President John Racine called the meeting to order.
The invocation was led by Leah Bagdon McCallum.
Music was presented by Bob Stow, who led rousing renditions of the fight songs of Central Michigan University, Ferris State University (solo by Kathy Bussell) and some junior college in Ann Arbor. Its name escapes me at the moment.
Trevor Tkach introduced visiting Rotarians and guests.
New Rotarian Leslie Donaldson introduced the students of the week: Interlochen Arts Academy students Sua Lee and Alexander Straus-Fausto.
President John announced there will be a joint meeting of the membership of Rotary Camps and Services and Rotary Charities on April 10. Please see attached notice for details.
Metro Fire Chief Pat Parker announced that he is the new head of the health and safety committee and is seeking members to join. Anyone interested can contact him.
Susan Kraus reminded everyone about the Rotary Show Afterglow party, which will be held at Sorrelina after the close of the last show on Saturday. A buffet dinner will be provided. Tickets are $15. Those interested can sign up with Kathy or Bob Stow.
Susan had barely returned to her seat by the time President John drew her winning 50/50 raffle ticket. She took home $57.
Nikki Sobkowski introduced speaker Russell Springsteen, the founder/owner of Right Brain Brewery and a true trailblazer in the region's craft beer scene. Russ told his story, from his early days of trying to get off the ground (bank rejection letters would often beat him home from his meetings with loan officers, he joked) to untimely visits from federal inspectors who were more than a little curious about a beer he brewed with actual pig heads.
Right Brain keeps on innovating more than a decade after Springsteen opened up shop in the warehouse district. Visit Right Brain at its current location at 225 E. 16th Street. https://www.rightbrainbrewery.com/
