Wednesday, October 7th, President Del Benson will introduce our speaker, Dr. Kevin Crooks, CSU Professor of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology. In November 2020, the citizens of Colorado will vote on a ballot initiative calling for the reintroduction of gray wolves to our state. Reintroduction is a contentious topic that taps into diverse emotions and passions across stakeholder groups and misinformation is widespread on all sides. In his presentation, Crooks will discuss how social and ecological science can inform the issue of wolf restoration. Topics will include policy regarding wolves, interactions with livestock and big game, public attitudes towards wolves in Colorado, and approaches to minimize conflict between people and predators. Please join the meeting and program at https://zoom.us/j/494943309pwd=SmtTUDYzTlZrcVBhblVLRmdvbVh6dz09
For the Science Fellowship on September 23, Holly Stein and Judy Hannah of CSU and University of Oslo, Norway, told us about their use of the elements rhenium and osmium in dating ancient geological formations, and particularly the formations deposited at about the time of the greatest extinction event in the history of the earth, some 252 million years ago.
The Finance Committee announced two changes to our accounting systems. Members will see the difference as of the Q2 (Oct-Dec) billing cycle. First, instead of using an outside accounting firm, we are now using an independent bookkeeper. Dyane Rogelstad started in July and has been doing well. Second, RCFC has changed accounting software from Xero back to Quickbooks.
How does this change affect members? As of October 1, all recurring credit card charges and bank transfers have been cancelled. The Club will no longer be retaining members’ credit card or banking information. What does this mean for you? Starting with the Q2 invoices, members who pay by credit or bank transfer (ACH) will pay their own invoices online. Member credit card charges will not happen automatically. No change for members paying by check. More details to follow!
Wednesday July 1, 2020-21 President Del Benson outlined his background, priorities and thoughts for this coming year. He touched on the challenges of declining noon membership and the resultant reduction in income and charitable pledges to support our service mission. Del then outlined his priorities and a "U+2" Time, Talent and Treasure Challenge for every member:
Bring in two new members
Double contributions to Rotary funding needs
Help on two funding initiatives
Give time to two additional service projects
Organize new projects and outcomes
Attend two more meetings every quarter
Combine categories engaging U+2 and have twice the fun and accomplishments
He closed his remarks with preliminary plans for a "Good and Lucky Non-Event Fundraiser" this fall. Stay tuned for details...
Highway Clean up, 8:00 am Saturday, October 10, 2020, Sundance Saloon parking lot, 1-2-hour fun with 15 persons, take masks and gloves. Thanks Ron Stoops and Troy Tafoya for organizing and leading.
Rotary District Fall Assembly will occur virtually 'right in your home/office' on 10 October, 9-11:30
President Del announced the passing of Reverend Larry Kunter, long time Rotarian and friend to all. A retired Presbyterian minister, Larry was our Inspiration and Pledge (and Humor) Committee Chair. He was also active as Director of Club Service, World Community Service Committee, Programs Committee, Community Grants Committee, Community Needs Committee, and Salvation Army Bell Ringer Co-Chair. Cards can be sent to Marti and Family at 1419 Sanford Drive, Fort Collins, CO 80526. A memorial service is being planned for October 17; details forthcoming.
The Community Grants Committee is now accepting applications in the Health and Wellness category. For full details see the RCFC website. Grant deadline is November 20.
The Community Service Committee is collecting toiletry items for the Homeward Alliance. Full details will be sent via a Clubrunner email. Donations are also being accepted to help fill 200 bags.
The Nominations Committee was announced in preparation for the December 2, 2020 election of future club officers. Nominations are encouraged - please send to Chair Rob Marschke.
Older Announcements Still Relevant:
The PR Committee is looking for volunteers to post Rotary happenings on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. To volunteer contact John Trone.
First Pres church has indicated they are not comfortable hosting Rotary any time soon. For now, all meetings will continue to be via Zoom.
President Del asked that in this time of deep political divisions, Rotarians think and act with civility and peace towards the many perspectives.
The Rotary Book Fellowship and discussion dates are, Oct. 8, The Perfect Horse by Elizabeth Letts, and Dec. 10, Doc by Mary Doria Russell. Contact Dave Stewart for details.
Phyllis Abt is leading the revision/development of an RCFC Policies and Procedures manual. Let her know if you have items to contribute.
General reminder of our Fellowships schedule. All follow immediately after the Wednesday noon Zoom meeting, using the same login. First Wednesday: Peace. Second Wednesday: History. Third Wednesday: Investments. Fourth Wednesdays: Science.
President Del noted that the board's current focus is on Committees, gaining clarity and structure to achieve RCFC's goals. He reminded all that it is not necessary to be a formal member of a committee to make a contribution, and encouraged all to be engaged.
President Del announced a 'one-stop' Finances email - treasurer@fortcollinsrotary.org. Del also reminded members that 'the buck stops here' and asked that any complaints or concerns also be directed to him.
Sally Lee reported King Soopers rebate of $468.00 that goes directly into our charitable budget. If you haven’t signed up yet, see Sally.
Marty Bachman urged members to shop on Amazon Smile. Rebates would be credited to our club at the rate of 0.5%. Look for the Amazon logo on our website.
Marty Bachman reminds all to report special occasions/events/illness that the Care and Recognition Committee should acknowledge. Call Marty, Susan Brand, Melanie Chamberlain, or JeanneFangman.