President Len introduced the five Rotaractors from Barbados visiting Muskoka on a Friendship Exchange to understand our culture. Paul and Rose Evans entertained them one day, teaching them to water ski. Guest Brad Cartwright took Alex under his wing for a day in his business. Paul Evans and Adrian Musters helped out in Bracebridge for Canada Day, along with the Rotaractors. Len said it has been a special time.
The Rotaractors will be taken to Dorset Fire Lookout July 4 and then to Algonquin Park, followed by a barbeque at Len and Nina’s home from 5-7 p.m. Please let Len know if you wish to participate.
Dockfest Report – Jamie Thompson: He started it and made it happen. There was absolute support from businesses in the community. Jamie thanked everyone who helped in the awesome event. There were many volunteers. Dockfest is back! Jamie thanked the planning committee, with special thanks to Rob Saunders and Jan Nyquist, and also thanked Adrian and his son for the water stunt show. New this year was the VIP area which worked well. Jamie thanked everyone and gave congratulations to Rotary.
After the meeting Rob and Adrian visited Warren Stewart who owns Prostreet Powersports. Warren was instrumental in getting all twelve motors up to operating speed and donated many hours towards helping make Dockfest a success.
Farewell Event for Exchange Student Basile – Jennifer Simpson: Jennifer thanked all who attended the farewell barbeque for Basile and all who hosted him in any way during the past year.
Paul Harris Fellow Presentation – Jennifer Simpson:
Dr. Melanie Mar grew up in Huntsville, attended McMaster U and then Northern Ontario School of Medicine. She has been in family practice in Huntsville since 2006. She helped set up the vaccine clinic at Active Living Centre during Covid and took the lead to develop the Annex Health Clinic for patients without a primary physician. Jennifer stated that no one in the community deserved a Paul Harris Fellow recognition more than Melanie Mar.
PDG Ron Strickland explained the Paul Harris Fellow process and the presentation was made to Dr. Mar.
Report on Bill Pritchard – Peter Redwood: Bill is home and recuperating well following his heart attack and quadruple heart bypass surgery. He would welcome Rotarians’ calls and messages.
Graydon Smith’s Barbeque July 13 – Peter Redwood: Volunteers will be required
Rick Wearing advised the club that Jennifer and he attended the HHS graduation ceremonies last week and presented $12,000 in bursaries to deserving students. Three were our regular bursary awards and three were related to the joint effort between the three Huntsville clubs directed to students pursuing studies in the Healthcare field.
“Christmas in July” event by Kiwanians – Peter Redwood: Volunteers will be required July 24th and 25th to hand out brochures at grocery stores.
Underwater Clean-Up July 18 at 6 p.m. – Adrian Musters: Please be present at this event co-sponsored by Scuba Shack out of Gravenhurst.
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