Last week’s program was an “In-Service” meeting directed by Bill Hughes and John Haney.  Bill Hughes spoke to us about membership.  “Membership Matters”…the Plant City Rotary Club was chartered in May of 1955 with 22 charter members and was successful because of great leadership.  We have come a long way to 2018 with a diverse membership and through continued great leadership.  Paul Harris stated:  “It has been the way of Rotary to focus thought upon matters in which members are in agreement, rather than upon matters in which they are in disagreement”.  Rotary is successful because of it’s members, that is why membership is so important.  The process when looking to sponsor a new member; invite someone you believe will make a good Rotarian, have them attend at least 3 meetings, complete the membership referral form, Board approves or disapproves the recommendation, E-mail notice is sent out – 10 days for written objection, Fireside Chat lunch is held and offer to join Rotary is made and the new member completes the full application.  New members are presented a “Red” badge.  In order to receive their “Blue” badge, the new member must complete some requirements:  Lead the pledge of allegiance during a club meeting, be the Sergeant of Arms at a club meeting, attend a Board of Directors meeting, Attend a Rotary District meeting or function, serve on a committee and assist with the wild game cookout clean up party.  John Haney went on to discuss the “Rotary Program” process.  Our weekly programs are important and distinguish a “good” club from a “great” club.  Programs should be on a topic of informational, educational, motivational or entertainment value that will be of general interest to all club members.  Speakers should avoid political or religious topics.  Rotary International is a non-political and non-religious organization.  Avoid political candidates during an election season.  Avoid product or service promotion.  Advise company executives who are invited to speak to deal with issues that affect their industry and the community and how they cope with them.  They should not use the Rotary podium to promote their products or services.  It is NOT the Program Directors job to find the speakers.  Look for quality speakers well in advance.  The rotation is listed in the weekly bulletin and John will contact you well in advance to let you know when it is your turn to provide the program.  Let the Program Director know when you have a speaker lined up.  “Swapping” dates are ok as long as you let the Program Director know in advance.  Good programs are important to engage members and to retain and recruit new members.   -Provided by Mike Arndt