President Bruce Shepard welcomed everyone to the Boardroom at Ralph's Steakhouse and Bar, and our first experimental meeting at this location. Hopefully everyone who ordered a meal enjoyed it and he got down to business...which is important at a "business" meeting
The business talks began with Kitt Brand, who reviewed the work of the International Service Committee and the projects that are going on this spring. Particularly noteworthy were the collaboration of various clubs and organizations on medical equipment for the Ukraine. She indicated that 9 clubs and a total of 15 groups were now involved.
Kitt indicated that a display was planned for District Conference on May 4 and 5, and she pointed out the help of Alain Guerard, who is working on the logistics of moving containers.
Kitt also mentioned that she is working on a couple of presentations for the room at the Why Rotary event and would like photos that anyone has of International or Community Service projects sent to her. She will do up some picture frames to show off the projects.
Margie Booyens, reviewed the work of the Community Service Committee, who were meeting directly following this business meeting to review a number of issues. Margie advised that the Rotary Club has arranged to support a Saamis Immigration "English Learners" group who are going to visit the Police Point interpretive centre on Wed May 29th. More information in the next few meetings.
Peter Mueller advised that the Membership/Retention/Youth committee are meeting by ZOOM on Thursday April 11 at 7:00 pm, he is encouraging all members to attend.
Dave Stalwick, Director of Club Service spoke about the lunch location and some of the upcoming discussions about our venue and location.
Doug Fleming, Club Secretary announced that "with regret", the Board accepted the resignation of Rotarian Don Davis. We are sad to see him leave the club, and we hope that he continues to support the Music Festival.
Gail Halderman gave a brief update on the club's financials, and advised of a potential fundraising event that he had been approached on. A private organization needs a group of people to run a bar for a company event, and Gail will be investigating all the logistics this week. It is unfortunately the same weekend as District Conference, but those not attending may be able to earn some extra funds.
Melanie Harty, Past President was thrilled to announce that Milan Vujovic has agreed to step into the role of President-elect for the 2024-25 Rotary year, with the club presidency in the year to follow.
Mike Christie, President-elect spoke about the upcoming "Why Rotary" event. If you have not indicated if you are attending or support this event, it's time to let Mike know. Numbers are being counted for catering. Both the Saamis and Sunrise clubs will be speaking as well and will have Rotarians in attendance.
"Why Rotary" is a pitch for new members, and although it will be a high class event, will run as a form of Rotary meeting, to highlight the areas of focus and special projects of the club(s).
The club meeting of April 22 will be devoted to preparation for the event, and the meeting of April 29 will be an opportunity for reflection and learning from the evening.
Check your calendars, April 24th is not that far away.
Rotary Club "What-z New":
