GARY SUISMAN'S first job as a life-guard was one he enjoyed for several years during his youth. A Rutgers degree in Economics led to a series of jobs in the newspaper business, starting in the circulation department. While working in Little Rock, AR, he spent a hot afternoon chatting (while swishing flies) with then Governor Bill Clinton. He met his wife in Ithaca, New York and the two of them moved several times around New York, Colorado, Michigan and now Lafayette, IN. His 30-year career in publishing helped him secure the titles of President and Publisher of the Journal & Courier.

DICK RAHDERT introduced fellow Rotarian PAT HARRINGTON, Tippecanoe County Prosecutor, who explained that gang competition is big business. There are 20 gangs represented in our County Jail; 13 in our schools. He distributed photos of a few of the 1,500 - 2,000 gang members in Tippecanoe County. He also showed us photos of gang identifications. There have been two federal indictments of local gangs and 36 criminal prosecutions in juvenile court. He suggests the community support hiring of police officers dedicated specifically to drug work; report crimes, back more programs for youth. The schools need to have a zero tolerance policy to gang presence and landlords need to keep neighborhoods free of gangs. Use the WeTip Hotline, which is totally anonymous 24/7/365.

GENE COURTANEY introduced Emily Newton and Paul Frederikson from Harrison High School. Each received a certificate and a travel mug with the 4- Way Test to commemorate meeting with us today.

Patti Truitt, guest of LETA KELLEY

Money Collector: GARY SUISMAN and KIM MOTULIAK; Greeter: BARBARA HANSEN; Invocation: JOE BONNER; Piano: RAY PEETERS; Song Leader: MAURI WILLIAMSON; Help with attendance and facilitating a smooth meeting: JO WADE; Help with Ripples: BILL FULLER.

LINK OF THE WEEK:

Several videos and other links to Prosecutorial programs can be found on the Prosecuter's home page.

Go to Lafayette Rotary Home Page