President's Message 

 

 

 

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At this morning’s meeting, we were pleased to welcome (by Zoom, of course), three ladies of the leadership team of the “Back the Build” campaign and the Prince Edward Memorial Hospital Foundation, i.e. the ‘Fundraisers’, Shannon Coull, Nancy Parks and Barbara McConnell. These guests were joined by 28 members who were led in The Rotary Song by David Smith and O Canada! by Liz. MPres Trudy invited Christine to welcome Shannon, who is very well-known to Club members, who then introduced her team-leading colleagues.

Shannon’s purpose was to update the Club on all matters connected to the new hospital project she has been involved with for almost a decade. In her PPT presentation she explained the new hospital timeline bringing us from when it became a seriously-considered initiative, in 2014, to agreement to planning, in 2017, and final approval, in 2020. She also explained stages, going forward, which will lead to substantive construction beginning in 2024, for opening in December 2027. Shannon is confident that these goals are all within our reach despite the disturbance of the Covid pandemic though there will inevitably be increased costs for building and equipment. 

Shannon also shared some artist impressions and visuals which gave an idea of how the new hospital will look, including some indoor spaces and construction features. She shared the excellent news than an archaeological and scientific survey of the new hospital site had not found any evidence of former use that might delay or prevent the project. During a question period, Shannon fielded inquiries from members and was informed by MPres that our own commitment of $400,000 has already been exceeded by $8,000. Shannon also paid tribute to the fundraising efforts of the Hospital Auxiliary who form a hugh part of the fundraising for medical equipment. 

Shannon, Nancy and Barbara were thanked, individually by several members, and, on behalf of the Club, by Liz.  Shannon reiterated her tremendous appreciation for all the support the Campaign has received from our Club from its inception. She left the meeting having given a very positive, informative and realistic update on this major local initiative.

In Club business, Bill has one vacancy for Sat 26th for a cashier 11 - 1, and Pres Elect Ken will inform members when there are more opportunities for volunteering at vaccination clinics in February.

After congratulating David Hawkins on his, and Rowena’s, anniversary, David Smith on his birthday, and the 4 Way Test, the meeting closed at 8.17.
 

 

9 a.m. to 11 a.m.: Liz Bosma, David MacKinnon, Bill Pennell

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Liz Bosma, Chris Compeau, Seth Madhaven (FoR)

 

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