|
President Dennis called us to order a few minutes early today because of the packed agenda. Rachelle Neal delivered the invocation reminding us of the value of service. We all joined in the singing of the Star Spangled Banner. Guests and visiting Rotarians were introduced with yours truly handling the mic. Of note, Ann Harrison, widow of Rotarian Michael J. Harrison, was with us today. Diane Sanborn informed us that the health of the club is well. Scott Duimstra talked about the upcoming Loftus Day as an opportunity to remember past Rotarians and be inspired by their work. Joe Wald gave told us about the life of Michael J. Harrison, a long time Rotarian who passed away this spring. He was a Lansing Rotary member from 1976 to 2014; a nuclear physicist, and Dean of MSU’s Lyman-Briggs College. Next was the time for two new member presentations. First, Jennifer Marsh: Jennifer’s baby picture proved that she has had a great smile and the gift of gab since birth. She presented her life in phases. In her daughter/sister phase, Jennifer had a great childhood growing up in Mt. Pleasant. Sadly, she lost her mother six years ago to cancer. Her brother is one of her best friends, and they remain in close contact. She got a degree in Finance during her MSU phase. Jennifer’s wife/mother phase has been ongoing for 25 years of marriage to her best friend David. They have two sons, Joshua and Jacob, and 3 fur babies. She loves her Rotary phase which began with East Lansing Rotary where she is former president. She is happy to have transferred to Lansing Rotary, which she identifies as her “work church.” She thanked her sponsor, Julie Pingston, and let us know that she is “here to serve.” Then we heard from Bill DuBois (who is OK with either the French or American pronunciation of his last name): Bill identifies himself as being a very shy person who has pushed himself into speaking up. He grew up in Delta Township with a love of books and a close-knit circle of friends. Bill believes in delivering the “hospitality promise.” Bill’s first job was as a dishwasher; when he got called on to be a busboy his shyness was an obstacle he overcame to discover his love of service. His career includes working at TGI Friday’s and a 7 year stint at numerous restaurants in Florida. Love of family brought him back to Michigan in 2006 and he began his career at the Sheraton Hotel. He has grown into event management and loves helping plan peoples special days. Bill has a new love for the Lansing area and his involvement with Rotary helps him feel complete. Next was time for special music. John Dale Smith introduced performers from “Jeckyll & Hyde.” Director Tom Ferris gave some details of the upcoming show which will be on the Rotary Stage at Riverwalk Theatre. Sally Hecksel – who I have known since she was a toddler – and Kelley Lofton gave a stunning performance of “In His Eyes,” followed by Kameron Going who plays the lead role. Our speaker was Justin Sheehan, Executive Director of Lansing Promise. Justin inspired us with the amazing possibilities for our Lansing area youth. He talked about providing our youth with opportunity, ability, and encouragement. The Lansing Promise is more than a scholarship fund – it is building our future. Our fates are intertwined with area youth. The Lansing Promise is involved with a movement to promote kids. There is a belief that youth have value, and that education makes a difference. He talked about HOPE – Helping Other People Excel and Kellie Dean’s role in it. HOPE and Promise joined in 2017. 827 youth have taken an oath to do their best in school and life. Justin left us with the inspirational idea that we are a product of our expectations, both our own expectations of ourselves and others expectations in us. He asked us to GIVE, BELIEVE, and IMAGINE! |
