Compiled by Diane Ekberg

The August 3, 2021, meeting was called to order at the Boone Courtyard Marriott by President Jim Street at 7:45 a.m.  There were 2 Zoom attendees and 30 people attending in person (including new guests Reggie Hassler of Boone, Steve Smith of Boone/Morehead City and First Citizen’s Bank Intern Eli Stroud of Boone.

After the pledge of Allegiance, Sergeant at Arms Nick Friedman shared humor and collected Happy Dollars.

Announcements

Brian Crutchfield encouraged members to sign up to volunteer at the Back2School Festival (https://www.back2schoolfestival.org/) for set up on 8/4; unloading supply buses on 8/5; and working the festival on 8/6 (2-8 pm) and on 8/7 (9 am-4 pm.)  Plan to wear masks when volunteering.  Brian thanked Lane Robinson/Creekside Electronics for donating 1500 water bottles, members for donating cash ($1500 total, including Brian’s $500 match), and the Club for its Gold Sponsorship.

Jim Street advised the group that the membership meetings will be called to order at 7:40 in the future to allow for more program time and Q and A.

Rotary Minute

Bob Miller reminded the attendees that August is Rotary International Member Month, with a goal to increase membership, which increases donations to the Foundation, and diversity.  In 1985, there were 1.2 million Rotarians worldwide, all male.  Now there are 1.2 millian Rotarians, 330,000 of which are female.  In our Zone 33 (of 34 Zones) 3 of 4 directors (1 director per 75,000 Rotarians) are female.  More locally, our District has shrunk from 49 to 47 clubs.  From a membership perspective, Boone Sunrise is holding steady but increasing its female membership.

Program

Zack Green, Executive Director of Mountain Alliance provided an update on the activities of the group.  With offices in both Avery and Watauga High Schools, Mountain Alliance offers programs to teens in both counties.  Students are provided with abundant opportunities to develop life and leadership skills through outdoor adventures, community service, cultural activities and after school programs.  To learn more about the programs, volunteer opportunities, and donations, call Zack at 828-263-1770.

After reciting the 4-Way Test, President Jim Street adjourned the meeting at 8:30 a.m.