Becky Gaskin, Executive Director of American Red Cross
covering 10 counties (and spouse of Jamie Gaskin, recent speaker from United Way) spoke to 13 members at Mic Goulet’s request. (L to R above are Cindy Sullivan, guest speaker Becky, and Mic – – Thanks, Mic!) One visiting guest (Joe Loparena from Optimist Club in Saginaw) also joined us this morning, invited by “Governor-Elect” Bill Reaves.)
Becky noted that 21,000 people are impacted daily by Red Cross programs and workers, especially since a declared disaster used to occur roughly every 16 days and the events are now experienced every 12 days! Blood drives involving well over 15,000 donors (including a few of our own members!) gave more than 10,500 units of blood this past year, each one with the potential for saving as many as 3 lives!
Red Cross also operates a weather app for urgent notifications; does First Aid, CPR, and Water Safety training; passes out free smoke alarms in their fire safety and escape plan training, as well as diapers and food in emergencies; and provides information and support for transportation for deployed Armed Forces. Becky really enjoys her position and the people she works with, seeing the differences made in lives on a daily basis. (Eleven years as a single mom of 4 children and being married to Jamie fits with that value system!)
President Cindy Sullivan announced that we will be delivering beer in cans at this year’s beverage tent, celebrated the recruitment of several sponsors for the event, and that there will be a DJ and a karaoke event during the Summerfest schedule.
Bill Reaves awarded lanyards recognizing Club officers for Honor Club contributions, noting 60% growth numbers for the Club.
Member Tony Tucker’s wife continues to experience health improvements, although not enough to free him up for attendance at regular meetings.
Jeff Dennings brought a charming “Thank-You” note from his family regarding Club support during his mother’s illness and passing. Jeff also announced that this afternoon’s informal “Stammtisch” was to be at “The Draft” in Swartz Creek. (It had at least 10 attendees!)
Jeff Gauger emphasized the importance of communicating with political representatives regarding possible cuts in Job Corps funding, noting that 2 teams of Club members (with support from Job Corps youth) will be installing 7 beds right after the morning meeting for Sleep in Heavenly Peace. (Jeff’s beloved truck, used for these SHP projects, was a casualty of a recent storm and is officially “totalled” by a fallen tree, with damage to his home as well.)
Bill Reaves again won the right to draw a losing card in the Progressive 50/50 Pot drawing, now worth approximately $800.
Until next time, “Promise Yourself…”