President John Mayfield rang the bell to start our meeting at 12:07 pm. David Hartman provided another heartfelt prayer in which he noted the “Mission of Rotary”. The pledge and song “Let There Be Peace on Earth” was led by Cara Herr-Sauceda. The Club then had the traditional greeting without “Rotary” since there was no piano.
There were no birthdays this week.
Visitors and guests: We had Jeremy Davis with the Museum of North Texas History, Ava Aritia guest of John Deason, and LT. Colonel Ronald “Spin” Van Steijn from the Danish Air Force guest of Noros Martin.
No items from the Sunshine Report other than everyone was very thankful for the recent rain.
Announcements: Monica Horton mentioned again about Ryla Camp this summer. She is looking for prospects to attend the camp and has sent information out to all members. Colton Henrich mentioned that the End of the Year Party will be held on the last Thursday in June at the Forum. He also noted we will probably have a social event in the next couple of weeks.
Brag Bucket: Carla Dowlen’s nephew, David, is now playing baseball for the Memorial Mavericks and they beat Legacy High this past week in two games, 12-0 and 12- 1. He continues to excel in baseball. Alan Donaldson mentioned that his 4th Grandchild is on the way today.
Blue Badge Presentation: John Mayfield presented the Blue Badge to Glenn Tarter.
Paul Harris Presentation: Lisa Stephens-Musick presented Keaton Dolan as the latest Paul Harris Fellow in our club. Lisa also presented Andy Kocher as a Paul Harris Fellow for the 6th time. Congratulations to both Keaton and Andy.
Program: Today’s program was our Club Assembly presented by President John Mayfield.
John discussed several goals set at the beginning of his term. Two were donation goals to the General Fund and the Polio Plus Fund which have both been exceeded. Our goal for the General Fund was $18,000. We have now collected $23,263 with three months to go. Our polio plus goal was $500 and we have collected $661. To date we have raised $60,444 including the Flag Program. WAY TO GO ROTARIANS!!
One goal is to have more social activities for the members. This is currently being addressed. See announcements above.
Another goal was to have 5 members participate in Rotary leadership which we have met. John noted that the District 5790 Meeting is coming up soon and encouraged members to sign up. Information has been provided for the event.
Providing more service projects was another goal. We had a Humane Society workday on 9/12/ 2024 and John even adopted a dog. Another event will occur on 5/1/25 at the Rotary Park where we plan to have a meeting.
Other notable items: The Flag Program has collected $36,000+ this year about $2,000 more than last year. We maintained the goal of 100% Paul Harris Fellows. We are still working on membership at 68. Goal is 70 and we still have time to meet this goal.
John Deason provided a presentation from the Membership Committee. The group meets every other Tuesday morning at Jimmy’s Egg to develop ideas for membership. One of the items developed is Corporate Membership. Forms are being updated for regular membership and corporate membership. Also, a flyer has been developed for the Rotary Club of Wichita Falls to share with prospective members. John asked if anyone had any ideas, please let he or any of the committee members know.
Alan Donaldson, one of the committee members, discussed the Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours where he has been able to give a short speech about our Rotary Club. He encouraged each member to look for opportunities to promote our club. Alan acknowledged those who have brought new members into the Club. Noros Martin was recognized for bringing in more than 5 members. Alan also mentioned that one idea is to have the Foundation Committee share with the new members on what exactly what the Foundation does. Another idea is for individuals or firms within our club to sponsor certain activities. They would be recognized for their efforts and support. John Deason noted the Rotary Park Peace Pole will be installed by our meeting on May 1st and Rod Tieken noted that there is a movement to convert the tennis courts at the SW Boys and Girls Club at Rotary Park to 5 pickleball courts which will help to continue to recognize Rotary Park.
In the spirit of Rotary, John Mayfield had members sitting at individual tables to come up with a quick 30 second presentation that one might share with a prospective member with the theme “I Am Rotary”. Each table provided a 30 second presentation and all did an excellent job!
Meeting was adjourned at 1:02 by President Mayfield with the “Four Way Test.”