The meeting began under the leadership of new President Grant Southwell.
The National Anthem was played, unfortunately, members were singing to themselves as the music could not be heard online. Better luck next time Jeremy.
Members toasted the Queen and Canada with their beverages of choice from their own kitchen, bar etc.
PPI Wilf provided an introduction of President Grant to the club
Grant Southwell is no stranger to Rotary or being President, in fact this is his third time at the helm. He has spent 52 years with Rotary. Rotary is in his blood, his father was a Rotarian, he has been in different clubs during his career and his family have even been involved, his wife Dianne travelled extensively with him to participate in Rotary International events and also hosted 14 Rotary exchange students. Grants children even were exchange students. His claim to fame was that he was instrumental in the development of the Rotaract program and is still actively involved in this today. Deservingly Grant is a recipient of the Paul Harris Award.
Grant is a graduate of Guelph Hospital and spent his career predominantly in municipal government. He retired in Wawa as the Chief Operations Officer which he held from 1991 to 2000. At this time, he and his wife Dianne settled in Wooler, although Dianne did continue to work until 2015, but unfortunately has since passed away.
The District 7070 Strategic Plan has been announced with four major directions, as follows:
- Do more together
- 2. Use Clear and Consistent Messaging
- Build Awareness of and Pride in the Rotary Brand
- Help Clubs take meaningful action
For the Trenton Rotary Club, Grant would like to see more “hands up projects”, continue the youth exchange, finds ways to raise funds such as the golf tournament in Sept. led by PP Tim Weaver, and a bottle drive, and be creative look to successful events of other clubs like the Port Hope Virtual Lobster Fest, Whitby’s Food Frenzy etc.
PP Deb Murray – thanked President Grant for his presentation and outlining his vision for the next few years. She too challenged members to look up and review the four-way test of Rotary.
President Grant encouraged everyone to review the 4-way test, and the history of the test. WE have an opportunity to capitalize on covid, bring in speakers from around the world. Donate the cost of our dinner – even though we’re not out for dinner attending the meeting.
PRESENTATION
President Grant presented Past President Frank with a Paul Harris Award in recognition of his time as Trenton Rotary Club President. He was also “virtually” presented with a lapel pin with two stones in honour of his 2 years in this position. PP Frank thanked his board and President Grant also sent Congrats to Bev Meiboom for her support of Frank.
100 – Centennial Committee
PPI Wilf mentioned that he has received several boxes of items from Ed Simmons, Wayne Simmons father who was a previous District Governor of Rotary, Also, other historical boxes are also available for the committee to go through as they prepare for the celebration March 2022.
Grant thanked Bert Garrett for sponsoring him into the Rotary Club of Trenton. He also thanked his incoming executive.
This is the year when “Rotary Opens Opportunities”. Zoom meetings will continue as we all evolve into the new norm. A budget has been established however with all events on hold or already cancelled, the benevolent fund has been put on hold.