Rotary News

Kalamazoo Rotary - May 4, 2009

Visiting Rotarians:  Dick Weaver, Dorothy Endres, Jim Hendricks, Chip Shelb, Dawn VanderPlough.

Guests:  Amy Upjohn, Erin Gallagher, Whitney Hein, Ryan Opria, Dan Adams, Ramone, Gerrard, Larry, Travis Faulds, Mark Dobbins, Thom Lattig, Walter J. Jones.

Art News by Gif Blalock.

Announcements:  Vote on Tuesday.  Also looking for accommodations for 3 Youth Exchange students.

New Members:  Gif Blalock sponsored John Clark.  He owns a business that creates websites.  He lived in Kalamazoo 10 years ago.  He and his wife of 37 years have one son.  His job is to help grow businesses.  Brian Kaufman sponsored Dan Adams, the new owner of Joldersma-Klein funeral home.  His wife, daughter and new expectant son as of July are happy to be in Kalamazoo.  Dan shared his beliefs and values about serving his clients in the funeral business.

Committee Reports:  Andy Latham - Sergeant at Arms - they operate in teams of 4 to set up the room, collect meal dollars, register members, collect happy bucks.  This is a good committee to meet new people and get to know others.  Rob Peterson - Table Hosts - they introduce guests and visiting Rotarians.  Easy to perform and a great way to know people.  Jerry Albertson - Music - fun committee bringing lots of joy!

Karl Sandelin announced FITMI 2009 - this is a group who join together to walk weekly to get people moving and fit.  Karl started running at the Y in 1976 and has since run 16 marathons plus numerous other runs.  He is a perfect example for all of us.

Julie Peterson is leading the membership survey team for Kalamazoo Rotary.

Program:  Joe Brogger introduced our speaker Travis Faulds.  He is the Executive Director of Lakeside Academy for children located on 50 acres off Oakland Drive.  They have had their ups and downs but are very pleased with the "up" they are experiencing.  They set high standards, setting examples for others, teaching students to serve and give back to their community.  They currently have 75 boys.  The grounds are owned by the Lakeside Board of Directors and organization.  The Academy has been contracted to provide service.  Their goal is to teach healthy thinking and in turn better behavior.

There are two groups - one for 6-9 months and one for 6-15 months.  The focus is on a lifelong commitment.  They have partnered with MSU for data and research, and have worked with many elements of our community such as parent support groups, alumni, employment options, plus helped with many community organizations.  KRESA provides all educational programs on campus and is working to add even more.  Sports activities include soccer, basketball, and weight lifting.  Three students came as guests and answered questions - an impressive presentation!

The program next week will be presented by Dale Hein's daughter, Whitney, on her year in the Peace Corps.

Submitted by Mary Jo Hawk