The Rote – October 6, 2022
Via Zoom
Scribe: Marcia Brod

Past President Norby Rudel called the meeting to order. He was filling in for President Brian Tschirhart who was on the road to visit family, but on the call.

Marcia Brod gave an invocation and Diane Stieber led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

Sunday, October 9 – RSVP right away!

Thursdays, October 13, 20 and 27 are all in-person meetings at the Miami Yacht Club. Do you best to reserve these days so that we can meet and greet each other at our luncheon meetings.

Scribes Needed: Marcia Brod asked everyone to consider volunteering as a meeting scribe. It is an important and easy way to participate in the Club. The Rote is the way our work and meetings are preserved as an historical record. Contact Marcia if you’re interested.

Robin Shelley spoke to Rotarian John Smarge who lives in SW Florida. He and his family are fine, but he expressed how difficult times are and will be for some time for many in the area. Robin reminded us to all be as generous as possible. The District is collecting funds to help out.

Today’s Program was introduced by Steve Dutton

Timothy Schmand’s professional history in Miami-Dade County includes an associate directorship at what is now HistoryMiami Museum, a grant-writing stint, executive director of the Bayfront Park Management Trust, a brief role as interim head of the Coconut Grove Business Improvement District (BID) and, also executive director of the Lincoln Road BID.

His presentation discussed what Miami is doing with Public Spaces. A Public Space is typically a place that is open and accessible to the general public; roads, public squares, parks, and beaches; and, Government buildings which are open to the public, such as public libraries.

Public Spaces are often enhanced and improved for public use through the creation of a Business Improvement District (BID). The Underline Project is an excellent example of the use of public spaces. The areas from the Miami River to Dadeland under MetroRail are being developed as a linear park for use by all. Additionally, the I-395 Under Deck project will make a huge difference to many in our community.

Miami is doing a lot to make the most of its public spaces.

Happy $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

Steve Dutton thanked our speaker and is soon heading out on his now 426-day long cruise. We’ll miss you Steve – Bon Voyage!!!!

Robin and Susie Shelley are happy to be celebrating their 55^th wedding anniversary. Yes, they both agreed they would do it again!

Brian Tschirhart thanked Norby for filling in today and also thanked Steve and our speaker.

Diane Landsberg was thankful for our speaker and everyone who helped out with today’s meeting. She also mentioned that the Club is getting some help from three other Rotary Clubs with the Little Libraries we are installing.

Dave Skinner was happy to be home after a challenging few weeks. He and Linda are looking forward to healthier times soon.

Norby Rudel thanked the speaker and everyone who attended the Zoom meeting.

The Four Way Test was led by Diane Landsberg.