South Mouth October 5 2009
President Paul called the meeting to order at 12:15 p.m.
National Anthem: Kris Akilie
Toast to the Queen & Canada: Norris Brown
Invocation: Matt Taylor
ROTARY MINUTE
Read by Don Beard. See related story.
INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS AND VISITING ROTARIANS
Norris Brown introduced one guest, Mr. Neil Thornton of the Thornton Group of Niagara/Dale Carnegie Business Group of Canada, our guest speaker.
SERGEANT-AT-ARMS
George Fitzpatrick, serving as Sergeant-at-arms, accepted happy dollars:
Cathy Henry - a very successful car rally on Sunday. Cathy won the prize for the most pledges. The total amount raised for Gillian's Place was over $11,000;
Bob McKay - sorry that Laetitia is in Edmonton attending the funeral of a good friend;
Peter Snodgrass - glad to be home and have his daughter back in Canada after surgery;
Sheila Bristo - had a wonderful 25th homecoming at Western;
Don Beard - wonderful 40th anniversary cruise and thanked everyone who helped at bingo: Debi Garneau, Bob McKay and Laetitia de Witt;
Sheree Taillon - happy she didn't have to give a speech;
John Teibert
- just happy.
WHO'S WHO, Dan Toppari
Dan was born in Timmins and moved to Niagara Falls when he was 12. He went to high school at N.F.C.V.I., where Rob Nicholson became his good friend. Rob involved him in canvassing for the Progressive Conservative party and guided him back home after visits across the border. Many of his classmates have become successful professionals.
Dan attended University of Western Ontario, for five years, graduating with a law degree. He articled for Reid, McNaughton, and lived in Toronto while at the Bar Admissions Course. He first worked as a lawyer for A.J. Mascarin, who also had roots in Timmins. In 1985, he joined his present firm, now known as Morgan, Dilts and Toppari.
Dan met Cathy in 1983, through work at the Registry Office, and more casually at Cats Caboose. They married in 1985, and have two children, Jason (22) and Melissa (19). Most of his practice is in the area of family law, and civil litigation, including personal injury, disability, estates, contracts, and insurance. According to Forest Gump, "Life is like a box of chocolates." Unfortunately, some people get a rotten chocolate and that's when they come to see Dan.
Dan copes with the emotions and strain of his practice through physical exercise and staying happy. He is passionate about consuming all the good things life has to offer.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Follow-up on General Assembly: President Paul thanked everyone who attended the club assembly and for those who extended regrets. For those who were absent, Paul asked that they contact him to explain the reason why they could not be there. Only four club assemblies during the year. It is important that as many members attend as possible.
District Conference in Buffalo October 15th - 18th: President Paul, Paul Massuet, and Roseanne Morissette are attending the Foundation dinner. A car pool is available if others would like to attend. Please contact Paul Massuet.
Next Regular Meeting: October 19, 2009. No meeting on Thanksgiving Monday.
Next Board Meeting: October 22nd, 5:30 p.m. at George Darte Funeral Home.
Proposal for May 2010 Fundraising Event: Cathy presented a new fundraising proposal to replace the May Gala. This proposal was discussed at the General Assembly. Cathy thanked Sheila for sending out the proposal to members who were not at the assembly and thanked those members who had completed the questionnaire at the assembly.
After discussion, a motion was presented by Cathy:
THAT the Rotary Club of St. Catharines South hold a Car Rally on Sunday, May 2nd, 2010 to replace the annual gala.
Seconded by Roseanne Morissette
23 in favour. One opposed. Carried.
Rotary International Conference 2010, Montreal: John Teibert to present more news in future.
Paul Harris Fellows Ceremony, November 23rd, 2009: Roseanne advised that the Paul Harris Fellows Ceremony will take place on November 23rd, 12 Noon. President Paul will clear the agenda for this special presentation. District Governor Pravin or his designate will be in attendance. Please plan on attending and bring a spouse or prospective member.
BIRTHDAYS
None to celebrate.
50/50 DRAW
There were two draws: Peter Snodgrass and Brian Radford each received a Dale Carnegie Book. Roseanne had the winning ticket, but did not draw the Joker.
ATTENDANCE REPORT
Jason Pollock reported 24 members and six make-ups for over 100 per cent attendance.
EARLY LEAVERS
George Fitzpatrick, Rob Welch, and Don Beard.
GUEST SPEAKER, Neil Thornton, Thornton Group of Niagara
See related story.
ADJOURNMENT
As there was no further business for the good of Rotary, President Paul wished everyone a good week in Rotary and adjourned the meeting at 1:30 p.m.