President Russ opened the meeting, and Jim M recited the 4-Way Test i, and Paul T. did a fantastic job at reading some kind of  Invocation, followed by a toast to Rotarians around the world.

S@A Jimmy J told us we had 20 members in the room, and 7 guests who introduced themselves and two potential members, Peter and Greg - Prakash - our ADG was also in attendance.

Since we had our big winner two weeks ago, George S, Johny Smooth was FINALLY playing with pretty much a full deck and there were two losers - Brian and Steve

looking for a President Elect , a Speaker Seeker as well as a Bulletin Editor- speak to President Russ or any past presidents to get an idea of how much Rotary through such a great experience as President.

Even though Todd may have been at the Cottage I found his list ..I think….

Where do you learn how to make banana splits?

Sundae school

What insect is the sneakiest?

Spy-ders

How do you stay warm in a room?

Go to the corner its always 90 degrees

Lena introduced our guest speaker today,Vicki Olatundun, Executive Director of SEEDS - Supporting Every Eve's Daughter safely.  A former criminal lawyer and a fantastic motivational speaker, a guest lecturer and college instructor as well as a TEDx speaker. Vicki was described as a visionary leader by Cdn Living Magazine and is the recipient of a coveted non- profit Excellence award in 2017 and nominated again in 2018.

Vicki's energy in the room was so dynamic - she didn't stay at the front but her voice projected as she walked around the room describing how important it is to encourage kids and be mindful of the important impression we can have on the kids. An impression that can change their life. It takes a village to raise these kids and we are their village.

She focused on three areas we need to help shape these kids and ourselves - BELIEVE, BEHAVE AND BECOME.

Vicki told the story of Mabinty Bangura a war child with a dream rescued from an orphanage in Sierra Leon, by an american couple from New Jersey. This couple gave Mabinty the opportunity to follow her dream of becoming a ballerina. Despite all the odds and obstacles that stood in the way.  She is an International dancer and a large advocate for Children in conflict affected areas.  Turn your past, your scars into your strength, that is her belief still today.

Google Michaela DePrince , War child to read the full story.

Always remember your inner mindset shapes your daily actions, and your actions eventually transform who you are. 

Melija thanked the speaker and mentioned we donated on behalf of the speaker to immunize children from polio.