The December 8, 2021 meeting opened on Zoom & in person at the Michigan Union with social time.  Sara Maddock provided Zoom etiquette guidelines to the virtual attendees.

At 12:30, President Susan started the meeting by ringing the bell. Tom Strode led us in “God Bless America”.  Inspiration was provided by Joyce Hunter who shared that during her career with Ann Arbor Public Schools she traveled to Austria with the choir.  She recited a poem about music’s positive impact. Jim Irwin led us in songs representing the four seasons: “Jingle Bells”, “I’m Looking Over a Four-Leaf Clover”, “Good Old Summertime”, and “The Victors”.

President Susan welcomed the attendees – 49 on zoom and attendees in person at the Michigan Union.  A guest Rotarian, Manmohan Maini from the Rotary Club Ambala Central in India was introduced by Mary Avrakatos.  He was a Past President of his club and is the current Vice President.  He serves as the Deputy General Manager with the Department of Telecommunications for the Government of India.  He is in Ann Arbor visiting his daughter who is studying dental surgery at U-M.  Rotary flags between the two clubs were

exchanged.  President Susan thanked the set-up team, the photographer, reporter, and attendance taker.

President Susan reminded members that Veterans Personal Hygiene kits are needed and Don Deatrick is coordinating this effort.  Also, please pay your Community Assessments prior to 12/31.

Sara Maddock presented information from the PR Committee about how social media can be used to promote Rotary.  These tools include Facebook where Rotary members are encouraged to share, comment & like AARC posts.  Twitter is a powerful tool to engage potential younger members – AARC should follow and engage with posts, and retweet posts.  LinkedIn is an additional means to promote the club.  Members are encouraged to follow AARC’s page and include your AARC volunteering efforts in your own LinkedIn profile.  The PR Committee can assist if you need help with social media tools.

Arthur Williams, an active member of the Anti-Racism Committee presented a video from Emmanuel Acho.  Acho discussed “Seeing Color” with Chip & Joanna Gaines and their children. Acho is a former professional football player who hosts weekly interviews and discussions entitled “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man”. Click here to review the episode that was shared.

Former Huron Choir Director, Rick Ingram introduced the Huron High School A Cappella and Bel Canto Choirs with Choir Director Kent Wattleworth.  The choir performed via Livestream.

John U. Bacon had been scheduled to be next week’s speaker, but is unable to make it.  Dawn Johnson will fill in.

Quote of the Day was by Voltaire. “Appreciation is a wonderful thing. It makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well.”

President Susan adjourned the meeting at 1:32.

Respectfully submitted by,

Jennifer Fike

Photographs by Mary Steffek Blaske