David Stewart talked about his latest book about James Madison’s partnership with Washington, Hamilton, Jefferson, Monroe, and Dolley Madison in the story of the end of the US beginning.  Short, plain, balding, and low on charisma and high on intelligence, Madison cared more about achieving results than taking the credit.   To reach his life long goal of a self-governing constitutional republic, he blended his talents with key partners.  He wrote the Federalist Papers with Hamilton to secure the Constitution’s ratification; added the Bill of Rights; joined with Jefferson to form the first political party; and joined with Monroe to guide the new nation through the War of 1812 (the Second War of Independence).

The new Brazilian Ambassador, as of March 1st, was the former Foreign Minister. Trade relations with the US is a very important Brazilian agenda. Trade Minister Richardo Monteiro talked about the Brazilian economy (the largest in South America) and trade with the US and other countries. Brazilian investment in the US is 3/1 over US investment in Brazil. Deep water drilling in Brazil is profitable at global oil price of $45 per barrel. Brazil exports oil but imports refined gas, because of insufficient refining capacity. Foreign bidders are accepted for infrastructure building and oil drilling. Brazil’s export to China is mostly commodities, though export of manufactured goods is robust to other countries.

On Sunday, February 22nd, the first Planning Meeting took place at Jim Manley’s home. Spouses were invited and they had a pot luck lunch/dinner while the group brain-stormed fundraising projects. The results were fantastic! They came up with three projects that N. Bethesda Rotary will pursue: 1. Chocolate Festival. 2. Flags for Heroes (with the BCC Rescue Squad). 3. Micro Fundraisers (Citrus Project, Carmine Dinner, etc.). The only way we will be successful is for all members to be actively involved