Rotary meeting minutes July 16, 2024
The meeting was called to order by President Roger at 7:08 am. 30 Rotarians were present with 1 guest (FOR Liam Smith)
Ted provided a rotary moment in which he described an experience that exemplified the power of Rotary. He explained that previously our Rotary club was active in the Rotary youth exchange. He had the opportunity to meet and billet young people from around the world. His daughter participated in this youth exchange program where she went to Japan for one year. Ted reported that when his daughter returned home she was a totally different person – confident, focused and driven. He reflected on how Rotary grants us all the opportunity to grow and better ourselves.
‘O’ Canada’ was sung. David Hawkins recited an invocation. Breakfast was served. Roger thanked Christine for bringing donuts to share on her birthday.
Roger provided an update on the health of members:
Christine reported that her father is still struggling in his recovery following a recent stroke.
Lyn provided an update on her health. Unfortunately she has been experiencing increasing hip pain and her surgeon indicated that her recent hip repair surgery has failed and she will now need a full hip replacement.
Howard introduced Phyo Kyi. Phyo joined our Rotary club in 2014 (sponsored by the late Brian McGowan). He served as Club President in 2018-19 and was instrumental in assisting with early efforts in the fundraising campaign for the new Picton hospital. He succeeded David Smith as Chair of the Wellington Rotary Foundation a few years ago.
Phyo indicated that the precise title for the Wellington Rotary Foundation is the Rotary Club of Wellington Charitable Trust. This was established in 2015 and essentially represents the stewardship component of our Rotary Club. Phyo articulated the mission statement of the foundation - to fund community programs in Wellington and the surrounding area of Prince Edward County which benefit disadvantaged residents in the areas of health and social well-being.
The current roster of the board of directors was announced; Chair – Phyo, Secretary – Jacques, Treasurer – Trudy, Director – Howard (issues tax receipts), Director – Margo (legal advisor), non-voting observer - Roger.
Phyo discussed the operations of the Foundation. The Foundation is a registered charitable organization and as such business numbers with annual returns must be filed. Detailed bookkeeping of all receipts and disbursements must be kept as well as detailed management of tax receipts. The Foundation board must meet at least twice per year. The board must keep abreast of all CRA rules and regulations.
Phyo described the foundations relationship to the rotary club. General club fundraising typically supports non-registered charitable causes. However some donations may be issued through the foundation with subsequent issuance of tax receipts. The foundation may issue donations to CRA registered charitable organizations as well as to foreign charitable causes. Phyo provided a snapshot of foundation financials as of June 30, 2024. He outlined savings and disbursements with a balance of approximately $8,200. He also addressed some frequently asked questions regarding the foundation. He invited any Rotarians who are interested in joining the Foundation board to contact him.
Lana thanked Phyo for his presentation. A copy of the presentation material is located at:
Business
Lyn reported on the ‘Celebration of Life’ which was held this past Sunday for Kimbal Lacey. It was well attended with a great deal of support from the local winery associations. Liz reported that the ‘go fund me’ campaign which was established for the Lacey family has generated $35,000 to date (with a target of $45,000).
Roger spoke about Paul Harris awards. He indicated that there are essentially 2 ways of getting these awards; they are awarded via the club (ie such as giving past presidents a Paul Harris award); awarded via donations to the Rotary International foundation. Roger awarded a Paul Harris award to Bill Pennell in recognition of his donations to RI.
Christine is celebrating a birthday this week. Three members are celebrating anniversaries this week; Tim and Nancy Cox (48 years), Ken and Luanne Robertson (46 years), and Kim and Roseanne Lee (44 years).
Bill Mitchell passed around the table for Happy Bucks. He insisted that as Charter Member he is invoking his privilege to re-instate "Toonie Tuesday" for Happy Bucks. Starting next week it will require a Toonie for Happy Bucks.
Mike’s ticket was drawn for the 50/50 draw – despite a strong attempt he failed to pull the ace of spades.
.png)
