Through the efforts of Rotary 43 and Pueblo West Rotary clubs, every third grader in Pueblo School District 60 and Pueblo County School District 70 received a hardbound Scholastic Children's Dictionary.

To fund the annual project, local Rotarians raise as much as $35,000, with the Pueblo Duck Cup remote control regatta bringing in $21,000. Held in September prior to the Chile and Frijoles Festival, the regatta saw more than 30 corporate sponsors race radio-controlled boats for the privilege of hosting the traveling "duck trophy."

The Pueblo West Rotary Club raises about $6,000, with The Temple Buell Foundation contributing $5,000.

The dictionaries were purchased in the fall before being distributed by teams of Rotarians.

"Rotary members received dozens of hugs, letters, and 'thank yous' from parents, students and teachers," a Rotary 43 spokesman said. "Rotary members find this to be one of the most rewarding experiences and hope to see this project continue for many more years."

jpompia@chieftain.com

Twitter: @jpompia







