Rotary Club of Saint Paul
January 27, 2026
St. Paul Pool & Yacht Club
President Jason DeKeuster called the hybrid meeting to order at 12:22 pm. The greeters were Sherry Howe and Bob Cardinal. Lynne Beck was scribe. The A/V Teach Team was Matt Magers.
Ken Schaefer introduced guests: Laura Nichols-Endres and her daughter Nora; Rico Tanaka, our Rotary exchange student from Nagasaki and her host sister and mother; Jimmy Francis, former Rotarian and Mayor of South St. Paul; and Lindsey Barringer, our new club administrator.
For the Inspirational Minute, Dayle Quigley read two poems that address how to connect with community during these difficult times. She then led us in the 4-Way Test.
Jason DeKeuster gave an overview of Rotary for the Winter Carnival guests. He emphasized how the two organizations have so much in common – they both unite for good. Jason Bradshaw, former King Boreas, said that Saint Paul Rotary has a 72-year tradition of partnering with the Winter Carnival. He introduced Paul Rotary members present who were past members of the Winter Carnival Royal Family. He introduced King Boreas Peter Kenekick and the members of the 2026 St. Paul Winter Carnival Royal Family. They will make 350-400 visits during the year to hospitals, nursing homes, schools, etc. The Royal Family knighted Rico Tanaka “Empress of the Youth Exchange and Educator of the Harding Knights.”
Beth Naughton introduced Sam Cooper, a new member who is the Development Associate for the Minnesota Historical Society. He lives in St. Paul with his wife and young son.
Jason DeKeuster made the following club announcements:
- 501: February 3, 2026
St. Paul Pool & Yacht Club 5:01- 6:15 pm
Stephen Fine, Early Self-Detection and Prevention of Melanoma - February 10, 2026 Signature Lunch
InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront
Chief Axel Henry - February 17, 2026 – No Meeting
- February 20, 2026
Joint Meeting with Minneapolis
Location and Program TBD - February 24, 2026 Signature Lunch
InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront
Kaohly Her, Mayor of Saint Paul - March 3, 2026 Signature Lunch
InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront
Farewell to Amanda Mai - 501: March 10, 2026
St. Paul Pool & Yacht Club 5:01- 6:15 pm
Frances Fyten & Nicole Lalum of Explore Minnesota
The meeting closed at 12:55 pm.
Lynne Beck Scribe