I find it hard to believe but I am writing the December Newsletter, which means we are very nearly half way through the Rotary year. Where have the past five months gone and have we achieved the aims and objectives we so enthusiastically set out at our District and Club Assemblies. There is so much to do and, it appears, so little time to do it. As we enter the time of year when we traditionally think of our families, this may be the time to draw breath, check progress and re- commit to the projects and programmes we so enthusiastically decided to support back in May and June.
In our progress around the District Margaret and I have also had the opportunity to visit many club projects and initiatives, that have put meat on the bones of our knowledge of the diversity of club activities District wide. We have visited Talking Newspapers for the Blind, Sensory Gardens, Infants Schools, Hospices, Garden Creation Projects, Projects for Alienated Youth, Interact Clubs and many more, all being supported by Rotary Clubs. In nearly every instance the need for vocational support as well as funding has been apparent.
I would like to mention two projects in particular where there is the need for vocational hands-on support.
The Amelia Trust Farm at Barry in the Vale of Glamorgan, where young people are provided with a unique opportunity to gain a sense of personal value, self esteem, confidence, new knowledge, craft and social skills would welcome Rotary volunteers with a wide variety of skills. Ring John Stacey Marks on 01446 782030.
The second opportunity for Rotary Volunteers is The George Thomas Hospice ,Ty George,in Whitchurch, Cardiff. This is a new building for a long established hospice. A truly beautiful building, which will need a great number of volunteers to keep its gardens and environment in good order. Interested Rotarians should contact Conway Hawkins on email: Hawkins@george-thomas-hospice.org.uk
These are only two examples I am sure opportunities exist all over the District.
Since my last Newsletter clubs have continued to contribute to my appeal for £14.500 to cover the shortfall resulting from the Rotary Foundation moratorium on Individual Grants, which was imposed in July. To date a total exceeding £6.000 has been received, an excellent response but well short of the sum needed to keep the RDB programme fully funded this Rotary year.Some good news received in the last few days is that the RF moratorium will be lifted from July 2006.
There appears good support across the District for this project and a meeting of interested clubs will take place on the 8th December 2005 at the George Hotel, Brecon at 7.30pm. I would appreciate it if clubs would let me know if they are sending a representative. Alternatively, if any clubs have decided to make a financial contribution and are content to let those attending the meeting decide on the Minefield to be cleared, would they let me know as soon as possible.
The visiting GSE team from District 3190 Bangalore, India returned home on the 9th November after an enjoyable and successful visit. Team Leader Suresh and members Divya, Poornima, Bhuvan and Anoop wish to thank all the Rotarians and partners who made their stay so enjoyable and rewarding. They leave us with so many happy memories of an enthusiastic, happy and cooperative group, who we will remember for many years to come.
Margaret and I have continued to enjoy outstanding hospitality and fellowship wherever we have been this month. We have sixteen official
visits remaining and we will I know enjoy every one. Thanks to all our Rotary friends for making these visits a pleasure.
I would like to thank the clubs and Rotarians who hosted and attended the meetings attended by RIBI President Mike Webb on the 23rd and 24th November. President Mike also expresses his thanks for the hospitality and courtesy extended to him and Alison during their short stay in the District.
In concluding this December Newsletter I would like to wish all the Rotarians in District 1150 and their families a happy and peaceful Christmas and look forward to seeing many of our Rotary friends during the festive season.
Sincerely in Rotary Fellowship,
David Wiltshire
District 1150 Governor