The meeting was called to order by Past-President Lyn at 7:07 am

 

25 Rotarians were present with 6 on zoom and 2 guests (speaker Mike Hennessy and guest Kathleen Meaney).  Peter introduced and welcomed prospective club member Kathleen Meaney.

 

William Mulholland provided an insight as to why he joined Rotary and why he remains a Rotarian.  He reported that rather than a single event it was more of a collage of moments and memories that stand out.  He joined the Wellington Rotary in 2018 sponsored by Liz Bozma.  William specifically noted three club activities that resonate for him: the creation and ongoing work of the bottle depot, the spring beach cleanup, and the $500,000 Picton hospital donation from our club.  He enjoys events where he can socialize and ‘catch up’ with other club members.

 

 ‘O’ Canada’ was sung.  David Hawkins recited an invocation.  Breakfast was served.

 

Lyn inquired about the health of members.  Geoff Telling’s wife was recently moved into the McFarlane Home.  John Inwood recently suffered a flare-up of his COPD.

 

David Mackinnon introduced the guest speaker Mike Hennessy.  Mike has a background in social work and has worked with Hospice Prince Edward for almost 2 years.  David recounted his own experience with hospice care when his sister was dying.  The hospice provided comfort, support and dignity for both his sister and the entire family at such a trying time.

 

Mike Hennessy indicated that the Prince Edward Hospice is a 3 bed residential hospice in Picton.  It was established in 2013 however prior to this community palliative support services existed for many years.  Mike explained that the Hospice is financially dependent on donations and grants.  Furthermore a strong core of volunteers are essential for the Hospice to provide several programs including residential hospice care, a visiting palliative support program, grief and bereavement support, and a practical caregiver training program.  Mike highlighted two annual fundraising events for Hospice Prince Edward: ‘Hike for Hospice’ which is held in May, and the Val Memorial Golf for Hospice Tournament which raised more than $68,000 alone last year.  He addressed several questions from Rotary members.

 

Chris thanked Mike for his presentation and presented him with a pen and thank you card. 

 

Norm reported that Diners and Duffers booklets will be available for pickup on March 18.  He encouraged all members to make an effort to sell as many booklets as possible.  He circulated a signup sheet to request booklets.  He noted that the cost of production this year is completely offset by sponsorship.

 

Bill Pennell noted that the fall dinner-dance will be held October 18 at the Wellington on the Lake recreation centre.  He will be holding the first committee meeting next Tuesday following the Rotary meeting and encouraged all those interested to attend.  Bill is specifically looking for someone to co-chair the event with him.

 

Yvonne reported that maple syrup should be bottled the week of March 17^th.  To date there are only 150 bottles remaining to be sold.

 

Norm reminded everyone of the inaugural fellowship bowling event on Wednesday.  He displayed an impressive bowling shirt with a floral motif in anticipation of the event.

 

There are no birthdays or anniversaries this week.

 

Bill Mitchell’s ticket was drawn for the 50/50 draw – despite a valiant effort he failed to pull the ace of spades.