President Fred Strader opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance. Dan Whitney offered a prayer.
Guests:
Bill Stevens, District Governor; Mike Robichaud, Asst District Governor; and Kensley Kaik.
Announcements:
Ron Maher provided an update regarding the significant progress made with constructing The Loon Center storage shed. Ron made special mention of Bonnie Hunt’s spectacular blueberry muffins!
Bonnie Ireland reminded us about the October 12th Lakes Region Clean Up Day, starting at Hesky Park at @8:30am, with post-clean up free BBQ at Ames Farm.
Jim McFarlin landed a great deal on our famous yellow Rotary t-shirts for volunteers.
Gary Dehnel updated us on our Socktober progress! We are averaging 0.95 pairs contributed per member. Gary offered a generous proposal for Rotary’s World Polio Day. He plans to match Meredith's Rotarian contributions. Please check out the details in an upcoming email.
Happy Dollars:
Fred, Jim & Kevin are happy to greet the District Governor and assistant district Governor.
Bob K was relieved that a business meeting in Florida was canceled.
ADG Mike appreciated our Meredith Rotary’s participation in the recent successful Rotary Golf outing.
Mr Gilchrist won the 50/50.
Program:
(L-R) Fred Strader (Meredith Club President) Bill Stevens (Rotary District Governor)
District Governor Bill Stevens shared the remarkable success story of the Rotary Foundation’s historical quest to eradicate World Polio while emphasizing that the campaign is not yet completed. He hopes his fellow Rotarians contribute to this vital cause to whatever degree possible.
Bill also referred to a recent email he circulated regarding a trustworthy Hurricane Relief site.
His presentation then took an essential turn regarding the Rotary Club membership trends. Bill was refreshingly candid regarding declining and aging membership rosters. He recommends incorporating methods of increasing club membership for 2044 versus 2024. Developing satellite or companion groups could enhance current club practices…practices which are sometimes resistant to change. New ideas might bring new membership, which could increase membership appeal to the potential 18-30-year-old Rotoract candidates.
President Fred closed the meeting with the Four-Way Pledge.
The photo below is the District Governor addressing the Rotary Members at MBCC.
.png)
