President's Message 

 

 

 

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MPres Trudy was present again to open the meeting after her sojourn ‘out West’ and a tough drive home with 17 at the Legion and a further 7 joining by Zoom. Several members had come down with Covid recently but all were recovering and following the relevant guidelines.

Our guest speaker, Suzanne Latchford of Heal with Horses, was introduced by Michelle who referred to Suzanne’s lifelong love of, and connection with, nature and animals, especially horses.

Suzanne explained how, despite the challenges of Covid, Heal with Horses is still very much a going concern. The Club was aware of the work that Heal with Horses had done in the past for sufferers of traumas of all kinds and has previously provided financial support. The organisation is now a registered charity and has been successful in obtaining grants, including from the Ontario Trillium Foundation and the County. She explained how Heal with Horses is providing a wider range of experiences for all who visit and is more integrated into the general tourism offerings of the area. Opportunities for immersion in the natural world of plants and animals are provided such as ‘Equine Soul Sessions’ and goat yoga as well as hands on contact with other small animals. These experiences act as therapy for those of all ages and situations. Suzanne also explained that demands on space and facilities had resulted in the opening of another site in Wooler which was achieved thanks to her associate, Carly. There had also been the acquisition of Nigerian Dwarf goats which are very sociable and popular with visitors. Heal with Horses has clients from many different care homes and centres in the region and works with those suffering from autism, anxiety, PTSD as well as a range of physical challenges. In response to a question from Barry, Suzanne admitted that she is in desperate need of help to construct a fourth wall on the existing arena to make it an enclosed barn. At present, the cost of this is around $26,000. Suzanne was thanked by Lyn.

MPres Trudy then introduced Trish Best who joined us on Zoom. Trish is a Rotarian from the Durham Region and attended to promote the up coming District Conference (May 13, 14, 15). Trish explained that the Conference will take place at the Courtyard Marriott in Oshawa with the opportunity to golf at the Harmony Creek Club. The keynote speakers are Dr Peter Uni (Covid) and Jennifer Wright (GM). The main themes of the conference will be: Sustainability, Elder Law and Fraud Prevention plus Eating Disorders. Other presentations include a motivational speaker on Autism and a journalist from Afghanistan. There will be opportunities for entertainment and socializing. Reservations can be made on the District Website. Trish was thanked by MPres Trudy.

In Club business, all BB needs were filled this week. All the maple syrup is sold. Any unsold D & D books should be returned to Michelle. The Rotary Beach cleanup and Barbecue will go ahead as planned. John Inwood reported on discussions regarding the future of Wellington waterfront including ‘blue sky thinking’ and the role of Adam Goheen as a County official involved in this project. Barry advised the Club of upcoming vaccination opportunities with walk-in clinics scheduled for April 26, 27, 28, 29 from 11-6 every day, at the Picton Community Centre.

After happy dollars, the 50/50 draw, David Hawkins’ groaner and the 4 Way test, the meeting closed at 8.10.

 

 

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