August timeline
Speakers Meeting 10th August – No business discussed tonight. We welcomed visitors Tim & Nicky Hall. Varvara Underwood was inducted as a new member by the President Rob Blackman with the congratulations of all present.
Tim & Nicky Hall shared their experiences of Puppy Raising for Dogs for the Blind. Guide Dogs | The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association. Whilst there are some strict rules on the Do’s & Don’ts, the dogs are financially supported through the Puppy years and living in the community with their hosts is essential for their future development.
Not all dogs are suitable for the blind, but the process of Puppy raising, assessments and further training enable them to be re-purposed for other roles and work amongst us. Hale, having recently left them will now go for further training with www.veteranswithdogs.org.uk one of many alternative providers to assist people living in the community with working dogs.
Business Meeting – 24th August, Greetings from Kensington and Chelsea. The Treasurer presented budgets based on last years spend and planned reserves. With the dissolution of Gillingham Rotary discussion was given to covering the additional cost of the Kids Fun Day and perhaps extending our catchment area for shoe boxes. Likewise, the youth competitions and the importance of giving the schools in Gillingham and neighbouring towns and opportunity to take part.
A donation to The Shaston Shantyers was agreed for equipment. Thanks, received from The Shaftesbury Town Silver Band, also Make a Wish thanked Shaftesbury Primary RotaKids via us for their efforts and funds raised at the Sponsored Swim. Sturminster Newton confirmed their continued support for Youth Competitions and Kids Fun Day. Members were reminded that the twinning weekend was booked with the Dutch for the weekend of April 16th to 19th.
Directory – work continues to finalise entries and get the publicity distributed and the live link on the Shaftesbury Rotary website. Sponsorship has been received and pledged from local businesses.
Paul Harris Award - Win Harvey was awarded her second Paul Harris in recognition of many years' service, including her time as Treasurer. Congratulations from all.
Business Partners - During the discussion regarding the budget, we are reminded of the financial contribution made by Business Partners and the importance of keeping them informed and welcoming them to attend and support the events that we organise.
