December 23, 2003

One of the best programs presented in a long time was done today, by the son of Doug and Sandy Betlach.  Kilian Betlach, a  graduate of Boston College, is now teaching in an area near San Jose, California, through a program called Teach-For-America, and to suggest this is an easy job would mean a total lack of understanding of the program.  Kilian teaches in areas that are tough to live in, much less teach in.  And he stated that he has three major hurdles to deal with - language, poverty and gangs.  His area is not bi-lingual it is amazingly multi-lingual, and not only Anglo, but Hispanic and more Asian countries than you can name.  So kids are trying to learn in a language with which they are not familiar.  Also the area is so poor there are multiple families living in close quarters, making learning even harder.  Finally there are on going gang wars, and families who have been gang members for generations, so education takes a back seat to gang concerns.  A tough job for Kilian, to say the least, but one could not come away from his talk without the feeling that he is one dedicated teacher, and there is no question that tons of individuals like Kilian are seriously needed around the country.  A really great program today!

A big thanks to Todd Dayton!!  One of our newest members he notices that SOME just don't show up with Rotary pins.  So he has provided not only pins, but Centennial Pins, to al members!! (see left) 

Also joining us today were Charly and Stephan, our exchange students from Germany (and Penny Madden, Stephan's host Mom who made a yeoman effort to get to the meeting so early!)  Their attendance was rewarded with a great Eagle Trace breakfast!

Thanks Todd!

Charly and Stephan

Kilian Betlach