Greetings Rotarians! Our speaker today was Lea Ann Smith from the Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM) Academy of Essex.   Ms. Smith described STEM Academy as a, “school within a school” where students can explore their passions in the realms of science, technology, engineering and math.  STEM Academy offers a wide array of courses about subjects that are generally not taught in a regular classroom setting.  Students have the opportunity to take part in a number of hands-on projects in these classes.  For example, students recently used 3-D computers to help design and construct of robotic hands for individuals who had lost their own hands.  STEM Academy has also partnered with a number of companies such as IBM and Revision Military as well as the ECHO center in an effort to provide internships for students.  For more information about STEM Academy, please visit its website at:  http://www.ccsuvt.org/stem/

 

 

            For the past year, we have been cheerfully served by Katie at The Essex.  Her bright demeanor and ever-present smile have made our lunches at The Essex that much more enjoyable.  As a thank you for her hard work and great service, Dave Johnson is taking up a collection from members for the purpose of buying her a nice gift.  Please consider donating $5.00 to this cause so we can properly express our gratitude to Katie!

 

 

            The Senior Luncheon at the Champlain Valley Exposition is only two weeks away and there is still much work to be done!  We are in dire need of items to be placed in goodie bags.  With an estimated 220 guests, we need at least that many of each item to place in their bags.  You can bring these items to the luncheon, or you can drop them off to Diana Ferguson at Essex CHIPS by December 2^nd.  It is also worth noting that there are still 50 tickets left for admission into the luncheon.  If you know of any seniors who would like to attend, please be sure to invite them.  Tickets are $5.00 each and can be reserved by calling John Harnish at 879-7922.

 

 

            As of today’s meeting, we still need to fill 11 slots for the Salvation Army Bell Ringing shifts on December 12^th and December 13^th in front of the Essex Price Chopper and Essex Discount Beverage (the latter of which was just added).  A sign-up sheet has been circulated at our meetings, but if you haven’t signed up yet, please contact Nancy Freeze at dnfreeze@gmail.com and let her know which shifts you would like.

 

Upcoming Meeting Schedule:  Wednesday, November 26, 2014 – No meeting and no newsletter.  HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

 

For the complete list of upcoming speakers and general information about the Club, please go to our website at www.essexrotary.org   Be sure to also visit us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rotary-Club-of-Essex-Vermont/102267529834020

 

       Yours in Rotary,

 

Jason Ruwet