A large number of Student Rotarians were on hand to take charge of the May 2 Rotary meeting at Elmwood. Immaculate Edwin provided background music during the luncheon after which Isabella Pederson rang the bell to kick things off. Aspen Chadderdon led in a leadership-themed prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. Juan Andrade helped Pederson facilitate the meeting handling the club birthdays and anniversaries. Pat Apgar leads the group as he reaches the milestone mark of 70 years. Leah Edel presented a news report that included current events related to the Rotary International Foundation.

Rotary President Bill Fitzgerald also thanked Carrie and Paul Barr for opening up their home for the Rotary social that preceded “18 Men Who Can Cook” event observing that six of the 18 cooks were Rotarians.

Curt Hoff then came forward to describe the background of the Nick Norris Scholarship, named after the 1957 graduate of Marshalltown High School who lost his life in the service of his country as a Navy fighter pilot while attempting a nighttime carrier landing. The scholarship was established by Nick’s father, Paul (a former Rotarian) in 1964. Hoff then announced the 2017 recipient, Chadderdon.

Mary Drummer and Morgan Van Staalduine took over the program. Rock The Roundhouse was the theme of the student Rotarian project this year. Younger students from all the other schools in Marshalltown were invited to cheer on the Bobcats in their game the evening of Feb. 3. Students were given tickets for a bottled water and popcorn as they gathered in areas designed by signage for each school. They were each presented with a glow stick to accompany a “glow” dance performed by the dance team. There was a contest for the loudest cheering school with a cheer stick awarded to the Fisher section. Upward Bound played a game to entertain the crowd between the girls and boys games. Bobby the mascot was a huge hit. A video produced by Hannah Shirar clearly showed the interaction during a fun-filled evening.

The Rotary Club of Marshalltown meets weekly at Elmwood Country Club and is committed to Service Above Self.