Rotary Fishing Tournament Fundraiser - Update
- lhfrank0
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Quick recap
The club conducted various activities, including a lucky duck drawing, and discussed upcoming events such as the International Peace Day celebration and a fishing tournament organized to benefit Pinellas County Charities. The tournament details were outlined, including sponsorship opportunities, auction items, and a partnership with a veteran nonprofit organization. The conversation concluded with updates on community service activities and upcoming events.
Summary
Rotary Club Luncheon
Peace Day and Club Updates
Bev mentioned that September 21 is International Peace Day, and she shared details about a peace poem unveiling event in Tarpon Springs that was inspired by their club's initiative. The conversation ended with a discussion about an upcoming fishing tournament, with Linda set to moderate and introduce guests.
Rotary Fishing Tournament Fundraiser
The St. Joseph Sound Flats Classic Fishing Tournament, organized by the Rotary Club of Dunedin and the Dunedin Boat Club, will be held on October 16th and 17th, with proceeds donated to Pinellas County Charities. The event includes a Thursday evening gala and auction, as well as a Friday morning fishing tournament.
Scott Lee demonstrated how to navigate the tournament's website to purchase tickets, sponsor, or donate.
Dustin Lighton highlighted the silent and live auction items, including wine bottles, fishing trips, and vacation packages. The community is invited to participate in the event, with all registration and bidding processes now electronic.
Charity Auction Event Planning
Terry Hopkins discussed the upcoming charity auction event, highlighting improvements to registration, auction processes, and the introduction of TVs, as well as a new checkout system. Linda encouraged attendees to contribute items for the auction, including alcohol, and mentioned a $100 drawing for those who stay until the end. Linda also explained the tournament's structure, emphasizing the involvement of professional guides and the inclusion of veterans, and thanked sponsors for their support. Stacey Mueller, the sponsorship chair, was acknowledged for her efforts in securing new sponsors, while Linda noted the committee's ongoing efforts throughout the year.
Tournament Sponsors and Fundraising Update
Stacey reported that two major sponsors, Glamour and RE-MAX, have withdrawn due to business challenges; however, the tournament has raised $15,600 this year from six boats, slightly more than last year's $12,500. The event will include a veteran sponsorship program where proceeds benefit Pinellas County Charities, and will feature professional fishing guides who keep their fishing spots secret. Wine at the Docks has donated limited-edition wine bottles for auction and will host the Friday morning tournament activities. Meanwhile, Madison Pizza is providing in-kind donations of pizza for the event.
Veteran Nonprofit Partners with Fishing Event
The meeting discussed a partnership between a veteran nonprofit, Club 214 Land and Sea, and a local fishing event. The nonprofit's board member, Allison Mannino-Keys, explained the organization's activities, which include monthly social events, mental health support groups, and a 5K run to raise funds for veterans facing food insecurity. Pico, an Army veteran, highlighted the nonprofit's efforts to provide food and resources to elderly veterans, particularly those who served in the Cold War era. The group expressed gratitude for the support of the fishing event and invited attendees to participate in their upcoming 5K run or one-mile walk-run to contribute to their cause.