Well, we are one month into our new Rotary year already and most things are getting sorted. There seems to be a never-ending list of things to deal with - requests, arranging club events, speakers etc.

 

My thanks to the many people who share the responsibilities which makes it not too onerous on individual members. I am concerned I haven’t been able to fill the last position on the Board of Directors so if anyone is prepared to serve in this role, please make contact with me. It is not a difficult position. We also need a volunteer for the Trees for Babies project to help Karin who is away at present. Once again please help if you can.

 

In the July issue of Rotary Down Under there is a feature article on Jennifer Jones our newly appointed Rotary International President. It’s an interesting read and I encourage all members to inform and avail themselves of who she is and her take on things (see her picture above).

 

I trust you all keep a vigilant watch on your emails for rosters and responsibilities e.g., community garden, club meeting night duties and if you can’t be there, please find a substitute. Also, another reminder about getting your absenteeism into Greg. I know this is all repetitive but it is apparent that reminders are required!

 

On a personal note, Hilarie and I are emotionally preparing ourselves for the farewell and celebration of the life of our much-loved brother-in-law Tom Affleck who died on 25th July. Tom has been a good friend for many years.

 

Our caterer Jean Bonsor is away for August and September. Rebecca at the Packing Shed is filling in for the 2 months.

 

Planning for the Charity Dinner is well in hand. Matt Chisholm is confirmed as the guest speaker for Saturday 19th November.

 

 

We had a discussion about the possibility of changing Director’s meetings to an alternative Tuesday night to club meetings, but the decision was made to continue as usual with Director’s meeting on the 4th Tuesday of the month.

 

Directors also dealt with various applications for funds. Some are duplications from other agencies we control i.e., Lend a Hand and Vince Ashworth Trust. Therefore, I believe it is paramount that we have good communication about the activities of these Trusts,

 

The applications considered were: - 

 

MULTI CLUB GRANT PROJECT - fully subscribed. Increase our support from $3000 to $6000 for Lend a Hand Trust (both Alexandra and Cromwell Clubs) while they seek new sponsors.

 

Funding for LIFE EDUCATION TRUST

 

CLYDE PLAYCENTRE - Pepi/baby group. Lend a Hand Trust had fulfilled this request.

 

ALEXANDRA PRIMARY SCHOOL - for Food Forest project. $1000 was approved.

 

JESSICA BALLANTYNE - for funds to visit university Open Days in the North Island. Declined. The Vince Ashworth Trust had approved partial support.