Our New President, Tom Richardson, introduces the new officers, discusses his experience at the International Conference in Atlanta, GA, and shares his vision and goals for the coming year.
Announcements:
Lynette announced the Beer Fest dates for ticket sales August 11th at Blue Note and August 18th at Sudwerks.
Meeting:
NEW OFFICERS: Astounding applause and a standing ovation greeted our new president at the opening bell. New officers President Tom Richardson, Secretary Denny Patrick and Treasurer Marybeth Villalobos were presented with their new officer pins, as well as President Elect Lynette Ertel and New Assistant District Governor Duane Ewing.
INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE NEWS: Tom then went on to give us an update and review of the June Rotary Convention in Atlanta.
Our new International President from Australia Ian Riseley’s focus for Rotary this year is “Making A Difference” with emphasis on Polio —Environment—Peace—Brand--Membership
There have been only three new documented cases of Polio this year. Rotary ‘s goal to erase it from the face of the earth is making headway. Convention speaker Bill Gates will contribute 2:1 dollars from his foundation for every dollar contributed by Rotary members. That is 450 million dollars the coming years!
President Riseley has asked that a tree be planted for every Rotary member around the world. Tom mentioned he would have to plant two as he pulled up an oak sapling while working on the cemetery cleanup crew last weekend.
NEW COMMITTEE A new committee within Rotary will be formed to enable peace and conflict resolution. There will be a half day workshop for all who will be appointed to this task. Cass nominated Dave Williams for the post, and he accepted the nomination. Way to go Dave you are a natural!
ROTARY INSTALLATION DINNER/RECOGNITION NEWS At the Rotary installation dinner last week our little club made a terrific showing for awards for 2016-2017 year. Way to go Duane and fellow lunatics! We received Club excellence in service Awards, Membership Growth Award and a shout out to Raylene and Paul thanks to whom we received an award for our Club Runner Postings. Ute was singled out for a service award for her continued dedication and outstanding effort hosting the Chinese Delegation visit.
OUR FOCUS/GOALS FOR COMING YEAR As always the focus on growth and retention is an important Rotary goal. We all have to get the word out about Rotary and the many beneficial projects around our community and the world. Let’s be seen and heard Lunatics!
Tom wants to find a way to track all of our volunteer time not just our monetary contributions to the club.
President Tom’s focus for the year 2017-2018 weekly meetings will be
Projects—Growth—Family—Celebrations—Member Bios and last but not least FUN!
Tom closed the meeting with a quote for the week “Thirsty days hath September, April, June and November. All the rest are thirsty too Except him who hath home brew.