Thursday, July 31, 2025

Lunch Buffet

Doors Open 11:30AM

At

 

ISD 709 Superintendent John Magas and Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce President Matt Baumgartner

 

The Duluth Promise Project is a collaborative initiative in Duluth, Minnesota, designed to strengthen the local workforce by better aligning education and career pathways. It aims to connect students with in-demand skills and career opportunities within the Duluth area, addressing workforce shortages and retention challenges. The project involves partnerships between educational institutions, businesses, community organizations, and local government. 

 

By Al Makynen

 

We were promoted to the Great Hall of the Kitchi Gammi Club where President Zach Walters made sure we knew the Pledge of Allegiance and the Rotary Four Way Test.

 

President Zach Walters setting the example

 

The Rotary Reflection was all about our own District 5580.  A District that covers three time zones, three states and two countries.  We are one of the largest districts in the world approximately the size of France, and it is rare for a Rotary District to cross an international border.  When you were in grade school you focused on the “Three R’s”.  As a Rotarian you have the opportunity to focus on the “Five R’s” when you register and volunteer at the District Conference held in Duluth, October 24, 25. Recognition of those who make a difference.  Respect for our traditions.  Report and learn about happenings in the 66 Clubs in the District.  Resource and leverage the power of partnerships.  Reconnect with friends.

Past President Branden Robinson reflecting on the District Conference coming up in Duluth on October 24, 25

 

Self-reports for the Golden Can are about business events (Work Zone Fine) or in gratitude for personal life events.  South Pier Inn has been recognized by Trip Advisor for being ranked by travelers as the 31st best hotel in the nation. Past President Branden Robinson was clearly proud of that designation.  Renee Burns was grateful for all those who volunteer to prepare and deliver every week the Rotary Reflection. 

 

President Zach Walters announced that 2025 is the 40^th Annual Rotary Rose Sale.  To celebrate Renee Burns is putting together memories of past sales.  Those with pictures or fun antidotes, worthy of retelling, should submit the material to her (appelrenee1961@gmail.com).   President Elect Dan Maki reminded us of the work of the Downtown Outreach Coordinator, Nathan Kesti, who was one of the speakers last week, of the need for personal clothing items that he uses to interact with and gain the trust of those who appear homeless on the downtown streets.  Contributions of new items, or donations, are to be directed to Dan Maki.

 

Past President (a title she is just now getting used to) Elizabeth Simonson as the Chair of the Day introduced a stellar line up of our very own members who are working to make the magic happen at the District Conference to be held October 24-25 in Duluth.  District Governor, Elaine Hansen, Past President Sandy Hoff, and Membership Chair, Renee Burns were presented as the tremendous trio that are going to make it all happen.  The event is being planned in coordination with the five area clubs.  Superior, Duluth-Superior ECO, Harbortown, Skyline, and the home club of the District Governor, Club #25 as host, are sponsoring the convention.  It is a two-day event.  Friday’s is a full day highlighted in the evening by the Ice Breaker Party (note the party theme throughout) hosted by Harbortown Rotary at the Lake Superior Railroad Museum.  Saturday is another full day ending with a party at the DECC Harborside Ballroom.  For the first time the Saturday event is open to the public with the members of the Duluth Chamber of Commerce and APEX specifically invited to attend to make it a true community celebration of Rotary.

 

Past President Elizabeth Simonson presenting the team putting together the District Conference

 

The Dynamic Trio: Sandy Hoff, Elaine Hansen, & Renee Burns with President Zach Walters

 

There will be hundreds from around the District attending.  Many hands make light work.  To that end Elaine Hansen encouraged every member of her club (the HOME CLUB of the District Governor) to both register for the Conference and to volunteer were needed to help welcome our visitors and to make the Conference a success.  We are talented people.  We can both enjoy attending and working as volunteers where and when needed.  Assist in getting people to and from the venues.  Assist in setting up the House of Friendship where vendors, clubs, and organizations can share their stories.  Assist in the introduction of speakers and sessions.  Come join the fun.  Do not miss this opportunity for both service and fellowship.

 

An entire table of Rotarians, marking their calendars for the District Conference in Duluth, October 24-25

 

Gary Melander (30-time winner) selling the winning 50/50 ticket to Past President Al Makynen (19-time winner)