Brian was invited to be the speaker because Joe Schulte felt that we needed to refocus on the needs of our own community after the push to help with the big disasters worldwide.

 Sertoma has become involved in bell ringing because the Army has to employ ringers to cover the November 18th through December 24th time frame. We volunteered in 2003 and at that time 46% was through volunteers. By 2004 that percentage was upped to 52% through the competition between the service clubs for volunteer hours.

This year three new locations are on board including Reed’s, Gander Mountain and Best Buy to add to Walmart, Cub Foods, Super One, Steve and Barry’s, Herbergers and Walgreens. If we just volunteer as much as we did last year we will help fill 4,051 hour slots. However, the goal is to help the Army eliminate the need for paid workers. If we win the competition, our illustrious president has volunteered to dress completely in red and dye his hair red for the next Sertoma meeting. The Salvation Army is expanding their volunteer competition this year to include the churches and businesses. If your business would like to get involved, call Deb at 829-1120.

• Charlie Bartels—puddle jumper?
• Les thought he was getting an ovation when he returned from the salad bar. No one had the heart to tell him we were clapping for Pam.
• Joyce and Dave were both accusing each other of “drinking again”. We never did learn why Joyce decided she had to avoid her fines by taking notes.
• See Dave for more details about Donna’s new venture—Kart Kountry.
• Why did Chuck Brenny refuse to ride in Clausen’s van to Wadena? Be sure you talk to him about the event where he is reviving his band and playing old time music!
• Paul Gropper got a pretty baby fine
• Newbie Newkirk needs driver’s training for golf carts-something about driving on the greens.