February 6, 2012, Club Bulletin, # 406

February 6, 2012 Program for Today: Greening our Energy Portfolio with Ferman Mister

February 6 Invocation by: Scott Natvig

Rotary Moment: President Mike told us that the Polio Plus Campaign has hit the $200 million milestone and that the Gates Foundation has given another $50 million to continue the great and significant work being accomplished.

Rotary Guests: Mary Jo Stanley guest of Dick Stanley, Erika Cox new member, Dwyane Hopkins, Mayor, Rick Gosney transfer and new member.

Rotary Announcements: New Member readings for Erika Cox, Dave Armstrong, Administrator at Lutheran Homes; Tony Joseph as provided printed roster of members...located list at the back table and a note...NO Meeting on February 20, 2012 in honor of Presidents Day!!

Happy News: Kip Fisher proclaimed his glee at Iowa State's win as did Scott Natvig.. Scott also proudly told about his newest granddaughter born on December 23, 2011. Judi Holdorf shared that the Gates Foundation helped the Musser Public Library purchase some computers..so their presence is seen here, as well!!

Help Muscatine become a Blue Zone by signing up at http://www.bluezonesproject.com/citizens/signup or texting "BZP" to 772937. Your support is STILL needed to help us secure grant funding...sign up now!!

Program for Today: Sarah Lande introduced Chuck Swanson the Executive Director of Hancher since 2002 but has been at Hancher since 1985. Chuck told several great stories about Hancher's connection to Muscatine. These include the Pearl Exhibit and his brief stage meeting at Dartmouth with Jim Yung the University President and MHS Grad.

Chuck gave life to the flood of 2008 and told how it impacted the Hancher Building and Stage. Currently, a new facility is in the design phase and will be relocated on higher ground near the previous complex. On February 12, 2012 schematics will be reviewed and by March 21 a budget will be sent to the Board of Regents for their approval.

By 2015 a new theatre will be erected which will seat 1800 persons, lobby areas will be improved and will encourage performances there, as well as providing a cafe located over and near the river for scenic enjoyment.

Chuck shared his vision of impacting various programs on campus and teaching together and sharing the world of Hancher with them.