1. Adrian DeCoo related his story of how he managed to secure a large donation from E - Cycle in Waterloo [ $1,500.00 e - bike] when out putting up Online Auction signs on Sunday, Oct. 28th. The owner approached him asking about the auction so Adrian emailed him our letter and he agreed to assist us. Wonderful job, Adrian!

 

2. John Webster was happy about completing his marathon the other weekend after having run it before when his experience was less than stellar after hitting "the wall". He was also involved in the "Run Kitchener Project" which his goal is to run every street in Kitchener. His accomplishment in doing so is admirable.

 

3. Lew Ford was happy to report that his health is improving after a recent set back. he also just got back from a three week trip to Austria which he and his wife Inge thoroughly enjoyed, especially , meeting up with a former exchange student from years past.

 

4. Howard Pell is happy to stay involved with donating blood for the 50th time next week and would like to invite any other members to join him in getting 50 donations next Tuesday at the clinic in Waterloo.
 

This week President Richard recognized Ernie Ginsler for his contributions to the Peace project presentation at the Basillie Governance and Innovation building last week and Ray Taylor for being involved in the Qualifications training for Rotary.

Not done this week.

1. Howard spoke to the final Nov. 30th sale of Car Draw tickets at the Aud and encouraged members to sign up on the online system. He had 10+ members already but is looking for at least 20.

 

2. Cheryl Ewing let members know that the sign up for the Caborca (January 2019) and the Nogales (February) trips will be out soon, so if you are interested in going this year, please let her know.

 

3. Jim Phillips gave an update on the progress so far with the Online Auction. This year we managed to enter 139 items [up 40%] from last year; along with 9 sponsors [up 4 from previous years]. He felt the putting out of almost all our signs on Oct. 27th weekend at prime spots in Kitchener may have assisted. So far the number of bidders is better than last year but encouraged members to let family, friends and colleagues know about our auction by email etc. The bids have totaled over $10,000 with 39% of the retail value. The auction has over 900+ items listed so lots to choose from. Jim let members know that Neil & Gary will need assistance when distributing the auction items from our warehouse on Webster St. in Kitchener on Nov. 24th from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Contact either Neil or Gary to sign up for a 2 to 3 hour shift that day starting at 8:30 am. Let them know your preference of morning or afternoon and they'll let you know when to show up.

 

4. Paul Rostrup reminded members that Dec. 10th meeting is our AGM so he'll be sending out emails requesting members to sign up for Board elections for 2019 - 20.

 

5. Richard made members aware of the up coming 'Magic Christmas concert' set for Sunday, Nov. 25th at 2:00 pm in Burlington that is put on by Rotary. He'll send out more information at a later date.

Tom Mennill and Richard had their numbers drawn today for a pot of $74.00 but were unsuccessful in drawing the jack of hearts.

To begin our meeting, Bill Proctor had organized our Remembrance Day occasion with a video accompanied by a minute of silence. His secretary's prayer included our respect and admiration for the sacrifices of our soldiers and military personal now and then.

 

Our guest, Elena Shpinel, from a Moscow Rotary club presented our president Richard with a banner from her club. He then presented her with one of our club banners.

 

Richard then introduced our speaker, Julie Marshall, from the city of Kitchener, Cultural Events Co-ordinator. She spoke regarding our assistance that we did in volunteering for the 'Cruisin' on King' event last July. She thanked club members for being involved and greatly appreciated our involvement in the 29th annual event. Being a popular event attracting over 25,000 people; volunteers are essential for the smooth running of the event. She again invited our club to assist at next year's event on July 12th, 2019 and encouraged any feedback on how to enhance the festival experience for participants, festival goers and volunteers alike. Several members made some comments to help her plan the event.

 

Richard thanked Julie by presenting her with our certificate of thanks that helps 100 children be immunizes against polio. She was thrilled that her name would by doing so.

Closing Remarks & Reminders