Rotary International asks us to Imagine Rotary through our Focus Areas
This month Rotary International asks us to Imagine Rotary by supporting the Rotary Foundation. Explore the possibilities with us at our meeting Wednesday at noon at Wick Park or virtually via Zoom.
We will welcome Dr. Amy Cossentino, dean of Sokolov Honors College and Cliffe College of Creative Arts at Youngstown State University. Dr. Cossentino, also a YSU graduate, will discuss the university's recent achievement -- the Carnegie Classification for Community Engagement. This distinction is only bestowed on higher education institutions that establish and sustain community partnerships that address societal needs and result in mutual benefits. That clicks with Rotary's Four-Way Test about building goodwill and pursuing that which is beneficial for all of us. What will YSU do to maintain this mark of excellence? Learn more Wednesday at Wick Park.
Bring your film plastic to the meeting this week. Just a reminder that the film plastic collection has been moved to the 2nd meeting of the month.
This weeks menu: Breaded Chicken Sandwich, Full condiments on side, Cheesy Seashell Pasta, Salad
Rotary Last Week
Last week Derrick McDowell addressed members of the Rotary Club of Youngstown to share his vision for the city and outline priorities during the early months of his administration. Speaking about his first 60 days in office, the mayor emphasized two central goals: strengthening economic stability and ensuring Youngstown remains a safe place for families.
Education has been a key focus of the administration’s early efforts. McDowell discussed initiatives aimed at unifying the Youngstown City School District with other educational partners in the community. He stressed the importance of parental engagement, consistent student attendance, and helping children read at grade level. Partnerships with community institutions such as the Public Library of Youngstown and Mahoning County are also part of this strategy to support student success.
The mayor highlighted the city’s response to severe winter weather as an example of the importance of quick, coordinated action to ensure residents could safely travel to work and school. He also addressed local concerns, including the closure of a Huntington Bank branch and issues affecting senior amenities at the YMCA of Youngstown.
Public safety and infrastructure improvements remain top priorities. The city is working with the fire department to strengthen ambulance service contracts and with the police department to reduce mandatory overtime for officers. Efforts are also underway to address aging waterlines and improve coordination with neighboring townships.
Although Youngstown currently maintains a budget surplus, McDowell noted future financial commitments and legal challenges could impact the city’s finances. He concluded by emphasizing economic development, regional collaboration, and showcasing Youngstown’s park system at the state level as part of a broader effort to strengthen the city’s identity and future.
The Youngstown Rotary Anniversary Party was a huge success, congratulations to the winners and thank you to the organizers. A note from Scott Schulick, planning and organizing events has been particularly difficult lately due to late RSVP times. For future events, please try to respond as early as possible. Be on the look out for Service opportunities with Kids First; school cleanup on April 24th and for Power Hour tutoring at the Boys and Girls Club. Emails with additional information will be sent out so volunteers can sign up.
HOLIDAY PARTY INVITATION
RCY’s annual Holiday Party on Dec. 11 will be in a new location – the Pollock House on Wick Avenue, home to Youngstown State University’s President Bill Johnson. The party will begin at 6 p.m. A pasta bar by Inspired Catering and the Rotary Traveling Bar will be on hand. Expect entertainment and good cheer throughout the evening. Rotarians and their guests may register online here. The club will not meet at noon that day.
POLAND NIGHT AT THE RACES
On the eve of our Beerfest, Poland Rotarians will have a Night at the Races Fundraiser at Holy Family Church. If you cannot attend but want to buy a Super Bowl Block or a $50 raffle ticket for a 1 in 200 change to win $5,000, then call Ron Butch at 330-810-1628.
JOIN THE PARADE
RCY has registered to enter the downtown Holiday Parade at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. President George is looking for at least 10 Rotarians to share the Magic of Rotary with attendees.
Gerri Jenkins needs someone with a pickup or flatbed truck to join the parade and carry our inflatable Rotary logo along the route. See Gerri or George to volunteer.
Rotarians can gather at the Mahoning County Land Bank office on the third floor of City Center One at East Federal and Champion streets. Deb Flora and the Land Bank will provide light refreshments.
The parade is one of many First Fridays events on Dec. 6. Youngstown Flea on Phelps will be from 4 to 8 p.m. The SMARTS Holiday Open House will be worth a visit, the tree lighting on Central Square will be at about 7:15 p.m., and commemorative mugs will be available for evening drink specials. Read all about it here:
