Space Center Rotary Club Anniversary

The Rotary Club of Space Center

Chartered August 6th, 1964

The Rotary Club of Space Center  has an outstanding community service history since August 1964 due to its diversified members, all with a passion for "Service Above Self".  Not only this, but the Club shares a national heritage in that it grew alongside the manned space program located at the National Aeronautical Space Agency’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. The bond between the Club and the Johnson Space Center and the friendship that has developed is one of the Club’s enduring values and a rich heritage. 

With honor the Club carries the name “Space Center” and its banner reflects the manned space program. Many of the former and current members were pioneers in the manned space program and several of the earlier astronauts were honorary members of the Club. There is a wealth of experience, abilities, and talents among its members such that long time member and President of the Club (1990-1991) Billy R. Smith said that the Club was coined the name, “The Can Do Club". 

According to the Charter Presentation Program, the presentation was held on September 28, 1964 at 7:00 PM at the Houston Yacht Club Shoreacres, La Porte, Texas. Ellis R. Bareiss, Governor’s Representative presided. District Governor Edwin G. Bracher presented the Charter to Ivan E. Brown, President Rotary Club of Space Center. The Rotary Club of La Porte was the sponsoring club. 

Our Club held regular luncheon meetings on Mondays at 12:15 pm at the Kings Inn. (Note: Monday was chosen because it was the best day to meet due of the extensive travel done by  the Rotarians who were with the manned space program.  Likewise noon was the best time during the day to meet  since there were standup meetings every day the first thing each morning.  Per  Bob  Wren May 1, 2015.)