Can you believe it is already May? Spring weather continues to unfold. The restrictions with which we have lived this last year are easing. In-person meetings have resumed with the added benefit of participation via zoom as well. And our talented Club Administrator, Cieandra Tripp, is beginning her 9th month serving our club. Please take a moment to thank her for her many contributions throughout her tenure. Cieandra has embraced the many opportunities/challenges and worked closely with me and others on the board/in the club to navigate the extra challenges this past year. Cieandra- thanks for a job well-done!
There are great programs lined up this month and include special interest topics as well as our Community Awards! These were postponed last year in favor of presenting them in person this year! The May programs are as follows:
- May 6- Debbie Petru with Employee Resource Group
- May 13-Public Safety Awards
- May 20- SAC Kowel with FBI
- May 27- Teacher & Student Awards
The 5th Grade Career Fair that was postponed last year was held on April 30 using a virtual format and included the 6th graders since they missed the opportunity last year. The RYLA University is also underway via a virtual format. 46 young people from several states and countries are participating. Kathy Rieger and I attended the first session and look forward to growing and learning alongside the students and fellow Rotarians. I am not used to homework, though! If interested in joining us for a session or the activities between sessions, contact me or Kathy.
Another great opportunity coming up is the Clean Sweep event on May 11. There were a number of Rotarians that expressed interest in participating, so let's do it! More details to follow.
We are also finalizing details for a social gathering outside the regular club meeting. The date and details are being finalized. We will meet at the Black Angel Monument for refreshments and a brief talk on Ruth Anne Dodge presented by Tom Emmett, Executive Director of The Dodge House. This is a fun event and family, friends and your dogs are invited as there will be an optional walk in the cemetery after the talk!
One of the meetings in March featured the recent photo contests spearheaded by the CBCVB. The kick-off for the summer contest is scheduled for June 21. Please spread the word and take pictures yourselves for potential winning entries! As a reminder of the great talent in the area, the link to the photos shared has been provided by Deb Bass. Thanks Deb!
Finally, we are having a social at the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center this Friday. We will meet inside at McCormick’s 1894 for Live Music featuring Andre Vander Velde from 6-8pm. The Anne and John Nelson gallery will be open at 5pm. The PACE Artist Perspective - Cocktails + Conversations is also featured from 7-8pm. Check out the PACE Facebook page or website for more event information. https://www.facebook.com/PACEartsiowa/events/?ref=page_internal https://www.paceartsiowa.org/events
From people to photos to pride in all we do, May promises to be a great month!