Newsletter – May 16, 2024

May 16, 2024

Member Jeff Gauger (far left in photo) introduced (l-r in photo) Denina Peacock (Work-Based Learning Coordinator), Timothy (Job Corps residential student) and  Shane Loose (Training Manager) from Flint Genesee Job Corps, and they told us about their beautiful 21-acre campus that houses and trains up to 307 students, age 16-24. Under the aegis of the US Department of Labor, those students, and veterans and disabled persons of all ages, can learn union trades and technology for skills for carpentry, electrical work, homeland security, culinary, truck-driving, drone pilotry, health care, and infotech positions and be placed and supported in jobs for 2 years after completion of their training. The staff maintain a maximum ratio of 10:1 in staff:student roles and those who complete the training are paid at union wage in skilled positions.

Those of us who worked with the students in recent builds and assemblies validated their enthusiasm, responsibility, and prowess in managing their job assignments and all of us were pleased with the camaraderie. It was not surprising that Shane announced his desire to align with and enroll in our Club, and he will be a great asset to our efforts (as we are to his).

President Cindy Sullivan circulated a sign-up sheet for managing tasks in the beverage tent at the upcoming Summerfest, and logistics and licensing tasks proceed as rapidly as possible.

Jeff Gauger reports that 45 beds have been delivered and assembled in the past month for Sleep in Heavenly Peace and that this Saturday (May 18), another Build Day will be held at Davison First Baptist Church, with the build to start at 9 a.m.. We hope for a good group of volunteers and a beautiful day for the outdoor build.

Member Tony Tucker talked about the upcoming 100th Anniversary of Old Newsboys and suggested that we consider table sponsorship and attendance at the June 14 event at Genesys Banquet Center. Mic Goulet fined Tony for his need to get a life after Tony answered Mic’s inquiry about whether there was ever a “Second Baptist Church.”

Seven Club members helped with the Special Olympics “Softball Throw” last week, and the event went well.

Lt. Gov. Bill Reaves announced that he will be adding a new title of Assistant Governor to his credentials next year. He also reminded us that Holy Spirit Lutheran Church in Grand Blanc has their monthly Food Distribution this Saturday and that anyone helping out or looking for food access should be there early because of longlines and traffic issues.

Long-term member Ron Ballard’s Memorial service is tomorrow. (Click here for info.)

Jeff Gauger drew the “lucky” ticket for the growing  “50/50 Progressive Pot” (continuing to rebuild from its current $138 figure) but failed to select the dear Queen of Diamonds to win.

Long-term former member Gene Lazar is making noises about returning to visit our “distant” Club in the next few weeks, so prepare to welcome him and show him that the drive is worth it!

Until next time, “Promise Yourself…”