Marshall Sunrise Rotary Club

08/22/2026

08/19/2026

🌅 Sunrise Rotary Spotlight! 🌟
Last week, Sunrise Rotary was honored to welcome Audra Klinkner, Executive Director of the The Action Foundation, sponsored by Rotarian Meg Louwagie.

Audra shared a personal story from a recent trip to Devils Tower — not as an uplifting moment, but as a clear example of how often “access” is misunderstood in our National Parks. What was labeled as accessible simply wasn’t, highlighting the gap between what parks say they offer and what people with mobility challenges actually need to participate fully and safely.

Her experience underscored an important truth:
access isn’t achieved through good intentions — it’s achieved through usable, functional design that meets real‑world needs.

Audra walked members through how the Action Foundation is working to close that gap. She highlighted their adaptive chair program, including last month the Foundation gifted a chair to a veteran, giving him the ability to explore outdoor spaces that had long been out of reach.

She also shared details about a major upcoming event:
a chair giveaway at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 11, 2026, honoring service and expanding meaningful access for individuals and families.

🚙 Tow & Go Program Launch
Audra explained the Foundation’s newest initiative — the Tow & Go Program.
The Tow & Go trailer is a specialized mobile unit carrying free‑to‑use, all‑terrain adaptive mobility equipment, including track chairs, designed to help individuals with mobility challenges explore the outdoors. This program removes one of the biggest barriers families face: getting the right equipment to the right place. Tow & Go brings accessibility directly to parks, trails, and community events.

Audra’s visit reminded Sunrise Rotary that improving access begins with listening, acknowledging gaps, and committing to solutions that truly work for the people who need them.

Thank you, Audra, for your advocacy and honesty — and thank you to Meg Louwagie for sponsoring this week’s speaker.

08/07/2026

🌅 Sunrise Rotary Spotlight! 🌟
This week, Sunrise Rotary was honored to welcome Devin Carter of S&P Window Control, sponsored by Troy Deutz.

Devin gave members a sharp, practical look at how modern window film and control systems can dramatically improve comfort, efficiency, and protection in homes and businesses. He highlighted S&P’s residential window film — designed to fit cleanly, perform reliably, and preserve the view you paid for — and walked through the benefits homeowners see immediately:

Rejects up to 78% of solar heat for cooler rooms

Blocks 99% of UV rays to protect floors, furniture, and finishes

Reduces glare on screens and reflective surfaces

Optical clarity with no “cheap purple haze”

Installed edge‑to‑edge, often same day in most homes

Devin’s presentation underscored how thoughtful building upgrades can make everyday spaces healthier, more comfortable, and more energy‑efficient — all without sacrificing aesthetics.

Sunrise Rotary reflected on his message:
“Smart improvements that enhance daily living strengthen every community they serve.”

Thank you, Devin, for sharing your expertise — and thank you to Troy Deutz for sponsoring this week’s speaker.

08/05/2026

Did you see these Rotarians in action???

07/30/2026

🌅 Sunrise Rotary Spotlight! 🌟
This week, Sunrise Rotary was honored to welcome Abby Wikelius, Lyon County Attorney, sponsored by Rotarian Jim Marshall.

Abby provided an insightful overview of her work as Lyon County Attorney, outlining the responsibilities of the office and the wide range of cases her team manages. She discussed current challenges within the county, the importance of strong collaboration with law enforcement and community partners, and how consistent, thoughtful decision‑making supports both accountability and community safety.

She also highlighted how her office balances legal requirements with the needs of individuals and families, emphasizing communication, prevention, and early intervention as key components in strengthening outcomes across the justice system.

Sunrise Rotary reflected on her presentation:
“Strong communities are built on fairness, accountability, and partnership.”

Thank you, Abby, for your leadership and service to Lyon County — and thank you to Jim Marshall for sponsoring this week’s speaker.

07/23/2026

🌅 Sunrise Rotary Spotlight! 🌟
This week, Sunrise Rotary was honored to welcome District Governor Mike Gibson and his wife Vasthi, sponsored by Sunrise Rotary President Jerry Wiblemo.

Mike shared his personal background and the journey that led him to become District Governor, offering insight into the experiences, mentors, and moments that shaped his commitment to Rotary leadership. He and Vasthi also shared fascinating history and perspective on the Crazy Horse Monument, highlighting its significance, its long‑term vision, and the dedication behind one of the most iconic ongoing projects in the region.

Their visit reminded Sunrise Rotary of the power of service‑driven leadership, the importance of understanding our shared history, and the impact Rotary can make when members stay connected, informed, and engaged.

Sunrise Rotary reflected on their message:
“Leadership rooted in service strengthens every community it touches.”

Thank you, Governor Gibson and Vasthi, for your time, insight, and dedication — and thank you to President Jerry Wiblemo for sponsoring this week’s speakers.

07/21/2026

🌅 Sunrise Rotary Spotlight! 🌟
This week, Sunrise Rotary was honored to welcome Melissa Bruns of Hope Harbor, sponsored by Rotarian John DeCramer.

Melissa shared a powerful and informative overview of Hope Harbor’s mission to support teens and families through times of crisis, highlighting the organization’s commitment to providing safe housing, structured guidance, and Christ‑centered support. She explained how Hope Harbor’s residential program helps teens build healthy coping skills, strengthen communication, and restore relationships, while also offering resources and education for parents and guardians.

Melissa emphasized the importance of early intervention, family involvement, and community partnership, noting that lasting change happens when families are supported as a whole. Her message underscored how Hope Harbor works to equip young people with tools for emotional stability, personal responsibility, and long‑term success.

Sunrise Rotary reflected on her presentation:
“Strong families build strong communities — and strong communities lift families up.”

Thank you, Melissa, for your dedication to youth and families, and thank you to John DeCramer for sponsoring this week’s speaker.