Speakers
VHS Choir
Dec 13, 2023
Holiday Meal
Rotary Club Program
Dec 20, 2023
Annual Business Meeting
No Meeting: Holiday Break
Dec 27, 2023
Davis, Kassin, and Shorma
Jan 03, 2024
SD Legislative Preview
Jim Peterson
Jan 10, 2024
What does Economic Development look like in Vermillion?
Prof. Tim Schorn
Jan 17, 2024
Looking at Two Wars: Russia/Ukraine and Israel/Hamas
Rotary Program: Grace DuVall, President
Jan 24, 2024
Rotaract at USD
TBA
Jan 31, 2024
Dr. Rand Wergin
Feb 07, 2024
Retail Patterns in South Dakota
Valentine's Day Speaker: Dr. Harry Freeman
Feb 14, 2024
The Science of Love
TBA
Feb 21, 2024
Dr. Damon Alvey
Feb 28, 2024
Annual Report on Vermillion Public Schools
View entire list...
Links
 
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Club Information
  Welcome to Vermillion Rotary Club's Website
Vermillion

Rotary Serving Humanity

We meet In Person
Wednesdays at 12:00 PM
Al Neuharth Media Center - USD
Mailing address PO Box 634
Vermillion, SD 57069
United States of America
We meet every Wednesday at noon.
District Site
Venue Map
Home Page Stories

Vermillion Rotary Helps with Food for the Holidays
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Dec 06, 2023
In conjunction with Kelsey Collier-Wise's presentation/update on the United Way of Vermillion, the club had the opportunity to do the ceremonial presentation of $500 for Feeding Vermillion's Holiday food program. The Vermillion Club received a $250 "Food for the Holidays" grant from the District which was then matched by our club. In the photo, club president Kevin O' Kelley presents the check to Emmanuel Ankinwande, Feeding Vermillion Operations Director, and Kelsey  Collier-Wise, Executive Director of the United Way of Vermillion. 

Vermillion City Council Updates the Vermillion Rotary
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Nov 29, 2023
Thank you to the members of the Vermillion City Council who joined the Vermillion Rotary for our November 29 meeting. Katherine Price, representing the Central Ward, Mayor Jon Cole, Julia Hellwege, Northeast Ward, and Lindsey Jennewein, Central Ward provided an interesting recap of the Council's recent activities, offered insights into upcoming issues and answered questions from Rotarians. To hear about all of the topics please click on the image below to watch the presentation on the Vermillion Rotary Youtube channel. 

2023 Clay County Historic Preservation Awards
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Nov 15, 2023
Thank you Evelyn Schlenker, Secretary of the Clay County Historic Preservation Commission, for the presentation of the 2023 preservation awards at the November 15 meeting of the Vermillion Rotary Club. Our thanks also to Commission Chair Tim Schreiner, Vice-Chair Jim Wilson, Treasurer Patrick Morrison, and Board member Jim Stone for joining us. Click on the image below to watch the presentation and see some of the amazing historic preservation work being done in Clay County, SD.

Rotary Youth Exchange Student Visits Vermillion Rotary
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Nov 01, 2023
Thank you, Roberta Sanches de Souza Camergo, for your wonderful presentation to the Vermillion Rotary Club. This Rotary Youth Exchange presentation introduced our members to her home nation of Brazil. We were so happy to hear that you have enjoyed the first couple of months of your Rotary Youth Exchange to Vermillion, SD, USA, and we are so happy that we could sponsor your RYE. To watch her presentation, please click on the image below. 
 

USD's Mock Trial Team Captains Provide a Primer
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Oct 25, 2023
RyLeigh Christopherson and Lindsey Grabowska, 2023-24 captains of the USD Mock Trial team, gave the Vermillion Rotary Club a primer about what mock trial is, some of the recent trial topics, the structure of a trial, how the events are scored, and the tournaments in which they compete. Their description provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at this collegiate competition. To view the presentation on the club's Youtube channel, simply click on the image below. 

Rotary President McInally's World Polio Day Message
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Oct 17, 2023
World Polio Day is on October 24, and Rotary International President Gordon McInally has a message for all Rotarians. Working with partners, Rotary has reduced wild polio cases to just a few this year, but even one is too many. Now is the time to help finally end the threat of Polio from the Earth. 
 

Alzheimer's Warning Signs and Treatments Discussed
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Oct 11, 2023
Thank you, Leslie Morrow of the Alzheimer's Association South Dakota, for this informative presentation of the various types of dementia, warning signs, new treatments and the services provided by your organization. If you would like to view the presentation on the club's Youtube channel, simply click on the image below.

Supt. Alvey Provides School Construction Update
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Oct 04, 2023
Thank you, Dr. Damon Alvey, for joining the Vermillion Rotary and providing this information filled update on the construction of Vermillion's new elementary school scheduled to open in August of 2024. To view his presentation simply click on the image below to be redirected to the club's Youtube channel. 

New Store Brings Goodwill Programs to Vermillion
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Sep 27, 2023
Charlotte Nelson, Chief Growth Officer for Goodwill of the Great Plains, was the speaker at the September 27, Vermillion Rotary meeting.  Nelson provided an overview of the new store that is scheduled to open in Vermillion during the first quarter of 2024. She also provided background information on Goodwill of the Great Plains and the services that they provide to the community in which they operate. You can learn more about the Goodwill of the Great Plains by visiting their website - www.goodwillgreatplains.org. If you are interested in viewing her presentation, you can do on the club's Youtube channel by CLICKING HERE or by clicking on the image below to play the video on this page. 
 

Article Features VPSF Playground Campaign
Posted on Sep 22, 2023
Our thanks to the Vermillion Plain Talk for this wonderful article by Sarah Wetzel. We appreciate the thorough coverage of such an important topic - making the playground at the new elementary school accessible for all children. You can read the article on the Plain Talk site by clicking on the image below.  

National Music Museum is a Vermillion Treasure
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Sep 20, 2023
Dwight Vaught, Director of the National Music Museum (NMM), joined the Vermillion Rotary Meeting Sept. 20, 2023, for a wonderful presentation about the National Music Museum. The recently re-opened and expanded museum is a gem in Vermillion and one of the top three collections of musical instruments in the world. We also appreciate Dr. Darryl Martin, Conservator and Coordinator of Graduate Studies at the NMM, for coming to give us a glimpse of the Grafton Saxophone, one of the 14,000+ instruments in their collection. Click on the image below to view the presentation on the Club's Youtube channel.

Rotary GSE Team Learns about Native Programs at USD
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Sep 15, 2023
It was wonderful spending time with the Australian GSE team on Friday, Sept. 15. They toured the Howe Exhibit in USD's Day Gallery, heard from students and faculty about the Native American programs at USD and the importance of Native art, and had a chance to chat with Vermillion Rotarians and USD faculty, staff and students. We look forward to spending more time with them during the Rotary District 5610 Conference.

USD Football Head Coach, Bob Nielson, 2023 Season Preview
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Sep 13, 2023
Thank you, Coach Nielson, for joining the Vermillion Rotary Club on September 13 and providing a wonderful preview of the 2023 season. It was great to hear more about our highly competitive conference as well as some of the major changes going on in collegiate football. Click on the image below to watch the presentation on the Club's Youtube channel.

Leanne Williamson previews USD Volleball for 23-24
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Sep 06, 2023
USD Head Volleyball Coach, Leanne Williamson, joined the Vermillion Rotary Club on September 8 and gave an excellent preview of this year's team and what we might all see in the upcoming months. Thank you for your wonderful talk and we look forward to watching the 'Yotes this season. To watch the presentation on the club's Youtube channel, simply click on the image below. 
Vermillion Public Schools Foundation Supports our Schools
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Aug 30, 2023
Daniel Mourlam, president of the Board of Directors for the Vermillion Public Schools Foundation, joined the Vermillion Rotary Club on August 20, 2023 to provide an overview of the operations of the VPSF and to present the newest initiative for the organization - raising funds to provide the additional funds for accessible playground equipment at the new elementary school that will open in August of 2024. To view the presentation click on the image below or CLICK HERE to visit the club Youtube channel. 
 

New Members are Welcomed to Vermillion Rotary
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Aug 23, 2023
Wonderful program today as we officially welcomed many new members who have joined us this year. In addition to information about Rotary, they received their badges, a membership certificate, a packet of new member information and their 4-way test plaques. Congratulations to:
Front Row: Anna Nelson, Crystal Brady and Matt Callahan.
Back Row: Ray Ring, Quinn Cannon, MD., Emmanuel Akinwande and Bryant Jackson.
New members unable to attend today: Ionela Georgescu, Veronica Schmidt and Elizabeth Smith.

Vermillion Rotary Duck Race Raises Funds for Local Projects
Posted on Aug 09, 2023
Hundreds of rubber ducks raced at Vermillion's Prentice Plunge to raise funds for Vermillion projects supported by the Vermillion Rotary Club. Our thanks to all of the duck sponsors for their support of these worthwhile programs and to the staff of Prentis Plunge and Vermillion Parks and Recreation Department who supported this project. The video tries to capture some of the action. You can watch the video below or on the Club's Youtube channel at: https://youtu.be/U3rLOU66Q38
 

Mike Card Discusses Important New SD Laws
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Aug 09, 2023
Thank you, Dr. Mike Card, for your presentation to discuss one initiated measure and several new laws that took effect on July 1. To hear Dr. Card's presentation, click on the image below to be directed to the presentation on the Club's Youtube channel. 

District Governor Rich Burns Visits Vermillion
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Aug 02, 2023
Rich Burns was kind enough to start his club presentations with a trip to Vermillion on Wednesday, August 2, 2023. Governor Burns outlined several perspectives on the purpose of the Rotary Districts. He also discussed his goals for the upcoming year as well as the status of the District. Gov. Burns also highlighted many of the events and speakers in the upcoming District Conference in Yankton. To view his informative presentation you can click on the image below or CLICK HERE to view it on the club's Youtube page. 

Dr. David Burrow Discusses Vermillion During Prohibition
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Jul 19, 2023
Thank you, Dr. David Burrow for your fascinating look at Vermillion in the leading up to, during and immediately after prohibition. Some of the materials were pulled from an Honors Seminar taught by Dr. Burrow. To access the the podcasts created by the class, you can go to: https://red.library.usd.edu/honors_projects/1/ . If you would like to see Dr. Burrow's presentation on the club's Youtube channel, go to: https://youtube.com/live/9NgXaRhILC0 or simply click on the image below. 

Alan Wittmuss Explains SD Water Source Projects
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Jul 12, 2023
Alan Wittmuss of the South Dakota Dept. of Agriculture and Natural Resources offered tremendous insights into the programs of the SD Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, especially those related the monitoring of water sources in the state. To watch his presentation on the Vermillion Rotary Youtube channel, simply click on the image below. 

Vermillion Community Theater Previews Newsies
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Jun 21, 2023
Thank you to the cast members of "Newsies" who performed for the Vermillion Rotary Club today. The video below provides a short clip from one number in this award-winning musical. To see the full production join the Vermillion Community Theatre for a performance on July 7-10. Tickets are on sale now at several locations in Vermillion, but can also be purchased on the website: http://vermillioncommunitytheatre.org/ The Vermillion Rotary is a proud supporter of the VCT. To watch this promotional video on the Club's YouTube channel CLICK HERE or on the image below. 

Anna Nelson Joins the Vermillion Rotary Club
Posted on Jun 21, 2023
As one of his last official acts as the 2022-23 Vermillion Rotary Club President, Rich Holland presents the membership badge to Anna Nelson, Vermillion Rotary's newest member. Thank you for joining us Anna, and we look forward to seeing you at future Rotary events.

Dr. Cannon Discusses Rural OB Care
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Jun 07, 2023
Dr. Quinn Cannon of Sanford Health Vermillion provided an interesting presentation on obstetrics care in rural areas. The presentation included a quick personal history, a look at the history of rural OB care, as well as recent trends.

The War Experiences of Two Vermillion Soldiers
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on May 31, 2023
Thank you, Dr. Kurt Hackemer, Provost at USD, for your wonderful presentation in honor of Memorial Day, 2023. In this presentation, Dr. Hackemer discusses the war experiences of two Vermillion men. Dr. Hackemer also has a fascinating discussion of the impact of the Civil War on development in the Dakota Territory. To watch his presentation on the Vermillion Rotary Club's YouTube channel, simply click on the image below. 
 

Welcome to Rotary Emmanuel Akinwande
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Jun 07, 2023
President-elect, Kevin O'Kelley, had the honor of presenting his member badge to Vermillion Rotary Club's newest member, Emmanuel Akinwande. Thank you for joining the club, and we look forward to seeing you at future club events.

Congratulations VHS Scholarship Recipients
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on May 12, 2023
Congratulations to all of the 2023 graduates of Vermillion High School! We want to offer additional congratulations to the three graduating VHS seniors to receive one of our scholarships for next year. We wish you all the best in your academic pursuits!

So Much Happening at the Library!
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Apr 26, 2023
To help celebrate National Library Week, the Vermillion Rotary Club invited the Edith B. Siegrist Library Director, Daniel Burniston, to join us for the April 26 meeting. You can learn more about all of the wonderful activities happening at the library by watching the video of his presentation on the Vermillion Rotary YouTube channel. Simply click on the image below to be taken to the presentation. 

Rotary and Vermillion Medical Clinic Donate Helmets
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Apr 21, 2023
On Friday, April 21, Vermillion Rotarians and staff from the Vermillion Medical Clinic joined to present new bike helmets to all second-grade students in Vermillion and to provide interesting programs about cycling, types of bicycles and riding safely. 

Rotary Learns More About Boys & Girls Club
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Apr 19, 2023
Savannah Wise, the director of the Vermillion Boys & Girls Club, joined the Vermillion Rotary on April 19, 2023 to give us an update on the club's activities. She discussed the club's programs, the values they work into their programs, as well as their tutoring program and work with the Clay County Teen Court, their summer program and opportunities to volunteer. To watch the video of her presentation, simply click on the image below. 

Kindergarten Students Receive Books for RAA Day
Since 2017, the Vermillion Rotary Club has helped Kindergarten students in Vermillion SD celebrate Read Across America Day by providing a free book for each student. We hope that this small gesture will help to ignite a love of reading. We wish to thank all of the Kindergarten teachers, the principals and the librarians at Austin Elementary School and St. Agnes for making this event possible. Click on the link below to see photos from the 2023 book giveaway, and if you turn on the sound, you'll hear a reading of a classic children's book.
 

Rotary Welcomes Betty Smith and Hears from Commissioners
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Mar 08, 2023
Vermillion Rotary President, Rich Holland presents her membership pin to our newest member, Betty Smith. Welcome to the Vermillion Rotary Club! We also wish to thank Betty, and her fellow commissioners, Travis Mockler and Geoffrey Gray-Lobe for their informative presentation about the status of Clay County, SD.

Vermillion Rotary Offers Three VHS 2023 Scholarships
Posted by Chuck Lubbers
The Vermillion Rotary Club is pleased to offer three, $1,000 scholarships for 2023 Vermillion High School graduates. Please help us to spread the word about these scholarships for Vermillion High School 2023 graduates! The application can be downloaded in the download section in the lower-right corner of this website or directly with this link: https://tinyurl.com/Rotary-2023-App

Dan Van Peursem Presents Beekeeping 101
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Feb 22, 2023
Our thanks to Dan Van Peursem for his wonderful presentation that we should call Beekeeping 101. It was wonderful learning more about this fascinating hobby. Click on the image below to view the presentation on the Vermillion Rotary Club YouTube channel.

Chief Brady Discusses the Vermillion Police Department
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Feb 15, 2023
Our thanks to Vermillion Police Chief Crystal Brady for her presentation to the Vermillion Rotary Club on February 15. We enjoyed the peek behind the curtains to see the operations of the Vermillion Police Department. If you would like to learn more about our local police department, Chief Brady invites you to take a look at their website.

Jim Peterson Discusses the Vital Role of the VCDC
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Feb 01, 2023
At the February 1 meeting of the Vermillion Rotary Club, club president, Rich Holland accepts on behalf of the club the Investor Level membership certificate from Jim Peterson, President & CEO of the Vermillion Chamber & Development Company. Thank you for your presentation about the VCDC, Jim, and our thanks for the other VCDC staff who joined us today - Brittany DeJong, Melissa Eberts, and Sam Craig.

Vermillion Rotary Club Welcomes its Newest Member
At last week's Vermillion Rotary Club meeting, President Rich Holland presented a membership pin to our newest member, Crystal Brady. Welcome to the Club, Crystal! We look forward to seeing you at future meetings.

VHS Choir performs at Holiday Luncheon
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Dec 14, 2022
The Vermillion Rotary Club was treated to a wonderful selection of Holiday songs performed by the Vermillion High School Choir during our annual holiday luncheon. After the choir's performance, Club President, Rich Holland, presented a check from the club to support the music program at VHS. Accepting the check is Trisha Fisher, VHS Choir Director and vocal music teacher.

Kayla Karius Previews USD Women's Basketball Season
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Dec 07, 2022
Thank you USD head WBB coach Kayla Karius for joining the Vermillion Rotary Club for our December 7 meeting. We enjoyed hearing more about the whirlwind ride you have been on since being named the head coach in April of this year.  If you would like to view the video of her presentation on the Club's YouTube channel you can CLICK HERE or on the image below. 

Thank You to All Who have or are Currently Serving
Posted on Nov 09, 2022
In 2019, the Vermillion Rotary Club presented a $13,500 check to the Patriots Plaza Committee at USD to make a significant contribution to the Plaza project. On Veterans Day we remember the service and sacrifices of those who have served in the armed services of the United States. We do this by sharing the USD Veterans Day message from 2021 that was filmed at the Patriots Plaza. We also offer our special thanks for Professor Greg Huckabee, veteran, Rotarian, and a driving force behind the Patriots Plaza project. 
 

November 22 Election Recap and Kids Vote South Dakota
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Nov 09, 2022
At the November 9 meeting, Rotarian Tim Schorn moderates a discussion of the November 2022 midterm election results with two other USD Political Science professors - Shane Nordyke and Ed Gerrish. Professor Nordyke, Coordinator of the Chiesman Center for Democracy at USD, also reports the results of the Kids Vote South Dakota. To view the presentation on the Club's Youtube Channel, please CLICK HERE or on the image below. 

Eric Peterson Previews USD Men's Basketball Season
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Nov 02, 2022
The Vermillion, Rotary Club welcomed USD's new men's basketball coach, Eric Peterson, to our November 2, 2022 meeting in the Al Neuharth Media Center. Peterson, who was named the head coach in March, treated the club to a wonderful preview of the upcoming season, including players to watch and schedule previews. Click on the link below to watch the presentation on the Club's Youtube channel.

Vermillion Rotary Participates in Dakota Days Parade
Posted on Oct 22, 2022
Three legendary Rotarians and supporters of the 'Yotes (L-R, Dave Lorenz, Ted Muenster and Kathy Chandler) and Club VP Melissa Berninger in the staging area getting ready to hand out candy and greet MANY 'Yote fans during the 22 Dakota Days Parade. Not pictured Dan Van Peursem, driver and trailer wrangler, and Chuck Lubbers, banner designer and candy distribution technician. :-) 

World Polio Day is October 24
October 24 is World Polio Day. While Rotary International and many other groups are working every day to eradicate polio from the planet, this one day is set aside to recognize the importance of the fight. You can watch an update on polio eradication by clicking on the image below or learn more about the fight to end polio at www.endpolionow.org 

United Way of Vermillion Unites People and Resources
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Oct 19, 2022
Executive Director, Kelsey Collier-Wise, provides an informative update on the many ways that the United Way of Vermillion helps the community. In addition to the 29 partner organizations that receive funding, UW-Vermillion operates the Community Connections Center (CCC), "a one-stop-shop resource center that addresses the needs of community members by coordinating the efforts of local organizations." Collier-Wise discusses the challenges, successes and future directions for UW Vermillion. Click on the image below to watch this presentation on the Vermillion Rotary Youtube channel. 

Alvey Provides Vermillion Public School Update
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Oct 05, 2022
Vermillion Public School Superintendent, Dr. Damon Alvey, was the guest for the October 5, 2022 meeting of the Vermillion Rotary Club. Thank you, Dr. Alvey, for giving us a snapshot of the district's numbers, a breakdown of the district's finances, and an explanation of challenges faced by the district. If you would like to see the presentation on the Club's Youtube channel, please CLICK HERE or on the image below. 

Mark Yockey Presents the State of Beacom School of Business
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Sep 28, 2022
Our thanks to Dr. Mark Yockey, Interim Dean of the Beacom School of Business, for his wonderful presentation on the state of the Beacom School. We appreciate the update on the development of new majors, specializations, certificates, etc., as well as student experiential opportunities, such as Coyote Business Consulting. The School's strong enrollment is a testament to the hard work of a wonderful faculty. If you would like to see Dr. Yockey's presentation please click on the image below to be directed to the club's Youtube page.

Kevin O'Kelley Named Rotarian of Distinction
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Sep 23, 2022
Congratulations, Kevin O'Kelley, Vermillion Rotary's President-Elect, who was named the Rotarian of Distinction for Area 7 of Rotary District 5610. The award was announced at the recent District Conference and Celebration held in Sioux City.

Waller Discusses Proposed Public Safety Center
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Sep 14, 2022
Thank you, Steve Waller, for your presentation on the proposed new public safety center for Vermillion and Clay County. If you would like to view his presentation on the Rotary Club's YouTube channel, you can CLICK HERE or on the image below. 

Nielson Discusses Major Issues in NCAA Athletics
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Aug 31, 2022
University of South Dakota Coyotes Head Football Coach, Bob Nielson, joined the Vermillion Rotary Club on August 31. Thank you for providing a preview of the 2022 game schedule and the challenging early schedule against nationally-ranked teams. Coach Nielson then provided an interesting discussion of some major issues impacting collegiate athletics - 1) the transfer portal, 2) NIL - Name, Image and Likeness, and 3) conference realignment. Your presentation was a fascinating look at the changes having such an impact on college athletics. You can watch Nielson's presentation on the Club's Youtube channel by CLICKING HERE or on the image below. 
 

Rotary Presents Duck Shoot Proceeds to Boys & Girls Club
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Aug 17, 2022
Proceeds from the Rotary duck shoot were presented by Vermillion Rotary President Rich Holland and President-elect Kevin O'Kelley (center) to Andy Schulz (left) and Dr. Jacob Quail (right), members of the Boys & Girls Club of Vermillion Board of Directors. 

Rotary Club "Duck Shoot" at Clay County Fair
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Aug 10, 2022
The Vermillion Rotary Club will have a "Duck Shoot" activity at the Clay County fair, tomorrow through Saturday (August 11-13). Use an air cannon to launch a rubber duck and see if you can get it back into its pond! Please join us, have some fun and help support the new Boys & Girls Club of Vermillion. Join us at the Clay County Fair!

Vermillion Rotary's Great Duck Race Success
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Aug 07, 2022
Thank you to all the individuals who sponsored ducks for the Vermillion Rotary Club annual duck race! Through your sponsorship we raised nearly $3,000 to support projects in Vermillion. Enjoy this video that shows some of the highlights of the race at Prentis Plunge on Sunday, August 7, including the sponsors of the first-, second- and third-place duck. You can view the video by clicking on the image below or CLICK HERE to view it on the Club's Youtube channel. 
 

The National Music Museum at 50 (1973-2023)
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Jul 20, 2022
Dwight Vaught, Director of the National Music Museum (NMM) (https://www.nmmusd.org/), spoke to the Vermillion Rotary Club on July 20. Vaught highlighted the many recent developments since 2018 when the new conservation building and the expansion of the museum began. This discussion also noted that next year the NMM will be celebrating its 50-year anniversary. Click on the image below to go to the Club's Youtube channel to enjoy this wonderful insight into the what has been happening the last few years and a description of what will be happening in the next year.

Club President Holland Discusses Club's 2022-23 goals
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Jul 13, 2022
At the July 13 meeting, 2022-23 club President, Rich Holland, shared his goals for the upcoming rotary year. Click on the link below to watch his presentation on the club's Youtube channel.
Rotary District 5610 Governor Outlines Goals for 22-23
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Jul 06, 2022
Our thanks to 2022-23 Rotary 5610 District Governor, John Schneider, for presenting to the Vermillion Rotary Club on July 6, 2022 to tell us more about his background and his goals for his year as District Governor. If you would like to watch is wonderful message for the upcoming year, simply click on the image below to view it on the Club's Youtube page or go to https://youtu.be/cuyALmT7te8?t=267. 
 

Public Power Offer Numerous Advantages
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Jun 22, 2022
Joni Livingston, VP of communications and member services at Missouri River Energy Services (MRES), provides a fascinating look at the realities of public power. MRES is a not-for-profit energy cooperative (Joint Action Agency) with 61 members in four states that provides power supply and energy services. Livingston discusses the operations of MRES, but also compares their organization or national statistics to the city of Vermillion. Vermillion's power uses a higher percentage from renewable sources. To view the presentation on the Club's Youtube channel, CLICK HERE or in the image below.  

How to Declutter Your Home and Life
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Jun 15, 2022
Vermillion Rotarian, Craig Thompson, offers advice on decluttering our lives, including preparing/saving important documents, while decluttering your home and life.  To watch the the presentation on the Club's Youtube channel CLICK HERE or on the image below. 

Vermillion Rotary Year in Review - 2021-22
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Jun 08, 2022
We often spend too little time reflecting on our own club's activities. On June 8, Nick Oyen, Vermillion Rotary President for 2021-22, offered a wonderful review of the club's activities this year as well as a glimpse at what we might expect for next year. Click on the image below to watch the presentation on the Club's Youtube channel.

Harrington brings his inspirational message to Vermillion
Thank you, Steve Harrington, for joining the Vermillion Rotary Club on May 25, 2022, to tell us more about the upcoming Rotary District 5610 Conference. We also enjoyed your message about Rotarians making a difference in the world through Rotarians who are educated, motivated and inspired. Click on the image below to view his presentation on the Club's Youtube channel. 

Rotary Welcomes New Members and Gives Best Wishes
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on May 18, 2022
Vermillion Rotary President, Nick Oyen, took the opportunity to formally welcome two new Rotarians (Deb Christensen and Bruce Stofft) and to offer the Club's thanks and best wishes to Don Harris as he will retire from USD at the end of the week. Thank you for the photos, Kathleen Chandler.
 

Missouri National Recreational River Offers Many Benefits
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on May 18, 2022
Superintendent Curt Dimmick of the Missouri National Recreational River joined the Vermillion Rotary Club on May 18, 2022. Dimmick discussed the creation of the MNRR, the purpose for its creation, some of the challenges currently faced, and highlighted all the wonders offered to the public. To view his presentation you can simply click on the image below or CLICK HERE to be redirected to the video on the Club's YouTube channel. 
 

Vermillion Parks & Recreation has Successes and Challenges
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on May 04, 2022
Jim Goblirsch, Director of the Vermillion Parks and Recreation Department, joined the Vermillion Rotary Club on May 4 to provide an update of Department's activities and challenges for the upcoming summer season. To view his presentation on the Vermillion Rotary Youtube channel, simply click on the link below or go to: https://youtu.be/5Hk8eg5su7A
 

Making Vermillion More Green-Greening Vermillion
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Apr 20, 2022
Samantha OKelley, a member of the Board of Directors of Greening Vermillion, joined the Vermillion Rotary to highlight Greening Vermillion's activities, especially events associated with Earth Week. OKelley discusses the three largest projects of the club, adopt-a-drain, the recycling guide, and Earth Days events. Find out more at GreeningVermillion.org, and/or watch the presentation by clicking on the image below. 
 

Updates from the USD School of Education
Posted on Apr 13, 2022
Dr. Amy Schweinle, Dean of the University of South Dakota School of Education, joined the Vermillion Rotary Club to update the club us on recent developments in the School. The wide variety of programs in the school and awards received by the faculty and students were featured in the presentation. To view the presentation on the Club's Youtube channel, please CLICK HERE or on the image below. 

Pakistani Students Provide a Great Country Profile
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Apr 06, 2022
Patrick Morrison, Assoc. Director, University of South Dakota's International Office, introduces our Pakistani student speakers and offers a great explanation of the Global UGRAD-Pakistan program that has brought students from Pakistan to USD since 2018. Two Pakistani students studying at the University of South Dakota were kind enough to share information on their homeland with the members of the Vermillion Rotary Club on April 6. Thank you for informative and entertaining presentation. We wish you both all the best in your studies. You can watch their presentation on the Club's YouTube channel by clicking HERE or on the image below. 
 

Rotary Scholarships Available for VHS 2022 Grads
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Mar 10, 2022
Friends and family of Vermillion High School 2022 graduates, be sure to tell your graduate to apply for one of two, $1,000 scholarships being given by the Vermillion Rotary Club. By clicking on the image below, they can go to the Club's website to download the application or use this link to go directly to the download: tinyurl.com/2022-VHS-Scholarship

Students Receive Books for Read Across America Day
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Mar 01, 2022
For the sixth year, the Vermillion Rotary Club has given free books to all the kindergarten students in Vermillion to help celebrate Read Across America Day and help to ignite a love of reading. Enjoy these wonderful photos taken by Lisa J Swanson. We also want to thank the teachers and staff at Austin Elementary and St. Agnes Catholic Church & School.  To see a video of some of the pictures from the book distribution, you can CLICK HERE or on the image below. 

Alvey Provides School District Annual Update
Posted by Chuck Lubbers
Dr. Damon Alvey, Vermillion Public School Superintendent, joined the Vermillion Rotary to provide his annual report on the Vermillion Public School District. You can learn more about the District's enrollments, finances, student success, etc. by watching the video on the Club's Youtube channel. https://youtu.be/e5bPvOO8l_o
 

Thea Ryan Discusses Upcoming OLLI-SD Course Offerings
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Feb 09, 2022
Thea Ryan, Director at Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at USD/Community College for Sioux Falls, joined the Vermillion Rotary Club at the February 9, 2022 meeting to give us a preview of the OLLI courses being offered in the Spring term starting in March. To see a recording of Leah's presentation on the Club's Youtube channel, you can CLICK HERE or on the image below. 

Vermillion City Council Members Update Rotarians
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Feb 02, 2022
Three members of the Vermillion, SD, City Council, Katherine Price, Steve Ward (Council Vice President), and Rich Holland (Council President and Rotarian), and Kelsey Collier-Wise, Mayor and Rotarian, joined the Vermillion Rotary Club on February 2, 2022. The group provided an extensive review of accomplishments and concerns over the last few years and also answered questions from the club. To see the Council's update on the Club's Youtube channel click on the image below or CLICK HERE. 
 

Ranked Choice Voting Format is Explained
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Jan 26, 2022
Jeanelle Lust joined the Vermillion Rotary club on Jan 26, 2022, to discuss Ranked Choice Voting. It's an interesting method of voting that eliminates the need for run-off elections when no one candidate receives a majority of the votes. Watch the video below or on the Club's Youtube channel to learn more about this innovation to voting that is being used in states and localities around the US. More information can be found at Ranked Choice South Dakota's website www.rankedchoicesd.org, or their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/SD4RCV/
 

Schorn Explains the Shelterbox-Rotary Partnership
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Jan 19, 2022
Rotary District 5610's Shelterbox program coordinator, and recently-named Assistant Governor, Tim Schorn, took some time on January 19 to help Vermillion Rotarians learn more about the Shelterbox program. If you would like to read more on the partnership you can go to www.rotary.org/en/shelterbox-and-rotary-help-disasters. You can view his presentation on the Club's Youtube channel by CLICKING HERE or by clicking on the image below. 
 

Vermillion Rotary Supports VHS Choir Trip
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Dec 15, 2021
After the VHS choir performance at our holiday gathering, Vermillion Rotary President Nick Oyen presented a check to Trisha Fisher and the Choir to help with their fundraising for a spring 2022 trip to perform at Disneyworld. If you would like to help support their efforts, you can learn more and make donations by contacting the Vermillion Public Schools Foundation on their Facebook page or their website (https://vermillionpsf.org/).

Dawn Plitzuweit Previews USD women's basketball
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Dec 08, 2021
Thank you, Dawn Plitzuweit, USD women's basketball head coach, for your wonderful presentation to the Vermillion Rotary Club. We appreciate your insight into the season thus far and a look at what is to come.  To view her presentation on the Vermillion Rotary Youtube channel, simply click on the image below. 

Clay County Historic Preservation Awards
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Nov 17, 2021
Members of the Clay County Historic Preservation Commission present their awards for historic preservation in the County at the November 17, 2021 meeting of the Vermillion Rotary Club. Our thanks to the Commission for sharing the ceremony with our club and our congratulations to all of the award recipients:
  • Richard & Sally Abild - Farmer's Daughter's Sewing Museum
  • Carson & Courtney Merkwan - Main Street Inn, 221 East Main
  • Donna & Pat Gross - Restoration of multiple buildings
  • Jim Stone - Special recognition for historic preservation
Please click on the image below to be taken to the Vermillion Rotary Youtube channel and  see the video of the award presentation. 

Saying Goodbye After Over 40 Years
   The Vermillion Rotary Club has lost another beloved member. On the morning of November 6, Sylvester “Cliff” Clifford passed away at his home. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on November 12 at the First United Methodist Church in Vermillion.
   Cliff served as a professor in the Speech and Hearing Department (now Communication Disorders Department) at the University of South Dakota and worked hard to improve the services provided to all South Dakotans. Cliff brought that desire to serve to his four decades of membership in Rotary. Cliff joined the Vermillion Club in 1970 and was an active member throughout that time, including attending a meeting just 10 days before his passing. Cliff contributed to the Rotary Club’s many activities over the years and served as President of the club in 1986.
   As is noted in his obituary, “Cliff always worked to improve the lives of those around him in large and small ways with his loving heart and generous spirit.” Whether he was working to improve speech and hearing services in the region, or supporting his local church, the Vermillion United Way, and Rotary Club, Cliff was always the epitome of the Rotary motto, Service Above Self. We will miss seeing you, Cliff.

Mark Sternhagen Discusses his Life with Polio
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Oct 27, 2021
Our thanks to Mark Sternhagen for joining the Vermillion Rotary Club today to discuss his life with Polio. Your story helped to personalize Rotary International's drive to make Polio only the second disease to be eliminated from the planet. Mark is the author of "Normal for Me."  If you would like to view his presentation on the club's Youtube channel, please click on the image below. #EndPolioNow

Vermillion Rotarians will miss Mary Merrigan
     The Vermillion Rotary Club lost one of our most beloved members, Mary Merrigan, on October 11, as Mary’s courageous battle with cancer took from us a wonderful friend. We wish to thank Nick and all of her family for sharing her with us. 
      Mary had been an active club member for years and was always one of the first to step forward when we called for help. Mary helped arrange programs for meetings and introduced many of us to the Vermillion Rotary Club.
      Mary was well known for her abilities to prepare a wonderful event. She used those abilities in service to the club when she was a co-conference planner for the 2018 District Conference in Vermillion. That conference was the largest in the history of the District, was very well received by all who attended, raised thousands of dollars for local and international charities, and was evidence of how Mary epitomized the Rotary motto, “Service Above Self”. 
      One day in July, of 1932, a Rotarian named Herbert J. Taylor, sat at his desk and prayed that God would give him a simple guide to help us to think, speak and do that which was right. He picked up a white card and wrote down what we Rotarians call The Four Way Test of the things we think, say and do:  
  1. Is it the TRUTH?
  2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
  3. Will it Build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
  4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
             Rotarians around the world begin or end each meeting by reciting this to remind us all to live by these words in our daily, business and personal relations. We believe Mary lived by this 4-Way Test every day of her life, and because of that, we were all fortunate to have crossed her path during her lifetime. 
      You can read Mary's Obituary by CLICKING HERE. 

Learning about Precision Agriculture
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Oct 13, 2021
Modern agricultural practices are dramatically different than they were just a decade or two ago.  On October 13, Denton Stephens of C&B Operations gave the Vermillion Rotary Club a glimpse into the world of precision agriculture. To watch a video of his presentation on the Club's YouTube channel, please CLICK HERE on the image below. 

Jay Trobec Highlights the Unique SD Weather
Posted by Chuck Lubbers on Oct 06, 2021
Jay Trobec, Chief Meteorologist for KELOLAND News, was the speaker at the October 6 meeting of the Vermillion Rotary Club. Dr. Trobec provided a fascinating look at the "unique" weather we have in South Dakota. To view his presentation, simply click on the image below. https://youtu.be/Lhi7vRqdZY0
Club Executives & Directors
President
Kevin O'Kelley
President Elect
Melissa Berninger
Treasurer
Doug Tuve
Secretary
Kathy Chandler
Public Image Chair
Chuck Lubbers
Foundation Chair
Nick Oyen
Webmaster
Chuck Lubbers
Past President
Rich Holland
Membership Chair
Rich Holland
Download Files
2024 Vermillion Rotary Scholarship
Membership Proposal Form
Speaker Information
Donation Request Form
Bylaws-Vermillion Rotary-2019
VSD Pres-PlainTalk_Oct. 22
MRES Presentation-2022- Plain Talk
Rotary Club Profile-Volante-Oct 21
Rotary Support Community Mural-2021
Duck Race 21 - Plain Talk
Duck Race 20 - Plain Talk
Duck Race-June 21 2019 Plain Talk
2019 Duck Race Article - PlainTalk
Bike Helmets-May 3 2019-Plain Talk
Osborne Stresses Spirituality
Osborne to Keynote at District Conf-Sept 2018
SD Gov. Daugaard Visit - Dec 2017 Plain Talk article
Bike Helmets Story - Plain Talk May 5 2017
PETS "My Rotary" Website PPT
PETS-My Rotary Presentation
Green Eggs and Ham in Vermillion - March 2016
Vermillion Rotary Donation to the VDCA - Feb. 2016
VHS German Club Donation
2015 World Polio Day Proclamation in Vermillion
Thank you for Vermillion Rotary Scholarships
Legislative Wrap-up Article - Equalizer - April 11, 2015
Reese Erlich Presentation-Equalizer Feb. 21, 2015
Forbes Speaks to Vermillion Rotary-Equalizer Story-Jan.2015
David Owen, Pres. SD Chamber, - Equalizer Story
Vermillion Rotary and Global Partners in Health - Equalizer
Overview of Education Project in Village Star, China 2007-2012
Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY)
Vermillion Rotary 70th Anniversary Program
Vermillion Rotary 70th Anniv Rotary Quiz
2014-15 Rotary Int'l President's Theme brochure
July 8, 2014 Agenda - Vermillion Board Meeting
Sanford Vermillion Arts Program - July 22 2014
SD Spelling Bee - Aug 19 2014
SD Rankings and the National Kids COUNT-Aug 26 2014
World Polio Day Proclamation for SD
World Polio Day Story - Equalizer
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