Past President Lyn McGowan opened the meeting at 7:07 with 30 members and 5 guests (2 on zoom, Speaker Mike Trites, and Karen O’Hara, Helen Walsh from the Northumberland Sunrise Club.)
Health of Club Members
Kim Lee was readmitted to Kingston Hospital due to a setback.
Guest Speaker
Mike Lattner introduced our guest speaker, Mike Trites.
Mike was a schoolteacher and dramatic arts teacher who was heavily involved with community theatre. He has a love for the band, Blue Rodeo. He had the idea of creating a musical theatre production of Blue Rodeo, which highlights the County. The name of this project is “The Key of Blue.” It’s a fusion of dance, music, visual arts and digital arts.
He began the project in the early 90’s. It began as a culminating project for the end of his career.
Many county representatives involved in theatre are involved:
Pat Larkin – Executive Producer, Dr. Thomas Harrison – Producer, Cheryl Singer – Associate Producer, and many others…Miss Emily is the leading, female character.
Mike’s Band are the performers representing the Blue Rodeo Band. The main reason for this is fundraising for the Regent Theatre in Picton.
County Cider is holding a free, fundraising event on May 16th. There will be a yard sale on County Road 18.
Tickets are $63, VIP tickets are approximately $100. More information is to be found on “inthekeyofblue.ca” Peter thanked the speaker.
Club Business
Helen and Karen from the RC of Northumberland Sunrise introduced a travel experience for Rotary members in May 2028 to Ireland for approximately 33 members. Base price without air travel is approx. $4000.
Martha updated the club on the Youth Exchange and reminded club members to get their Vulnerable Sector Check. In addition, the outbound student, Callie, will speak to the club in June.
Roger needs the names of your Rotarian of the Year nominations by May 25th at noon.
Dawn spoke of the Regional Spelling Bee, which was a great success. Howard did a great job as the emcee. 37 schools were involved.
Colin gave a golf update. Things are going along smoothly. There are currently 18 hole sponsors.
Upcoming Events –
District Assembly May 23rd, and Health Series, Fraud Prevention Wednesday, June 10th.
Birthdays
Roger – May 15th
50/50 Draw – Martha’s name was drawn, but no Ace
The meeting concluded at 8:30 with the 4 way test.
Rotary Group Trip to Ireland - May 18-26, 2028!
Helen, Karen (Rotary Club of Northumberland Sunrise) and Cathy (Wellington Rotary) were excited to share this opportunity to travel together with fellow Rotarians, family, and friends while exploring the beauty, history, and culture of Ireland.
The 9-day guided tour includes highlights such as Dublin, Belfast, Kilkenny Castle, the Rock of Cashel, the Titanic Belfast Museum, an Irish farm visit, and even an overnight stay in a beautiful Irish castle. The tour package also includes airfare from Toronto, hotels, breakfasts, select dinners, guided sightseeing tours, and deluxe motorcoach transportation.
We also discussed the benefits of booking early, including locking in 2028 pricing at today’s rates, flexible payment plans, and the current $200 early booking savings opportunity. With limited spots available, there has already been wonderful interest in the trip.
For anyone who would like to learn more, you can go to the Rotary Ireland Tour Page or contact Helen Walshat h.walsh680@gmail.com.
Thank you again for your time, enthusiasm, and support. We hope many of you will join us for what promises to be an unforgettable Rotary adventure filled with fellowship, fun, and incredible memories together!
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