The meeting was called to order by President Roger at 7:07 am. 29 Rotarians were present with 2 guests (speaker Paul Spike Lees and guest Glen Harper who was introduced by Peter Campbell).
Ted Hannigan provided his ‘Rotary moment’. He noted that he has only been a Rotarian for approximately 6 months. He admitted that he initially agreed to join the club due to ‘friendly pressure’. However as he attended meetings he noted that ours is a giving club. There is a sense of both comradery and trust amongst members. Ted is happy to be a member of this organization.
‘O’ Canada’ was sung. David Hawkins recited an invocation. Breakfast was served.
Roger enquired about the health of members. No issues were reported.
Liz introduced guest speaker Paul Spike Lees, a member of the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary. She noted that Spike learned to sail as a teenager growing up in Manchester, UK. His passion for sailing ultimately took him around the world. He enjoyed a career in film and television and subsequently moved to Prince Edward County in 2013 were he established Midtown Brewery in Wellington. He has been a member of the Wellington Coast Guard Auxiliary for several years.
Spike explained that the Wellington Coast Guard Auxiliary Marine Rescue Unit is a 100% volunteer run organization which is governed by a federal organization (the Department of Oceans and Fisheries) with federal standards. There efforts are overseen by the Canadian Coast Guard and integrated locally with Canadian Military search and rescue operations. They are the ‘eyes on the ground’ for marine search and rescue from Point Petre to Brighton. They staff a 27 foot boat with a coxswain, helmsman, navigator and SAR Tech specialists. Examples of problems that the Wellington Coast Guard Auxiliary deal with include swimmers and strong undertows, kite surfers and sailors experiencing unexpected weather changes, and powerboats running out of gas. Spike reported that there are unfortunately usually one or two drownings every year on our local waterways. He noted that government funding pays for fuel and individual donations support volunteer training.
Kim Lee thanked Spike for his presentation.
Business
In Bill Mitchell’s absence Roger highlighted staffing needs this week at the bottle depot.
Norm reported that only a few D and D booklets remain at the Wellington Home Hardware.
Colin reported that the upcoming Rotary golf tournament is sold out (although there is a waiting list in case
of cancellations). Hole sponsorships and hole-in-one sponsorships are being finalized.
Yvonne wondered if we needed a third barbecue for the upcoming Canada Day Rib Fest. The consensus was 2 barbecues and a hot plate for beans would be sufficient. She circulated a signup sheet for the various tasks associated with the Rib Fest.
Dawn thanked everyone who participated in the local spelling bee events and asked for volunteer support of the upcoming regional spelling bee competition.
Gregor and William are both celebrating birthdays on May 10th.
Roger told his joke of the week. The happy toonie jar was passed around.
Bill Pennell’s ticket was drawn for the 50/50 draw – unfortunately he failed to pull the ace of spades.
The meeting concluded with the 4-way test.
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