Bulletin - Feb 04, 2016

Greeter: Barry
Door Duty: Donna
Sergeant at Arms: Ian
 
Meeting called to order @ 6:30 p.m. by President Cosmo
National Anthem sang by members
Invocation offered by Roger
 
Guests tonight:
Naomi Ellis – prospective Member
Katie Ganassin – MS Society, Manager of Programs and Services
Sukhi Tomana – MS Society, Fund Development
 
WEEKLY ANNOUNCEMENTS
Jack G – In his role as President Elect, Jack would like to start planning for his upcoming year as President.  He needs to confirm Directors and Club Goals as soon as possible.  He would like to have input from all Members at an upcoming meeting.

Donna – We are only short one volunteer required to count on February 22nd, for the Sidney by the Sea 50/50 Draw.  Once all spots are filled, the list of volunteers will be distributed.

Tara – Members agreed to participate again this year in the upcoming 4th Annual “Bowl For Kids’ Sake” fundraising event, hosted by Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Tara will send confirmation that we will be bowling on April 15th at Miracle Bowling Lanes in Sidney.

Cosmo – Brian Casey sent an email thanking our Club for the impact our support has made on his life.  In May 1975, our Rotary Club sent him to Ottawa as part of the Adventures in Citizenship program, which has resulted in life-long benefits. 
 
PROGRAM:  Katie Ganassin & Sukhi Tomana – MS Society
Katie gave a presentation on the history of the MS Society, and the causes and effects of MS.  It affects 100,000 Canadians / 9,000 in BC / 3,000 on the Island with 2,000 of this number from Nanaimo south.  This autoimmune disease attacks the central nervous system, with major effects on the brain and spinal column.  Three times more women than men are affected, with the majority of victims experiencing onset between the ages of 15 and 40.  It has significant impacts on lives.  Unemployment rates average 80%.
 
Sukhi gave a presentation on fundraising for the organization. The Victoria chapter raises $800,000 to $900,000 annually.  50% of funds raised are sent to the National office to support research, and 50% stays in the region for local programs and services.  Funds are primarily raised by the Cowichan Valley Grape Escape Bike Tour ($400,000 last year), the MS Walk ($150,000 last year), and the Carnation Drive and BBQ that are part of MS Awareness month in May of each year.  Details of these events are on their website.
 
Sukhi thanked Members for the continued support our Club has provided by hosting a carnation booth each year during the Carnation Drive.  She also asked us to consider other fund development support ideas.  She suggested our Club could consider supporting their efforts to set up and/or fund Yoga Classes in Sidney for MS victims.
 
Barry presented Katie and Sukhi with a certificate of appreciation, which pledges 10 polio vaccinations to be submitted in their names by our Rotary Club.
 
SERGEANT AT ARMS
Ian levied various fines tonight – Jack G for mixing up a guest announcement, Tara for having her phone on, Barry just on principle, and Roger because it has been awhile.
 
Happy Dollars - Ian also collected Happy Dollars from Sukhi, Jack P in recognition of his wedding anniversary, and Cosmo who is happy but can’t remember why.
 
50/50 DRAW
Naomi was the winner, but didn’t draw the lucky marble....better luck next week.
 
NEXT MEETING:  February 11th – Leta will host the Adventures in Citizenship event.
Greeter and Note taker:  Maria
Door Duty:  Rob C
Sergeant at Arms:  Barry
 
Meeting adjourned. 
 
Minutes prepared by Donna