Jul 14 President's Message
President's Message July 14
At our July 10 meeting, our speaker Sue Durdock presented "Reverse Mortgage 101" and educated us about how reverse mortgages help seniors keep their homes in these challenging times. Sue is a Reverse Mortgage Specialist and she demonstrated her passion and knowledge, especially during the Q&A session.
Special thanks to our Program Co-Chairs Eileen Dunn and Ron Searfoss for arranging Sue as a substitute when we found out on Tuesday morning that our scheduled speaker had had to cancel and ask for a new date. By the time I listened to Ron's voice mail about the cancellation, Sue had been scheduled and the communication was ready for club members. What a team we have at Morning Star!!
Generally, we look forward to the news presented during Happy Dollars time. This week, we were all glad to hear that McGehee Isaacs had been promoted at Grange Mutual Insurance, but then Betty put in a sad dollar because they are relocating to Columbus, Ohio at the end of July. They have already investigated some Rotary options in Columbus, because they want to continue their "Rotary stories" in their new town. Please wish the Isaacs all the best as they go off on a new adventure.
We welcomed a couple of visiting Rotary big wigs: District Governor Elect Doug Cook (Collegeville) and Past DG Bill Jahn (Skidaway Isle, S.C.). Bill thanked Morning Star for the great hospitality shown to him and Karen on their recent trip; they hope to be back for the holidays.
In addition to Sue Durdock, our speaker, we welcomed Terry Pucciarelli as an honored guest. Terry is Marianne Aronson's sister and shares the same upbeat, fun attitude as Marianne. Plus, long-time MSR member Desty Bonstein was here for the first time in several months and she hopes to be a more regular attendee.
Just a quick note on the July 9 Board Meeting. This was our first BOD meeting with our four newest Directors: Wayne Achey, Cheryl Baker, Jan Chicka and Jessica Elliott. BOD supported the "every member brings at least one guest" initiative and the "Every Member Every Year" Club goal. We passed the new Operating and Charitable Account budgets and worked on committee assignments; everyone will be asked to confirm their committee interests (see story below).
Don't be surprised -- we have added the Four Way Test to our Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance during our meeting opening. It's a great way to reinforce our primary Rotary values. (Ed note: notice the Fifth Test on the Rolling Announcements! This is Morning Star!)
Please be sure to attend our July 17 meeting when Steve Bajan will speak on "How Not to Manage Your Career." It promises to be an entertaining time.
Enjoy your week as you live out the Four Way Test and "Light up Rotary". Cheers and blessings. President Tom
