John Losinski  led us in the Pledge of Allegiance this morning.  Greg Hilliker provided the opening prayer.

Fines were opened by Prez Jack and as usual the nonstop barrage of fines kept tail twister Jack busy.

50/50 Winner was Dan Crannie. See, those BFOC tickets don’t always produce BFOC winners!

Meeting Notes

Nut Sale orders were due today.  However, if you do have an order and you didn’t turn it in to Jim Cole today, please call him right away and turn it in.  Money can be collected at the time of delivery.

Mick Goulet was our speaker chair for today, introducing our speaker Joy Martinbianco from the Salvation Army. Joy is the Director of Development for the SA.

 The Salvation Army is an international organization that was started in 1865 by William Booth, a London minister, who decided to give up his pulpit and take his ministry to the streets. From their website – “The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church.  Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by love for God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in his name without discrimination.”

A 128 years ago, Buick asked the Salvation Army to come to Genesee County. Since that time a lot has taken place in our area and the Salvation Army. They have formed alliances with the United Way and Catholic Outreach to help with utility shutoff cases. They help individuals and families with keeping the electrical or gas on while the bill issues are worked out. They don’t pay the utility bills for anyone.

Many in the area are familiar with Bell Ringing, Angel Tree, and Coats for Kids. From some of their own research, they have determined that their Thrift Stores need better exposure, so the public has a better understanding of the opportunities that they provide. They currently have Thrift Store locations on Davison Rd., Dort Highway, and Corunna Road.  The Thrift Stores carry all sorts of items at very reduced rates.

Coats for Kids collects new or slightly used ones to give out to those who can’t afford to buy one for their children. Check out the website for drop-off locations.

The SA Genesee County is part of the SE Division of the SA and covers an area along the I-75 corridor from Detroit up to the Traverse City and includes the thumb area.

Our Club is pursuing a  bell ringing opportunity beginning right after Thanksgiving. Stay tuned or better yet, come to a meeting to your input on the time, location and date.

The Salvation Army’s web site link is http://centralusa.salvationarmy.org/genesee/

Optimist Creed led by Lynn Eastman.

Reminders

  • District Q1 Meeting on Nov 4th in Southfield.
  • Club Board Meeting on Nov 20th,  6 PM at the Bridge.
  • Interservice Club Meeting is Nov 21st at First Presbyterian.

Respectfully yours in Optimism,
Phil Holmblade