Cleveland Rowing Community,

Something very extraordinary is being done by someone in our Cleveland Rowing Foundation community. Tom Kotula, former CSU rower and current assistant coach, will be leaving on a 2000 mile journey from Cleveland to Key West, but not on an airplane. In fact, Tom will be making this trek by doing something we all know and love: rowing. On a renovated-to- row former sailboat dubbed the 'Not for Sail,' Tom will take his rigged nineteen foot, 1500 pound vessel to several major cities where he will participate in construction projects with Habitat for Humanity. The name of his mission is called Habitat Crew, and his webpage is www.habitatcrew.com.

What makes this so unique is his motivation. Tom simply wants to help others and perhaps inspire people to volunteer in this time of economic disparity. Jon Hauserman, CSU rower and CSRA coach, has committed to joining Tom for two months and has helped him with the construction of the boat. There are many ways people can get involved in this project either directly or indirectly, and every method is equally important:

> Take a time off of work/school and help Tom row and volunteer.

> Assist at a Habitat site along the route or get involved with your local Habitat.

> Monetary donation (see web page for details)

> Non-perishable food donations

> Provide a safe place to dock if you happen to live along the route or know any local contacts.

> Visit the website and post your encouraging comments and/or offer prayers for a safe journey and productive work projects.

All of you and your teams are invited to the Habitat Crew's launch on June 7th at noon from our very own CRF dock. Your support would be tremendously appreciated!

Thanks,

Ron Dorchak