Posted by Michael Cafaro
Speaker: Josh Aikens, Director of Marketing for HBA. Home Builders Association. Josh is a Boardman Rotary member. The HBA has been around the Mahoning Valley for 61 years. They have 2 aspects, representing consumers and working with government officials.

In 2007 there were 690 housing starts which was down by 12% compared to 2006. The national decrease is actually 25%. 97% of prime and sub-prime mortgages are being paid. 16% of sub-prime loans are struggling with making payments. The Youngstown area is the 12th most affordable place to live.

Austintown Rotary Meeting Minutes

Date: February 4, 2008

Greeting: Karl Rein

Invocation: Hillary Prestridge

Introduction of Guests and Visiting Rotarians: Tom Keller from Canfield, Jeremy Miller who is Gary's neighbor, and Josh Aikens from HBA.

Song Leader/Song: Robin Stock, "Smile" It was nice to see Robin's smile again.

Rotary News:

In Chiro, Egypt- Humanitarian Drive was done.

Reverse Raffle- We still have 12 tickets available that need sold!

We need Chinese Auction Items!

Poland Rotary Chili open Saturday February 23rd at Bedford Trails. The cost is $25 per person.

March 13th Trumbull Theatre Cortland Night Out the cost is $11 per person.

North Canton Golf Outing will be held on Feb. 16, 2008 @ Sanctuary Golf Club.

Jerry Haber wants us to sell tickets for the GSE Team Dinner on April 16 @ the Georgetown. Cost is $50 per couple.

Carolyn Senedak- Wedgewood Park wants to plant flowers with our help.

Rescue Mission on Monday Feb. 25 @ 5:15pm to 7:30pm.

Fireside Chat will be on Feb. 8, 2008 @ 6:00pm at Birch Hill Cabin in Mill Creek Park. It is the same location as last year.

Election of Officers:

President-Michael Cafaro

Vice President- Brian Laraway

Secretary- Deanna Spirko

Treasurer- Brian Frederick

Club Service- David Buttar

Community Service- Susan Leetch

Vocational Service- Eric Newton

International Service- Ron Carroll

Fellowship: Gary fined those who are going away and those who won money on the Superbowl.

50/50 Raffle Tickets Winner: Chuck Baker