As usual, the June 16, 2021 Zoom meeting featured lots of good conversation, good music, and an interesting speaker. The hot topic of conversation during the social hour was the cicada invasion, with some noting that they have seen the long-hibernating insects, while others saying that they haven not seen any yet.

Following the inspiration by Mike Rein, lots of birthdays were announced, outgoing board members were recognized, we viewed music videos celebrating Juneteenth and a number by Rotary sisters Joanne Pierson and Barbara Eichmuller.

That was the prelude the Distinguished Service award presentation to Barbara Eichmuller. Described by her sister from another mother, Joanne Pierson, as a ball of energy, Barbara has provided service for the club in a number of different capacities, including chair of the Rotary Cares committee and Club Secretary since 2016. Barbara’s generous attitude, kind heart, and can-do spirit make her certainly deserving of our highest honor.

Joanne then handed the meeting over to Dennis Powers to introduce the speaker, noting that she still has a perfect record for getting speakers introduced on time.

Our speaker, Matt Grocoff, who has been called a zero energy master, then talked about his vision for a sustainable future and living communities. Matt is the force behind Veridian@County Farm Park, an innovative new development. For example, Veridian is 100% electric, and not only that, Grocoff expects that the solar panels installed on the units will supply a large portion of the development’s needs. There will also be a number EV charging stations, and bicycle use will be encouraged. Grocoff also noted that the development will be “strategically diverse‚” and that units will be available to people with a wide variety of incomes. Some homes will cost less than $200,000, while more luxurious homes will go for more than $700,000. Veridian will certainly be an interesting development, and many will be watching to see how it goes.

Notes by Dan Romanchik