The Rotary Club of Midland Welcomed 21 of the 24 St. Theresa's High School students who travelled to Tanzania to do a relief trip and cultural exchange. 7 of the students presented different aspects of the trip including, building a foundation for a new school classroom, doing a 2 km water walk with "the Mommas", reinforcing the need for clean source water and filtration systems. Additionally the students attended 2 masses and were also able to visit an operational school(St. Theresa's Academy) to see the type of classes that will run in the classroom they started. It was an excellent opportunity to bond with the Tanzanian students and to play as they all participated in a Fun Olympics together. Finally the group were treated to a safari to see some of the natural beauty and animals of the area. The students thanked both the Midland and Penetanguishene Rotary Clubs for their support and presented us with a wonderful song and dance.
Jim MacMillan Thanked Mrs. Shauna Sguina and the Student's and presented her with a Inukshuk as a thank you from the club.
Maureen Reid invited Past President Jamie Tripp to the podium to introduce our 2017-18 Vocational Service Award Winner. Jamie was pleased to introduce Former Midland Police Chief Mike Osborne
Mike recently retired after a 30-year career in policing that included, 27 years in Midland and 18 years in senior management positions. He is a graduate of Georgian College, a graduate of the University of Toronto’s, Rotman Leadership Program, holds a degree from Guelph University, and has received significant training through the Canadian and Ontario Police Colleges, as well as other universities. Mike was active in the police community and served as Vice-President of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police.
Mike and Jennifer have resided in the North Simcoe area for 27 years and they have a son and daughter that reside in the area. His passions include boating with family, sports, the outdoors, and volunteering. In particular, he has volunteered for organizations that support youth development and education, and those who are struggling due to poverty, homelessness, and poor physical or mental health, including addictions.
He has served on many Boards and Committees in Simcoe County resulting in his nomination by Georgian College for the Premier’s Award, and receipt of the Queens Diamond Jubilee Award. He is also a recipient of the Police Exemplary Service Medal and is currently on the Board of Directors for the North Simcoe Boys and Girls Club.
Mike is also a past Member of the Midland Rotary Club.
President Bill Richardson congratulated and presented Mike with his Award.
Finally President Elect Mora Austin announced the results of our club vote on a modified Meeting Schedule as proposed by the Board of Directors and it passed with a vote of 23-6. Thus the new schedule will take effect begining with the first meeting in July.