Hello from your new President for 2021/22

Dear Fellow Members,

First of all I wanted to say a sincere thank you to our Past President John Summerside for looking after our Club during this most difficult of years.  John has always been available and, despite no opportunity for face-to-face meetings, led the club with enthusiasm, good humour and integrity.   I am delighted that John will continue to play a very active role in our club going forward. I am suggesting a good opportunity for us to say our personal thanks to John could take place at our first face-to-face meeting at the Victoria, which we are hoping may be possible in July. We will ensure all members are notified once we are clearer from Government guidelines as to when we can meet again face-to-face. 

Starting a new role always brings with it twinges of both excitement and apprehension.  Becoming President of the Rotary Club of Sidmouth is no exception, but I feel well anchored with the team we have in place, both in Club Officer roles and on Council. Together with this excellent team, I look forward to serving as your President for the coming year. I look forward to our re-connection over the coming weeks, and being able to meet our new members face-to-face rather than on Zoom!  

Never let us forget that Service above Self is about helping others but also about our role in fellowship together.  As fellow members we can achieve far more by working together as the Sidmouth Rotary Club team. 

A final opportunity for members,  there is just one role to fill on your council team  - which is Chair Foundation and International -  please would members consider volunteering for this role so we can have a full house. I am  happy to chat to any member who would like to have a private chat first. 

Your Club Council will meet by Zoom on Wed 7^th July at 11am. As it is unlikely that we can hold a face-to-face business meeting this month, I am suggesting that any members who would like to “observe” the first meeting of your council can join us. David Hodge, the incoming Club Secretary (davidhodgerotary@btinternet.com)  will send the joining details to any member who wishes to observe the meeting. 

One proposal Council will consider will be to bring the Council Meeting and Business meeting to the first Wednesday in the month at Anchor Pub – and if agreed by Council, the Secretary will advise all members. 

Finally lets all take every opportunity to introduce new members to our club as that will be the secret of a lasting role for Rotary Service in Sidmouth. 

Kind regards

Alan Clarke 

President 

2021/22

Rotary Club of Sidmouth