John Fortney's father passed away on June 29th after a battle with cancer. John appreciated the opportunity to be part of his circle at Sauble Beach during this isolation period. The funeral was on July 9th. You have received details through the office.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our group was supposed to play a game but ended up with a round-robin Let's Be Personal. Just like a conversation around a lunch table on Friday. It was great to hear more about our fellow members.

 

But Jay, you will still have to organize an in person farewell when we are back to 'normal'!!

 

Friday's lunch started with departing board members Don Brooks, Alex Brown, Mary Lach and Lorna Johnson thanking Kevin for his work this year. They found it rewarding and productive. They applauded his energy, drive and direction. He is a great Rotarian and steward at a time of difficult decisions. Lorna has moved to Victoria BC so is searching for the right club to join there.

 

Glenn and Brigitte serenaded Kevin with a special song. Check out the full version on the link at the bottom of this article.

 

We had a TWTWTW from Past President Geoffrey Johnson - yes the world keeps revolving. And this time he wore pants!

 

Past President Jeff Dobson gave Kevin words of wisdom. Kevin, you have completed your term and have the title of Past President for life - maybe even esteemed. You faced the challenges and completed your tasks.  Find a way to fill your time and take a break but don't disappear. And don't expect Carol to answer every time you call.

 

Kevin talked about how this pandemic is different. The flu of 1918-20 killed 55,000 Canadians and SARS had 44 deaths in Canada. We don't know yet where we are going with this.

 

But he also spoke of Highlights - the Scholarship lunch, the tribute to Peter Naylor for his donation of a solar system to a school in Ghana and our final fabulous live lunch in March done by the Women's Initiatives Committee. We still need dates for our Steam Whistle fundraiser which has moved to the fall and he really missed the opportunity to drive the golf club at Camp Scugog.

 

The Presidential Oath was administered to John Fortney and virtual pins were given out. Kevin received a gift from the club of a week's lodging in Neil Phillips' and Mardi Michels' home in Provençal.

 

John closed the meeting by saying he would remember not to peak too soon, to look after your parents and how lucky we are as Rotarians in our diversity and ingenuity.

 

 

 

The International Service Committee is delighted that the Philanthropic Fund has donated $5,000 to Kuenzi Foundation for their COVID needs in Togo Africa.

 

The Charitable Foundation has extended the matching of funds to July 31st.  Over 65 and received a tax-free gift of $300 from the federal government on July 6th? Many seniors need it more than others.