Wednesday 22 December 2010
The President's Column
Final column for 2010
In the true Christmas spirit there have been a number of wonderful Rotary events during December;
Carols in the Park: A Rotary tradition over many years. This year’s event, which was superbly organised by Bradley Ayres in conjunction with Strathfield Council, was a great night. It is estimated that over 2,000 people were in attendance and were entertained by some 50 singers and performers. The BBQ and raffle raised nearly $3,500 which was a wonderful result.
Adults Christmas Party: A nice relaxing evening (except for the microphone/piano dropping President!) of singing and fellowship. We were thoroughly entertained by three delightful young ladies – Stephanie Britten and Priscilla & Evitta Issa who all had voices like angels.
Childrens Christmas Party – Connie Galletta again organised a lovely evening with 44 adults (but only 29 Rotarians) and 30 children attending. Thank you Connie - from all the big kids.
Cape Cabarita Community Carols Evening – Steve Taylor again involved Strathfield Rotary in the collection of the toys from their Giving Tree. There were sufficient toys and presents to fill the boot and back seat of my Commodore. The presents have already been delivered to the Salvation Army, in Surry Hills, for distribution on Christmas Day. Thanks to Steve and the Cape Cabarita residents for your generosity.
National Night at the Movies to celebrate Rotary’s 105th anniversary 20th Century Fox has offered Rotary pre-release rights to the movie Conviction. PDG Lloyd Roever is arranging for a combined Burwood/Concord/Breakfast Point and hopefully Strathfield screening at Burwood Westfield Cinema. It is proposed that the evening will involve food and fellowship. Funds raised from this night will go towards the “End Polio Now” campaign and is expected to raise some $600,000. The 23 February, unfortunately for Strathfield, coincides with our normal Wednesday night meeting – so a decision will need to be taken soon whether we can participate or not.
The Shirley funeral fund, thanks to the personal generosity of Rotarians and friends the Shirley fund has been oversubscribed! A wonderful effort. Many people opened not only their hearts but their wallets for Shirley. Suggestions are being sought as how to best use the surplus funds in Shirley’s memory. It is not considered feasible to refund on a pro-rata due to the varying $amounts received.
Next meeting – Wednesday 12 January: Social/Fellowship evening at Strathfield Croquet Club Please let me or Tony Lanzafame know if attending by Monday 10th at the latest.
First Dinner Meeting next year – Wednesday 19 January with guest speaker plus a presentation from our four RYLA nominees who will tell us of their experiences gained at the Blue Gum Lodge Seminar on 8-15 January.
Don't forget that current Club information is always available on our website
I wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous new year
President Pete