MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

 

President Mike Christie began the meeting by comparing the temperature outside to the temperature in the room, it seems to be warm everywhere.  He thanked everyone for the great attendance at today's meeting and attributed that to our wonderful Rotarian speakers and perhaps to many folks turning in sold Club 1000 tickets.

 

 

It was our privilege to hear two of our newest Rotarians speak about their lives and families.  First, we heard from Brenda Mercer, who was a 60's Scoop "Thriver", and although she went through several foster homes, eventually ended up in a loving family in Shaunaven, Saskatchewan.  She was married at 17 and is now a great grandmother, a role she really enjoys.

She spoke about a few of her experiences with the City of Regina social department, and described several of the awards she has received over the years, including a King Charles medal last year.

 

Brenda is a member of the Dakota Sioux tribe and is reclaiming her birth name "White Horse Rider" later this year.  Brenda will be a wonderful source of information and perspective for the club.

 

Brenda was then presented with a Paul Harris Fellowship by President Mike, which was sponsored by Sandy Mackay as a member of our club and in recognition of all her great work over the years.  A hug was in order.

 

Next, Lionel Brideson took the podium and spoke about his 43 years in the education field, as both a teacher and a principal.  Lionel grew up in Calgary and mentioned that one of his attractions to Rotary was the work we have done to eradicate polio, one of his older sisters had polio as a young teen, and it affected her for the rest of her life.

 

He talked about the difference one teacher can make, as an instructor at Riverside in Calgary made a major difference in his life.  He secured a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Calgary and worked around the prairies and into the territories during his career.  He was made an honorary member of the Dene nation for his work on their reserve.

 

He was the principal of Elm Street School for 6 years and worked with the community to improve the equipment and lunch programs with corporate partners.

 

He credits his parents, who were employed in the faith community for his interest in community service and helping his fellow man.

 

Rotary Club "What-z New":

• A few more meeting helpers are required to run cameras and sound during our hybrid meetings. Anyone wishing to help should contact President Mike Christie 403 878 3311. 

• Please continue to assist your 'team captains' (committee leads) and please also work in other areas of club activity, as you are able.
• Please have a look on ClubRunner in the Committee section. You should find your name on one of the committee member lists, as per your choice(s). If not, please contact President Mike.

• Housekeeping:
  • If you have a Meeting Minute, please phone, text or email the President and it will be included in the next Newsletter.
  • Board minutes can be found on ClubRunner, under Club Documents.

Rotary District 5360 and Rotary International News