President Rodney Hulbert began the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance, reciting the 4 Way Test, and then we sang "This is My Country." The invocation was given by David Eardley.
No particular person was recognized at today's meeting.
Christine H announced about the upcoming Derby Day event to support RANH. It’s a shared event with the Kiwanis. Tickets are $75 and are available.
Ernie S announced that tickets are available for this year’s Spaghetti Dinner at Van Hoosen Farms to support Habitat for Humanity. Sponsorships are available for $250 and $500. He also took time to announce that the dinner has been given this official name: "Hap Walton Honorary Rotary Fundraiser for Habitat." Congrats, Hap!
Tom N announced that the District 6380 Conference will be May 3-4 at the Crowne Plaza in Detroit. You may register for one day or for both days. He also announced that the Host Appreciation Dinner for Rotary Exchange Students will be May 11 at Oakland University.
Kyle J reported that Winetasting totals are being finalized. Over 550 tickets were sold, and $2,750 in sponsorships were raised. Good news!
Dave A announced that the Rotary Youth Exchange is looking for a 2nd host family in the Adams HS area for January - June 2020.
The Rochester High School Interact Club shared their report about their activities this school year. They have committed themselves to work hard to grow the club and grow its involvement in helping those around them.
Please note the May 7 Rotary Meeting will be at the OPC, where Renee C will speak about the “Silver Tsunami.” Please RSVP your attendance as there will be a plated lunch that day.
ROTARIAN OF THE WEEK AWARD
The award continues with Mo Sayed for another week.
SONGS
Eric Whipple led our singing today with two selections: My Old Kentucky Home and Camptown Races. The consensus was that our singing was memorable today... thank you, Eric!
SHERIFF'S REPORT
During the sheriff's report time, the 50/50 raffle drawing took place, with Russ S having having the winning ticket for $107. Congrats, Russ! The remaining $107 will be directed to Polio Plus.
$165 was raised for Rotary Scholarships. Thank you everyone!
PROGRAM
Wayne introduced Dena Vatalaro, Community and Faith Manager for Habitat for Humanity Oakland County. She spoke about the neighborhood revitalization programs underway in Southfield and Pontiac. She also talked about the "Rock the Block" program underway in May, June, and September, which has been a great way to help with Habitat projects. She described Habitat U, which helps clients develop a financial plan for their homes and lives. She reminded us that Habitat is a home ownership program. All clients must have the ability to pay their mortgage and offer sweat equity in the work. As part of the celebration for the Women Build weeks, Dena showed us a powerful video that they have produced which highlighted four families whose lives have been transformed through Habitat. Dena also brought along Mark Keller, member of the Habitat Board, and Denny Zinchuk, Core Volunteer, who also spoke about their passion for Habitat and the opportunities that are available to volunteer. She concluded by reminding us that there are 125,000 people living in poverty in Oakland County. Thank you, Dena, for an excellent presentation!