rotary - July 24, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $97

50/50 - $111 - No winner today!

Guests -Brice Taylor - outbound exchange student, Cheryl Faber - from RF Rotary, Josh Johnson-WACC director and potential new member

Program -

Chris Mitchell introduced Gavin Jensen, Education Reporter from Sauk Valley Media and son of Rotarian Tom Jensen.

Gavin shared with us how he became interested in journalism through a Media class at UW at Platteville. He spoke about his responsibilities as an education reporter for our local newspaper. His career aspirations are to advance at the paper and/or teach the same class that peaked his interest in the industry. We are happy to have Gavin back in our community

Announcements:

Brad has sent out dues statements via email - please let us know if you did not receive yours. Brad would appreciate prompt payment.
Upcoming Rotary dates:
- Aug. 7 @ 7:30 pm Rotary Night at Timberlake Playhouse-
- Oct. 13 - End Polio Walk at centennial Park in RF - registration begins at 8am
- Oct. 13 - #1 of 3 grant trainings at CGH 9am - noon
- Nov. 10 - Foundation Dinner at Brandywine 4 - 10pm
Please get your programs to Carolyn in advance so we can include in the newsletter.

"Be the Inspiration"

News & Notes - July 31, 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes - $110 50/50 - $121 - No winner today!

Guests -Brice Taylor - outbound exchange student, Leo Patterson from Dixon Rotary, Josh Johnson-WACC director and potential new member, Brice Olson, guest of Gunnar Ortgieson

Program -

Steve Munson introduced Jim Spencer, Executive Director of the Sterling Schools Foundation. Jim spoke about the evolution of the foundation supporting both sports and academics at Sterling Public Schools. Golden Warrior TV has been a successful venture for the foundation with sports and arts broadcast regularly and patrons subscribing for a modest fee. This helps for raise funds for things like the Imacs used by students grades 6 - 12. A current project is the video scoreboard that will be installed at the north end of the stadium at SHS. Jim presented sponsorship opportunities for businesses to advertise on the scoreboard. The Sterling Schools Foundation is a huge asset to Sterling schools. Thanks Jim for your leadership.

News & Notes - July 17 - 2018

Posted by Carolyn Spencer

Boots & Shoes -

50/50 - $102

Guests -

Program -

Mark Mench introduced Tyrell Staelens of Midwest Activity Productions a new chamber member.

Brad has sent out dues statements via email - please let us know if you did not receive yours. Brad would appreciate prompt payment.
Please get your programs to Carolyn in advance so we can include in the newsletter.

"Be the Inspiration"

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