Today’s meeting began with the Ringing of the Bell and Tom Strode leading us in our Patriotic Song.
Our inspirational message today was from Doug Ziesemer. While thinking of recent political demonstrations and also of wars being waged right now, Doug wanted to remind us that there is good in the world, and gave the example of Bill Pulte. Mr. Pulte is an Ann Arbor native and the founder of the Pulte Group (construction/real estate development), and a philanthropist who is generous with his time and resources including collaborating with other large companies to develop a ‘statement’ of world peace. Doug then read a meaningful poem that was, in short, about rejecting hate and violence and instead promoting love, freedom and reconciliation.
Don Devine led our musical selections today with some ‘oldies’: Cruising Down the River and For Me and My Gal.
President Mark thanked the following for their help with today’s meeting: Linda Kentes, Ugur Cetin, Ashok Natwa, John Juroe, John White, Norman Herbert, Tucker Rossmaessler, Kathy Waugh, Pattie Katcher and Bill McPherson.
Six birthdays were announced and no anniversaries. We said hello to several guests today including a couple of new members to be introduced at a later meeting, a past band director and a visiting son. Mark Foster also reminded us that the Rotary District Conference is this weekend and thanked our own Collyer Smith – our District Governor – for all of his service!
Our Club Business today was focused on the recognition of members for their support of various Rotary International’s Foundation programs, as well as Paul Harris Fellows. Two first time PH Fellows – Barbara Dawes and Carlos Valderrama were recognized. Multiple members were recognized for their continued support of Rotary Foundations’ programs (PHF): Bruce Benz, Don Deatrick, Don Duquette, Patricia Garcia, Norman Herbert, Carolyn Hiatt, Phil Hughes, Bob Mull and Dan Romanchik.
We also recognized the following members for their support, as a major donor to Rotary Foundation (cumulative donations of $10,000 or more): Mark Ouimet, Collyer Smith, Ashish and Norma Sarkar. Norman went on to report updates of the Ann Arbor Rotary Foundation (our club’s charitable fund) and to recognize the following supporters Eldon Beery, Brandan Chard, Don Duquette, (Sustainer Society pin) and Dan Balbach and Chris Mile (Benefactors Assembly).
Tom Millard provided the introduction of today’s feature from Huron High School – the Rhythm Rat Jazz Orchestra! The band program at Huron HS has been in existence since 1968 and now has a total of 6 ensembles! The Director of today’s Jazz Band is Robert Ash. We were then entertained for a full 30 minutes of fantastic music of some of the greatest names in jazz – by some incredibly talented high school musicians! It was enjoyed by all.
President Mark closed our meeting with membership reciting the 4-way test:
Of the things we think, say or do…
Is it the truth
Is it fair to all concerned
Will it build goodwill and better friendships
Beneficial to all concerned
Submitted by Pattie Katcher
