Posted by Nick Aroutzidis on Apr 23, 2019
April 25, 2019: Dan Matheson ( Majors Annual Address to Rotary), Gord Steed will introduce, and Robert Lightfoot will give thanks. 

Head Table:  Our President Paul Roulston, invites, Gord Steed, Ed Dujlovic, Ryan Erb, Patrick Feryn, Ian Fisher, John Fisher and Michael Fox , to join him at the head table.

Today at Rotary:  This weeks meeting was our annual Rural/Urban Night held at the Rotary Complex.. Chair Wendy Anderson and MC Michael Fox are to be congratulated for a job well done. The number of Rotarians who helped out and/or attended made this an outstanding event. Our interact students and family/friends are to be thanked as well. And of course without the following sponsors--Pelee Island Winery, Black Swan,Milky Way,Tim Hortons,,Pazzo ,Perth County Egg farmers,Festival Inn, Ardenpark, Perth County Beef Association, Queens, Fosters Inn, Perth Pork Association and the Local Food Centre. Without their support-- there would be no event.
 
Speaker Honorable Robert Black
 
One of the highlights for me-- as a "city slicker"-- is the Agricultural Wall of Fame. To honour men and women from the agricultural industry, and to hear of their contributions and achievements widens my horizons and makes me a better person. The three inductees this year were - Lorne Fell, Ken Scheerer, and Paul Verkley. We were sent an email outlining their areas and contributions should you wish more information on each of them.
 
Our guest speaker was Senator Rob Black.After graduating from University of Guelph and Queens, Rob spent some 15 years with OMAFRA where he held numerous positions. From 1987-1992 Rob was in Stratford as the first Executive Director of 4H Ontario. Rob credits 4H experiences for being where he is now--a Canadian Senator. I like the 4H motto-- LEARN TO DO BY DOING !
 
Rob outlined the role and work of our Senate. There are now 105 Senators who must retire by age 75 or earlier. There are 21 committees in the Senate with 5-12 members in each. Senators visit towns and cities for fact finding on various issues. Last year the Senate had 639 committee meetings, interviewed 2375 Canadians, and published 110 reports. I liked his comment that Senators' decisions are not based on being re-elected !
 
Rob went on to reinforce the importance of the agricultural industry--products produced, and the number of people employed by the industry. Perth County's agri- food sector generates 1.5 to 2 million dollars a DAY ! "Pat yourself on the back if you are part of this sector, and if you are one of those who benefit the fruits of their labour--say THANKS. "
 
Rob concluded with what he has learned:
--never say no to opportunities
--it's okay to make mistakes
--learning comes from opportunities and mistakes
--people and community networks are important
--mentors make a difference
--treat everyone with respect
--say and feel thanks often
--its the people that matter most
 
Senator Rob Black was introduced by Wendy Anderson and thanked by Steve Lichty
 
Scribe: Wilhelm Zitrone
 
 
Incoming District Governor Tony Sheard
 
Head Table and MC Michael Fox
 
1st Inductee into Agricultural Hall of Fame (housed at Museum) Paul Verkley
 
2nd Inductee late  Ken Scheerer .Receiving award daughter-in-law Denise Scheerer
 
3rd inductee late Lorne Fell. Receiving award wife Helen Fell
 
 
 
Rotary Announcements
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
“Dinner, Ponies and Slots” On Friday May 31st the Social Committee has arranged a bus trip for our members to enjoy the excitement of playing the casino, harness racing and savouring the award-winning buffet dinner at the Top of the Fair Restaurant at Western Fair District in London. The cost of $65 per person is a great deal as it includes dinner, gratuity and motor coach transportation. This is an opportunity for your friends and family to join you and your fellow Rotarians to not work on a project but to just have some fun together. To reserve your seat contact Roger Black at 519-625-8588 or meblack46@gmail.com. Thanks!
 
The Stratford Festival would like to extend a special spring savings opportunity for the Rotary Club. See Little Shop of Horrors, an engaging musical comedy with a twist, and save!
 
TICKETS ONLY $16 – INCLUDING ALL FEES!
 
Enjoy matinee performances of the Little Shop of Horrors on the following dates:
 
  • Monday, April 29
  • Friday, May 3
  • Tuesday, May 7
  • Monday, May 27
B-seating zone only. Use promotion code 86228 to access this special offer.
 
I hope you can take advantage of this special offer. Directed by Donna Feore, Little Shop of Horrors is brought to vivid life from the creative team that brought you The Rocky Horror Show! Experience how love can grow, with this unique musical comedy.
 
Visit our website or contact our box office, at 1.800.567.1600 to take advantage of this offer, with our thanks.
 
Make-ups: No report. 
 
April’s Attendance Committee:  Walt Bathe (I/C), Gary Morris, Roger Black, Mark Smith, Tony Carter, Patti Riehl, Guy Chadsey, Rena Spevak Orr.
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