April 6, 2009 Spokesman
The Kirkland Rotary Club meeting of April 6, 2009 began at 6:40 P.M. and was led by President Bob Webb. The flag salute was led by President Bob. Brandon Honcoop delivered the inspirational moment from the baseball diaries.
Guests included visiting Rotarians Lin McBride from Duvall and Scott East from Bellevue Tuesday noon. Lin announced the Duvall club's fundraiser, A Taste for Goodwill. This is a wine tasting held at Holy Innocents Church, Saturday April 18th at 6:00 P.M.
Other guests included Brian Tucker Jr., our club's outgoing summer exchange student to Zuera, Spain. Pascal Kunz, our exchange student from Switzerland, gave us a rundown on his week's activities. Pascal's hostmom, Janine Marcus, accompanied him tonight.
Sarah Brooks and Shirley Van Nostrand, prospective members, were also present.
Announcements:
John Overleese requested club surveys be sent to him as soon as possible.
Rich Bergdahl reminded us of our club's goal of $14,000 to be raised for the RI Foundation for 2008-2009.
Rachel Knight brought auction attendance and donation sign-up sheets for the Kirkland Rotary Foundation on Saturday, April 25th, 5:30 at the Kirkland Women's Club (on 1st Street).
Program:
Chuck Brockway presented our program on the Miracle League of Kirkland. We started out with a rousing rendition of 'Take Me Out To The Ballgame". Miracle League was started in Rockdale, GA by a little league coach with the idea that every kid gets to play. Today there are over 80 Miracle Leagues including over 80,000 kids.
Todd Johnson of Monroe Rotary started Miracle League in our area. He brought the idea to our club and with the cooperation of the Kirkland Boys and Girls Club, we now field our own team. Our part is to help out as buddies, helping these kids do things we never thought they could. We provide healthy treats after the game and act as their personal helpers and coaches during the game.
We were treated to a great presentation, a dvd made by Chris Resnick of photos he's taken over the years of our Miracle League. Great job Chris!
Stephanie Davidson, the Athletic Director at the Kirkland Girls and Boys Club, stated the Miracle League is one of many programs at the Club, and in her estimation, it's the best.
Lonnie and Lindsey Hunt recounted some of their experiences in Miracle League. Lindsey was a player for 5 years, and is now a coach and a buddy! Way to go Lindsey!
We need volunteers to help out whenever we can. Signup sheets were distributed tonight.
Jerry Campo, Scribe