“Housekeeping” was in order for the meeting as we mapped out plans for our El Tour aid station, learned more about the Rotary Foundation from Mary Straus, and shared the many reasons for our happy bucks.
 
Carl Maes discussed what is needed for the El Tour aid station. Typically, folks meet up at 7:30 a.m. at the McDonald’s near Thornydale and Tangerine. Six to seven people are needed initially for set-up. Denise West will purchase the snacks for the riders. The city provides bananas, oranges, and water. The Rotary’s semi-trailer will arrive Friday afternoon. The busiest time for riders is from noon to 1:30 p.m.
 
In other announcements, President Richie Benner said there’s some district grant money left and we can apply for one, which could qualify for a matching amount up to $2,000.
 
“Happy bucks” for grandchildren performing at state championships (John); for having spouse’s home after long trips (Carl); for fishing 10 days (yes, 10 days!!) in a row (Dan); for a forever home (Beckie); for successful business trips (Denise); and for strong club attendance (Harold).
 
Mary Straus, our club’s Rotary Foundation Director, continued her three-part informational series about The Rotary Foundation because it’s Foundation Month. In review, Rotary consists of 1) Rotary clubs, 2) Rotary Foundation, and 3) Rotary International. The Rotary Foundation funds District Grants, Global Grants, Peace Scholars, and polio eradication efforts. Global grants have six areas of focus: 1) maternal and child health; 2) peace conflict and resolution; 3) basic education and literacy; 4) disease prevention and treatment; 5) economic and community development; and 6) water and sanitation.
 
In 1917 Arch Klumph started the Rotary Foundation with an initial contribution of $26.50. The Foundation has received the highest 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, which grades non-profits on transparency and accountability, and 92 percent of funds spent on program awards and operations. Our $25 quarterly dues go to annual fund, and in three years, half of what we give comes back to us in grant funding.
 
As President Benner explained, “What we do today will help fund what we do tomorrow.”
 
Our club housekeeping done, we adjourned.