Kathleen Best led us in the Pledge of Allegiance and national anthem. Joe Casasanta led us in “The Four-Way Test.” Sarah Lee delivered the benediction.

 

The day’s menu featured sirloin in a mushroom gravy, roasted potatoes, broccoli, tossed salad, dinner rolls and mini fruit tarts.

 

 

 

Yours Truly (Robin Zanotti) introduced the guests and visitors, including Susan Bellefleur, Assistant District Governor; Jacob Newby, incoming president of the Romeo Rotary Club; Jennifer Weot, our speaker; and Kyle Oparka, a guest of Amanda Oparka.

Julie Huttenlocher literally led us in singing “Oh What a Beautiful Morning” and “Song to Rotary.” 

 

Sarah Lee sold flowers and recognized birthdays and anniversaries. Ken Steele’s birthday was January 20. Julie Huttenlocher bought a flower for Valerie Miller. Valerie Miller bought a flower for Larry Neal, as well as his fiancé, recognizing the good news of their engagement. Larry Neal bought a flower for Susan Bellefleur. Alas, I lost track of the remaining flower recipients but all eight of them were sold.

 

 

Tom Welsh did recognition. Everyone in attendance except three people was fined for not wearing a Rotary pin. There was some carrying on about Tom’s groovy socks – we may have each been fined for not sporting groovier socks than Tom’s. Larry was fined for his engagement. Sarah was fined for her upcoming trip to the Caribbean. I think there was more. I’ll do better next time.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amanda introduced our speaker for today’s program, Jennifer Weot. Jennifer is Senior Outreach Specialist in Macomb County’s Planning and Economic Development department. 

 

Jennifer’s presentation focused on Fueling the Talent Pipeline. She collaborates with Macomb County high schools and local businesses to expose graduating seniors to employment opportunities in Macomb County. 

 

Manufacturing Day is a national initiative. Macomb County has been participating for 12 years and is the largest participant in the nation. Two thousand students and 70 businesses are part of the program. It includes tours at manufacturing sites that include stations that present a specific learning opportunity.

 

Romeo Community Schools Ford Next Generation Learning offers the Academies at Romeo which enable students to learn about engineering, health care or information technology in a relevant, hands-on environment. Students learn math, science, English and social studies within the theme they choose.

 

The Academies of Center Line Ford Next Generation Learning offers the Academies of Center Line, an innovative learning environment. Featuring small learning communities, the program offers students exposure to a multitude of careers, industry skills and potential employers through classroom speakers, site visits, job shadowing and internships.

 

Jennifer recruits companies to participate in these programs.

 

50/50
Ken Steele won the 50/50 pot of $46. Happy birthday, Ken!