Our own noted economist Kamran Afshar provided an informative and generally optimistic outlook for the national and local economic outlooks at Wednesday’s meeting. Kamran presented data and background on the life of the economy since the “Great Recession” (which he noted was actually a depression). We looked at employment, wages, consumer confidence, economic growth and even gas prices, as he effortlessly (and patiently) walked us through some of the murky truths behind the statistics. The good news is that, in his view, the Lehigh Valley did generally better than the rest of the nation in the current recovery, and the employment picture here is relatively healthy. Rotarians were an engaged audience throughout and the questions afterward sparked Kamran to offer additional insights. Thanks, Kamran, and thanks to George Kurtz, who introduced his former professor.
Other News
PP Diane Donaher reported early in the week that both Bethlehem Rotary Clubs would receive eleven boxes of food from the Food Packaging event at this week’s District Conference at Pocono Manor. The food will be distributed to New Bethany Ministries and the Hispanic Center. Logistics need to be worked out, but way to go, Diane, in helping “Rotary Relieve Hunger.”
As we get nearer to our Centennial Dinner and Gala on June 3rd, we are actively seeking individual and business sponsors for the event. Since the sponsorships will be donated through the Foundation, they may be tax deductible. Please see PE Gail Evans for more details on opportunities to become a sponsor.
Here’s another call to become a volunteer for an hour at the Cops ‘n Kids “Celebrate Reading Day” on April 23rd. Please consider donating one or more children’s books as well. See Shannon Sigafoos for more details.
The Hispanic Center of Bethlehem will hold its annual “Fiesta” gala at DeSales University on Friday, April 15th. Please see Rotarian Lorna Velazquez If you would like to attend. It’s a grand time, this year benefiting the R.K. Laros Foundation, The First Presbyterian Church of Bethlehem, and Educator Lisa Lynch.
PE Gail Evans announced that St. Luke’s University Hospital Littner Lecture series will feature journalist and author Katie Butler on Wednesday, April 20th, at the Central Moravian Church. Doors open at 6:30. For tickets and more information, please see Gail.
Who was that distinguished looking caddy on ESPN carrying Jordan Spieth’s bag at the Masters Tournament Par 3 contest Wednesday at the Augusta National Golf Club? It was none other than our fellow Rotarian Don Spieth, looping for his grandson, who just happens to be the defending Masters Champion. Congratulations, Don and Jordan, and best wishes for a good time and successful Masters.
Channel 69 News Anchor Rob Vaughn will be our speaker on Wednesday, April 13th. Rob’s always a welcome and interesting guest at our meetings, so I hope you can attend.
Until then, continue to be a gift to the community.
