Annie reminded us that this year's Rotary International theme is "Be the Inspiration". She then recognized several Rotarians who have been inspiring representatives recently:
At the Pride Breakfast, Heather Ciranna was recognized as Small Business Owner of the year. Stop in to congratulate her at "Corner Cup Coffeehouse".
Doris Stewart was appreciated for her work on the Pride Breakfast and other events as Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce.
Brad Jagger was thanked for representing us in the Fourth of July parade and Mike Dunton for sharing his jeep for the event.
Mike Dunton was also congratulated on his recent marriage to Lisa.
Christina Gary was recognized for running in Fairview Park Rotary's Summerfest 5K Run. She has a great medal to prove it.
Rich Bedell and Bob Oborn met with the Howard Hanna Stow Office to inform them of the activities of Rotary so that they could use the information as one more way to tell clients about the greatness of this community.
PROGRAM:
Bonnie Housley was in charge of our program this morning and as Annie called her to the podium, she played "Celebration" which is Bonnie's walk-up song. Since we are once again offering our Member Moment as we introduce the speaker, Bonnie told us about herself. She has been a Rotarian for 31 years during which time she has been our club president twice and also is a past District-Governor. She is the owner of Creative Illusions in Cuyahoga Falls.
Bonnie then introduced Jack Young who gave updates on both the Shoebox Project and ShelterBox. He was District Governor for the 2005-2006 Rotary year, has been to Nicaragua 11 times as chair of the Shelterbox Project.
There are 7 ShelterBox staging areas throughout the world so they are ready for disasters anywhere. Each Shelterbox holds a tent that can sleep 8-10 people and contains everything you need to survive if your home is suddenly gone. The contents are similar to what would be taken on a camping trip. During the 14 years the program has existed, a million and a half people have been housed throughout the world. In our club's recent drive, we collected $754.00. Recently ShelterBox was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize and in October the results will be known.
Jack also told stories about the Shoebox Program. Last year 2200 boxes were delivered to Nicaragua with 825 of those from our district. He told some success stories of students who have attended school there, Students have been able to move on to college through the efforts of the school and community, in spite of the extreme poverty that they face every day. There is now a Rotary Village that has been constructed there with cement block homes. In our area, the Westlake and Bay Village clubs are taking over the leadership of this project.
Several years ago, Stow donated a well-used fire truck to the same community where we send the shoe boxes. He reported that the truck is still being used and has saved lives. He again explained appreciation to our club.
It is good to hear reports of what happens to our international donations when they leave our club. Projects like that are how we do our part to inspire the world.
President Annie dismissed us by wishing us a good week and reminding us to bring a guest next week.
CALENDAR:
Friday, July 13, 7:15 a.m. Board Meeting at Stow Library
Thursday, July 19, 5:30 District Banner Exchange and Induction Ceremony. Go to the District 6630 website for more information.
Saturday, July 21 Rubber Ducks game
Wednesday, October 10, Reverse Raffle and Silent Auction
Submitted by Andy Denton