Cuba by Roger Jonas

 

Roger recently traveled to Cuba, and he shared his thoughts and experience about Cuba, then and now.

 

The island is 780 miles long and 119 miles wide.  Approximate population is 11 million.

Roger presented a history of Cuba from pre-colonial times through the present day. 

In 1961 all private property is seized (except for bars & restaurants - that came later).  Later in 1961 the Bay of Pigs invasion is launched - it was put down by the Cuban military within three days.  Today the Bay of Pigs (Playa Giron) is a tourist destination.

In 1991 the Soviet Union collapse leads to economic hardship for Cuba.  In 1993 private investment is again permitted.  In 1998 the first Papal visit occurs with Pope John Paul being the first Pope to ever visit Cuba.

Tourist business is going strong - businesses are populated by many who previously worked in various roles for the government.

Very interesting program

Student of the month Grace Sherman.  Music deparment, Choir for 7 years, Choral Ensemble and Advanced WOmen's Ensemble.  In all shows since she has been a student at GHHS.  Inducted into the International Thespian Society.  NHS for two years.  Going to Valparaiso and may pursue Social Work.  Her guest teacher is Ms. Juli Dick.

 

Pat McGinnis - GHHS Pay It Forward class. In it's third year. the Rotary Board decided to explore collaboration . May 14 scramble at GHGC - raising funds for mental health support at GHHS. Cystic Fibrosis Color Run on MAy 14 - 5k, $30 per runner.  Overnight Under the Stars in Central Park to raise funds and awareness for Love INC and Homelessness.  Looking for sponsorships. Cost is $70 per golfer with a shotgun start at 11AM.

 

Francesco Attesti at SLCC - Joy Gasssch announced that Francesco will be returning there at May 1 with a strolling dinner and will be playing 2 sets. Sunday afternoon at SLCC. Tickets are $40 and are available through the Chamber.

 

Paul Harris Fellow Foundation Matching Program- The club will be participating in the Paul Harris Fellow matching program again this year by contributing $250 to match any $250 donation from a member.

 

Catwalk Fundraiser - Main Street is selling street lamp banners for the downtown area this summer. A portion of sales will go to the Catwalk fund raising efforts.

 

D'Vine Event - Thursday, June 30 at Farmer's Market at Chinook Pier. Funds raised will go towards the Bolt Park children's play structure on the East End of Grand Haven. Tickets to the event will be available online. All club members are asked to assist in some way with this fundraising effort.

 

 

Club Assembly and Election - May 9 election of new club officers for next year.

 

Governor's Installation Dinner - The Installation Dinner for our new District Governor is planned for Monday, June 27.  This special evening will be held at Baker Lumber, 720 Pennoyer, Grand Haven, and will replace our regular Monday noon meeting to encourage more participation.  Please save this date and make plans to attend!

 

Rotary Serving Humanity is our theme for the coming year.  Dale Swihart presented a flag to President Brook with the theme on it that he received at the PETS program (President Elect Training).  Meaningful Engagement will be Dale's theme for 2016/2017.  Our Club Assembly will be on May 9th and we will all have an opportunity to get involved.

 

Grand Haven High School Hall of Fame is taking applications through May 17.  Categories include:

Forms are available on the School Foundation Website, at the Chamber and at the Grand Haven Tribune.  See Jay Greer or Lana Jacobson for more information.

 

50/50 Raffle Tickets - There are 17 cards left this week, with a 50/50 pot of $669 total, $99 to the winner and $570 to the chosen charity.  No winner, so IT GROWS!

Applicant: Marci Cisneros

Business Name: GH Convention and Visitors Bureau

Title: Executive Director

Community Involvement: Lighthouse Conservancy, NW Ottawa Sustainability Coalition, MI Beachtowns, MI Port Collaborative, Trout Unlimited, Salmon Festival, other

Education: University of Kentucky & Texas Tech

 

Please contact President Brook or a Board Members with questions or comment.