Chair: Ken MacLean

 

Guest Speakers: Margo Rebut and Mary Teed

 

Mary Teed is Executive Director of the Colchester Adult Learning Association (CALA).  She thanked Rotary for the opportunity two sisters had as Rotary Exchange students.  One went to Brazil in the late 70’s and one to Australia in the early 80’s.   Mary has served in the Social Work field for 30 years. 

 

CALA is one of 36 learning associations in the province.   They have a connection with the Adult Learning Program at NSCC where there are 4 levels.  Students can get high school credentials, can do GED prep, and can participate in an Essential Skills program.  There is a need for digital  and video conferencing skills, “getting connected and staying connected”.   In this age of COVID, there has been an increase in students studying for GED, perhaps more time to do so right now., and some are able to enroll now just because of the option of remote learning.  There is a classroom under construction at NSCC and space at the Grinners building on Prince St. Truro.  They have hired a digital literacy instructor as this is the #1 priority right now.  Interactive programming is being developed and there will be a virtual open house in October.  There is also a partnership with Esther at Y reach with tutoring, reading and current events sessions. 

 

Margo Riebe-Butt  is a Registered Dietitian and for the past 22 years, has focused on the development, growth and leadership of healthy food programs for children. Margo facilitated and led the creation of Nourish Nova Scotia alongside grassroots supporters and provincial champions in 2012.  As the Executive Director, she collaborates with stakeholders and partners to co-create meaningful upstream change in support of healthy food environments for all children in Nova Scotia.

 

It is important to eat healthy food, enjoy healthy food, and value that food can lead to a healthier population and environment.  There are harsh numbers in NS – 1 in 7 are food insecure.  Children come to school hungry for many reasons – rushed in the morning, taking care of siblings, long bus rides, early extra-curricular activities. 95% of schools offer a breakfast program and there are various pilot lunch programs.   During these COVID times the breakfast food is delivered to classrooms.  There are choices from 3 of the 4 food groups, so vegetables and fruits are included. 

 

Nourish Your Roots program started in 2015.  The program is to raise money for schools.  Food boxes are put together with seasonal produce from local farmers.  The cost is $35 per box, and each box contains 22-25 lbs of food.  Mostly root vegetables, sometimes fruit.  Distribution is based at Truro Agromart.  You can purchase a box for yourself or purchase one to donate to someone who needs one.  Volunteers are needed to help distribute left over boxes – taking them from Agromart to Maggie’s Place. 

 

Here’s the link to buy or donate a box: https://www.nourishns.ca/nourish-your-roots-1

 

If you want to volunteer contact Margo at margo.riebe-butt@nourishns.ca and she will put you in contact with the volunteer coordinator.

 

Dave Ritcey thanked both our speakers..

 

Ken is happy to see Garth here on zoom

 

This is the first virtual induction.  Lech Krzywonos is Cheryl’s sponsor.  President Jane carried out the induction ceremony and Lech with social distancing provided Cheryl with her Rotary package and pin.  Cheryl has moved to Truro from Amherst and is currently with IBM developing the TAP (tech advantage program).  There are pilots in high schools in Cole Harbour, Spryfield, and Yarmouth.  She teaches at Mount Allison as well.  Cheryl is looking forward to volunteering with Rotary and will attend our social.  Welcome to Rotary!

 

President Jane reported that we are doing well with dues and she will follow up with those who have yet to pay. 

 

Kevin thanked those who have offered to chair a meeting this fall.

 

There is a social this Friday evening at the Round Barn Farm in Old Barns. 25 have registered so far.  Judy needs registration and payment by Wednesday noon.  Check the email invitation she has sent out.  Reminder to bring your own chair, beverage and mask. 

 

Dave Ritcey: celebrated 17^th anniversary with Amber and girls

Kevin: K-tech plumbing has now been replaced in his house

Lydia: her 3 grandchildren living with her age 2, 5, and 7 are loving the Tidal Bore Playground.  Thanks to anyone planning and constructing such a great place.

Alana: enjoyed wonderful lunch with Darlene and Sid at the Flying Apron. “The food is fantastic!”  The also included wine tasting and a visit to Burnt Coat Head.

 

Closing: Meeting adjourned at 12:56 pm, 28 zoom participants.