By Al Makynen

          It was the Brady Bunch and the Partridge Family combined.  Fifty members gathered from around the country.  A few were in their office.  Many were in their living room, family room, or kitchen.  It was organized chaos as a few moved from one room to another.   As we continue with Zoom Meetings for April and May members were asked to forward the link for guests to join us. 

 

The Partridge Family meets the Brady Bunch

 

           As the rush of folks joining the meeting slowed President Michelle Buria called upon Jeff Iisakka who reflected upon the eagerness and swiftness of a child’s ability to learn and their delight in the animal kingdom.  And he called upon us to view the world with childhood wonder.

 

Jack Soetebier     

The fellowship report began with the introduction of Anna Nelson, President of the Duluth Superior ECO Rotary Club.  David Nolle introduced his son Oliver.  And Jeff Fifield introduced his grandson Hugh. Jerry Thoreson reported that he had been the speaker at the Superior Rotary Club. Ruth Ann Eaton thanked the many members who sent her birthday cards last week.  With sadness, President Michelle Buria announced the death of Past President (1981–1982) Jack Soetebier.  A eulogy will be given at a future meeting by Past Assistant Governor Phil Strom.

          The results of the recent membership survey were evaluated by the Strategic Planning Committee with a summary report presented to the Board of Directors at their April Meeting.  Two important actions were taken. Effective when we convene in person, the regular meeting will include a patriotic element.  Effective July 1, 2020 the requirement for Prepaid Meals and the related Rule of 85 will be replaced with a standard meeting charge for all those in attendance.

           President Elect Dean Casperson introduced Leah Budnik, Preschool Director at the Lake Superior Zoo.  The nature based preschool uses close animal experience to support conservation and to promote children “growing wild together”.  A key goal is to reduce the 7+ hours per day average a child spends with electronics.  And to increase from just 7 minutes per day average the time a child spends in unstructured outside play time!  A 2019 study showed that lack of outside play time contributes to obesity, depression, myopia, osteoporosis, and ADHD.   At the Lake Superior Zoo Preschool there are three separate locations for interaction; an outside play area, an inside play area, and a beyond play area comprised of trails.  The Preschool is for ages 33 months to five years.  There are a total of 18 spots, and registration is now open for the fall start on September 8^th. Tuition is $900 per month.  The curriculum is seasonal and based upon what his happening in nature. An exciting way to prepare our children to view the natural world with wonder.

                                      The Problem

                                       The Solution