As presented by Peter Roberts at the Club Handover 29th June 2009
Mid April each year Rotary has its ‘Know your Blood Pressure Day’:
• April 2008 - low blood presure, probably at the level expected for a healthy 45 year old
• April 2009 - recommended to consult GP.
The work on Pam’s new kitchen had not started then – so why did this happen – some could say Rotary Club of Kenilworth – it is generally recognised that Presidents have a stressful, but hopefully enjoyable time.
I need to thank Pam for her support. I have known her for a long time and while from time to time I had a hard time, on balance I was expecting it to be much worse.
Kenilworth is a dynamic club that is well thought of and often referred to as a positive recommendation of what Rotary is about by our District. As a Club we have lived up to the Rotary Theme for 2008-2009 ‘Make Dreams Real’.
We consistently punch above our weight. We are much more than a ‘Meeting and Eating Club’.
I must express extreme gratitude for the work of both the projects Committees – Two Castles Run & Kenilworth Festival – they have worked so well. This also applies for our main Committees of Club Service, International & Foundation and Community & Vocational Service. All these committees have worked well, probably because there was little or no interference from the President.
The same needs to be said of the work of our Press and PR guru Bob Kelly and Webmaster David Tall who between them have helped to create an enviroment which smooths the way for the Club to be recognised as our members work to make things happen. Club Finances have been controlled by Treasurer Maurice and Secretarial support from our Vice President Graham have all been important but often overlooked contributors for our success. Thank you all.
The Club’s stature within the local community and our reputation and recognition by Civic Leaders has ascended to even greater heights over the last 12 months. all is set for this to continue, making our profile stronger and stronger as we nudge towards our 50th birthday.
For the last two years when asked what we do as a Club, I am sure most of our members will think of the Two Castles Run and Kenilworth Festival. However, tonight I want to remind us of some of the other activities and successes during the year that well illustrate the variety and depth of our Club and the fellowship it generates.
District Conference Llandudno – here the club made a presentation picking up with the theme of “ordinary people doing extraordiny things.” Also a chance for the President to spend most of his allowance without trying, keeping up the share price of Diaego! As for each evening of the Conference, both pre-dinner and supper hosting were provided.
President’s Pre-Christmas at Home.
Christmas Message Meeting incorporating the Rotary Special Citizen Award.
Theatre Visits
Hampton Court Visit
Archery Evening and Fish & Chp supper instead of a club night at the Ramada.
We have now given a Letter of Intent to English Heritage to supply a Defibrillator with 24/7 access and will progress the reality of this asap.
We have fully achieved our Foundation Targets – one of the few Clubs in the District to do so.
Fellowship visits, to name a few:
You could feel the pride of the Club as Kenilworth School got to the National Finals of Rotary Youth Speaks — but regretfully were unable to attend the final and had to withdraw.
We had the Town Lecture with George Martin speaking on Sustainability.
The Tin Rattle for Alzheimers.
The Grocery Grab.
Tree of Light and Town Lights Entertainment.
Three Art Shows.
Two Sedan Chair Races.
The Tuesday Club transport rota.
The Club, mainly through Philip‘s commitments, has supported Group Study Exchange, Rotary Youth Leadership Activities, and Youth Camp visits. We are also at the early stages of supporting the formation of a potentially new Rotaract Club at Warwick University.
On a sad note, Bernard passed away peacefully in his sleep – his Last Supper being at a Rotary Meeting.
On a more cheerful theme it has been particularly pleasing to honour ‘Service above Self’ with the award of Paul Harris Fellowships to three of our memebers, John Dixon, John Kelley and David Bracegirdle, and also externally to the Club to Mike Lewis and Leamington Cycling and Athletic Club's Alan Edwards: a reminder of these activities makes me feel god about the club and I hope it does the same for you.
I believe we have made some “Dreams Real”.
For next year we may see some breaking away from traditions – Philip as your new President is hard working, well liked and I am sure he, supported by Joy, will do a good job for the Club, the Town and the Rotary movement. I would ask all of you to support him in achieving what he has planned for you – and remember the theme for the new Rotary year is “The Future of Rotary is in Your Hands”.
Thank you all.
Peter G Roberts
President
29th June 2009.