Hal Leland offered our invocation. There was then a presentation of Paul Harris Fellow recognition to former members Mike Westergard (President 2010-11) and Matt Kennedy (President 2013-14).
President Ryan reported that he received 24 responses to the survey he sent out and that 18 of 25 responding said that they can regularly attend meetings. Most agreed that we currently have a great location but even more indicated they would be open to a new place to meet. Only two members said they were not interested in having meals catered. Two or three members responded they would not want to see a price increase for our meals, but most said they would support an increase to $10 (someone pointed out you can't even go to McDonalds for that). The majority of the responders indicated they wanted the meeting to start and end on time. Ryan encouraged anyone wanting us to consider a different meeting location to bring forward one or more options, considering space (both meeting and parking), the technology needed to allow virtual attendance, cost of rent or an expected donation, and meal cost. The Board would be happy to consider one or more alternatives, but if you want this pursued, then you need to do the footwork.
Dave Johnson bragged about President Ryan's efforts, including setting up next week's social, while Mike Westergard told us he is retiring as is his wife and they are expecting their first grandchild in March. We were also told that (despite his efforts) Ryan has been unable to get anytime for assigned Salvation Army bell ringing but is hoping that Joshua will give him something to work with so an e-mail can be sent out seeking volunteers.
Our program was the Chamber Strings from the high school, under the able direction of Craig Peterson. To join the group an audition is required so we heard a performance by the best of the best. There were 11 students (three boys and eight girls) who played 14 Christmas songs for us. Craig told us that this summer will be the 15th anniversary of being hired by Dean Monke and expressed his appreciation for landing in Fergus. The group received a standing ovation for their performance.
