President Barb opened with O Canada, toast King and coutry RI, 4Way test.
Malcolm introduced Captain John Savage of St Thomas Salvation Army
Captain Savage thanked Rotary for its work in the Community. He has come recently to St Thomas from Alberta. The church does all the spiritual acts of service, but excels at meeting and supporting people where they are at. He would like to do himself out of a job, but by his own admission, he quoted God "The poor will always be with you" Luke22:11.
William Booth started the Salvation Army 1865 in England to minister to the down and out. His church has about 100 or so in church on Sundays. He spoke with affection of "Messy Church" once per month when all family members worship together. Their Mobile meal vehicle and Drive through meal service stands out in the community. The food truck purchased in 2018 is available for Disaster Response. It appears downtown on Monday evenings to serve the homeless. 11000 meals were served last year.
The Thrift Store on Edward St and 1st Ave is also a point of service to the community. They sell new mattresses at a low price point. Their community services operate from the store so they can offer needed services that are not offered by other organizations. Their Integris-funded service can funnel money to those who are behind in mortgage payments. Financial (and other) counseling is offered at the same time. Of note are the Salvation Army's coat giveaway, The Christmas Kettle drive (now you can give digitally at some kettles). The local Salvation Army Band has been disbanded (sorry for the pun) because of failing health of the leader.
Below President Elect Mark thanked Captain John Savage.
Missed last week: Malcolm thanked Rob Flack for speaking to us see below;
Announcements:
Next week: Mayor Joe Preston. Come to hear Wed at noon how he is an instrument for growth in St Thomas!
We heard about personal issues from 2 members, First Pat has some health issues and will be stepping aside from selected activities. Spouse Geroge is in hospital. Second, Maggie is attending the funeral of her son. Our hearts are heavy for them.
Malcolm recommends this newsletter to be up to date with Polio Eradication: https://imembersdb.com/Ezbulletin2/preview2.cfm?ezBulletinID=128
From the Amarok Society:
Dear Malcolm and Barbara,
We would like to thank you and your Rotary Club of St Thomas for your generous support of our initiatives in the developing world. Through your donation, you are bringing opportunity to the lives of children who want to learn and women who want to make a difference in their communities. You have opened doors for them to a brighter, self-directed future. Please pass along to your club our deep gratitude, and that of all the families whose lives you are transforming.
Warmly, Grace
50/50 won by Barbara
Happy Finns
Barb- Thanking Pat for sharing her health issues, Thinking of Pat and George, Fire Fighters (from 3 units) bravery saved a block in Aylmer from being wiped out.
Ron- Thinking of Pat and George, fish still in his pond, their toy Poodle
Pat- daughter, grandchildren, rest in Florida, safely home, fish survived in their pond
Mark- Thinking of Pat and George, Kids in Welland, Safe travel
Gerry Catharine- visited an Italian Rotary Club in Tampa, Miss America 2000, Columbia Restaurant, Mangrove reserve, Catharine's sister coming for you guessed it-golf pool food, Thinking of Pat and George, Catharine speaking in Strathroy, Discovery Tour route set for destination St Mary's
Trudy- Thinking of Pat and George, visiting us today from Greece by zoom because Nick's sister passed, recommends flying United Emirates
Barb- Condolences to Nick
Trish- Vacation Myrtle Beach, Captain Savage, Thinking of Pat and George
Stew- Vacation
Nancy- Portugal has great food and wine. birthday, Thinking of Pat and George, support the upcoming Spring Extravaganza 1Apr setup starts at 10 am