Dollar Time
While twelve Rotarians were dining in person and four were on Zoom, Loren rose with a Happy Dollar and reported that her daughter Agnes had been accepted at college. No word on selection yet. Caroline threw in a Happy Dollar noting both of their children who had recently received their driver’s licenses have had minor accidents. Nicole offered some Sharing Dollars. The Chris Bean family lost everything in a house fire recently and she wanted to alert us that she may be coming back to us with a request for donations.
A Four Way Test Moment
Caroline substituted a Four Way Test moment and detailed its history. It was written by Rotarian Herbert J. Taylor in 1932. He worked for the Chicago based Club Aluminum
Company which was on the brink of bankruptcy. Taylor was appointed the task of guiding the company through the process. After penning four lines of a code of ethics, he became so discouraged by how his company was failing to meet these principles he nearly threw the document away. Instead, he introduced the document to management and directed them to apply these principles everyday in the manner in which they conducted business. By adhering to these principles, the company eventually returned to prosperity. Rotary International adopted the Four Way Test in 1943 as guidelines for the purpose of conducting business. However, the Four Way Test is not just guidelines for business, but a set of principles that should guide us through every aspect of our lives, both professionally and personally.
Since Last We MetSignificant Other Birthdays: Matthew Polk Jan. 23
Club Anniversaries: Alona Tate 1 year Jan. 20
Bob Pope 31 years Jan. 23
On this day in history: 1838 Tennessee passes the first prohibition law.
1950 Republic of India is born.
1961 President Kennedy appoints the first female presidential physician.
Old Business
a) President Tony reported that he had received a revised lease for Wheelock House. The payment is one dollar and it expires in September. Tom moved and Eddie seconded that Tony be given permission to sign the lease on behalf of Barre Rotary Club. Motion passed unanimously.
b) Because we don’t cover the expense of the room, it has been suggested that we temporarily change the meeting location. Loren presented a case for Aldrich, describing rooms, WiFi, and parking. A brief discussion ensued and it was decided to continue to consider the pros and cons of moving and entertain a vote at a later date.
c) There was a discussion of the way that we distribute donations requested by organizations. The traditional procedure was described by various members and suggestions were made to improve the process. Under consideration is a process that would start with a committee to initially screen requests, then a presentation to the Board and finally an open meeting to the membership to determine the recipients of funds. Further discussion and a vote on the process will take place at a later date.
New Business
Nicole presented her initial vision/plan for 2022-23. Here are the highlights:
PE Update: What I’ve Done to Date and What I’ll Be Presenting On Today (Overview)
Nicole met with 11 members so far 1:1 – still 8+ “active” members to meet with to discuss:
What attracted members? (wants/circumstances)
What’s kept members? (retention – based on existing “wants,” our club’s strengths and goals)
Strengths and Weaknesses
Observations and Insights (gleaned from what was shared AND what wasn’t mentioned – things for our club to consider moving forward)
What’s the Attraction?: (What we want more of or to see again)
Productivity – impactful, meaningful projects that address real community need
Camaraderie – a welcoming, inclusive and fun environment where we can make personal and professional connections
Structure – an organized, intentional, aligned and consistent manner of operation
Joy! – a fun, “relaxed but ready to serve” time had by all – and to bring back singing!
Recurring Themes Re: What We’re Doing Well:
We’re “Do-ers” and are fearless when taking on new projects; we get the job done!
We present a positive image and have a good reputation among the community
We’re punctual (start and end meetings on time)
We have good speakers, programs and service projects
There’s strong camaraderie (“among most”)
Recurring Themes Re: Areas We Can Improve:
We need a long-range plan with regular assessment to see if we need to pivot or celebrate our progress
A firmer meeting structure (so as to not “waste” time) – perhaps restrict time spent on happy dollars and fines, but bring back formalities (like standing while speaking, for example)
Improved and consistent on-boarding of new members and officers/leaders (bring back a formal orientation, fire-side chats, trainings)
Clarity and Transparency around all things finance: budgets, spending, available funds for donations (consistent and timely reporting)
Flexibility and Fun! (There’s that word again!) – In light of Covid-19, we need to maintain our humor, grace, willingness to adapt and understanding when things don’t always go to plan
“Parking Lot – Things to Keep on Our Collective Radar”:
DGE Caroline needs our support during her DG year (22-23) – let’s continue to check-in with her about her needs (conference planning, etc.)
Financial decisions and structure – 2 boards? Dues? Decision flow charts?
Re-engaging with our Youth through established RI and District Programming (RYLA, Rotaract, Interact, Speech Contest, etc.) and truly integrating youth presence in what we do
Consider bringing back some formalities – giving speakers gifts (coffee table books – Eddie?); developing and sharing job descriptions for all roles within our club; cross-training?
Looking ahead to April: Nicole will be presenting in April a leadership, budget and calendar proposal for July 1 – hoping to have all voted on and approved with club input!
What else? Let’s keep the conversation going and not lose momentum! (Nicole will continue to update the club with her progress and thoughts throughout the spring.)
A good Club Assembly focusing on issues and the future. Thanks to everyone for your participation.
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