NEW MEMBER INDUCTION: The club was happy to induct Jack Evans as the newest member of our club this morning. For many years he was a member of the Port Summit Club but since he is now a Stow resident, he decided to join this club and has already volunteered in many activities. We are very happy to welcome Jack and hope everyone will be anxious to get to know him. Jeff Film presided over the induction and John Long is his sponsor. Jack introduced himself by having us play some number games on our phones. If you weren't present today, you might ask him to tell you the one about your age.
PROGRAM: Program Host, De-De Mulligan. who chaired the Four-Way Speech Contest at the high school thanked John Pribonic for his help in organizing the contest. She then introduced Speech and Debate Coach, Jimmy Miller who has been in that position for 12 years. He then introduced the three speakers who were our winners at the high school this year. The two top speakers will compete in Rotary District 6630's competition this Saturday.
Jackson Moore, incoming president of the Speech and Debate Club, was the first speaker, who based his presentation around the quote: "It was the best of times and the worst of times." from The Tale of Two Cities. Corporate greed and it's effect on society was evaluated through the Four-Way-Test. He used examples like Apple vs. Android, planned obsolescence, lobbying and particularly the outrageous cost of some medications as he matched those ideas against the Four-Way-Test. Jackson also spoke about corporations that utilize a system of donations and reform and what a difference they make in society. With the right actions and attitude, we can turn the worst of times into the best of times, according to him.
Joshua Jordan, who is a national qualifier for the Lincoln -Douglas Debate, and our second place winner, asked if we would pay $200 to save a life. He expressed his concerns over the withdrawal of Foreign Aid to many of the world's poorest countries. One in ten people live in extreme poverty and need help. They, who did not choose the family or location they were born into, need those who can afford to help. They can make the world better. Foreign Aid makes up just under 1% of the U.S. budget, but recently some tragic decisions have been made. including the elimination of money going toward the eradication of polio. Joshua says that the Center for Global Development has made a huge difference, but that every day aide is suspended, 6000 people die. Choices make a difference to real people.
Ronald Dickerhoof, our first place winner spoke about respect or the lack of it. He developed many of his theories based on his experience in the fast food industry. He told of one supervisor who stated "We don't serve those kinds of people" when Ronald tried to assist a needy person. He stated that controversies start due to conflict but that respect can heal relationships. Respect creates safer environments, and can create cooperation in the workplace, which actually increases productivity by 20%. The more we respect each other, the more we inspire others to do the same. This is a choice we make every day, as respect either builds up or tears down kindness and unity.
Jimmy shared more information at the end of the competition. Every Saturday the students gather to work om their speeches, debates or other presentations. They have been winners in both district and national competition. We can see evidence of their excellence if we go to the high school auditorium this Friday at 7:00 for a Speech and Debate Team showcase.
HAPPY BUCKS: President-elect, Bob Sweitzer congratulated the new board members, Mary Dula, Pilar Parsons and Brad Ruth and thanked them for their willingness to serve.
Bob had a second Happy Buck saying that his daughter and son-in-law have broken ground for their new home.
CELEBRATIONS: Rotary Anniversary: Annette Oborn is celebrating 12 years as a Rotarian this week.
Birthdays: Dave Christman and Elizabeth Kargbo both have birthdays this week.
Drawing: The Presidents' Table had the winning ticket but drew the 6 of spades.
CONCERNS: Dave Renninger has been hospitalized, but we are glad to hear he is home now and improving.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Teacher Supply Cupboard: Rotarians were needed to deliver to the schools after the meeting today.
Foodbank: Tonight was our volunteer time at the Foodbank from 4:30 to 6:30.
Board Meeting: Our board will meet this Friday at City Hall at 7:15 a,m. Anyone is welcome to attend. Minutes of the March meeting are attached to these minutes.
District Conference: Bob Oborn who will be next year's District Governor, encouraged everyone to plan to take part in at least some of the District Conference which will be Friday, April 25 and Saturday, April 26 in Warrensville Heights. He particularly encouraged people to attend the Saturday luncheon where youth will be featured. The schedule of events is on District 6630's Website. The club will reimburse members for their attendance.
Steve closed the meeting by leading us in the Rotary Four-Way Test.
DATES TO REMEMBER:
Friday, April 11, 7:15 a.m. Board Meeting at City Hall
Friday, April 11, 7:00 p.m. Speech and Debate Presentation in the auditorium of the high school
Saturday, April 12, 10:00 to 1:00 Bunny Trail Hop at Silver Springs Park. Rotary volunteers can help set-up starting at 9:00.
Wednesday, April 16, 7:30 Weekly Meeting at The Center when Ron Taggart will be in charge of the program.
Friday, April 25 and Saturday, April 26 District Conference at the Cleveland Marriott in Warrensville Heights
Wednesday, April 30, no morning meeting.
Saturday, May 10, Heroes Day
Saturday, May 10, 7:00 Interact Talent Show at the High School
Friday, June 13, Golf Outing at Fox Den
Tuesday, July 2 in the evening, at The Center, Bob Oborn's Installation as District President
Wednesday, October 9, Reverse Raffle/Silent Auction in the evening. No morning meeting.
Respectfully submitted,
Andrea Denton
330-474-7265
330-414-1934