Tuesday was an eventful meeting with a presentation from Jennie Herring about club flexibility. Jenni talked about clubs now having the freedom to choose their own way of operating. Some don’t meet every week like we do. Instead some spend that time on projects such as filling ERKs (Emergency Response Kits) during the time they used to hold meetings. Should we have meetings or “doings?” Let me know what you think.
Jennie Herring
One of the privileges of being president is to induct a new member into our club. This week Ian Wallis became a member of Howick Rotary. Ian has had a varied and career including stints as a professional photographer and a city councellor in Upper Hutt. Ian, we look forward to getting to know you as you involve yourself in our many activities.
Dave with Ian Wallis
Our evening was tinged with sadness as we said goodbye to Marie Carette our exchange student from France. Marie has added to our club activities with her enthusiasm, charm and pleasant personality. We will miss her and I know she will miss all her “uncles and aunts” in Howick. David Fels was her counsellor during her time with us and he spoke eloquently on our behalf and presented her with a joint France / All Black rugby jersey and a greenstone pendant that she will treasure. All those present signed a card and included personal messages for Marie.
Marie Carette
At Changeover I announced that our club will be involved in a joint project with our neighbouring clubs in Howick and Pakuranga including Highbrook in a project to make Howick and Pakuranga pest free. This imaginative and challenging project is in its formative stage and you will hear more about it over the next few months as we get some structure in place.
Auckland City Council through Howick Board are enthusiastic about the project and are involved in the planning process and have committed funding to help make it a reality. On Tuesday our speaker will be one of the council staff who will be involved in our project talking about the scope and challenges involved. This is an opportunity to invite family, friends and anyone who is interested in becoming involved. Just make sure David Owen has enough notice for the caterers.
Bookarama is happening in October. We all know how important it is as our only significant fundraiser for our charitable work. I urge everyone to become involved and to support the organising team.
“As Rotarians together we make a difference!”