May 9, 2017
Present: Todd, McKinley, Ron, Jennifer M, Steve R, Ev, Mary, Terry, Paul, Dave, Shawn.
Finances: We need to generate additional funds (sooner rather than later) to continue our many worthwhile projects. That’s the reason we’re reviewing ongoing fundraisers and considering additional events. We may be able to help Lions with their events because they don’t have enough volunteers (if we get a cut of the action).
Book Sale: We currently have about 60 boxes of books (about half of what we’ve had at this time in previous years). We agreed that we don’t want to allow the sale to die. Terry put two Book Sale articles on Facebook. Members are encouraged to share. We need to encourage donations of books. The Library is a logical location but it has some drawbacks (lack of space, lack of days, cost to rent tables, low income for Rotary). Ron will meet with the Library Director, Michele to discuss some changes: additional time (begin on Thursday or end on Sunday; can we get tables from Parks & Rec for no charge). If these options can’t happen, we’ll consider moving the location to Trinity Presbyterian Church.
Bike Hitches: The two bike hitches that we installed at La Casa were removed when they added their patio and can’t be located. It was suggested that a bike hitch be installed between Page Turners and the bakery on Salem.
Art Auction/Sale: There’s a new store opening on Salem across from EXIT Reality: “513”, an art store. This was suggested as a possible location. Todd will talk to the owner about the venue. The Country Club was also suggested. Jan offered to compile a list of about 25 local artists that may contribute a piece of art but they probably wouldn’t be matted or framed. Simpson and high school artists could also be asked to contribute. A theme of “The Art of Service above Self” was suggested. Artists would be more likely to contribute if they were publicized and received a portion of the sales. A sales promotion to the artists would need to be carefully planned. There could be an admission fee ($20?) to help raise funds. We would need to decide and announce the recipients of the profits: e.g., Interact, Rotaract, Habitat for Humanity, Helping Hand, WeeCare, WeLift, Courage League Sports. The soonest we could hold the event would be October. This will need a lot more discussion and planning before we approve of the event.
Balloon Parking, July 28-August 5: Terry gave us an overview of parking. NBC was pleased with last year’s event except for the opening day. To avoid a backup on the highway we need to open the gates by 3:30 on the first Friday. We still need to add a Rotary sign and a memorial sign for Steve Pfeifer to our building. People complained that they couldn’t find their cars when they left. Terry suggested new, larger row signs. Our “Square” charging was appreciated last year but the technology had some flaws. We should have one or two Ipads to better accommodate people who want to charge their tickets. Indianola Ministerial will help sell tickets one evening this year.
Indianola Community-Simpson College Event: Dave suggested an event to help bridge the gap between the community and Simpson students. We like the idea. The first step will be to meet with Rich Ramos from Simpson College to discuss some logistics before we proceed (Dave, Seth, and Ron). Rich needs to approve any activity on campus. Ideas discussed: hire a band, date in September, invite local businesses to set up booths to advertise, food vendors, admission charge.
Submitted by Ron
