Rotary News

Editarian - Sandra J. Bliesener

President Judy Moore called the meeting to order, Pat Norris gave the invocation, and Dan Gustin gave the Arts News for the week.  After Richard Piet gave the WKZO version of the day's news, John Dillworth and Tim Kilmartin led Rotarians in "The Christmas Song" and "Winter Wonderland".

PP Rick Briscoe introduced new member John Brussee, who was born and raised in Kalamazoo and attended Kalamazoo Christian High School and Kalamazoo Valley Community College.  He and his wife of 25 years Kim, have a daughter and son who are both attending Cornerstone University and active in athletic programs there.  John serves as president of Superior Color Graphics, which was started by his grandfather in 1927 and owned and operated by the family until he and his brother sold the business in 1998.  His "hobby" is Thornapple Creek Golf Club, which he bought in 1999.  Besides being an avid golfer, he is active in the Third Reformed Church.  Welcome John!

President Judy delivered a 25-year pin to Ed Gordon.  Congratulations Ed!

PP Tim Brown was called to the podium to announce the slate of candidates for the upcoming Rotary year and call a vote of the membership.  The slate includes Officers: Rex Bell (President) Deb Chope Hughes (V. President) Bob Kent (Treasurer) Dan Hartlieb (Secretary).  Directors: Thell Woods, Mary Jo Hughes, and Jim McIntyre.  The slate was approved by unanimous vote. 

Jim Holtgrieve announced that there are still opportunities for anyone interested in ringing the bell for the Salvation Army.  Kettles will be at next week's meeting for our own contributions.

Matt Bates announced that the Family of Rotary committee is inviting all Rotarians and their families to the WMU vs. CMU men's basketball game to be held January 22.  See Matt to sign up.

Nan Thompson was called to the podium to present the banner she received when she attended a make-up meeting while in Aruba.  Nan promised to send a Kalamazoo banner to them as well.

Bob Kent introduced Bev Hundley, Director of Curriculum and Community Services at Gull Lake Schools.  Bev was the recipient of a donor organ through Gift of Life after being diagnosed with an incurable liver disease.  She told her touching personal story about meeting her donor's family and how intertwined their lives have become.  Gift of Life coordinates donors with recipients for both organs and tissue - you can register on their website.  There are no religious, financial or age barriers to being an organ donor, and there is no cost or hold-up in funeral arrangements.