The meeting was called to order by President Roger at 7:07 am. 35 Rotarians were present with 3 guests (Steve Blakey, president of the Brighton Rotary Club, and 2 guest speakers).

 

Howard noted that the County Marathon is on September 29 and the organizers are asking for volunteers to assist with marshalling.  Also Howard asked for volunteers to join the Pumpkinfest weigh-in team on October 19.

 

Colin provided a rotary moment in which he explained how he came to join Rotary.  He explained that he met Lyn McGowan through his wife Shelley.  Brian McGowan subsequently reached out to Colin and they had a coffee together at the Tall Poppy where they discussed rotary.  Colin noted his respect for Brian and several of the other members of the Rotary Club of Wellington so he decided to join.  In his first spring as a club member he was asked to organize the annual golf tournament – this is a responsibility that he has performed every year since then!

 

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

 

Liz welcomed and introduced our speakers from the Hub Child and Family Centre, Stacey Stanford and Carrie Davis.  They reported that the Hub has been a valuable source for childcare in the County for more than 30 years.  They currently have 86 spaces at Picton and an additional 41 spaces at the Rednersville site.  Amazingly, they report approximately 400 children on a wait list for childcare.  Given this great demand they have been looking for more space to expand.  They are open year round 7 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday.  It was noted that the Hub also runs a summer camp which our Rotary Club has enrolled local children in.

 

They commented briefly on home childcare – there are currently 8 caregivers associated with the Hub.  They also reviewed main sources of governmental funding for their program.  Currently families pay $20 per day per child with the remaining cost subsidized via government funding.  Prior to Covid they did have fundraisers which essentially raised money for infrastructure upgrades.

 

There were several questions regarding what our Rotary Club could to do to support and enhance childcare services within our community.  Mike Lattner thanked Stacey and Carrie for their presentation.

 

Roger provided an update on the health of members:

Steve Blakey presented Robynne with the ‘8 Ball Trophy’ for our club’s astonishing victory at the annual Brighton barbecue karaoke competition.

 

Liz is celebrating a birthday this week.  Anniversaries are celebrated by Dawn and Bob Cutler, Lana and Brad Whittaker, and Chris and Yvonne.

 

Norm reminded everyone of the electronic recycling event on October 6, and Liz reminded everyone of the ongoing fur coat drive.

 

Tim’s ticket was drawn for the 50/50 draw – a calm demeanor most certainly belied raw excitement within – Could this be the week? Would this be the week? Trembling fingers failed to draw the ace of spades.  Too bad.