Dec 1 - Weekly Bulletin (Dec 01, 2015)

This Weeks Program

Posted by John Martin on Nov 30, 2015

GVSU Update - Dr. Thomas Haas.

Dr. Haas served for 25 years in the USCG, retiring as Captain, and has served as President of GVSU for the last 10 years.

GVSU is now the 4th largest school of higher education in Michigan and among the largest 100 nationally.

He provided an update on recent GVSU activities, focusing primarily on GVSU's current strategic planning process. Grand Valley began a program, the Grand Finish, of rewarding students with a 10% tuition reduction during their senior year if they finish their degree in 4 years or less. Five thousand current students are enrolled in a health profession field of study. Grand Valley was chartered 55 years ago, producing its first graduates 50 years ago. More than 100,000 students have graduated from GVSU over the last 50 years.

Income from the state was greatly reduced when Gov. Snyder took over. In the last couple of years GVSU has received the highest percentage increases in funding from the state, based on efficiencies, results and planning. Tuition averages $10,700 per student with Pell grants and other scholarships reducing the net tuition charge per student to about $6,800 per year.

Morning Meeting At Consider It Done

Posted by Stacey Trowbridge

Orientation to Rotary- Presented by our past Presidents

This morning a full house received information critical to being a productive Rotarian. The following criteria was reviewed.

1. Member obligations such as providing a 5 minute bio at a club meeting, attending a board meeting, inviting a guest, volunteering your time, exploring and becoming familiar with Rotary’s websites, obtaining and reviewing a copy of clubs budget, and interviewing a long standing member are just a few suggestions. It is also recommended that members keep a "club card" in their wallet; it is a great way to share Rotary's purpose.

2. Know and share what the GH Rotary does locally. Our club has supported and/or initiated the following projects and many more not listed.

- Historical society

- Depot

- Musical fountain

- Mulligans Hollow

- Board walk

- Pendulum in high school

- Farmers market

- Splash pad

- GH downtown history walk

3. International impact

The World Community Service is our international committee. We also have representation from all four lakeshore clubs on the Health and Humanitarian committee. Our current focus is on Honduras and supporting the clean water filter project. This initiative also motivates both Interact and Rotaract to not only participate in filter installation, but also to raise funds for the cause.

4. Rotary Foundation

This is an opportunity for all members to give and become a sustaining member. Grants are also available through the foundation and awarded to clubs to help subsidize local projects. Finally, the Paul Harris Fellow has been established for each Rotarian, once they donate $1000.

5. Wearing your Rotary pin

This is a good way to connect with other Rotarians worldwide. The round wheel logo suggests Rotarians should sit at a different table each meeting in order to develop relationships with every member. Attendance is important and so is the obligation to bring in new members. Members were also reminded that if the president asks you to do something, he/she believes you are equipped to take on the task.

6. Youth exchange

Has supported students from Japan, the Philippines, Brazil, and various European countries over the years. Students really become a member of their host family, which has long term benefits. Applicants must be approved by their local and district club

Announcements / Opportunities to Get Involved

Posted by John Martin on Nov 30, 2015

Don't forget to put your announcement in writing! The newsletter editors would very much appreciate it!!

Tri-Cities Historical Museum - Dr. Dave Seibold and Jerry Witherell provided a quick update on the TCHM and an upcoming fundraising campaign to buy and renovate a storage and archive facility at the former Harbor industries HQ on 172nd in Grand Haven Township.

Salvation Army Bell Ringing: Thank you to all those who volunteered!

Christmas Parade Party at 5:00 - 9:00 PM on December 5 at Consider it Done for all members, their families and friends. There will be beverages, appetizers, deserts and activities for the children. Join your Rotary friends for a warm up!

Mentors Needed: Changes this year - open businesses to students to learn about your career. Please see Mike Helsen if you are interested in volunteering.

Raffle Tickets - $253 total - $99 to the winner, $154 to a Charity of choice. 41 cards left.