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Hillcrest Rotagram - February 17, 2009 Meeting BULLETIN EDITOR: Bill Burcham   The meeting was opened by Brian G. in the absence of Joe C.   Guests: Richard Walsh from Florida, Rev. Roger Korsten, Janet Shiciano, potential member Christian.   Happy/Sad Bucks: Brian was happy that he and Richard W. performed volunteer services at the Food Bank. They moved 7,500 lbs of food. They also enjoyed the social time afterwards. Sad: Scott M. stated that his daughter earned her drivers license. Mike J., Jr. stated that he and Debbie attended the Shinning Star fund raising event organized by the Chesterland Rotary Club. He stated that it was a great event and he was able to socialize with old friends. Rob P. stated that it had been a rough two weeks. His daughter's show horse expired but they were able to purchase another one as the owner had lost his job and needed to sell the horse. Richard W. Happy/Sad Buck as he and his wife had to move her mother to the skilled nursing division of Homewood. Ross D. had a combination of happy sad bucks. The basket ball hoop fell on this car breaking the window during the wind storm. He gave his brother the car to drive and he hit the mailbox. He and his family are leaving for Florida this week and will miss the 50th Anniversary celebration. Derrick N. paid for a missed meeting and stated that he saw Mike J. at the Kirtland event where his father is a member. George paid to assure us that the Caribbean was still in existence. Like we care!!! John B. stated that his son had secured tickets to the basketball tournament. He also separated his shoulder. Last Thursday he drove several Rotarians to a meeting at Ashland University and experienced blindness in his left eye. He did not tell anyone in the car. After attend the Dr. he was told that he had a detached retina. He has a laser procedure Monday and stated that the pain was unbelievable.   Announcements: Bill H. stated that he had been contacted by Jack Y. regarding the collection of clothing and personal items for the children of the dump. He requested a showing of hands to see who would be interested. A discussion was held on either collecting money or purchasing items. Most of the members want to purchase items as they involve young children in the project and it is a good lesson for them. Brian went on to discuss some up coming projects with the District. Members felt that the children of the dump were first. The other projects can be reviewed as they occur and an involvement decision made.   John W. felt that it is important for all Paul Harris member to wear their medallion the night of the 50th Anniversary celebration.   Jackie M. stated that she has spoken to Joe C. and that he is recovering from his surgery and will be returning to the club shortly.   The speaker for the day, Robert Schordock, Director of WECO Micro Lon Fund Program (Wealth-Education-Collaboration-Opportunity) was introduced. This is a non-profit organization involved in assisting citizens with start-up loans for their businesses. These are people who are unable to borrow the money for starting their businesses, usually a three year business loan. They monitor the businesses, once they are funded, and provide education in money management and fiscal responsibility. The purpose is to create wealth, savings and home ownerships for someone who may never have the chance to succeed. The organization has helped over 100 people purchase homes and none are in foreclosure. They have assisted 64 business in their start up. He stated that there is a difference in small businesses and micro-businesses. A micro-business is a store in the neighborhood which may be managed by a family. The organization has managed funds for several cities including Cleveland, Ashland and Lakewood. They managed funds for Cleveland during the recent reconstruction of Euclid Avenue. They monitor loans monthly with a 93% success rate. Their loans have been made for residents in Cleveland and the surrounding communities.   They receive funds from the Small Business Administration, the state government and several banks. They also do fund raising. He presented a gentle reminder that the club may think about providing assistance.   Rotabuck Winner: ????.