March 15, 2020
Meeting Cancelled - Monday, March 16, 2020 - Crowne Plaza
In light of the rapidly changing situation with COVID-19 the decision was made by our Board today to cancel our next meeting, tomorrow March 16th, 12:00 PM at the Crowne Plaza. The health and safety of our members, their families and our community is our first and foremost priority. We are listening closely/diligently monitoring messages and guidance from public health authorities and following/implementing as appropriate for our organization. As a result of this discussion, the decision was made to cancel the meeting tomorrow and to evaluate other upcoming dates.
As noted in my March 12th update, the COVID 19 situation has affected many events. Additional updates have been provided by Rotary International and by District 7080 indicating that clubs need to be cautious over the next few weeks in scheduling face to face events. We are aware that other local Rotary clubs are making similar decisions.
Our next scheduled meetings are on March 30th and April 6th. We will decide whether these meetings will proceed as we get closer to the dates.
Cancellations and Updates arising from COVID-19
Soupfest, Friday March 20th - As indicated in separate e-mail from Bill Proctor this event has been cancelled.
In Vino Caritas - This April 16th fundraiser has been cancelled. The committee will be meeting to consider ideas for a fall date and also to ensure all details are covered in cancelling the event.
District 7080 Conference - The May 30th District Conference at Bingemans has been postponed. District Governor Lesley Barmania and incoming District Governor Mike Lawrie will be looking at options for rescheduling this event in the early fall.
How Can Rotary Help?
As outlined in the communication from RI, our clubs have the ability to make a difference and we can give thought to how we can assist our community during this time. In the absence of our meetings, we have formed a small working group to look at ideas where Rotary may be able to assist local groups and people vulnerable to COVID-19. Examples may be to help with local charitable groups or perhaps assist seniors, including club members (past and present) who are at most risk to help minimize their contact with others (potentially arranging to deliver supplies etc.).
The working group of Louise Gardiner, Cheryl Ewing, Hubert Singh and I will develop ideas to share with the club. Your suggestions are welcome.
Zoom Meetings
In the absence of face to face meetings, we do have access to Zoom Meetings that can be arranged through the District. These are available for Committee Meetings and possibly we may consider this as an alternative to a regular meeting. For additional information on scheduling a Zoom Meeting please contact Rotarian Tom Mennill.
Your understanding of the need for these changes and your support for the work of Rotary is appreciated.
Paul Rostrup
President 2019 - 2020
Rotary Club of Kitchener
c: 226 792-1870
