Club Meeting Recap--February 9, 2015

President Grodnik returned from vacation to call the meeting to order.  Announcements included the following:  Piyas Bandyopadhyay briefly discussed the success of the International project to help serve the deaf in India;  Dick Kallenburg asked for suggestions for the J&K Kissinger Award; Geoff Church presented the Foundation Minute; and Laura Ezzell introduced visiting Central High School students, Aubrey Castleman, Jackson Fann and Madeline Rhinesmith.

Dave Dygert gave the Valentine’s edition of Sergeant.  Monies collected by Dave and all Sergeants are donated to local charities annually.  This year's presentation by the Donations Committee will be made to area non-profits during next week's meeting (February 16, 2015).

The featured speakers were Rotarian Greg Losasso, President of Elkhart General Hospital, and Dr. Don Westerhausen, a critical care physician at Elkhart General. Greg was surprised by Honorary Rotarians Art Decio and Mayor Dick Moore, who read a proclamation honoring the Cardiac Care Unit from the Hospital. This shortened Greg’s opening remarks, so he turned the presentation over to Dr. Don Westerhausen. The Doctor discussed his choice to move to the area and the development of his commitment to focus on the Elkhart Community. He shared his personal reflections on the ways in which he and his colleagues at the hospital are building what has become recognized as one of the best cardiac care facilities in the country. With help from the President of the Elkhart Hospital Foundation and fellow Rotarian, Kay Ball, the hospital is participating in several heart studies involving new drugs and procedures.  Don expressed his deep pride in the growth and success which has been achieved since the Cardiac wing was built 15 years ago and shared his optimism that the quality services it provides to the community will continue to earn national acclaim.

For more information, visit: http://www.egh.org/NumberOneinCardiacSurgery

Upcoming Programs:

Feb. 16, 2015      Ellen Janowsky awards the grants from the Donation Committee

Feb. 23, 2015      Sharon Risser discusses Dimentia

March 9, 2015    Mayor Moore gives the State of the City address.