Karrie Trauth, born and raised in Ravenna, has received a distinction known as Freedom as Citizen and Shipwright of the City of London, UK.
In the 13th century, those designated as Free Citizens were not the property of a feudal lord and had special privileges, such as being able to own property and ply their trade within the square mile of the city of London. Guilds or liveries developed among Freemen over the years. Each guild would set standards of member training and quality of their products.
Karrie’s “freedom” is derived from the Worshipful Company of Shipwrights, one of about 100 recognized ancient guilds. She is Senior Vice President, Shipping and Maritime, Shell plc (Shell Oil).
Beyond her day-to-day operations, Karrie is dedicated to reducing the carbon footprint of ships at sea by changing propulsion systems and adapting ship design. The process has begun with all aspects of design, testing and shipbuilding. Her mantra is, “think big, start small, and begin today.”
Modern day free persons continue to serve their city. They represent their guilds in civic, social and educational causes. On the lighter side, one of the social activities comes in September, when they exercise historic rights by driving their sheep across London Bridge.
Karrie is the daughter of Ravennan Jack Trauth.
If you love spaghetti, you will want to attend the Immaculate Conception Church spaghetti dinner. This is the final one before they break for summer. You will enjoy spaghetti, meatballs, bread, salad, dessert and beverage from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 16.
Cost is $12 for adults, $5 for children 5 to 12 and free for children 4 and younger. The event will take place at the parish hall, 251 W. Spruce Ave., in Ravenna and is open to the public. I’m sure you will enjoy the evening while eating your pasta. Dinners resume in August.
Don’t forget to attend the Thursday Literary Club’s 100 Years of Reading. It will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on May 11 in the Haymaker Room at Reed Memorial Library in Ravenna.
The group is inviting us to join them as they celebrate a century of reading as they stroll through the decades. I will see you there!
Also, don’t forget the Veterans of Foreign Wars bingo on the first and third Thursday of every month. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and bingo starts at 6:30 p.m. They also have a concession stand, so you can go for dinner as well. VFW Post No. 1055 is located at 6000 New Milford Road, Ravenna. Bingo is open to the public.
Call Angie Reedy with your Ravenna news at 330-297-7228.
