The meeting was called to order by President Roger at 7:07 am

35 Rotarians were present with one guest (visiting speaker Steve Rutledge from Whitby Sunrise).

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

Roger inquired about the health of members:

Howard asked if anyone had an update regarding the wellbeing of Kathleen Meaney’s mom.

Peter confided that his wife’s health has deteriorated dramatically.

Colin reported that Richard Todd is having some difficulties eating. Geoff Telling visits Richard weekly.

Trudy introduced guest speaker Steve Rutledge. Since 2009 Adopt a Village in Laos has assisted more than 100,000 people by providing clean drinking water.

Steve reported on Laos projects during the 2024-25 year. There were 3 ‘water projects’ which entailed redirecting stream/river flow to holding filtration tanks. Each of these projects cost approximately $35-45,000 to complete. There was 1 school project with the construction of a middle school. Furthermore 875 water filter units were delivered to homes. Last year Steve raised @ $250,000 to see these projects through to completion.

Although it was a rewarding year Steve also highlighted some challenges. Rising construction costs have made it more challenging to fund water projects in Laos. On a personal level one of his close friends who attended many Laos trips with him recently died.

Steve played a video which demonstrated the method of redirecting river flow into a central water tank within a small town. He also demonstrated how the individual water filter system works with a silver impregnated ceramic pot filtering away almost all impurities. These filter systems cost $125 per unit and last 6-8 years. Steve reported that he will be at the October district conference and looks forward to seeing Rotarians there.

John Inwood thanked Steve for his presentation.

Roger noted that in his weekly bulletin he neglected to mention that Bill Mitchell was also one of our club’s founding members.

Colin thanked all volunteers for their assistance at last week’s Rotary golf tournament.

Lyn reminded everyone of the Past President’s Dinner on June 24. Setup will begin at 4 pm. Cocktails are at 6 pm and dinner 630 pm. She encouraged everyone to bring their own wine and (following some deliberation) also encouraged everyone to bring their own glass, plate and cutlery.

Yvonne reviewed everyone’s assignments for the Rotary Canada Day events.

There were no reported birthdays however there were 2 anniversaries. Dave and Mary Robinet are celebrating 52 years of wedded bliss and Bill and Karen Hurst are celebrating 58 years of marriage.

Pierre’s ticket was drawn (again!) for the ever enlarging pot of the 50/50 draw – however, no ace of spades.

The meeting concluded with the 4-way test.