Highlights for the week of Sept 22

Posted by Laura Jennings 
on Sep 26, 2014
 

Our speakers this week were Henry Villas Zoo Director Ronda Schwetz,  and Executive Director of Friends of the Zoo, Alison Prange .  They shared the latest news on the progress of the new bear complex and plans for a sit down, indoor restaurant.  The restaurant will be available for meetings and gatherings and will generate revenue for the operations of the zoo, which provides free admission to guests. $4.7 million is needed for The new "Arctic Passage" exhibit, which plans an expansive polar bear habitat with an underwater viewing area for visitors to experience the beauty of the species up close. It will include a dynamic habitat for grizzlies that could allow visitors the rare chance to watch a bear capture a live fish for its lunch.

Other news:

  • Laurie Krueger has information about a RYLA conference happening in November in India.  Contact Laurie if you would like more information.
  • Sue Halambeck offered that the Swedish visitors enjoyed their stay and a BIG thank you to Beth and Tim Mielcarek for hosting the fish fry.  The fish, friends and wine were plentiful!
  • Steve Riggles is coordinating volunteers for the Rotary pancake breakfast at the Fireman's Open House on Sunday, October 12. Let Steve know if you are available to help out that morning for a few hours.
  • Tim Culver passed around a sign up sheet for SPICE (Sun Prairians Involved in Children's Education).  If you can offer an hour or so a week to help mentor 5th graders, contact Tim.  Several Rotarians shared what a rewarding experience it is to be involved with kids who may need another adult in their life to help guide them to make good choices.
  • Thank you to everyone who helped with Sunshine supper.  Diana's recipe was a hit!
  • The duty roster has been updated so please be sure to check if your turn is coming up to be a greeter, raffle ticket seller or to provide the thought for the day.

Don't forget - if you volunteer for any Rotary sponsored activity such as Sunshine supper, Fireman's breakfast or SPICE, record it on the sheet at Tuesday's meeting and it will count as a makeup meeting.

Have a great weekend!