Mark Eckhoff called the meeting to order and administered the pledge.
Sakura Takano offered thoughts of gratitude and reflection in which she gave thanks for all of those who care for the sick during this difficult time. That goes for nurses, housekeeping workers, care aides, other medical staff and medical administrators.
John Scott introduced visiting Rotarians and guests.
Tawny Hammond introduced new Rotarian Jena Hullman. Find out about Jena here: https://bigbeautifulchir
It was ELECTION DAY for the club board. Elected from a slate of 6 candidates were Carla Weaver, Kurt Rivard and Susan Kraus.
John Hall ran unopposed for a term as President-Elect and was elected.
Autumn Soltysiak introduced the students of the week, both from Traverse City West. Amy and Josh Amy, an AP student participates in the National Honors Society and Key Club as well as plays basketball. She wants to go to college to study political science and work in public service. Josh, who plays basketball and soccer and runs track, also participates in the National Honors Society. He hopes to attend MSU to study engineering.
Carla Weaver said the club is looking for more members to join the Youth Exchange Committee. Contact her for details!
Dale Chilcote reminded folks that now is the season to help out with Christmas baskets for families in need. You can help by donating money, shopping for a family, or both CLICK HERE to donate or shop! See him or Steve Wade for details. CLICK HERE for Match Form to double your donation to the Christmas Basket Program.
Jean Derenzy told the club that the Rotary Square deal is now closed, bringing that project a huge step closer to reality. Demolition on the current building there (the bank across from the post office) should begin in the coming months, and there will be a community visioning process to determine what the final square will look like. DDA board member Scott Hardy thanked Rotary for supporting the project.
Mark Eckhoff again asked for volunteers to help run the recording device for meetings. See him for details. He also told us that our beloved Kathy Bussell is leaving for another job. Anyone interested in applying for her position can contact Mark or apply on Facebook.
Ken Weaver introduced featured speaker and 13th Circuit Court Judge Tom Power, who has been on the bench for about 30 years. Power gave an update on how Covid-19 has impacted the court system. Notable tidbits:
- Most hearings and motions (basically everything short of actual trials) have been conducted via Zoom. This process has gone surprisingly well, Power said, and might be here to stay due to the increased efficiencies provided (Instead of driving to the courthouse, parking and going through security, things that turn a 10-minute hearing into a 90-minute process, those involved can now Zoom in from the comfort of their own homes or offices).
- Jury trials, which still must be held in person for a variety of reasons, are held at the Park Place, Leelanau Sands Casino and Shanty Creek to allow for the social distancing of the jury, witnesses and other participants.
- E-filing of court documents has greatly helped the process of working remotely, allowing documents to be easily accessed. The county also bought laptops to enable court workers to work from home.
- Because most court procedures need to be public, there is a YouTube channel in which the public can watch these Zoom meetings and trials.
- There is no case backlog, which is something Power is particularly proud of.