President Sofie Ameloot welcomed everyone to the Centerville Rotary Club and led reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. Brian Hayes provided the prayer.

 

Today’s quote provided by Don Overly: " Never stop believing in hope because miracles happen every day."  Todd Anderson (Author)

 

Thanks to today’s greeters Ron Hollenbeck, Pat Beckel & others.

 

Welcome today’s guests: Scholarship recipient students & their parents, Jon Wesney, Superintendent; John Carroll, CHS Principal; Dawana Coleman, Magsig Principal; Ricky Deboarde, potential member who works for Huntington Bank.

 

Today’s announcements:

 

 

So far, we have raised $4,800 for Operation Warm. Sergeant at Arms, Pat Beckel raffled off a Centerville Florist $150 gift certificate - Elda “won” it.

 

Happy Bucks were given quickly, with folks asked to send what they’re happy about to the editor. Those known were:

 

 

 

 

Enzyme shared about her family and Thailand, and reflected on her Exchange year. Her name is Pichpattra Warapreuks (Enzyme) and she is from the Rotary Club of Sisaket, Rotary District 3340.

 

She shared some family photos, and told about Thai culture. Instead of hand shake or hug greeting, the locals prefer to extend a warm wai, a motion resembling a prayer where the hands are joined together near the chest, with the fingers pointing upwards and the head slightly inclined forward. The say sa-wad-dee as a greeting.

 

She shared photos of the places she visited: New York City, North Carolina, Nashville, Chicago, and Orlando Disney. She said she loved the fireworks at Disney. She went to South Carolina last week, went fishing and was excited to have caught a lot of fish.

She experienced many of our holiday traditions for the first time. She loved getting lots of candy at Halloween, lots of presents at Christmas, and decorating eggs for Easter.

 

 

Enzyme became emotional when talking about her wonderful experiences here this year.

 

“As my time here comes to an end, I find myself filled with a mix of emotions - gratitude, sadness, joy, and hope. It’s hard to put into words what this experience has meant to me.

 

When I first arrived, everything was new - new people, new culture, new routines. I felt nervous and excited all at once. But very quickly, this place became a second home. I was welcomed not just into your house, but into your hearts. For that, I will always be grateful.

 

To my host family: Thank you for opening your home to me, for your kindness, your patience, and your support. You’ve given me more than a place to stay - you’ve given me a sense of belonging.

 

This journey has changed me in ways I didn’t expect. I’ve learned to be more independent, more open-minded, and more appreciative of different ways of life. I’ve discovered that although we may come from different cultures, we share so many of the same hopes and dreams.

 

I have been here since August, it has been 9 months now. I would like to thank all the Rotary people who have supported me throughout this time. It has been a great time with you all. This exchange year has gone by so fast. I have never regretted choosing to be an exchange student. There may have been some hard times or it may be tiring, but every experience has made me stronger and braver

 

As I return to my home country, I will carry these memories with me. I hope to share all that I’ve learned and to keep the connections I’ve made here alive. This goodbye isn’t forever. It’s just "see you later.

Thank you for being a part of my journey. I will miss you all.”

Enzyme encouraged everyone to keep in touch: enzyme8899@gmail.com.

 

To see all of Enzyme’s slide, follow this LINK.

 

 

Brad Thorp introduced this year’s Rotary scholarship recipients.

He noted the Centerville Rotary Club has been giving scholarships for over 50 years. The scholarship committee interviewed six students and they were all outstanding.

 

 

Andrew Erwin, introduced his mom Emily, and said he will attend Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and study mechanical engineering. He wants to eventually start a business. Bill Menker presented Andrew with a book that applies to his area of interest. His book was Machinery’s Handbook Pocket Companion.

 

 

Micah Harry, introduced his moms, Sonia and Allison. He plans to attend Purdue University and study mechanical engineering. He would like to help people through what he creates. His book was Engineer’s Black Book, 3rd edition.

 

 

Bella Cowin introduced her dad, James. She graduated early and is already attending Aveda Frederic’s Institute to be an esthetician. Her book was Milady Skin Care and Cosmetic Ingredients Dictionary.

 

 

Mira Stroop introduced her parents, David & Ginger. She plans to attend the University of Louisville, majoring in Psychology. Her book was The Man who Mistook his Wife for a Hat.

 

 

Michael Beeler introduced his parents, Julie & Rob. He plans to attend the Hobart Institute for Welding to study Aerospace Welding. His book was IPT’s Metal Trades & Welding Handbook.

 

Keisha Mann was not able to attend today, but she plans to attend Bowling Green State University and study Pharmacy. Her book is Letters to a Young Pharmacist.

 

Congratulations to all of the students on their achievements. We wish them success during their first year in college.

 

 

Lisa Goris May asked that when you bring groceries for the House of Bread, don’t buy glass and if possible, bring them in reusable bags. She said peanut butter and jelly are great donations.

 

President Ameloot thanked all of today’s visitors, reminded all to BRING A FRIEND to Rotary, lead reciting of the 4-Way Test and wished all a good week.