March 5, 2018 Bulletin
Opening/Chair: Darlene Stevenson was the chair for the day and she asked Les Mosher to lead the group in the singing of O Canada. This was followed by a moment of personal reflection.
Visitors/Guests: There were no Rotarian visitors or guests other than our speaker Terry.
Speaker: Terry Hearn Executive Director of the United Way of Colchester County was our speaker today.
Terry has been Executive Director of the United Way since 2014. Born in Cape Breton, the mother of two has lived in the area for 25 years.
The goal of the
United Way of Colchester County is to create opportunities that improve the circumstances of people in need, right here in our community, where we live and work. Support all remains in the local area.
The United Way also wants to make people aware that there IS poverty in our community and that there are people living on the edge. With that in mind, the organization has embarked on a consultation process with local people to discuss the issue and gather data to support the case in a document called "Vital Signs" which can be found at
The United Way supports other organizations in the area including Maggie's Place, CMHA, Central Nova Women's Resource Center, CALA, the Food Bank, Homeless Shelter and others. All programs are evaluated regularly.
Terry mentioned the "211" free phone program that lets callers know what supports are available for those in need in in Nova Scotia. It is funded in partnership with the province.
The United Way is open to discussing other initiatives and partnership. In particular they would like to have more programs in the rural areas of our community.
Terry was thanked by Brian Matthews on behalf of the club.
Member Health: No report.
Announcements and Reports:
- Ken MacDonald reported that the Adventure in Citizenship team had selected Grade 11 CEC student Olivia Stevenson to go on the 4 day trip to Ottawa to learn about our government system. There are 10 students going from Nova Scotia. We will get a report on Olivia's adventure in June or July.
- Steve Gallant reported that RYLA would be held April 13th. He is looking for volunteers to assist with the day long event, interview the students etc. The event will be hosted again at the NSCC. If you are interested in helping out, get in touch with Steve.
- Ted Jordon reported on Charter Night. The committee is hoping for attendance from all Rotarians this year. The invitation has just gone out. Register yourself and guests on-line. Barbara has the Charter Night tickets. They must be paid for by the Monday before the event at the latest or the reservation will be cancelled.
- Tom Savary reported that he would be sending out an email about mentorship for Vocational service.
- Judy Nicholson reported that our next suppertime meeting would be in our usual room. If you'd like an adult beverage with supper, it would be possible to order a drink from Sherlocks and have it brought by a server to the conference room.
Happy Mug:
- Joanna was happy to discover the learn to skate program at the Legion Stadium. She also reported that her son Matthew was look for summer work.
- Wayne reported that he had had an enjoyable ski trip last week.
- Ken Banks was happy to be wearing his Toronto Maple Leafs Jersey
- Barbara Goit was happy to see Steve Gallant
- Brian Matthews was happy to be going to Mexico in a weeks time.
- Steve Gallant was also happy to be at the meeting. He had a lot to catch up on.
- His oldest son was getting married this summer.
- His daughter was going to AC in the fall.
- Steve's wife had had a successful Gall Bladder removal operation and
- He was recovering well from a bike injury he had 6 months ago.
- Dave Mills announced that Lloyd Coady has been named Volunteer for the Year for the Truro Sports Heritage Hall of Fame.
50/50: Laurie had the winner ticket but the joker eluded her so the pot builds.
Closing: 1:00 pm