Rotary club will erect downtown centennial clock

The clock is ticking down the seconds until Rotary International's 100th anniversary.

To commemorate the big occasion, the Carson City Noon Rotary Club will erect an old-fashioned 16-foot tall town clock in front of the state legislative building downtown.

"Everybody loves a big street clock," said Bill Reeves, Rotary Club Centennial Clock Committee member. "It's an endearing addition to any downtown area."

The four-dial clock is being fashioned by Verdin Clock Co. of Ohio, which has been making clocks since 1842. It will stand on a concrete foundation, coming to just under 17 feet tall.

Reeves, a 21-year Carson City resident, said he got the idea after spotting similar clocks in other cities like Sparks and Palm Springs, Calif.

"I thought 'Hey, why don't we have something like that?'''

When Carson City Rotary Club President Rafael Cappucci suggested two months ago the club do something to commemorate the club's nationwide anniversary, Reeves said a clock seemed the obvious answer.

The club has budgeted $30,000 to buy the clock and construction of the concrete base.

The committee presented the project to the Carson City Redevelopment Authority on Wednesday night.

"Everybody really likes the idea of the four-way test being in front of the legislature," Reeves said.

The four-way test is the test of Rotary, which will be engraved on the clock:

"Of the things we think, say or do: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?"

Rotary is a worldwide organization of business and professional leaders that provides humanitarian service and encourages ethical standards in all vocations. Approximately 1.2 million Rotarians belong to more than 31,000 Rotary clubs located in 166 countries.

The unveiling of the centennial clock will be synchronized with the club's anniversary on Feb. 23 in front of the state legislative building.

Contact reporter Robyn Moormeister at rmoormeister@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1217.