Announcements
Mark made an announcement regarding the Eden Prairie A.M. Rotary Fundraiser featuring the Sisters of Swing. It will take place on January 28th at 6:30 pm. Tickets will be online soon at eventbrite. There are two ticket options available; $25/virtual ticket or $100/VIP ticket with a gift box and possibly in-person attendance.
Tim discussed how as we move forward with the Holiday Party and Rotary Rocks on the Prairie events, there will be availability for the interns to teach members how to use individuals social media to promote these events. If you would like to set up a session or learn more information, you can contact Tim Conners at timconners@gmail.com.
Tim also talked about Rotary’s new seventh focus area, Protecting the Environment. Rotary International recently released a three-page policy regarding the environment. This information is available by accessing the Rotary International website then proceeding to “Our Causes” then clicking on “Protecting the Environment”. Additionally, there is a District Team established working on club education on topics related to the environment, as well as, club action in District 59-50. Specifically, there is a team working to undertake a project to plant trees in our district partnering with Nature Conservancy and the Tree Trust. If you are interested in helping out financially or otherwise, contact Tim Conners.
Tim also made an announcement that Frank, Blake, Dennis, Mrilani, and Tim have joined together to form a team where they are planning to provide engaging programs about the environment over the coming year. If you have any topics or areas of focus you would like to hear about or have an interest in joining the group, please contact Tim.
Jane made an announcement regarding the Virtual Holiday Party taking place on December 22nd from 7:30 - 8:30 am. She talked about a Pre-party which includes an exclusive EPAM Rotary holiday music playlist, 12 days of holidays, plus an EP-delivered swag bag option. Jane also discussed a Rotary pledge sheet that will entail donations.
Rotary Meeting Surprise
Unfortunately our scheduled speaker Jane Leonard was not able to attend the meeting. Instead, Tim Conners discussed more about the environmental projects of the Rotary. Tim shared a TedTalk called “The most important thing you can do to fight climate change: talk about it” by Katherine Hayhoe. In the TedTalk, it discussed data about climate change and the assessment by citizens about climate change. Then Katherine transitioned to emphasizing how everyone needs to talk about climate change and its importance, including the conversations we have about climate change will help build connections and raise awareness. Katherine suggests that the more we talk the more change can be created.
After the video was finished, there were breakout rooms for Rotarians to discuss topics and questions they have about climate change. Some topics that were brought up include the impact