Author: Rotary Club of Indianapolis

  • October 11: Stephen Ferguson

    October 11: Stephen Ferguson

    Join us Tuesday to hear from Stephen Ferguson. A graduate of Wabash College 63 and Indiana University School of Law 68, Steve was elected to the Indiana House of Representatives in 1966, serving four terms while establishing a law practice in Bloomington, Indiana. 

    As Chairman of the Board of Cook Group and President of French Lick Resort, Ferguson has been actively involved in redevelopment and historic preservation including rebirth of Downtown Bloomington. Ferguson led the renovation and operation of the historic French Lick Resort. He has also played a key role in the growth of Cook Medical, a global leader in the medical devices industry.  
    Ferguson has been elected or appointed to the boards of directors of many organizations, including the National Endowment for the Humanities, Clarian Health (now IU Health), the 21st Century Research and Technology Fund, the Governor’s Education Roundtable, the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, the Indiana State Chamber of Commerce, Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, and Radius Indiana economic development regional partnership, and Chair of Higher Education Commissioner   He also served twelve years on the Indiana University Board of Trustees, 2005 to 2009 as President.

    He raises Hereford cattle and continues to run the farm operation that has been in his family for more than 200 years. Steve’s passion for golf, and his vision that it brings economic development vitality to the resort and region, has brought us to this day.

    Everyday Steve thinks about Workforce Housing, how every child should be able to read at grade level, employment opportunities for challenged areas, higher education, and conservation preservations for our wonderful state.

    All are welcome at Rotary programs. If attending in-person at the Murat Shrine reservations and prepayment are appreciated, but not required. Register on Square at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. Lunch will be available starting at 11:45 a.m. and the program runs 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.  

    To join our meeting via Zoom starting at 12:15 p.m. go to https://zoom.us/j/710170874?pwd=bFE4ejJTc29IMlNzVmx1Wlg4MTA1UT09. While our Tuesday programs via Zoom are free to attend a suggested donation of $3 – $5 is appreciated in lieu of the typical room fee. These contributions help defray the cost of our hybrid meetings. Please note that donations to the Rotary Club of Indianapolis are not tax deductible. You can support our hybrid meetings at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. 

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

    If joining via a mobile phone for audio only click one of the following numbers: 
    +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)

    You can also join us from a landline phone.
            +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
            +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
         
    Meeting ID: 710 170 874 Password: 821795

  • October 4: Special Networking Program

    Join us Tuesday for a special program by the Business Networking Committee. In an effort to connect more Rotarians outside of Rotary and increase the value of membership we will be hosting a round of table networking. Seasoned Rotarians will serve as our table hosts to facilitate our discussions. This is a great opportunity to get to know other Rotarians on a more personal level. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect!

    All are welcome at Rotary programs. If attending in-person at the Murat Shrine reservations and prepayment are appreciated, but not required. Register on Square at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. Lunch will be available starting at 11:45 a.m. and the program runs 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.  

    To join our meeting via Zoom starting at 12:15 p.m. go to https://zoom.us/j/710170874?pwd=bFE4ejJTc29IMlNzVmx1Wlg4MTA1UT09. While our Tuesday programs via Zoom are free to attend a suggested donation of $3 – $5 is appreciated in lieu of the typical room fee. These contributions help defray the cost of our hybrid meetings. Please note that donations to the Rotary Club of Indianapolis are not tax deductible. You can support our hybrid meetings at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. 

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

    If joining via a mobile phone for audio only click one of the following numbers: 
    +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)

    You can also join us from a landline phone.
            +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
            +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
         
    Meeting ID: 710 170 874 Password: 821795
  • Sept. 27: Ben Lytle

    Sept. 27: Ben Lytle

    Join us Tuesday to hear from Ben Lytle. Ben is a self-made serial entrepreneur-CEO known for being ahead of the curve. Creating something out of nothing, adjusting and thriving during change, Lytle now is a thought leader on the future. He launched five successful companies, two listing on the NY Stock Exchange. His best-known success being Anthem, with a current market value of more than $100 billion. Ben will share about his new book The Potentialist: Your Future in the New Reality of the Next Thirty Years that is set to be released on Tuesday. Those attending will be one of the first to receive a copy signed by Ben.

    All are welcome at Rotary programs. If attending in-person at the Murat Shrine reservations and prepayment are appreciated, but not required. Register on Square at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. Lunch will be available starting at 11:45 a.m. and the program runs 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.  

    To join our meeting via Zoom starting at 12:15 p.m. go to https://zoom.us/j/710170874?pwd=bFE4ejJTc29IMlNzVmx1Wlg4MTA1UT09. While our Tuesday programs via Zoom are free to attend a suggested donation of $3 – $5 is appreciated in lieu of the typical room fee. These contributions help defray the cost of our hybrid meetings. Please note that donations to the Rotary Club of Indianapolis are not tax deductible. You can support our hybrid meetings at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. 

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

    If joining via a mobile phone for audio only click one of the following numbers: 
    +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)

    You can also join us from a landline phone.
            +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
            +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
         
    Meeting ID: 710 170 874 Password: 821795
  • October 29: Free Electronic Recycling Event

    October 29: Free Electronic Recycling Event

    Bring your old electronics downtown Saturday, October 29, 2022, to a free community E-Cycling Day sponsored by the Rotary Club of Indianapolis, in partnership with RecycleForce, a certified electronics recycler.

    E-Cycle Day will be held in the parking lot on the west side of the Old National Center in their southeast quadrant at the intersection of North Street and Alabama Street, from 9 am – 1 pm, October 29, 2022.

    Box up outdated electronics hiding in the closet or taking up space in your business’ supply room for Indy’s first free downtown E-Cycling Day. As RecycleForce employees unload old e-devices from your vehicle, learn from Rotary Club members how Rotary takes action to create lasting change around the globe, in their communities, and among its members.

    “RecycleForce is proud to join forces with the Rotary Club of Indianapolis to help reduce the huge volume of outdated electronic waste in our city,” said Gregg Keesling, CEO of RecycleForce and a member of the Rotary Club of Indianapolis.

    “Partnering with RecycleForce helps our city reduce e-waste safely, supports a Rotary Club member’s not-for-profit agency, and raises awareness for Rotary membership, all at the same time. It’s what Rotarians do,” said Jenny Dexter, president of the Rotary Club of Indianapolis.

    While at the event, take a moment to learn more about how Rotary makes a positive difference in our communities through service projects, networking activities, corporate memberships, and one-on-one mentoring.

    Cars to enter via Alabama Street. On-site staff will direct traffic at the event and motorists should remain in their vehicles. This event is hoping to serve approximately 480 vehicles. Walk-ups from the neighborhood are welcome. There is no charge to recycle TVs and other screened electronics. All hard drives will be destroyed to preserve security. See link for all e-waste materials recycled by RecycleForce at E-Cycle Day.

    Traffic flow map:

  • Long Time Rotarian, Andy Carr Passes Away

    Long Time Rotarian, Andy Carr Passes Away

    Andrew E. Carr, 80, passed away September 14, 2022, at his home. He was a fine Christian man who loved God, his family and his country; well known for his honesty and work ethic. He graduated from Shortridge High School. Andy was on the Indianapolis City Champs basketball team.

    As a pitcher, he had a no hitter and won the Indianapolis Junior Baseball Inc. sportsmanship award. In addition, he ran cross country.

    His pitching ability earned him a Butler University scholarship. He played for four years coached by Tony Hinkle who called him “Lefty.” (He was never sure if Coach Hinkle knew his real name.) Andy was named to the Collegiate All Conference Baseball Team.

    After graduating, he joined the Army National Guard so he would be able to help support his mother and siblings.

    In addition to his participation in sports, Andy enjoyed attending Butler basketball, Purdue football, and Purdue women’s basketball games. Bowling, including perfect games, was something he enjoyed most of his life. More recently, he participated in the Seniors Masters League and Indianapolis Rotary Club League. Golf with family was also important; they were witness to his two hole in ones.

    Andy was a Mason and a Rotarian with the Indianapolis Club.

    Over the years, he was involved with his church on many levels; Treasurer, Board Member and grass mower.

    For years he was a Board Member of the NVLA (National Vehicle Leasing Association).

    After 30 years as General Manager of Quality Leasing Company, he retired.

    He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Shirley Werner Carr, his daughter Carrie Carr Fastrich, his son Brent C. Carr, and his five grandchildren; also his brothers Jerry and Tim Carr, and sister Suzi Carr George.

    Services will be private. You may leave memories and condolences at www.crownhill.org.

    In lieu of flowers, you can celebrate his life in a way that brings you joy!

  • October 8: Service Opportunity with Keep Indianapolis Beautiful

    October 8: Service Opportunity with Keep Indianapolis Beautiful

    Plant. Care. Grow.

    The goal of Keep Indianapolis Beautiful is to increase tree cover in Indianapolis by planting 100,000 large trees – with trunks 1″ in diameter or larger at planting time -in strategic locations. Together we can grow our city’s tree canopy and make Indy a better place to live, work, and play. KIB’s marketing and promotions plan provides many opportunities for positive exposure to hundreds of neighborhoods, including thousands of residents, volunteers, and online followers.

    Sometimes, keeping our city beautiful is as simple as planting a tree.

    Trees enhance our lives in more ways than you might think. KIB coordinates a number of programs dedicated to planting, preserving, and educating people about trees. (Visit kibi.org for more information!)

    On Saturday, Oct. 8 from 9 am -12 pm, join the Rotary Environment and Beautification Committee at 3433 N. Central Ave. 46205 at Constitution Gardens GreenSpace, where we’ll be planting trees and perennials, spreading mulch, and perhaps raking gravel for walkways.

    KIB will:
    – Provide a professionally led day of service for Rotary, with all tools necessary
    – Provide acknowledgment of the Indianapolis Rotary Foundation’s support via two posts on social media
    – Spotlight the Rotary day of service in KIB’s Get the Dirt newsletter, including a photo

    Please contact Marie Koenig koenigmarie55@gmail.com 317-509-0525 or Erika Earl eearl@rje-bi.com by Oct. 5 if you are able to help!  Families welcome.  We would like at least 12 participants, thank you!

  • Sept. 20: Ryan McCarty

    Join us Tuesday to hear from Ryan McCarty the Co-Founder of Culture of Good. Ryan is an internationally renowned consultant, speaker, and author of “Build a Culture of Good.” He advises organizations on how to create an inspiring, meaningful, and engaging workplace. Since he developed Culture of Good, the movement has impacted over 3,000 employees in 42 states, with more than the $6 million in goodwill provided to various communities. His work has been featured in: The Huffington Post, People, Forbes, and more.

    All are welcome at Rotary programs. If attending in-person at the Murat Shrine reservations and prepayment are appreciated, but not required. Register on Square at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. Lunch will be available starting at 11:45 a.m. and the program runs 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.  

    To join our meeting via Zoom starting at 12:15 p.m. go to https://zoom.us/j/710170874?pwd=bFE4ejJTc29IMlNzVmx1Wlg4MTA1UT09. While our Tuesday programs via Zoom are free to attend a suggested donation of $3 – $5 is appreciated in lieu of the typical room fee. These contributions help defray the cost of our hybrid meetings. Please note that donations to the Rotary Club of Indianapolis are not tax deductible. You can support our hybrid meetings at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. 

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

    If joining via a mobile phone for audio only click one of the following numbers: 
    +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)

    You can also join us from a landline phone.
            +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
            +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
         
    Meeting ID: 710 170 874 Password: 821795
  • Sept. 28: 4-Way Test Volunteers Needed

    Sept. 28: 4-Way Test Volunteers Needed

    The 4-Way Test Program is an amazing opportunity which allows Rotarians to interact with students giving them ideas/techniques and tactics for great decision making throughout their lives! And all it costs you is a couple hours of your time.

    These activities are vital to the student’s growth and foundation, and we promise the experience is rewarding, eye-opening and fun!

    Join us for our first 4-Way Test of the year on Wednesday, September 28 from 8 a.m. – 10 a.m. at Christel House South Academy. Contact Michael Crowley or the office at info@indyrotary.org to volunteer.

  • October 13: 9th Annual Chili Cook-Off

    The 5:31 Club will hold the 9th Annual Chili Cook Off at the Murat Shrine on Thursday, October 13 from 5:31-7:00 p.m.

    All attendees will be judges in the blind taste test of ten chilis prepared by Matt Burnett, President Jenny Dexter, Marie Koenig, Tiffany Wesseler, Andile Songo, Erika Earl, Matt LeTexier, Tom Richardson, Joe Loughmiller (“Mr. Cheri Storms”), and Norm Melzer. Cast your vote for your favorite and second favorite, then eat and chat some more as Rotary poll officials tally the vote and announce the top three chilis as chosen by the attendees.

    Don’t miss your chance to enjoy an evening with your fellow Rotarians, eat some really good chili and cast your vote. Note: paper ballots will be used so that, in the event of a challenge, officials can recount votes and lay to rest any such challenge.

    Check out photos from last year’s event on Facebook. 

  • Sept. 13: Dr. Paula Gustafson

    Sept. 13: Dr. Paula Gustafson

    Join us Tuesday to hear from Dr. Paula Gustafson the Chief Medical Officer and a board-certified pediatrician at Major Health Partners. She is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and a board member of the Indiana Chapter of the AAP. She is an active health leader in her local community and state with a focus on childhood obesity and early brain development. She is a founding member of the Shelby County Early Learning Coalition. Dr. Gustafson earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at General Motors Institute (Kettering University), a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering at MIT, an MBA at INSEAD in Fountainbleau, France, and her Medical Degree at Indiana University School of Medicine. She completed her pediatric residency at IU Health and has been practicing pediatrics in Shelbyville, Indiana for more than 20 years.

    All are welcome at Rotary programs. If attending in-person at the Murat Shrine reservations and prepayment are appreciated, but not required. Register on Square at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. Lunch will be available starting at 11:45 a.m. and the program runs 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.  

    To join our meeting via Zoom starting at 12:15 p.m. go to https://zoom.us/j/710170874?pwd=bFE4ejJTc29IMlNzVmx1Wlg4MTA1UT09. While our Tuesday programs via Zoom are free to attend a suggested donation of $3 – $5 is appreciated in lieu of the typical room fee. These contributions help defray the cost of our hybrid meetings. Please note that donations to the Rotary Club of Indianapolis are not tax deductible. You can support our hybrid meetings at https://rotary-club-of-indianapolis.square.site/. 

    Meeting ID: 710 170 874
    Password: 821795

    If joining via a mobile phone for audio only click one of the following numbers: 
    +13126266799,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (Chicago)
    +19292056099,,710170874#,,#,821795# US (New York)

    You can also join us from a landline phone.
            +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
            +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)
         
    Meeting ID: 710 170 874 Password: 821795