April 16, 2020 “ZOOM” Meeting-

Tod is today's very appreciated scribe in the Secretary's absence...

The WDC Rotary’s first online “ZOOM” meeting was held April 16th, at noon. Eleven members participated in this experimental means of meeting (Judy, Tod, Roger, Neil, Rolly, Dick, Mike, Bob, Dave, Jim and Rex). Other than a few issues with some individual's video access (Mike Ough!) everyone seemed to manage to stay connected.

Since the meeting was sort of a “check-in” informal gathering, the pledge of allegiance wasn’t recited but Tod did have his American flag in the background. Appreciation was expressed for all medical staff, 1st responders, volunteers and government health leaders that are working hard to contain the coronavirus and help those that are in need. A quick check-in allowed members to verify their preferred email address. Neil was constantly monitoring for any verbal comments that warranted fines … we’re all pretty sure that Jim and Roger owe their weekly salaries to Rotary.

Tod reported that all students have been notified of their $1,500 WDC Scholarships for 2020. The following are this year’s recipients: Josie Nichols (Elkhorn High), Alexis Michalski (Elkhorn South) and Graci Rittenhouse (DC West). The Elkhorn Foundation has tentatively established June 10th and 11th for their awards breakfasts. Hopefully we will be able to have our breakfast prior to then, but this is still to be determined (probably based on when Common Ground is again open for activities and meetings). Our Rotary Golf Outing is still scheduled for June 15th.

Jim has obtained an emergency $1,000 Rotary District grant for DC West food distribution assistance. In order to receive the full amount, matching funds need to come from our club. Separate correspondence has been sent out, discussing the scope of the project and how we should go about sending our designated checks to the club. So far, $250 has been pledged … please help, if possible.

Our long-term Rotary District goal for 2020 is to honor Ron Mortensen by obtaining a $1,500 matching grant for a bicycle acquisition project … either by ourselves or in conjunction with the Omaha Police Department’s bicycle division.

As the meeting was adjourned, it was decided to have our next ZOOM meeting on Thursday, April 23rd at 11:30 AM. Hopefully everyone can participate, even if it’s just to check-in and stay connected with the club. Tod will send out another “invite” email so that members can participate with just a “click”.

Stay safe out there!