“The only person you can change is yourself.” Such was the wisdom from luncheon speaker Michael Lopez, an expert in the psychology of effecting change.
President Bobby Reed called the meeting to order and invited PP Kevin Smith-Fagan to share a thought for the day. Building on the theme of change, PP Kevin quoted Bob Dylan and reminded listeners that before rejecting outright a proposed change that feels uncomfortable, “at least give it a listen.”
Meeting sponsor Dennis Cook donated his time to the Exodus Project, which provides support services to help formerly incarcerated individuals transition back to civilian life successfully. The organization’s head, Rabbi Seth Castleman, outlined the mentoring, counseling and job training provided by Exodus Project, and he appealed for volunteer mentors to join this important effort.
Foundation Recognition.
Foundation chair Larry Gilzean announced Eddie Mulligan awards recently earned ($1k contributed to our club foundation). First EMs: Craig Alpha, Sharna Braucks, Bhavnesh Makin, Michael Mui, Matt Page, Ann Solomon. Second EMs: Kim Mueller, Virginia Wade. Third EMs: Laura Heintz, Buddy Hubbert. Sixth EMs: Chris Ann Bachtel, Craig Brown, Mike Gilligan, PP Diane Mizell, Dick Osen, Bob Rosenberg. Seventh EM: PP Bob Cole. Eighth EM: Jack Bowker (in memoriam), PP Beverly Brautigam, Bruce Hester. 11th EM: Eric Solis. 23rd EM: David McKie.
Paul Harris recipients ($1k to Rotary International Foundation). First PH: Craig Alpha. Second PH: Dennis Cook, President Bobby Reed, Judy Kjelstrom. Fourth PH: Dick Osen. Fifth PH: Craig Brown, Bob Rosenberg. Sixth PH: PP Beverly Brautigam, PP Diane Mizell, Eric Solis. Eighth PH: Elfrena Foord, Bruce Hester.
Larry also saluted new Legacy Circle member President Bobby Reed, and Larry announced a new giving opportunity, the Trailblazer, made for a $10k gift during the donor’s lifetime (like an estate gift made early!).
Put Me In, Coach!
Among those making celebratory contributions were PP Jim Leet (his Florida Gators winning the NCAA basketball title); Dave Brandenburger (honoring parents’ 59th wedding anniversary); President Bobby Reed (son Eli’s first Little League homer over the fence); and PP Scot Sorensen (son Kai earning conference track honors for standout performance at Pacific Lutheran University).
Club Announcements
- our Discovery Park cleanup day is this Saturday, April 12, reported Joe Quilici
- Wildflower hike recap – PP Jim Leet recapped the successful outing with about 20 attendees
- International Service Committee – Clayton Lee shared updates on a couple initiatives
- club apparel – Joe Quilici is working on branded shirts that will be for sale; specifics to follow.
Chair of the Day PP Peter Dannenfelser introduced guest speaker Michael Lopez, a former military intelligence officer and corporate executive who is now an expert on the science behind how humans grapple with change. Michael coupled the chemistry of change (neuron growth, dopamine release, etc.) with practical tips to become good at making change. Among his messages. “Motivation moves us from habits to change.” “People change when their environment changes.” “The pursuit of progress is progress.” He encouraged the group to embrace stress, because it’s a trigger for desired change. And instead of prejudging based on entrenched habits, he encouraged the group to approach situations with learning and curiosity: “Assume you’re wrong!”
President Bobby thanked wine sponsor PP Jon Snyder; meeting photo John Swentowsky and Pulse reporter PP Kevin Smith-Fagan; and greeters Bhavnesh Makin, Norm Marshall and PP Dan McVeigh. Joe Quilici won the day’s Rock Star award for excellence at the mic.
It’s Jean Runyon Day at next Tuesday’s meeting. THE MEETING WILL BEGIN AT NOON. In addition to the Jean Runyon Award, the meeting will feature live music from the Rotary Roadies. The luncheon speaker will be Kierstan DeLong, CEO of the marketing firm Runyon Saltzman (Jean Runyon = Runyon Saltzman!).
Photos Courtesy of John Swentowsky
