Our speaker this week is Nina Kimbrough, author of Mr. Potato King.
Inspired by her great-great uncle's incredible journey from humble beginnings to national fame as one of the wealthiest African American farmers of his time. Nina wrote her first book, "Mr. Potato King", to share his story with her grandchildren and young readers.
Groves was born enslaved in Kentucky in 1859, then made his way to Kansas at age 19 as an Exoduster. He and his wife saved their resources, moved to Edwardsville in Western Wyandotte County, where he rented farmland and specialized in growing potatoes.
By 1913, Groves owned over 500 acres of rich farmland, producing 55,000 bushels of potatoes a year. Groves also owned a general store, stock in mines and banks, and even a casket and embalming company. With an estimated wealth of $1 million, at the time, Groves was the richest Black man in Kansas.
“Junius Groves started out as an enslaved person. That means he had zero income – none. After emancipation, they didn’t get checks. They had to go out and make their way, and that’s what (Groves) did for him and his family,” said Dr. Carmaletta Williams, executive director at the Black Archives of Mid-America, at the Kansas Business Hall of Fame induction ceremony held in late July. “It takes courage, strength and commitment to do that.”
The story of Groves is featured in the permanent exhibit at the Black Archives of Mid-America.
Lenexa Rotary will be helping at the Watch Parties for the World Cup in July and August. We still need a few more people to help at our tent. For more information CLICK HERE or contact Phil Hammond.
Step up to the plate for an unforgettable evening of fun, fellowship, and purpose!
Rotary Night at the Ballpark
Big Fun. Bigger Impact.
June 19, 2026
KC Monarchs v Milwaukee Milkmen
Legends Field, Kansas City, KS
Join Rotary District 5710 for a family-friendly night at the ballpark. This special event supports Rotary International’s PolioPlus Fund, helping eradicate polio worldwide—one pitch at a time. Are you hosting international guests? Bring them to the ballpark for a great American experience!
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
• Tailgate Party (4:00–6:00 PM): Hot dogs, brats, chips, cookies, and beverages provided (donations accepted, to benefit PolioPlus)
• Wear Rotary or End Polio Now attire for raffle entries
• 6:15 PM: Skydivers land on the field
• 6:30 PM: National Anthem by Rotarian Roger Aeschliman, ceremonial first pitch by winning bidder, and the game begins
⭐ BE THE STAR OF THE GAME
Bid on the Ceremonial First Pitch Experience! Visit: https://onecau.se/_hst6v1 • Bidding closes June 17 at 8:00 PM • At $2,500, winner selects their catcher • Includes on-field recognition and first pitch opportunity • Must check in by 6:00 PM on June 19
The Village Church Food Pantry (where my wife volunteers) is in need of empty egg cartons for the foreseeable future. If you have some laying around please bring them to the Friday meetings and I will pick them up.
I have a diverse background working in international spaces. I started out as a young lad in the clothing and textile industry. I designed and sourced fabrics in The Garment District of Midtown, NY and imported said fabrics to Jamaica. After migrating to the USA, in the early 70's, I managed Honeywell's medical equipment export through obtaining export licenses and ensuring all equipment deliveries to medical facilities worldwide. During my time in Lenexa, Kansas I have transitioned to facility management for Ink Cycle and most recently Emerald Prairie Health.
What is your favorite sports team(s) and why?
The Kansas City Chiefs are my favorite team because I like the spirit of how the team takes care of their community, the team supports each other and the QB is a spiritual and down to earth person.
What is your favorite vacation destination, and why?
Jamaica is my favorite place to have a vacation, because of the diverse beaches, rivers, fresh fruits off the trees and of course the colorful vibes of the people.
What is your ideal sandwich?
Peanut butter hands down!
If you are at a trivia night, what category would you know most about?
Please add mailservice@clubrunner.com to your safe sender list or address book.
To unsubscribe from future e-mails, click here.
To forward this email to your friends, click here.
To view our privacy policy, click here.
ClubRunner
905.829.5299
102-2060 Winston Park Drive, Oakville, ON, L6H 5R7
