Tyler Bush introduced Ryan Newman, who is the area manager for the US Bureau of Reclamation. Ryan is a native of northwestern South Dakota and obtained a graduate and undergraduate degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences from SD State. Before coming to Montana, he worked for the US Army Corps of Engineers in the Dakotas and the Forestry Service in Idaho. Currently, he manages the 60 year old Yellowtail Dam for water, power, and infrastructure, the water of which irrigates over 350,000 acres of crops and serves one million visitors for recreational purposes. The Bureau's mission statement is to manage, develop, and protect water and the environment. The reclamation initiative was established by Teddy Roosevelt and Congress in 1902. Ryan spoke about the Milk River Project and St. Mary Unit, and how remarkable it is, as it was built by hand. The siphon worked for 120 years before it had to be repaired.
Today, the Missouri Basin Region has 50 Offices, 53 power plants servicing electricity for 3.5 million homes and generating one billion dollars in power revenue. The Bureau is managing reservoirs and rivers to measure, forecast, coordinate, operate, and communicate. They work with irrigation needs, environmental impacts, and flood control in the community. Ryan noted that there are major upgrades expected for Yellowtail and Canyon Ferry.
Canessa Washington, recipient of the Hartmann Scholarship (awarded every four years), spoke about her journey. She graduated from West High School and earned an associate’s degree Magna Cum Laude from the Fashion Institute of Technology in South Korea. She is now a global scholar, moving to Florence, Italy, in August to pursue a bachelor’s in fashion business management, representing her school in promoting global connections and cultural intelligence.
Kathy Eckert, Chief Program Officer of Code Girls United, introduced the program alongside coordinators and students. Haley, an 8th grader, has participated for 4.5 years, won scholarships three times, and plans to become a software engineer. She now serves as an ambassador, teaching younger girls. Sage, involved for 7–8 years, progressed from block coding to advanced Python and app development. Despite moving to Minnesota, she remained engaged with equipment sent by the program. She recently built an app set for market release and now interns to mentor others.
Program Overview
Free after-school program for girls in grades 4–12.
Operates in 6 public schools in Billings and across Montana.
Weekly 90-minute sessions during the school year (September–April).
Curriculum includes coding, problem-solving, AI, and cybersecurity.
Uses MIT App Inventor for block coding; advanced students learn Python and work with Raspberry Pi.
The speaker emphasized the importance of Rotary’s community impact and noted a current weakness: low committee participation. Members are encouraged to volunteer a few hours per month. An email from Mireya Lane will detail opportunities. The goal is to strengthen the club’s capacity to support students and causes like those highlighted.
Scholarship update & Code Girls United - July 13, 2026
The scholarship winners were chosen by their schools as top candidates, and the Rotary committee selected the final six. Those present included:
1. Bryn Solgard (Billings Central)
2. Coralie Seymour (Lockwood)
3. McLean Olsen (Senior High)
4. Ava Greenwood (Skyview)
5. Luke Monson (Billings Christian)
Kellen Edward from West High was unable to attend. Each recipient received a Rotary coin from President Tom as a memento and encouragement to consider future Rotarian involvement.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP)
Mike and Chrissy from the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Department. Mike, with FWP since 1994, holds a Master’s in Natural Resources and has held various leadership roles, currently serving as Director of Region Five. Chrissy, a Billings native, joined FWP in 2020 and transitioned in 2022 to Regional Communications and Education Manager, responsible for public outreach, media relations, and conservation education programs. FWP’s organizational framework includes a Public Affairs Manager overseeing licensing and communications, a vacant Deputy Director position initiated under the Gianforte administration, Centralized Enforcement and Legal units, a Chief of Administration (budgets, IT, HR), a Chief of Operations (supervising regional programs), and a Chief of Conservation Policy (coordinating with state parks board and commissioners, and overseeing the reconsolidated Research Unit). FWP collaborates extensively with federal and tribal partners. There are 12 federally recognized tribes across 7 reservations; FWP works through formal agreements on license sales, wildlife distribution, and habitat access. Montana has 11 forests in which FWP coordinates on habitat and access projects and provides input on forest management plans. FWP collaborates with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service on species such as grizzly bears; a recent example involved the removal of a depredating bear after it killed calves. FWP also works with the BLM on joint access and habitat initiatives and the National Parks.
Rotary Year-End Reflection and Community Impact Report
As the Rotary year concluded, the club reviewed its recent achievements. The community grants initiative, selected 14 recipients from 28 applicants (up from 17 recipients the previous year). A total of 14 organizations received funding after a rigorous review process. The increase in funding was made possible by greater available resources. Two major international initiatives were highlighted: the Liberia Water and Sanitation Project and the Guatemala Water Access and Sanitation Project. The Youth Committee focused on leadership development through scholarships, RILA, and the Interact club. Community Service Initiatives highlighted the Holiday Food Baskets and Veterans’ Memorial Flags. Ken, Jonathan, and Drew presented on the highly successful Memorial Day Parade and are looking forward to next year's successes. Jonathan received the President’s Community Impact Award for his leadership, transforming a previously rejected idea into a landmark community event.
Leadership Transitions and Recognition
New Board Members: Vincent, Terry Danielson, Todd Sherman, Andy Elton, and Levi Knight (President Nominee). Returning Board Members: Dave Darby, Jonathan, Jake Bradford, and Matt Allen. Incoming President Charlie outlined two primary goals are to maintain and increase relevancy and grow membership.
Three new members were formally inducted into the Billings Downtown Rotary Club #999: Anne Crist, Ashley Taylor, and Bill Dreikosen.
Billings Rotary Foundation Update
The Billings Rotary Foundation, provided an update on the organization’s leadership and future direction. Jock acknowledged the long-standing service of veteran board members—Bill Dutcher, Alan Karell, Darrel Ehrlick, and John Stewart—joking that they collectively had “four hundred years” of experience. The board has worked to secure a succession plan, and announced the new board members being added. The Foundation is transitioning to offering scholarships every two years instead of every four and will be increasing fundraising activities to support this initiative. John Stewart will assume the presidency of the Foundation on July 1st. Jock emphasized that while many Rotarians understand the Foundation’s purpose, many do not fully grasp its scope. He committed to delivering future presentations to clarify the Foundation’s impact and future goals.
Guest Presentation: Billings Community Foundation
Zack Terakedis, Executive Director, and John Greenberger, Finance Director, of the Billings Community Foundation (BCF), delivered a comprehensive presentation on their organization’s mission, services, and impact. The Foundation was founded in 2007 as a regional arm of the Montana Community Foundation. It became independent to better serve Eastern Montana, which previously received insufficient attention. They now serve nine counties, with partnerships extending to 11–12 counties. BCF acts as a “charitable bank,” helping individuals and organizations direct resources to causes they care about. Services include: Donor-advised funds (DAFs); Endowment management; Montana Endowment Tax Credit; Pass-through accounts; Fiscal sponsorships; and Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). BCF supports local nonprofits by focusing on board education, teaching financial literacy and fiduciary responsibilities; partnering with the United Way and the Chamber of Commerce to train nonprofit boards and executive directors; and offering fiscal sponsorship, bookkeeping, and grant reporting services. The presentation ended with a Q&A with the membership.
Al Beever, Executive Director of Montana State University’s Institute for National Security Research and Education (INSRE), delivered a comprehensive presentation on MSU’s national security initiatives. Al stated that MSU is Montana’s land-grant institution, established under a law that includes "military tactics"—the foundation of ROTC programs. INSRE was formally established in November 2004 by the Board of Regents. It operates under a "soft-funded" model: researchers must secure their own funding, making external partnerships critical. Al emphasized three core goals: growing impact on national security, improving student experience, and expanding industry partnerships. Al explained that Partnership Intermediary Law is a uniquely flexible federal law allowing MSU to serve as a bridge between government, industry, and academia. The law permits nearly all activities except manufacturing and janitorial services.
Ken presented a recap of the Rotary Memorial Day Parade. The second annual parade changed routes from Blake Street to the traditional parade path, increasing participation dramatically. Floats grew from 27 to 85; participants rose from 50 to 700–800. Media coverage expanded from radio to include television, with plans to partner with Community Seven for televised broadcast next year. The event generated 215,085 impressions (nearly a quarter-million) and 50,580 clicks from the website. $4,000 was donated to four veteran suicide prevention nonprofits: Horses Spirit and Healing (now in Hunting, formerly Red Lodge), Suicide Prevention Coalition of Yellowstone County, VFW Post 6774, and Warrior Wishes (who provided most barricades and volunteers).
Girl Scouts of Montana and Wyoming - Presented by Briana Rickman
Briana Rickman is the Director of Public Relations and Development for Girl Scouts Montana and Wyoming, with over 12 years of service. The Girl Scouts' mission is to build girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. The council is one of 111 councils in the U.S., serving Montana and Wyoming (245,000 sq. miles) across12 regions. Girl Scouts serves 7,000+ girls and nearly 2,400 volunteers. The first Montana troop was founded in 1918, and the first Wyoming troop in 1923.
Kyle Lantz introduced five organizations receiving Rotary Community Grant Awards.
1. Eagle Mount – Presented by Lynn Mullowney Cabrera
Eagle Mount provides adaptive recreation and community engagement for over 700 individuals annually, including youth and adults with various disabilities. Programs include skiing, summer camp, cycling, and field trips. Scholarships allow low-income families to participate.
2. Scouting America (Montana Council) – Presented by Levi Knight
Levi serves as Field Director, overseeing 547 youth and 198 adults in Billings. The grant supports the Scout Reach program, targeting underserved populations in urban and rural areas, particularly at Friendship House. The program runs twice monthly for six weeks.
3. Yellowstone Historical Society – Presented by Lou Ponech
The grant funded an informational sign about Willard Fraser, a four-term mayor of Billings who died in office in 1972. The new 4x2 foot sign, similar to Skyline Trail markers, will be placed in front of a boulder on the Metro side, facing the river and Emerald Hills. The sign highlights Fraser’s achievements: doubling city parks, saving Pictograph Caves, and attracting film production. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for June 11 at 1:30 PM, followed by a reception at the Northern Hotel.
4. Billings Symphony – Presented by Mario Lopez
The grant supports Beyond the Stage, a rebranded version of the Explore Music program, focusing on education and community engagement. Last season, 263 free programs were offered under 13 initiatives.
5. Community Leadership and Development Inc. – Presented by Kaylee Thompson
Kaylee thanked Rotary for supporting the YouthWorks program. The program is based on the HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences) framework, countering adverse childhood experiences with consistent, positive relationships.
Rotary Community Grant Awards Recipients, May 18th, 2026
Brian Dennis gave a presentation on the Boys & Girls Club of Yellowstone County. The club serves 433 kids across five clubhouses. 27% of the members are middle/high schoolers, which is the largest such group in Montana. The club provides over 263,000 hours of youth programming annually. About 42% of the hids live in a single-parent home, and 69% receive free or reduced lunch assistance. The program provides over 73,000 snacks and meals yearly, including hot meals after school and full meals in the summer. The club operates 27-passenger buses, 15-passenger vans, and partnerships with Billings Public Schools to provide transportation. Currently, programs consist of individual mentoring, academic support, STEM, healthy lifestyles, gardening, workforce development, and career exploration. Field trips and community service are integral to the programs. Future initiatives include: Training staff to provide trauma-informed care; adding support staff to manage behavioral issues without disrupting programs; relocating administrative staff to free up space at Bear Family Clubhouse for a calm center and on-site therapists or CASA partners; and expanding services to support families directly, led by Nick Winslow, to avoid merely referring struggling families to external resources. The club is looking for volunteers, college students for summer jobs, advocates to represent the club and visit other clubs, and donations.
Boys & Girls Club Update with Brian Dennis - May 11
Six graduating seniors from area high schools have been awarded $1,500 scholarships from the Rotary Club of Billings. The scholarship winners are:
Luke Monson of Billings Christian School
Brynn Sogaard of Billings Central
Carli Seymour of Lockwood
Maclain Olson of Billings Senior
Ava Greenwell of Billings Skyview
Kellen Edward of Billings West
All scholarship winners were nominated by their schools as the best of the best, and invited to be a part of the Rotary Outstanding Student Guest program. The scholarship winners were selected based on an application and essay about how they live Rotary's motto of Service Above Self.
The 2nd Annual Billings Rotary Memorial Parade was held May 23, 2026 to honor military and Veterans. Rotarians Jonathan Mauger and Ken Callahan organized the amazing event, complete with flag bearers, horseback riders, and the Billings Mustangs - with Rotary members leading the way.
Local news stations covered the event.
Hundreds honor military and veterans in downtown Billings parade
BILLINGS— Hundreds honored the military and veterans in downtown Billings Saturday morning with a Memorial Day weekend parade.
Dr. Hansen, a 93-year-old retired Air Force flight dentist, shared a remarkable personal story from 1961 at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Great Falls. He recounted a top-secret incident involving a UFO sighting, scrambled jets, and the subsequent disappearance of personnel who were debriefed at the Pentagon. While the Air Force has never confirmed the event, Dr. Hansen emphasized the bravery of those who served and the importance of remembering their service.
Becky Jeter, the new Executive Director of the Western Heritage Center, gave an engaging overview of the museum’s mission, exhibits, and programs. The center is housed in the historic Parmly Billings Memorial Library, built in 1901 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. It also includes the J.K. Ralston log cabin studio, currently in need of preservation. Current exhibits include: - “Having a Beer in Billings” – exploring the city’s brewing history - “Hope in Hard Times” – Depression-era photography - “Delegations: Diplomacy and Daily Life” – ledger art from an 1880 Crow delegation - “Prisoner of War: Ben Steele’s Personal Chronicle” – artwork from a Bataan survivor
The center offers walking tours (Hoof It with a Historian), High Noon Lectures, traveling exhibits, and community events like Play-A-Palooza and Voices of the Past.
Becky confirmed they are exploring expansion possibilities, including potential use of the old Billings Hardware building, due to space constraints. They also plan to continue hosting traveling exhibits, including future collaborations with national institutions.
The Western Heritage Center relies heavily on volunteers (over 20 active members) and welcomes new members. Benefits include free admission, discounts, and special event invitations. They are especially in need of both front-desk hosts and behind-the-scenes archival support.
Dr. Hansen's UFO sighting and Becky Jeter with the Western Heritage Center - May 4th, 2026
The club welcomed Dr. Bob Wilmouth, the President of Rocky Mountain College, beginning in April of 2013. Dr. Wilmouth spoke about the Higher Education system as a whole being under a microscope, and because of that pressure, we have lost over 90 private colleges in the United States over the past six years. The College has responded to these pressures by making hard sacrifices to keep its budget balanced. They consider carefully what coursework to provide, and work to obtain funding before building the staff and curriculum for new programs. He believes the value of an education goes beyond what is learned in the classroom and is grounded in the relationships that students build over their time at the College. Dr. Wilmouth believes they have great staff in place to continue to build a strong sports program to attract top talent. This is a driver for growth for the campus and academic achievement. The President spoke briefly on updates to the campus and the cost of the average tuition costs, after scholarships have been granted. He believes expanding and updating the campuses, along with more timely granting of scholarships, will boost enrollment in the future.
Update from Rocky Mountain College Presented by Bob Wilmouth - April 27, 2026Update from Rocky Mountain College
The meeting began with the introduction of the Billings Central Catholic High School's winning boys' basketball team. The team had a very impressive year, and their coach spoke about those successes and the future plans for the seniors on the team.
Rotarian Jock Michelotti introduced Amanda Boerboom, Hospital Development Coordinator for LifeCenter Northwest. The center works to coordinate the donation and distribution of organs and tissues. Amanda gave a brief overview of how her organization works before asking Jock to return to speak to his personal experience with organ donation.
Jock and his family have been affected by a genetic kidney disease. Jock spoke about the disease and how it had significantly shortened the lives of his relatives. He spoke about how the donation process has improved over the years and his own story of his sister-in-law donating a kidney to him, and how it has changed his life.
Amanda concluded with information about how the donors and their families are cared for and the process for donation. She spoke about her own experience with tissue donation and the impact it has had on her mobility.
Charter Day for Rotary Club of Billings was celebrated with a joint meeting of the Rotary Club of Billings and the Billings West Rotary Club. The Rotary Club of Billings was Chartered on April 1, 1916 and the Billings West Rotary Club was chartered on February 17, 1987.
Rotary Club of Billings Tom Webber (left) and Billings West Rotary Club Dale Haarr presided.
Rotarian Andy Elting introduced the program speaker, Dr. Brock Tessman, President of Montana State University. President Tessman came to Montana State University in July, 2025. He spoke about the importance of MSU's satellite campuses, such as MSU-Billings and the Gallatin College. Montana State University is looking forward with record enrollment this spring of 16,000 students, continued research opportunities, nationally-recognized scholars, and the National Champion Bobcat Football team.
Dr. Brock Tessman Speaks at April 6, 2026 Club Meeting
Paul Harris Society Members Al Koelzer and Allan Karell were recognized for continued commitment to the Rotary Foundation.
Billings Clinic President Todd Blake and Dr. Erin Rains presented "What's New at Billings Clinic?" Billings Clinic has made great strides in employee engagement and retention to reduce turnover. They are continuing to grow to provide the care our community needs.
The presenters were introduced by Patrick Klugman (Rotarian) and Nicole Mehling, both of the Billings Clinic Foundation.
Heather White, Bozeman Author on Anxiety and Environmental Solutions, spoke about the concerns over the environment leading to anxiety. Our youth are among the most affected.
Heather with member Tom Towe
Mariellen Neudeck received a Paul Harris pin from President Tom Webber. Mariellen is a longtime member and great supporter of Rotary and our club.
Paul Green (center) was inducted into the club. Paul is the Executive Director of Big Sky Economic Development. With are President Tom Webber (left) and member Steve Arveschoug, Paul's sponsor.
Kurtis Schnieber, Engineer, and Mike Taylor, Billings District Administrator, from the Montana Department of Transportation, gave an update on scheduled road projects in the Billings Division and a brief look at upcoming projects statewide.
Montana Dept. of Transportation Update, April 28, 2025 Luncheon
President Ernie Ross presents Dave Kimball with a Paul Harris pin in recognition of his gifts. Dave has achieved the highest recognition given by Rotary International.
Dr. Tom Rust, Professor of History at Montana State University, Billings, and Andy Elting, member. Dr. Rust spoke on Montana’s Army Posts of thelate 19th and early 20th centuries and their relationship with the communities around them.
Member Dave Kimball with Mark Sullivan, the noon-time speaker, is the acclaimed author of eighteen novels, including the #1 New York Times bestselling Private series, which he writes with James Patterson. Mark has received numerous awards for his writing, including the WHSmith Fresh Talent Award, and his works have been named a New York Times Notable Book and a Los Angeles Times Best Book of the Year.
Students from our local high schools who are applying for scholarships.
The Rotary Club of Billings is sponsoring a Memorial Day Parade on Saturday, May 24, 2025. Veterans organizations, businesses, charitable organizations, and individuals will participate. If you or your organization wishes to participate, please see the following links for information.
The Billings Downtown Rotary Club partnered with Billings City Parks and Recreation in a pilot project to plant a fruit orchard in Rose Park. This “Editable Forest” will consist of a total of twenty trees. This is the first of what the city. Parks and Recreation Division plans for other parks in the future. The trees were planted on the west side of Rose Park on Friday, May 18th.
On December 15th, we completed our holiday food basket drive for the 2017 season. We packed 800 food baskets inclusive of both our Thanksgiving and Christmas drives. Approximately 15 -20 members of the club, with the support of some family members, Rotaract Club members, and volunteers Food Services of America packed 450 bags during each session approximately one week before each holiday. The club successfully attained our pledge contribution goal of $24,000 with the cost of each basket at $30. Food Services of America procured the food and forwarded only the raw cost of the products to the club. Family Services then distributed the food baskets to needy families in the Billings community. The holiday food basket drive is over a 30 year tradition of our club.
A beloved annual tradition now, Rotary Club assists as bell ringers for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign.
Every December close to 20 Rotarians take a shift ringing the bell and greeting shoppers. Family of Rotarians also help with many members bringing their children to take in the holiday spirit.
Also, the Interact Club of Senior H.S. joins on the day where they can. It has become a custom for Rotary Club to be involved in the fundraising for the vulnerable in our community.
Rotary Club assists Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign
More than 10% of our Rotary Club members participated in the Educator for a Day event on Nov 17. The event included a breakfast meeting at the Northern Hotel featuring Rotarian Todd Vralsted, BEA Foundation Chair, convening the meeting, and Darrell Ehrlick, Billings Gazette Editor, serving as moderator for a panel which included Rotarians Steve Arveschoug, Dr Terry Bouck and Dr Bob Wilmouth.
Participants then spent two hours on site at local grade schools, middle schools or high schools. Participants included Rotarians Eric Nord, Bill Dutcher, Carl Jackson, Tom Hanel, Robyn Sargent, Darrin Rich, Andy Gott, Kyle Lantz, Kim Kaiser, Kristie Asay, Bob Carr, Sarah Brockel, Zach Dunn and Sandy Wong.
We had a great turnout with 25 Rotary Club Members and 12 Interact Student from Senior High School. We will be packing another 400 food baskets for Christmas at FSA on December 16th at 8 AM. Warren Helmer will again be providing breakfast for volunteers following the food basket packing in December.
The Hartman Scholarship was established through a generous bequest from former Rotarian Dr. Gerhard (Gerry) and Fern Hartman. Dr. Hartman was a devoted member of the Billings Rotary Club and a Rotarian for 52 years. Gerry and Fern’s desire to have a long-lasting impact on the college education of youth within the Billings area was the motivation behind the establishment of the Hartman Scholarship.
The Club’s Centennial Book was distributed at our celebration April 25th to all Rotarians. If you were not in attendance, you may pick up your copy of the book at the guest check-in table at any May meeting. Also additional copies will be for sale for $50, with check payment the preferred method.
We desperately need one more host for one of the female members of the Tasmanian Exchange Team. The host will need to provide housing for four nights: Sunday, May 8 through Thursday morning, May 12. The host family does not need to plan activities during the day, as Gregg Glueckert, President of Billings West Club, and President Sandy Wong are working on that schedule. We really, really need someone to come forward – call Sandy on her cell at 855-4829 if you can be a host!
Clean-up along the Rims trail will be in conjunction with Bright & Beautiful this Spring and will take place Saturday, April 30th. Meet at 8:00am at The Billings Community Center at 630 North 23rd St. for bags and equipment. There will be a lunch for participants afterward at 11:30am. Contact Carolyn Ostby or Bill Dutcher for more information.
The Billings Rotary Foundation would like to acknowledge Memorials made to The Foundation by Allan Karell and Jock Michelotti in honor of late Rotarian Don Bjertness. Thank you to these Rotarians for their support of The Foundation’s charitable purposes as a way to pay respect to a great, long-time Rotarian.
Don Bjertness Memorials Made to the Billings Rotary Foundation
Rotarian Cindy Bye has recently returned from Liberia, West Africa, where she visited the project sites where our club is working, with the participation of the Billings West Club and a District grant. This year two villages in an area off of the road system received a well and a latrine. They finally have safe drinking water! The people were also given training in sanitation and health.
The five members of the Rotary Tasmania Exchange Team will be coming to Montana to visit beginning in April. We will be fortunate to have them visit Billings and attend our May 9th meeting. They will need hosts to stay with while they are in town. The Billings West Club already has hosts committed for three of the members. We need a few members in our club to come forward and commit to hosting the other two. They will be arriving in Billings on Sunday, May 8th, and leaving for home on Thursday, May 12th. Please contact President Sandy Wong (855-4829) and let her know if this would work for you/your family as soon as possible. It’s a rewarding experience all around!
Hosts Needed for Tasmania Exchange Team Coming to Billings
Celebrating 100 years of Billings Rotary Club, 1916-2016! Win $1,000 worth of wine or $750 cash. The drawing will be held April 25, 2016. You can get tickets from any Billings Rotary Member or at Kennedy's Wine Bar and Restaurant for $10 each, 3 for $20, or 15 for $100. Wine, valued at $100, will be selected and supplied by the experts at Kennedy's, 1520 24th Street West.
The Billings Wolves might have suffered a 51-28 defeat against the Sioux Falls Storm, but fun was had by spectators consisting, in part, of our own Downtown Rotarians. On Saturday, February 20, they got to see the action up close from a special reserved section in the lower arena just above the 50-yard line at a discounted price. Check out these pics:
Between now and June 30th, Rotarians are asked to donate $30 to The Rotary Foundation’s polio fund in honor of the 30 years of work to eradicate polio. Only 70 cases were reported last year. Help make 2016 the LAST year for polio. Learn more about how to donate and help end polio at the District website, www.montanarotary.org.
Reserve your tickets on the Downtown Billings Rotary website, or in person at the Feb 1 or Feb 8 meetings, for family and friends for Rotary Night at Billings Wolves Season Opener at 7 p.m. February 20 at MetraPark. Tickets are for reserved seats in the Lower Arena in sections 16 and 18 for Rotarians and their guests to sit together. Special price for Rotarians is $13.50 per ticket regardless of age (infants ages 2 and under who will sit on a lap do not need a ticket). Tickets must be reserved by Feb 15; members will be billed by the club Treasurer. Pick up tickets at Will Call Window at Metra as early as 10 am on February 20; Doors to the Arena open at 6 pm.
Rotarian Bill Cochran, Director of the Billings Public Library, will be at Monday's meeting to let you know all about Pre-Sale orders of the "Billings Rotary Club – 100 Years of Service Above Self" Centennial Book available during February. Each member will receive one copy of the Book; these orders are to reserve additional copies as there are a limited number of additional copies being printed and we want to offer them to club members first -- $50 per book -- a 96-page hard cover coffee table book. Delivery is expected mid-April. There will be order forms on the tables, similar to Food Basket commitment forms. Bill is the contact person for any other orders or questions, cochranb@ci.billings.mt.us or 657-8292.
The Downtown Billings Rotary Club welcomes is newest member: Andrew Gott. Andy recently joined the downtown branch of Stockman Bank as Vice President and Branch Manager. He was sponsored by Rotarian Jeremy Morgret. Welcome, Andy!
At today's meeting, Melanie Schwarz invited fellow Rotarians to attend the 2016 Energy Briefing, What Your Business Needs to Know about the Clean Power Plan and Montana's Economic Future, hosted by Big Sky Economic Development. The briefing will be at the Crowne Plaza Hotel next Monday, January 18, from 11 AM to 1 PM and will feature guest speaker Montana Attorney General Tim Fox. An industry panel discussion will also be held, and a complimentary lunch will be served. For more information and to register, visit the Big Sky EDA web page here, or you can contact Melanie Schwarz at melanie@bigskyeda.org.
Billings Rotary Club is accepting messages from, and for, its members, both present and past. These messages will be in the form of a 1-inch-deep by 7-inch-wide rectangular box positioned below historic information in the Club's coffee-table-sized book. This is a 96-page, hard cover book celebrating the Club's 100 consecutive years (1916 to 2016) as a member of Rotary International.
Several members of our club pitched in to help pack holiday food baskets at Food Services of America on Friday, December 18. Hundreds of food baskets were prepared for distribution to needy families by Family Services. Check out some photos of the event:
Many Rotarians and their families had a lot of fun last Saturday ringing the Salvation Army Bell in front of Van's Evergreen IGA. Click the "Read More..." button for pics.
The Thanksgiving Basket Packing at Food Services of America on November 20 was a huge success. Thirty-eight people showed up to participate and had a great time. If you missed out on the fun, don't fret. You have another chance to help pack food baskets coming up next week on December 18. Click here for more details.
Thanksgiving Baskets a Success, Christmas Baskets Coming Up
When you are making year-end gifts this year, please consider The Billings Rotary Foundation. There are a few ways a contribution can help the Foundation
The RYLA camp is in need of at least 20 good-condition, used, round banquet tables to replace the old, very heavy, oversized picnic tables that the RYLA campers have been sitting on for their group sessions. If you know of a business that can donate some round tables that are no longer needed, please let Arlene Weber, RYLA Director/District Web Administrator, know at (406) 287-3866 or DG5390.2011@msn.com.
The Downtown Billings Rotary Club welcomes its new members: Brian Murphy, associate at Holland & Hart, sponsored by George Kimmet, and Brian Dennis with Boys and Girls Club of Billings, sponsored by Greg McDonald.
The Board has decided that our club will participate in a project to equip a maternity and children’s ward in the Kotor Hospital in Montenegro. We will contribute $1,000, and the District will contribute $2,500. When the global grant is approved by Rotary International, and matching funds are applied, this will yield around $6,500 for the project.
Attention Rotarians! One of the 2015-2016 Presidential Citation goals requires 85% member retention along with gaining a net of four new members, at least two of which are women. Accordingly, the Board of Directors has approved a new member recruitment promotion by offering a discounted lunch price through January 18, 2016. Rotarians that bring prospective new member guests will only be charged $5 with the balance covered by the Club. As you check in your guest, just indicate they are a prospective new member and we’ll take care of the rest. Thank you, in advance, for your thoughtful consideration!
Get a Discounted Lunch With the New Member Promotion
The Downtown Billings Rotary Club is excited to announce that Rotarian Gareld Krieg and his wife, Barbara, have made a major donation to the Rotary Foundation. Major Donors are recognized by Rotary International when their cumulative donations to the Rotary Foundation reach $10,000. They are honored with a crystal recognition piece and a Major Donor lapel pin or pendant, as was Gareld as well as Past District Governor John Stewart and his wife, Susan.
RiverStone Health will be providing flu shots before the regular club meeting on Monday, October 26th. Shots are being offered from 11:15 am to noon. The cost is $30; cash and checks will be accepted. For those with Medicare, bring your card.
We're looking for volunteers to assist with dictionary deliveries to Beartooth and Bench Elementary Schools. We need a lead Rotarian along with an assistant for each location and have included the delivery schedule below. Please RSVP with Zack Dunn, zdunn@yellowstonebank.com if you are available to help. Interacting with the students is a great experience so please sign up!
Bench Elementary - 10/22/15 at 11:00 am
505 Milton Road
Billings, MT 59105
Beartooth Elementary - 10/23/15 at 8:30 am
1345 Elaine Street
Billings, MT 59105
October 23rd is World Polio Day! There will be an event in New York City at 6:30 pm eastern (4:30 pm mountain time) through Rotary International that will stream LIVE on the RI website: www.rotary.org that you can watch. If you are not able to see it then, Rotarian Dave Lundin will be setting up a laptop about 11:30am just prior to our October 26 meeting to stream the re-play.
The Education Foundation invites you to join us for the 11th Annual Educator for a Day on Thursday, November 19, 2015. Educator for a Day is a program of the Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools and Billings Partners in Education. On November 19th, we invite business, community, and government leaders into our elementary, middle, and high schools. Community members, who haven’t stepped inside the doors of a school for years, will have a chance to meet staff, visit classrooms, and learn firsthand what it takes to run a school in the 21st Century. We would love for you to join us!
Please welcome the following new Rotarians: Jared Le Fevre, a Partner at Crowley Fleck PLLP, proposed by Rotarian Jock Michelotti; Dr. Clifford P. Coppersmith, Dean at City College - Montana State University, proposed by President Sandy Wong; and Erika Willis, Company Leader, Market Development for Elation, Inc., proposed by Rotarian Bob Carr.
We have several students who are eager to participate in the Rotary Youth Exchange program sponsored by the Downtown Billings Rotary Club. Please contact President Sandy Wong if you are interested in leading the program. You can read more about the program here.
Updated 10/21/2015: Rotarian Shawna Secker has agreed to chair this program. Thank you, Shawna, for supporting your club!
The Downtown Billings Rotary Club is accepting applications for the 2016-2017 Rotary Youth Exchange program. If you would like to be a foreign exchange student or are interested in hosting an exchange student from another country, read more here.
On the evening of September 16th, Rotarians and their guests enjoyed a hilarious, fun-filled comedy, "Don't Dress for Dinner," presented by the Billings Studio Theatre, a volunteer-based community theater.
Second graders at Newman Elementary School, a Title I school, holding up some of the books purchased by the Downtown Billings Rotary Club. Teacher Mrs. Julie Schopp was sponsored by the club as a Rotary Exchange Student to Brazil in 1978.
The Friendship House had an open house to show off the new kitchen and other improvements that were completed with the $200,000+ we raised at Rotary Nite Out in April of 2014.
Paul Harris Fellow recognition is given in appreciation to anyone who contributes outright or cumulatively (Sustaining Membership status), or in whose name is contributed, a gift of $1,000 or more to the Annual Programs Fund, PolioPlus, or the Humanitarian Grants Program. The recognition consists of a certificate and pin. The reward is fulfilling the 4-Way Test and knowing you have truly helped those who benefit from the efforts of Rotary International. Contact the Club Secretary to become a Paul Harris Fellow!
Please welcome returning Rotarian David Darby, who transferred from the Rotary Club of the University District in Seattle, Washington. David is retired form the US Department of Treasury and is married to Mary Lee.
As part of the 2015-2016 Rotary International Presidential Citation, our goal is to have at least fifty per cent of our club's membership registered in My Rotary at the Rotary International website. Join My Rotary today!
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The Club’s Centennial Book was distributed at our celebration April 25th to all Rotarians. If you were not in attendance, you may pick up your copy of the book at the guest check-in table at any May meeting. Also additional copies will be for sale for $50, with check payment the preferred method.
Rotarian Cindy Bye has recently returned from Liberia, West Africa, where she visited the project sites where our club is working, with the participation of the Billings West Club and a District grant. This year two villages in an area off of the road system received a well and a latrine. They finally have safe drinking water! The people were also given training in sanitation and health.
Reserve your tickets on the Downtown Billings Rotary website, or in person at the Feb 1 or Feb 8 meetings, for family and friends for Rotary Night at Billings Wolves Season Opener at 7 p.m. February 20 at MetraPark. Tickets are for reserved seats in the Lower Arena in sections 16 and 18 for Rotarians and their guests to sit together. Special price for Rotarians is $13.50 per ticket regardless of age (infants ages 2 and under who will sit on a lap do not need a ticket). Tickets must be reserved by Feb 15; members will be billed by the club Treasurer. Pick up tickets at Will Call Window at Metra as early as 10 am on February 20; Doors to the Arena open at 6 pm.
The RYLA camp is in need of at least 20 good-condition, used, round banquet tables to replace the old, very heavy, oversized picnic tables that the RYLA campers have been sitting on for their group sessions. If you know of a business that can donate some round tables that are no longer needed, please let Arlene Weber, RYLA Director/District Web Administrator, know at (406) 287-3866 or 
We have several students who are eager to participate in the Rotary Youth Exchange program sponsored by the Downtown Billings Rotary Club. Please contact President 
The Downtown Billings Rotary Club is accepting applications for the 2016-2017 Rotary Youth Exchange program. If you would like to be a foreign exchange student or are interested in hosting an exchange student from another country, read more 
On the evening of September 16th, Rotarians and their guests enjoyed a hilarious, fun-filled comedy, "Don't Dress for Dinner," presented by the 
