7:15 am, Wednesday, August 8

 

 

Jim Gish

Downtown Bridge Project

 

 

 

 

Judson Hescock

 

 

Donna Geno

Sabina Ward

Florence Tardrew

Dray Ward

Jim Gish

Trevor Schnoor

Greg Meltzner

 

 

Greg Meltzner, Rotarian visiting from Santa Rosa, California, told about the forest fire there two years ago that claimed 6,000 homes.  This is a timely story, as California is suffering many fires right now.  He told of the many losses, including the loss of life, recovery efforts, and the assistance Rotary clubs from around the country offered.

 

 

Juddy mentioned thank you notes the club had received from several local agencies for our donations this year, in particular the Land Trust, Middlebury Regional EMS, and Memorial Sports Center.  The latter received a grant of $10,000 toward their capital campaign.

 

 

Juddy opened discussion on the proposed budget for the current fiscal year, ending on June 30, 2019.  Because of the change in the meal plan this budget proposes setting the dues at $510, down from $560 last year.  Juddy explained that the Operating Account is to cover routine expenses of the club, including the costs of breakfasts, other meals, and certain miscellaneous operating expenses. On a motion by T, second by Bill Brooks, the Operating Account budget was approved in a unanimous voice vote.  Juddy then presented for consideration the Service/Fundraising Account, which is for monies raised by the club, associated expenses, and cash donations.  Geoff Conrad moved to approve the Service Budget, and Ben Fuller seconded the motion.  In discussion Kevin Newton stated that he and Neil Mackey had requested that the Service Budget include a line item allotting $3,000 to youth sports, and they did not understand the reasoning of the executive committee, which had rolled that money into the funds under the purview of the Charitable Assessment Committee (CACo).  Kevin moved to table consideration of the Service Budget until it could be discussed at a club assembly.  Motion seconded by Kathy Nilsson and approved on a show of hands.

 

In separate discussion Ben reminded the club that the reserve fund, which the board had decided last year needed to be replenished, had actually been depleted further by the deficit run during the previous year.  The matter was referred to a future board meeting for further discussion.

 

 

Bill Brooks--explained about the many local connections being highlighted in the World War I exhibit just opening at the Sheldon Museum.

Spence--celebrated birthdays with two grandchildren.  Urged everyone to vote in the primary election on August 14.

Jason--his entire family gathered recently to celebrate his parents' 50th anniversary.

Terry--approves of Ron's haircut.

Ron--welcome to our visitor from Santa Rosa, where Ron has personal connections.

Eric--saluted David for his success with the student exchange with Sherbrooke.  Welcome to our guests.

 

 

Scott Needham introduced Jim Gish, Middlebury's community liaison for the downtown construction project.  Jim explained that we are 6 months into a four year project.  The goal for 2018 is to complete the drainage system, which has involved blasting and later boring tunnels into solid rock to keep the lowered tracks free of water runoff.

 

Minutes Submitted by Spence Putnam