Steve’s Snippets 10 July 2002
Well, collectively we seem to have made it through the first week of the new Rotary Year. My sincere thanks to Vicki for a great bulletin, Euan for his new and well received "happy buck segment", Peter Douglas for his excellent attendance and financial summary, our new Directors for their enthusiastic reports and Rod for his agreement to TEMPORARILY continue as Program chair until Brian Hennel’s return.
While the meeting went somewhat late I very much appreciate the contributions of all members to the Club assembly. I think the many issues canvassed were discussed robustly and evenly.
Accordingly the meal cost will remain at $20.00 at least until the next club assembly or unless precipitated by the Bowling Club or caterer, and I will endeavour to end meetings as close as possible to 8.00pm. District dues will increase by $5.00 so there will be an increase in fees this year of that amount. Treasurer Peter Douglas will be giving you invoices this week.
I am particularly encouraged by the willingness to embrace a more representative membership, both in gender, race and age, and the enthusiasm of some members to participate in a dedicated membership committee.
I also note and accept a number of members’ views that we must do more to assist our new members to better understand Rotary, know more about each others’ vocations, and to do what is possible to retain and re-enthuse existing members who, for what ever reason, have chosen not to, or are unable to, attend on a reasonable basis.
I pity Club Service Director Keith’s role this year because your enthusiasm for additional social activities is going to keep him very busy.
By the time you have read this, Phil Lacey will be a PDG, joining David Croft in that illustrious role and John Wakefield (and Susan) will be our new DG. I will let you know how John interprets the "Sow the seeds of love" theme at his changeover.
In conclusion, two last points. Firstly Congratulations to PP Roger for receiving "The Governor’s award" for our club for the last year, and secondly to all of you (not so much Joe Campisi) for being relatively easy on me at last week’s fine session, in respect of my "performance" or whatever you would like to call it at changeover.
Late news: Nerrie Lacey received a PHF from her husband for her support during Phil’s year. Apparently Nerrie attended 281 Rotary functions during the year. The award was well deserved. Shelley Taylor Smith the marathon swimmer who spoke so well at this year’s conference was also awarded a PHF. (cont.)
We sat next to Pres Bob Reid from Upper Blue mountains sunrise. He runs the Echo Point Motor Inn at Katoomba and would love to host our club for a "Yulefest" weekend in August. Keith Stockall will make enquiries and let you know some dates and costs.
Steve