Notes From November 7, 2023

Stephanie Glaros - One Small Step, StoryCorps

Stephanie Glaros, a notable figure within the One Small Step (OSS) program at StoryCorps, is a facilitator on a mission to create social harmony. During her presentation on November 7th, Stephanie opened up about her journey. Inspired by a 60 Minutes segment showcasing the power of conversations between strangers with differing political views, she embarked on a career change. Now as a crucial part of the OSS initiative, Stephanie mobilizes meaningful dialogues that involve differing political views.
 
In her role, Stephanie fosters an environment where participants feel supported and secure enough to share their views. With a set of conversation agreements, she guides discussions, ensuring they remain focused and respectful. Though no stranger to the discomfort that comes with conversations that challenge her own beliefs, Stephanie has gained valuable insights. Participants often gravitate towards commonalities, which tends to be the exact opposite of their task. Through these conversations, Stephanie has learned that beliefs are not always black and white; they are intricate, evolving, and defy stereotypes.
 
Yet, during these profound conversations, Stephanie understands the importance of self-care. She practices yoga, takes walks with her dog, and prioritizes her emotional well-being. While the toll of engaging with diverse perspectives is acknowledged, the OSS program recognizes the importance of maintaining a healthy balance. Stephanie Glaros and One Small Step remind us that empathy, understanding, and genuine connection are key in their line of work. While not just facilitating conversations; Stephanie is forging bridges that overcome barriers and celebrate differences and unity. 
 
 
 

Vocation: Kate Ropchak

Kate Ropchak, one of the interns at the AM Rotary Club, shared a little bit about herself at the Rotary’s November 7th meeting. In addition to being a part of the Senior Intern Program, Kate is also a part of the Alpine Ski team, French Club, and Transfer Club at Eden Prairie High School. Despite her moves between Ohio, Illinois, and Switzerland, Kate remains dedicated to serving her community. She works at the local community center and actively participates in the Eden Prairie City Sustainability Commission. Kate also enjoys volunteering at Hope Rides, where she helps children with disabilities experience the joy of horseback riding. After conversations with many Rotarians, interactions at career fairs, and her engagement with the Senior Intern Program, Kate has decided to pursue a career in industrial engineering. She is interested in attending the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, or Purdue University to name a few. Kate is eager to continue her journey with the Rotary and hopes to build valuable connections with others during her time here.

 

Future Meetings

  • November 9: Veteran’s Day Luncheon at Bear Path Country Club—11:30 am.
  • November 21 meeting: Nasser Mohammadi—Open Streets—“An Afghan Refugee’s Story”.
  • December 5 meeting: Brice Johnson—Regional CEO, Red Cross.
  • December 19 meeting: Dianne DeKoning Open Hands Foundation—Hope House.
  • Please contact Lyndon Moquist with any program ideas.

Announcements

  • Dresser assembly at the PROP Shop was fun! Lyndon, Jan, Lori, John G., Dan, Blake, Janna, Patrick, and Josh built three dressers for PROP.
  • Our club has received a wood plaque from the “Gone Fishing” organization as a thank you for our donation to them. The plaque is on the check-in table.
  • John Goergen and Janna Berkholtz from our club joined others to get rid of buckthorn on October 21.
  • Our Bingo fundraiser is scheduled for December 6. Lori Thrune is in charge of this event. Volunteers are still needed to secure more gift cards or other donations from businesses. A sign-up sheet was passed around.
  • “Just Say Yes to Rotary”. Dan discussed the sign-up sheets on the tables for volunteer opportunities in our club.
  • Our club plans to make Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners again for Onward Eden Prairie. More details to come.
  • We will be ringing bells for the Salvation Army again this year. More details to follow.
  • Sharon Borine was presented with a Paul Harris pin for her financial contributions to The Rotary Foundation (TRF).
  • New member Mark Rigby was inducted into the club and presented with a certificate. Welcome, Mark! We are glad you are here!

Duty Roster for November 21, 2023

  • Greeter: Roy Terwilliger
  • Check-In: Dane Boeckermann
  • Inspiration: Janna Berkholtz
  • Door Prize: John Goergen
  • Vocational: Sudiksha Talla, intern

Happy Fives

  • Patrick Donohue is excited for the Empire Builders event for entrepreneurs to be held this week.
  • Adam Sienkowski has not been able to attend a regular meeting in some time. He is happy to be attending today. And he is also happy to announce that his youngest child starting walking last week—a big milestone!
  • Steve Schewe (visitor) said that a wonderful town hall meeting occurred last week at the Eden Prairie Performing Arts Center.
  • Dan O’Brien relayed a funny incident. Dan’s daughter, Molly, was in charge of a Gatewood Grad School events recently, and Dan helped out there. A young student told Dan that Dan reminded the student of a book character because Dan is bald!
  • John Crudele said that—during MEA week—he spoke to a group of educators at Lanesboro School. Their dedication to their students was inspiring to John!
  • Irene Kelly is looking forward to going with Jan to the Eden Prairie High School performance of “The Wizard of Oz’ this Friday.
  • Sharon Borine had a recent accident where she fell into a boat and broke several bones. She is happy to report that she recently found out that all broken bones have healed!
  • Jan Eian is happy that her daughter, Rachel, is attending the meeting today and is also happy that she was able to visit another daughter in Florida recently.
  • Holly Link is happy that her son just got his first deer. He was excited!
  • Pastor Rod Anderson said that his wife recently underwent 30 treatments for cancer at Mayo. He is happy to report that recent tests show no cancer!
  • Josh Swanson reported that the first quarter of school is over, and Eden Prairie Schools is having a good year. He is also looking forward to “The Wizard of Oz” performance at the school!
  • Dan O’Brien spent last weekend at the University of Illinois for the 50th reunion of his architecture class. He had fun! Dan also mentioned that Stages Theater is performing “Beauty and the Beast” beginning on November 17. Dan’s granddaughter will be playing the character “Chip”.