Kim Roddy receiving a check from the Club for $500 (Cindy Sullivan and Dan Crannie presenting).
18 members and 2 guests attended the meeting today, as Gail Garrison (in photo below, with President Cindy Sullivan on the left) spoke with us about the structure and activities of the Regional Chamber of Commerce. Specific foci of the Flint and Genesee Group include
- “Economic Alliance”, in which Small Business Help Desk, Local Expansion, Big Business Creation,and Business Bridge (training, workshops, grant-writing, marketing, and accounting education and support) is available;
- “EXPLORE”, which emphasizes and publicizes tourism, Certified Tourism Ambassador classes and authorization, and event/park location and activity schedules;
- “Education and Talent” supports developing and retaining skills and workers for the area with such ventures as Teenquest, interview preparation and practice, and employment support.
“Moving Flint Forward” grants up to $10k each to 17 local businesses through some of the funds provided through the Chamber’s efforts and members, and most business members participate at the $400/year annual member fees. Thanks to Gail for a very informative and encouraging presentation!
Jeff Gauger reported that another 15 beds have been delivered and assembled this week for Sleep in Heavenly Peace (with Club members and Beta Theta Pi volunteering workers).
Lists of Food Distribution Centers in the area (Paper and electronic copies) are available through Club leaders, if anyone is interested in accessing this information.
Cultural events – Byrd Competition was this past weekend, and the winner will be performing a piano concert with the FSO. Cindy Sullivan’s grand-daughter will be “Cinderella” in an upcoming stage production.
Rose Schlott will be having some extensive and delicate back surgery and undergoing a lengthy recuperation. Please keep her and the family in mind and prayers.
Visitations are being discussed with a mind to revive a long-dormant Optimist tradition – watch for developments.
Fines – Ken Cullen was able to pass a fine against anyone failing to display Optimist attire, Steve Schlott paid a fine for “eating before the King”, Greg Hilliker was charged with “conceiving the idea of replacing Bill Hentgen”, and Joe Farah paid a “luncheon Meeting” fine.
The “50/50 Progressive Pot” is up to $720 after Jack Medemar drew the wrong card for the final draw of the morning.
Until next time, “Promise Yourself…”
