2019 - 20 Jane & Maggie's Year
This year we have a joint Presidency with Jane & Maggie
As new joint presidents we are looking forward to enjoying the fun and fellowship of our club.
It will be a busy year with an interesting programme, with a focus, as always, on supporting our local communities, and our International partners in Uganda, Sri Lanka & Nepal.
Our relationship and involvement with local schools and Rota kids is being supported whole heartedly by club, as is the Memory cafe which meets the last Thursday of each month. We thank all volunteers who help. (Address on our web site).
We are also looking into a project to revamp the Dove Hospice tea room gardens in the Vale of Belvoir
We are excited about our social activities which include: Frog Racing, Grass bowling, ten pin bowling, pot luck supper, Burns Night and a Murder Mystery evening. We are also planning a weekend trip to Stratford upon Avon next year.
This year is our 10th Anniversary of the Vales Got Talent and we are predicting another special exciting final, from enthusiastic and talented individuals.
We are delighted that our strong relationship with Blue Diamond Garden Centre at East Bridgford continues, enabling us to have our annual Santa Sleigh and collection in December as well as visiting our usual routes.
DG David Hood was welcomed by club in July who entertained us and spoke about this year’s Conference in Scarborough which a few of us are looking forward to attending.
We would like to thank all our members for their support and hard work and look forward to another successful year.
4 July 2019 – District Governor David Hood
Before the DG presentation, joint Presidents Maggie and Jane announced that our Club had received a new District Award, the Cheryle Berry RotaKids Award, to be shared with Retford RC.
David gave us some background information on himself, showing his worldwide work as Export Manager of Coats Viyella, more latterly with East Midlands Chamber of Commerce on Trade Missions. He also accompanied our 2013 GSE team on the trip to Nepal. Born in Glasgow, he had links with youth with Cubs, Scouts, Youth Club Leader, moving on to Round Table, moving to Derbyshire 25 years ago, training a young Rugby squad. He moved on to his Rotary visit to the New Presidents Convention, showing us a 2 minute video from Mark Maloney that inspired the new ‘strap line’ of “Rotary connects the World” and out lining the objective of “Grow Rotary”. David was taking up the challenge working with The Chamber of Commerce and promoting the Corporate Social Responsibility programme/opportunities.
Overall an energetic, inspiring presentation that reflects his personality.
Maggie then gave a heartfelt ‘Vote of Thanks’, suggesting that his District Conference Theme of “The Difference is you” should provide a platform to grow Rotary driven by his dynamic, cheerful personality. She confessed to being born in Scotland herself, being a Scottish Highland dancer and looking forward to a “Gay Gordons” at the Conference with David?! MF/AR
11 Jul 2019 - Special Business Meeting
We had an open discussion on the way we make payments for our weekly meetings and our Annual subs.
Chris H.then put the proposal that we set up standing orders for £36/month to be paid into a dedicated account, which Treasurer Ann will set up and notify members. However, there will be flexibility for some members who wish to operate individually.
There will also be details of the Clubs account distributed, so that those who wish to pay on-line by Bank transfer(BACS), can do so.
There was also discussion on our forthcoming Special 30th Charter, with venue, dress and entertainment the main topics. There was a strong sense for a formal event, possible return to Trent Bridge and further investigation of possible entertainment.
This was followed by a "Wimbledon" quiz, won on table 2 with a pathetic 13 points out of a possible 30 AR
16 July 2019 - Sothwell Racecourse - Rotary Fund raising for DMRC
A very pleasant warm evening was enjoyed by President Jane, Keith, Adrian, Gina, David E and Judy(& friends) and Allen at this event organised by Susan Pickworth. Keith started with a win( although he had a tip from former footballer and betting shop owner Ian Storey- Moor!), but the rest of us struggled to win deciding that local Trainer and jockey family of the Skelton's were favourites in most races, so not worthy of odds on investment. So we all focused on eating fish'n'chips or ham cobs and drinking, a most enjoyable , fun event raising the profile and awareness of our wonderful organisation. AR
Visit to Hanwell Wine Estate 18th July 2019
We were welcomed by Helenka and William Brown who own the estate, on a lovely warm July evening. After initial drinks Helenka talked to us about their story and how they had set up the vineyard. After that we trooped down to the vines and were told about caring for the vines and what sort of wines were produced – much more technical than we expected – and also about their team of workers which included Luke, the dog (security and pest control).
Care for the environment and wildlife was also high on the agenda. We were only down amongst the vines for a short while but we seemed to generate a thirst the more we heard, so we headed briskly up to the barns where we were able to enjoy tasting various wines. Some of us seemed to enjoy drinking it straight away rather than enjoying the subtleties of smell and taste that was explained by Helenka! (The barns were also in use for various craft experiences such as making chairs and various art course.)
The Brown family delivered a most educational and enjoyable experience in a relaxed environment. RM
25 July 2019 EMICS – East Midlands immediate care scheme - Dr. Tim Gray
Dr. Gray, I know that one of your aims in order to raise awareness of EMICS, and of what you do, is to speak at organisations such as this
On behalf of the vale of Belvoir Rotary club I can confirm that you have certainly done that tonight
You not only travel to the scene of emergency events to help and save lives - without the facilities of a trauma unit and a hospital around you,
You obtain all your income from charitable donations,
On top of this, your trustees and doctors invest their own time in raising funds for the charity,
Whilst they, the doctors are unpaid in giving up their free time; and they cover the cost of their training
Keeping an organisation running of 26 people; whilst at the same time ensuring you have sufficient funding to support all this, is not easy
And we understand that you see a need to increase the level of service provided
It is good to note that your contribution to the community has been recognised by the highest authority in the UK – with an MBE
Some information from the latest news section of the EMICS website: item
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Angela will be walking the Leicestershire round, which is the equivalent of walking four marathons over ten days; she will donate all the funds she raises to EMICS.
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On the 1st. June there will be a charity gala concert at the Newark palace theatre in aid of EMICS and the Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire air ambulance.
Also, entered into the EMICS website, just two testimonials:
From one person – thank you Dr. Chris Press for all his help after our ‘rescue’ from our car during the storm Oscar-flooding in Hathersage.”
From another – “i am running the robin hood half marathon for EMICS because they are one of the reasons my son is alive today.”
Of these two, I can equate particularly with this second one because last February my grandson had a seizure – and our call for help was responded to within minutes.
Thank you, Dr. Gray for being with us tonight and for a very illuminating talk.
If anyone needs further details about EMICS, please contact Tim on: timgray86@hotmail.com AW
1 August 2019 Prison Education – Jim Costello
Jim Costello was the club’s guest speaker this week. A member of neighbouring Newark Castle Rotary Club, his talk centred on his experiences in the provision of education to prison service inmates, initially at Ranby and later at Nottingham and Whatton prisons.
He provided a background to UK prison’s with a population of 80 000 males and 4 000 females. He described BAME: Black & Asian Ethnic Minorities, with 14% of our population, but 25% of inmates. Young offenders (16 -21) contain 51% BAME. Cost per prisoner at £38k p.a. He first started in HMP Ranby in 2005 teaching ESOL (English to speakers of other languages). He explained the different categories of Prisons and some information about their Workshop system: Wood Mills, Plastics, Laundry, Textiles and education {Jim’s area where they offer Maths, English and IT (Sage); but now involved in Open University courses.
He outlined the different challenges posed by prisons with differing offender profiles, and provided a comprehensive and occasionally surprising overview of the attitude to education among the prison population, all delivered with humour. SC/AR
8th August 2019 Hitler’s V1 and V2 Rockets – Roger Allton
Roger Allton came to our Club to tell us about Hitler’s V1, V2 and V3 Rockets, the development which started after the Versailles Treaty and influenced by Wernher von Braun in Peenemunde research base. He went into great detail to explain the difference between the pulse-jet powered V1 and the V2 liquid fuelled rockets, and the devastating effects that these missiles had on our Country. Fortunately, RAF bombing delayed the start of the V1 offensive, allowing D-Day to proceed without disruption. The first V1s targeted UK just 7 days later.
He showed that the Vergeltungswaffe 1 FZG-76 (V1), known as the Flying Bomb or Doodlebug, was the first modern unguided missile used in wartime, with 18 foot wingspan and capable of 350mph.
Vergeltungswaffe means 'reprisal weapon'. The V1 was the German response to the British and American air assaults on their cities. Over 9000 were fired at England. The eastern and south-eastern boroughs of London suffered the most with ten hits per square mile, three times the average for Greater London.
Roger then, as a comparison, demonstrated with pictures and diagrams the Vergeltungswaffe 2 (reprisal weapon 2) was an even more sophisticated rocket and was the world's first ballistic missile, with a 53 mile high trajectory and capable of 6500 ft/sec (Mach 6), aimed at a target 200 miles away – arriving unheard at Mach2 +. Over 1300 V2s were launched on London, killing more than 2500 people and seriously injuring almost 6000.Although most London boroughs were hit by V2s, they killed more people in Deptford than anywhere else. The borough suffered nine V2 strikes, which killed nearly 300 people and injured even more. The rockets also destroyed hundreds of houses in the borough.
He described ‘Operation Paperclip’, where the USA acquired more than 1000 former German rocket engineers, culminating in the first Saturn rocket launch at Cape Canaveral in 1952
Many members of our Club were surprised at the level of technology that was available, and being used, during those times.
The concentration on our Members faces for the whole of the presentation, said without words, how interesting it was. DG/AR
15 August 2019 Bonsai demonstration – Corin Tomlinson
Our speaker on the evening, Corin, brought along a number of examples of his craft, displaying them on each of our tables: White Pine; Crab apple; Hawthorn, needle Juniper and Acer Maple. He had the Cub spellbound as he transformed an ordinary £35 garden centre shrub into a very fine oriental Bonsai tree, dramatically cutting and trimming the root system, trimming with his fingers, deciding which would be the front, giving it an interesting tilt, repotting in an appropriate Bonsai pot and adding some gravel to finish it off.
The speed of his scissor trimming of the shrubs amazed even Jane, our joint President hairdresser, or was it the thought of another side-line for her? After all he did say some of the trees were quite expensive, having one in his collection at £8k and explaining that he had witnessed at a Japanese Bonsai convention that he had attended one specimen that went for a million dollars!
Corin trimmed, bent twisted and fixed the branches into place with various gauges of wire with such dexterity to form a very artistic looking tree, which I think everyone in the room desired to own by the end of his demonstration.
Whilst Corin made it look easy, the skill obviously came from his many years of academic Horticultural study in the UK and four years spent in specialist Bonsai experience in the USA.
It was a very humorous talk by Corin, that both informed and entertained at the same time.
I heard many members say they would like to attend one of his Bonsai tuition days at his Greenwood Bonsai Studio, NG5 8PR www.bonsai.co.uk, and also attend the open W/E 7th 8th Sep 2019.
It was a pleasure to propose a vote of thanks to such an accomplished speaker. Doug Downing
12 September 209 Ecclesbourne Valley Railway –John Hastings-Thomson
John gave a detailed and interesting talk on the restoration of the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway. He also related the history of the line and it’s use placing the same in the context of social history of the area. A huge project over many years owes a lot to a number of volunteers including our own Chris Beale. The fundraising has been on a large scale and the restoration is impressive and of a superior quality.
The line is now used by many thousands of people on an annual basis and a number of themed events take place” IT
Before the meeting started a cheque presentation was made to Kieron Cooper, a Senior Patrol Leader Scout from Radcliffe for his trip in August 2020 to the Gdansk Jamboree.
The Secretary brought to our attention the Rotary Expo next 1 to 3 May (Free for Rotarians). He also requested that the Council Minutes be again be posted on the Club Web site.(AR to refer to Webmaster Mike M)
Anne delivered the accounts without question.
In David V’s absence Gordon outlined planned activities re VGT and Christmas Float
Stan mentioned the crocus planting in Radcliffe, planned for 17th October
Derek went through the duties for volunteers at the Memory Café
Chris H encouraged discussion on various issues raised in his report, in particular the importance of a successful 30th Charter celebration next May, supported by Stuart and John
Chris had identified 3 roles that need to be filled next year: Secretary; Charter Secretary and Attendance Secretary
Trevor covered the “Conflict of Interest Policy” and “Due Diligence policy” re Charity donations, both voted into the Clubs Constitution/points of Order. AR
21st November 2019 Life Education Nottingham – Guy Molyneux
Prior to the speaker presentation a cheque was presented to Sian Ashburn who is putting on a Dance Show to raise awareness of mental health issues called “Sincerity is Scary” with a further 20 pupils from her school. Sian has appeared twice in The Vales got Talent and has suffered herself from Anxiety over a period of 4 years, so is very conscious of the mental pressures facing students of her age and wants to do something to help.
Bill Banner set the scene for Guy’s presentation reminding us of the initial instant 30 years ago when Prince Charles visited Australia and came across charity work that he brought back to the UK attempting to set up a similar project through The Princes Trust. Eventually adopted by Rotary as Life Education, which Bill, Stephen Kitch, Roy Parsons and Earnest Pappin brought to our District in 1995.
Guy then picked up the baton, explaining that as a charity fund raising and depleting school budgets brought about the amalgamation with Coram on a National level. Coram being the oldest children’s charity in the UK, dealing with fostering and adoption, so making Rotary Life education the Education arm of Coram. It is now international with Shetlands, Finland, Australia and New Zealand all operational.
They still use their “Life Buses” to take into schools with Harold the Giraffe still playing a major role, but fluffy and more colourful now. They also have the ‘Life Space’ tent, as an alternative, but there have been many changes over the years, with the SCARF programme, which offers 270 lesson plans for teachers to follow up on the fantastic work that Guy and his colleagues do. Safety Caring Achievement Resilience Friendship being built on the foundations of the 5 steps: 1.connect with other people 2.Physical activity 3. Learn new skills 4. Give to others 5. Pay attention to the present moment (Mindfulness)
Another important development is “Family Learning” with parents, proving successful in relating some of the modern health issues: sugar based drinks, junk food, exercise, mental health and inevitably, the internet.
It’s easy to see why this project is successful and still developing with people like Guy connecting with children in such an informative, enthusiastic and inspiring way.
Our continued support was demonstrated with a cheque for £1000 presented to Guy at the conclusion of his excellent presentation. AR
Club Admin editSocial Night - Trevor/Roy Quiz evening
Thu 26th September 2019 at 07.00 - 09.00
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26 September 2019 Social/Trevor Quiz Evening
Prior to the quiz 3 cheque presentations were made to: Heather from Air Ambulance (£825); Henry from The Vale First Responders (£412.50) and Andy from Trent First Responders (£412.50). The funds being raised from our Art and Craft Exhibition held at the blue Diamond Garden Centre.
Trevor, ably assisted by his ‘go to man’ Roy prepared and set up for the usual chaotic instructions for the Quiz. Members were split into 4 tables and were asked as many questions as they could answer in a set time. TABLE 3 consisting of CB, BB, AC, DE, AF & AR came out as clear winners with 10 points. There then followed a tense play off for the individual prize where Rob and Adrian had 4 ‘sudden death’ experiences before they both got bored and Adrian conceded the box of chocolates to Rob, who passed them round to all partakers. Roy should have been awarded a special prize for keeping Trevor under control, ensuring matters were dealt with in the most efficient manner….for a ‘Trevor Quiz’….which everyone thoroughly enjoyed. AR
3 October 2019 Nottingham Castle Refurbishment – Cal Warren
Club welcomed Cal to give a talk on the refurbishment of Nottingham Castle, a site of strategic military importance since 1068, and known throughout the world and forever synonymous with a potent symbol of rebellion since the 12th Century. Cal, a Project team leader, illustrated her very interesting and informative talk with excellent photo shots and videos of the castle, its caves and grounds. She described the £30 million project and "facelift" provided by a Heritage lottery grant as the castle reflecting the wealth of 1000 years of the castle's history, it's numerous collections together with the descriptions of the lives of the people of Nottingham - altogether a challenging and ambitious project. It is hoped that this world-class visitor’s centre would pump much money into the city's economy by attracting visitors from 9.5 million population within the East Midlands area. Cal described the new visitor's centre, increased access to Nottingham's famous caves and the "life" and adventures of the renowned Robin Hood, all a part of the project and the Club thanked her and with their best wishes hoped for its successful completion and looked forward to it's opening in February 2021. Mike T.
10 October 2019Osteoporosis - Fiona Cooper -The Royal Osteoporosis Society, Development Manager.
Fiona is obviously passionate about her subject and started her talk by saying that the Society started out as the National Osteoporosis Society in 1986. It then changed to its current title, gaining royal status, when it was championed by Camilla Parker-Bowles, as she then was. Camilla became involved following the diagnosis of her mother with the disease.
Fiona gave us a detailed description of this debilitating disease. Great emphasis was laid on preventative measures we can all take from diet to our general well-being in the form of daily weight bearing and muscle strengthening exercises. It is a sad fact that today many children/teenagers spend far too much time on social media and the like and not enough time outside in the sunshine replenishing their Vitamin D supplies.
Following diagnosis of the diseasethere are a range of drug treatments available -and all are effective at reducing fracture risk
It is fairly common knowledge that our skin undergoes a complete rejuvenation however it was a great surprise to many present that our entire skeletal system also undergoes an eight to nine year complete regeneration. One puts on bone mass until mid 2o’s, then plateaus up to 40, then comes the age related dip, but there is a misconception that Osteoporosis is a female problem.
This Charity is fortunate to have Fiona Cooper in their team. She asked us to make sure our families and friends are made aware of the preventative measures to take to avoid becoming crippled with this disease in later life.
Further details about the condition and to access support please visit theros.org.uk CC
17 October 2019The Chesterfield Canal – Michael Edwards
Our visiting speaker, Michael, gave us a most interesting talk on the restoration of the Chesterfield Canal. Michael had, as befits someone whose second career is in photography, a lavish selection of photographs which memorably showed the “Before” and “After” of the impressive restoration of locks, tunnels and the environs of the canal.
Using a range of funds, the first 12 miles of the section from Worksop to Chesterfield has been restored by the Chesterfield Canal Trust, which adds to the already navigable section from the Trent at West Stockwith to Worksop. The Trust has the ambition of completing the remaining renovations within the next 10 years, and also plans to construct a link via the Rother Valley to the South Yorkshire Navigation, thereby enabling canal users to achieve a “circular” trip
Most of us had no knowledge of the Chesterfield Canal before the talk, but it was clear from the enthusiastic reception that many Club members will seek it out in the not-too-distant future. AF
24 October 2019Cambodia – Samuel Mark
Mike Bell, IPP of Southwell Rotary Club, visited to thank us for our support to his race event at Southwell Races to raise funds for DMRC (Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre)at Stanford Hall, which raised £17k. So they are repeating it this year and also at Doncaster and Haydock Park Races. Assistant Governor Trent, Susan Pickford also had a message about the importance of our delegates voting on the 16th November.
Our Speaker tonight was Samuel, an 18 yr. old student in his 2nd year at Brackenhurst Campus, Nottingham Trent University, who recently returned home after completing a 4 week student volunteer program (Camps International) working in Cambodia, with the help of our £250 support cheque. He competently delivered a very interesting talk about his work experience in the rural areas around Siem Reap supported by a well-chosen collection of supporting photos.
He neatly conveyed to the audience what the daily living conditions were like – the heat, the humidity, insects, roads etc. and the friendliness of the Cambodian people.
Supported by his photos he covered the range of projects he was able to participate in during his time there.
These comprised:
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Building a sanitary toilet unit for a family which was badly needed as the youngest daughter was dangerously ill with dengue fever- she survived thanks to medicines the group raised funds to provide.
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Upgrading of a road so that food vehicles (and others) could supply the village during the rainy season.
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Bricklaying to help in the construction of a new house for the family and constructing a chicken coop.
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Assisting in the planting out of rice plants in the paddy fields.
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Replanting in a rain forest.
He also gained his PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) card which is his international licence permitting him to go SCUBA diving. They also managed a school visit as well as a trip to the World heritage site at Angkor Wat. DG/AR
31 October 2019 - "Radioactivity - friend of foe?"
Professor Warwick has researched the environmental effects of radiation for the past 35 years at Loughborough University. His talk posed the question was Radiation a friend or a foe. He pointed out that we are surrounded by radiation, even bananas have a very small amount of radioactivity! Henri Bacquerel discovered radioactivity in 1896and in the 1920s and 30s many people thought it was beneficial to human health. In fact the use of radioactive chemicals in applications such as luminous watch dials led to many deaths. The professor also described how technical incompetence led to disasters such as Chernobyl and Three Mile Island. In contrast to these problems, the talk then covered the many valuable uses of radioactive materials in modern radiotherapies. The professor received sustained applause for his expert presentation of this difficult subject.
14 November 2019 The origins of everyday sayings – Peter Hammond
Peter arrived half way through the meal due to localised floods but gave an enthusiastic and well delivered presentation on the derivation of many day to day sayings that we take for granted. He frequently engaged the audience looking for suggestions for the meaning of the huge variety of sayings. But do we ever wonder where they come from? Some date back to the Tudor period, while many others are nautical in origin. Peter told us about some of the fascinating and sometimes surprising origins of many of our everyday sayings, and reminded us too of the many local ones such as 'It's black over Bill's mothers' and 'Get to bed before the 10 o'clock horses come.'; ‘pulling your leg’ referred to finishing off people who had been hanged, by pulling their legs! The evening really wasn't a load of Codd’s wallop! AR/CR/PJ/PH
21st November 2019 Life Education Nottingham – Guy Molyneux
Prior to the speaker presentation a cheque was presented to Sian Ashburn who is putting on a Dance Show to raise awareness of mental health issues called “Sincerity is Scary” with a further 20 pupils from her school. Sian has appeared twice in The Vales got Talent and has suffered herself from Anxiety over a period of 4 years, so is very conscious of the mental pressures facing students of her age and wants to do something to help.
Bill Banner set the scene for Guy’s presentation reminding us of the initial instant 30 years ago when Prince Charles visited Australia and came across charity work that he brought back to the UK attempting to set up a similar project through The Princes Trust. Eventually adopted by Rotary as Life Education, which Bill, Stephen Kitch, Roy Parsons and Earnest Pappin brought to our District in 1995.
Guy then picked up the baton, explaining that as a charity fund raising and depleting school budgets brought about the amalgamation with Coram on a National level. Coram being the oldest children’s charity in the UK, dealing with fostering and adoption, so making Rotary Life education the Education arm of Coram. It is now international with Shetlands, Finland, Australia and New Zealand all operational.
They still use their “Life Buses” to take into schools with Harold the Giraffe still playing a major role, but fluffy and more colourful now. They also have the ‘Life Space’ tent, as an alternative, but there have been many changes over the years, with the SCARF programme, which offers 270 lesson plans for teachers to follow up on the fantastic work that Guy and his colleagues do. Safety Caring Achievement Resilience Friendship being built on the foundations of the 5 steps: 1.connect with other people 2.Physical activity 3. Learn new skills 4. Give to others 5. Pay attention to the present moment (Mindfulness)
Another important development is “Family Learning” with parents, proving successful in relating some of the modern health issues: sugar based drinks, junk food, exercise, mental health and inevitably, the internet.
It’s easy to see why this project is successful and still developing with people like Guy connecting with children in such an informative, enthusiastic and inspiring way.
Our continued support was demonstrated with a cheque for £1000 presented to Guy at the conclusion of his excellent presentation. AR
Thu 28th November 2019 Weekly Meeting
Special General Meeting and Business Meeting
Prior to our SGM and Business meetings, two cheque presentations were made.
1. To Pat Harland, Chair of Bingham & District Audio Magazine. This is an annual gift to cover the production of December's Magazine each year.
2. To Emma Lodder, representing Fay and Matt, the parents of Harry, a 6 year old boy who has suffered serious medical issue since contracting MRSA when he was 1 year old. He has a very rare EOE condition, which make hime allergic to fruit and vegetables, affects his white blood cell count and mass cell syndrome, sleep apnia, severe asthma and has difficulty walking. The NHS cannot cope with him so the parents with the help of friends are working to raise £10k to cover private health care.
Jane opened with her "food for thought"- "Friendship - the foundation upon which Rotary is built; Tolerance - no more explanation required!"
Peter Jordan took us through the accounts, which were carried.
Officer nominees: Gordon Marsh as President Nominee; Anne Daly as Treasurer. We are still awaiting a nominee for Secretary.
Community - David E. brought some discussion on whether there should be a donation to EMICS, which could be achieved by diverting the £1k from Candleby Lane school. Changes had taken place at the Head and Deputy level, so they were unable to progress their outdoor proposals. A proposition was made to this effect and was carried. Mike Morris to take over as Chair of Community next year.
Chris Henley stimulated some discussion about the changes regarding the Charity Commissions Advice note, such that we have separate parts of our Business Meetings: Club Meeting and a Charity Trust Meeting..5 Trustees to oversee the Charity Trust Account, with further discussion on the liability of the Trustees, clarified from a legal perspective by Ian.
Discussion with regard to Council Minutes concluded that it was best to circulate them before future Business Meetings, rather than on our Club Website.
5th December2019 Christmas Float No Thursday Meeting
Bingham Carnarvon Estates Christmas Float route
12th December Christmas Float No Thursday Meeting
Cotgrave Daleside Christmas Float Route
19 December 2019 Christmas Dinner
Mike Twells started the official proceedings with a “Christmas Grace”, using the first letters from Christmas to spell out aspects of Rotary, a thoughtful ‘starter for 10’….out of 10! We progressed through our excellent Dinner presented by Ashmores and their efficient ‘serving wenches’. Gordon then updated us on our Christmas Float performances with a total of £5291.30, £103 up on last year and with our Garden Centre returns of £2476.21(so far!, this week end to come!). Overall an exceptional year, to which our ‘new’ Rudolph float will, no doubt, have contributed to. Gordon offered his thanks to Towers, Santas, Collectors and David V/Jon Sheppard for the ‘new float’, but without Gordon’s hard work, it would not be possible.
Denis also gave an update on our 10th year of the Vales Got Talent, again thanking all the Rotarians and their husbands/wives and partners for their continued support.
Then followed “Here come the Girls” surprise special entertainment singing 5 songs ranging from “With a little help from my friends”, “Hi Ho Silver Lining” and finishing with “Jingle Bells Rock” with excellent keyboard accompaniment from Margaret Fell. The ‘Secret Choir’ was composed entirely of14 Rotarian’s partners, all excellently organised and rehearsed by Carmel and Derek, thanks folks!
The Bernie Ashman Trophy was then presented to a very worthy winner in the enthusiastic manner in which he engages all the Club, the effervescent Chris Henley (…or should it be “Dame Christine Henley??”
The Club also showed their appreciation to Jo, Mark and their Ashmore team for their service throughout the year.
The Annual Sergeant at Arms Special from Alan F and Rob, generally extracting the fun from various individual’s Float performances/experiences, all very entertaining.
Finally guitarist David V lead our Festive sing song, Dinging and Donging, followed by Silence and ending by “wishing you a Merry Christmas” AR
9 January 2020Discussion Evening
Joint Presidents Jane and Maggie wanted to open up discussion on our forthcoming Big Birthday 30th Charter celebration evening on the 30th April following some suggestions made by members. Do we produce some form of historical brochure or simply a ‘continuously rolling PowerPoint Presentation’; after considerable healthy discussion a vote was taken and the PowerPoint presentation would be prepared. Various initiatives and events were identified and in particular invitation to former members (any names to be channelled through President Elect Chris Henley). The speaker for the evening was announced as Gary Bell (he was born the son of a Nottinghamshire coalminer. He left school at the age of 16 without sitting any exams and did a variety of jobs including coalminer, apprentice mechanic, fork lift truck driver, fireman, bricklayer and pork pie factory production line worker. During the 1970s he was a football hooligan and general reprobate and ended up going to prison in 1979. He then spent the next two years living rough and travelling around Europe before going back into education aged 21. Seven years later he graduated with a degree in Law from Bristol University and became a criminal barrister. He has been at the Bar for 30 years and became a QC in 2012. Ever restless he has continued to try and add new strings to his bow. He tried stand-up comedy and was Midlands Comedian of the Year in 2008. He also qualified as a pilot, presented his own show (The Legalizer) on BBC1, writes for a number of newspapers and magazines and has written two books, Animal QC (an autobiography) and Beyond Reasonable Doubt (a legal thriller which has been optioned by the BBC.) The Spectator described him, very unfairly in his view, as the rudest man in Britain.)
The question of whether we should invite the winners of VGT, Harriet and Tilly, to sing at the beginning of the evening, which was enthusiastically agreed. Jenny suggested we should produce a brief A5 Flyer about the event that members could take with them on our ‘Scatter Evening’, programmed for the 30th January, or for use generally to promote the event as widely as possible. They mentioned the Social Event planned for 2 April and were looking for ideas (Great Central Railway trip, Theatre Evening…?)
Mary then brought us up to date with the plans for the Art and Craft Fair at the Blue Diamond Garden centre on 4/5th July. A number of emails had been exchanged with Bingham & R RC without much progress. So a communication was to be made to arrange for our President/s to meet the Bingham Club to finalise arrangements. Discussion took place as to how we could thank The Blue Diamond for all the help they have given us: a donation to their own Charity (believed to be Notts/Lincs Air Ambulance) or a framed certificate for them to display showing our appreciation and how much money we had been able to raise at their premises over the Christmas period.
Chris H then talked about the Murder Mystery event on the 8th February at Whatton Village Hall (£10 per ticket including Lasagne supper), which is a fund raising initiative to pay for our new Rudolph.
Rob G then asked if future ‘Social’ events could involve more ‘mingling’, a suggestion was to move tables after each course.
Allen R, Stuart, Duncan and Mike M agreed to try and put a suitable PowerPoint Presentation together ASAP AR
16 January 2020 Social Evening - Call my Bluff
Prior
to the meeting Presidents Jane and Maggie presented a cheque for £150 to David
Curtis to enable hime to attain his level 2 training qualification, so that he
can continue his dedicated work teaching disabled students to swim.
Steve
C reminded us about the District Quiz and hoped that our team could getter
better results than the bowling squad, who had a good 'thrashing' from Trent
Bridge RC, but had good fun and fellowship in the process!
Jane had received a cheque for £100 from David Strange at Newark Castle towards our solar lights project in Uganda.
Allen gave us an update on progress on the Special 30th Charter video, requesting more information from a number of members to get things up to date regarding "what good we have done" over the 30 years. The A5 Flyer for promoting our 30th Charter evening was shown and since distributed to all members to be used at the 'Scatter night' due on the 30th January.
Maggie then organised the 'Call my Bluff' event, getting 3 volunteers from each of the 5 tables who would be reading out their chosen "words" for the member to decide who was telling the truth and who was 'bluffing'.
With such words as "shaberoon", "Choller", "jobler", "cultrivorous" and "capernoiting", it was not an easy task producing a tie for 3 tables...top table winning the 'sudden death' question, but sharing the 'spoils' with all present. AR
23 January 2020 Burns Supper Celebration with Bruce Liddle (Piper) and Jim Costello (speaker)
The Club Officers excelled themselves with a great
night of fellowship and entertainment. What organisation, the tables were
beautifully dressed in keeping with the theme (tartan everywhere, with a ‘wee
dram’ at each setting!).
The menu was Scotch vegetable soup followed by Haggis, neaps & tatties), as people arrived Piper Bruce was puffing and blowing to warm up his pipes for the evening’s main event of ‘piping in the haggises’.
The “main event”, led by Piper Bruce closely followed by our chef, Mark, who proudly displayed the Haggis and was closely pursued by our speaker for the evening, Jim. After a couple of circuits of the restaurant, Jim “addressed the haggis” with some gusto and enthusiasm (which most of us could not follow due to his exaggerated Scottish accent, using many of Burns’ words, as appropriate for such an event, finishing with the request for us all to toast to the haggis with our wee drams.
The excellent meal followed and then more entertainment, with the closest we have to a Scotsman, Geordie Jordan, who rendered his version of “The Geordie gans to heaven”, apparently written by his former pal and ‘hooker’ (Rugby terminology) Ian Larmont. Showing the wit of this breed by smart answers to a three tough questions posed by St. Peter: name two days that start with the letter ‘T’ and tell me the number of seconds in a year and what was the first name of the jolly swagman?! Answers: “today and tomorra: 12 (second of January, second of February etc): and Andy (“Andy sang, Andy watched, Andy waited for his billy to boil – instead of “and he sang” etc
It was then Jim’s turn to regale us with his rendition spoken to the memory of Robbie Burns and quite a character he apparently was, often referred to as The Bard of Ayrshire. A farmer, who couldn’t farm, but turned out to be an excellent ‘wordsmith’, whilst additionally, a good looking philanderer, siring 13 children with 5 different partners in his short 37 years of life. He had a spell in Jamaica as a bookkeeper on a plantation, but returned to Scotland and managed to get published some poems, known as the Kilmarnock volume, the success of the work was immediate, and soon he was known across the country.
After giving up his farm, he removed to Dumfries. It was at this time that, being requested to write lyrics for The Melodies of Scotland, he responded by contributing over 100 songs. He made major contributions to George Thomson's A Select Collection of Original Scottish Airs for the Voice as well as to James Johnson's Scots Musical Museum. Arguably his claim to immortality chiefly rests on these volumes, which placed him in the front rank of lyric poets. As a songwriter he provided his own lyrics, sometimes adapted from traditional words. He put words to Scottish folk melodies and airs which he collected, and composed his own arrangements of the music including modifying tunes or recreating melodies on the basis of fragments. In letters he explained that he preferred simplicity, relating songs to spoken language which should be sung in traditional ways. The original instruments would be fiddle and the guitar of the period which was akin to a cittern.
Burns joined the Royal Dumfries Volunteers in March
1795. As his health began to give way, he began to age prematurely and fell
into fits of despondency. The habits of intemperance are said to have
aggravated his long-standing possible rheumatic heart condition and on the
morning of 21 July 1796, Burns died in Dumfries, at the age of 37.
Over 10,000 people attended his funeral, which given the transport and
communications of the time, was testament to the following he had acquired. Robert
Burns is still regarded across the world as a talented genius who was able to
observe, analyse and record everything and anything, sometimes with a typically
Scottish sense of humour. Nothing was too small, or too big, to escape his
attention. The Complete Illustrated Poems, Songs and Ballads of Robert Burn
contains a total of 516 poems, ballads, songs, and pieces he wrote during his
travels across Scotland.
The talk included verses from several poems of Robert Burns. "Ode
to a Louse", "To a Mouse", "A Man's a Man for a' that “and
“Ae Fond Kiss". Other works talked about were “Holy Willies Prayer“, “Tam
O’Shanter” and “Auld Lang Syne“.
The poem “To a mouse” was recited, with the words changed as if
referring g to a computer mouse rather than a field mouse, and the talk
concluded with a few funny jokes demonstrating the Scottish sense of humour
Bruce returned to play us further tunes on his bagpipes: The Rowan Tree; The Skye Boat song; My Home & Mairi’s Wedding, additionally delivering a couple of amusing anecdotes.
The Valentines concluded the formal entertainment, with David ‘toasting the lassies’, indicating that there exists 26 definitions of the female gender, so one has to be careful. However, he continued highlighting some of the delights of the female species and educating the male contingent with some of his amusing interpretations of what lassies actually meant when they used certain common phrases (generally the opposite of what was indicated!!). But Jackie, as usual, had the last word, with her ‘toast to the laddies’, referencing the appeal of the dashing Robbie Burns, finishing with a reference to has ‘dirk’ stowed in his sock, but to be used to ‘peel the tatas’! She also amused us with examples of why men are considered to come from Mars!(the bringer of War), but questioned why it takes a million sperms to fertilise one egg, suggesting it’s in their DNA in that men are too proud to ask for directions! The evening was concluded with a couple of verses of ‘Auld Lang Syne’, sang with enthusiasm, great evening, enjoyed by all
Our joint Presidents then offered the final toast after thanking our guests and in particular Derek and Carmel for organising the event. AR
On February 8th we gathered the greatest minds in the Vale of Belvoir to try and solve the case of "Murder in an Indecent Manor". Try as they might they seemed unable to decide of it was the flirtatious Carrie Oakie, the seductive Barbara Seville, the suspect Holly Wood, our very own game-keeper, Percy Pink or dare we say it, even director Mel O'Drama himself. Little of this mattered in the end as a great evening was had by all at the excellent Whatton Village Hall with plenty of mirth, powered by a selection of sumptuous lasagnes and plenty of refreshment from the bar.
The event proved popular and successful in its aim as £945 was raised! CH
6 February 2020 The Commonwealth War Graves Commission – Megan Kelleher
The Commission honours the 1.7 million men and women who gave their lives during the First and Second World Wars, at more than 23 000 locations in more than 150 countries and territories. Almost 12 000 people are buried at their largest cemetery at Tyne Cot in Belgium and 4 buried at Okracoke Island, their smallest, with ages ranging from 14 to 67 from WW1. There are 6 member governments supporting the Commission: UK, South Africa, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and India. The impact of religious beliefs was outlined and the influence of Rudyard Kipling as an adviser, following the death in action of his son John. The qualifying dates: FWW: 040814 to 310821 and SWW: 030939 to 311247. One example of local memorial ceremonies is the Last Post Ceremony at the Ypres (Menin Gate) Memorial, where the “Last Post” has been played nightly since 1928. The person who unveiled the Memorial in 1927, Field Marshall Plumer, aptly highlighted the impact of the memorial when he said “He is not missing; he is here”.
Megan was most enthusiastic about her subject which she studied at University then followed on into a part-time position with the Commission. She enjoys studying the topic so much, she is completing a PhD on UK-based war graves!
Restoration work was explained - an example was given of the work being done on the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing in France. This is expected to be completed sometime in 2021.
Much detail was given about different types of headstones – an example being those pertaining to conflicts outside the two main wars (MOD Headstones from the postwar period) which have sloping shoulders instead of straight along the top edge.
The procedure regarding liaising with families was discussed particularly over construction of their headstones and the wording to be used, with a number of interesting anecdotes described.
An excellent talk by a youthful yet experienced speaker, which was apparent as she fielded questions about Deserters, conflict zones and naval casualties. CC/AR
13 February 2020 Uzbekistan, The gateway to Asia – John Spence
As anticipated Past President John gave us a fact filled illuminating presentation with quantity and quality of pictures of Mosques and Madrassas (Islamic Schools). He started with the question regarding the country, that it was ‘double’ landlocked, one of only two (Lichtenstein). A country with little natural beauty and that its odd shape was mainly caused by the Mountains in the East, near the capital Tashkent, with its 2.5 Million population. John’s reason for visiting this remote country was to see where the Moguls came from, but he gave a brief history starting in 1BC with The Silk Road, 7 to 8 BC with the Arabs, 8 to 9 BC Persians, the destruction by Genghis Kahnin, followed by the Moguls then Turkic rule and eventually the Soviets, with Stalin then Khrushchev (who was well thought of). Ami Timur or Tamerlane, the Turco-Mongol Persianate conqueror who founded the Timurid Empire with his new capital in Samarkland. His son Babur was the 1st Emperor of the Mogul Dynasty.
John talked about the architecture of the buildings and the later Indian influence with wood and how a number now have been converted into hotels as the Country starts to build its Tourism economy.
A fascinating presentation that kept his
audience spell bound. AR
20 February 2020 30th Charter Video – Allen, Duncan and Stuart
Our 30th Charter is fast approaching and a special occasion that we should make extra effort to celebrate...or so thought Stuart. So we pondered and discussed one evening, should we do a leaflet, PowerPoint presentation to try and cover 30 years of activity?...but we came to the conclusion, using Duncan’s skills, that a rolling video was probably the best solution.
So we 3 and Mike M (now gone to Goa) have been busying ourselves and cajoling others, trying to put something together that reflects all that time and effort in a 15 minute rolling video. So here’s your chance to influence or contribute to the outcome...we have still got left 2 months to complete this mammoth task. I’m sure there are some gaps, but it’s not easy to still find those pictures and details that give a sense of what our ethos and achievements have been and what difference it has made to our local community and others internationally.
But let me put things into context first, you will be watching a 15 minute continuous video, which may appear fairly boring, but our vision, yet to be finalised, is that it will be shown in the dining area (not the bar) of The Nottinghamshire Golf and Country Club, whilst the Charter takes place. So hopefully people will notice various images or facts that take their eye or ear (there is a sound track to add to the experience, but obviously just background noise) and it can be switched off or muted during the speeches....let’s discuss it.
I would especially appreciate the views of our newer members, who probably see things in a different light to those of us who have been immersed in the Club since its inception.
But over to Duncan and/or Stuart, who I would personally like to thank for their tireless tenacity in putting this together, not forgetting that without Duncan’s considerable skills as a ‘video producer’, none of this would be possible, which he puts down to a Cine camera his grandma bought him for his 21st birthday.
Members generally felt happy with what they had seen, but there were still gaps: litter picking, crocus planting, our own pantomime pictures, last Night of the proms material, Christmas tree event and the information we had already prepared on the 1/3rd of £million that we had donated to a wide range of charities over the 30 years. There were comments about the soundtrack, suggesting that it should be very low background or muted. Rob suggested that we need to ensure all the text is in the same font. It would be nice to have a closing slide saying thank you for attending and supporting our 30th Charter.
Adrian did a short European Union Quiz as Sergeant at Arms and despite the sudden death final question, no winning team was identified so the chocolate prize was shared! AR12 March 2020 Cambodia - Jacob and Callum
Before the boys talk began, Secretary Gordon presented Chris N and Allen with the District Award for Rota Kids, which they shared with Retford R C.
Jacob & Callum described how they had spent a month volunteering with Camps International in Cambodia to try and improve the way of life for the locals, having had to raise £4000 to enble them to go. They spent their time in 3 different camps: Camp Beng Pae, Camp Preal & Camp Bangtea Lea. They normally 'worked' 6 hours per day in 35oC and very humid. They soon got to know the lacal children, with whom they played football and donated some Radcliffe Olympic football shirts, which were well received.
They spent quite a bit of time mixing concrete for construction of toilets, Dam refurbishment. In the second camp, which was in a mountainous area, apparently with a tiger in the forests there, they did some road reconstruction to a junction that became unusable in the rainy season, so much improving transport connectivity. They also turned their hands to brick laying helping a local man with serious disease issues to build ahouse for him, as he had been isolated by other villagers. They made some water pots, working with the Buddhist Monks, who seemed to organise activities of the villages, also assisting in some English teaching.
However, they did manage to do some site seeing, visiting Angkor Wat, The Killing Fields and various temples. What impressed them most was the culture of the locals and their eternal optimism, despite all the issues that the Country had experienced with the Khmer Rouge. AR30th April 2020
They spent quite a bit of time mixing concrete for construction of toilets, Dam refurbishment. In the second camp, which was in a mountainous area, apparently with a tiger in the forests there, they did some road reconstruction to a junction that became unusable in the rainy season, so much improving transport connectivity. They also turned their hands to brick laying helping a local man with serious disease issues to build ahouse for him, as he had been isolated by other villagers. They made some water pots, working with the Buddhist Monks, who seemed to organise activities of the villages, also assisting in some English teaching.
However, they did manage to do some site seeing, visiting Angkor Wat, The Killing Fields and various temples. What impressed them most was the culture of the locals and their eternal optimism, despite all the issues that the Country had experienced with the Khmer Rouge. AR
30th April 2020
Thu 30th April 2020 at 19.00 - 21.00
To be held at The Nottinghamshire Golf Club
Our 30th Charter was held "on-line", in a virtual conference style which 27 members 'attended' on screen, as can be seen by the picture & including District Governoer David Hood.
Maggie & Jane had sent out the Charter Agenda and once the 27 had joined Jane's Zoom meeting, away we went.:Vale of Belvoir Rotary Club
30th Celebration Charter
Rotarians/Spouses/Partners
Venue - Lounge/Kitchen/Bedroom
Zoom 7.00pm
Clapping for Captain Tom 8.00pm
Dress Code
Black Tie/Cocktail Dresses/Lounge Suits/Casual or PJ’s
(however you feel comfortable) Welcome
Presidents Jane & Maggie
Welcome Visitors
Grace
Mike Twells
Dinner
Drinks and Snacks Few words from President Jane
When Maggie and I were invited to join Rotary 13 years ago as foot soldiers, we didn’t think for one moment that we would ever be suitable candidates to stand as joint presidents of our club.
Well, here we are on our 30th Anniversary feeling proud and very honoured.
We have faced many challenges on our journey but as you can see we still remain close friends.
Friendship being the key word for us within our club, because with friendship comes support, and with support you can Build bridges and “Make a Difference.”
In our club we have an extremely diligent core of volunteers who put their hearts and souls into every aspect of the club. We would like to thank each and every one of you for all the support and the fun that we have had this year. Not forgetting our non-Rotary volunteers/ spouses who we would especially like to thank for without them our club wouldn’t be the same.
This year we have once again accomplished all we set out to achieve within the Community, In Youth and Internationally.
Not forgetting our fundraising team and club collectively, we have been able to support our chosen local and Rotary Charities.
And now in the most difficult of times we are finding new ways to communicate to keep the spirit of Rotary alive until we can meet once again.
We hope that in time the Rolling screen of all our achievements over the past 30 yrs can be shared with everyone as it epitomizes what our club is all about.
Special thanks go to all our Committee Chairs, David, David, Chris & Stan & also to Roy, Anne, Gordon, & to Derek for stepping in as our SVP at such short notice.
Few words from President Maggie
Well what a year it has been and what a strange end to our year during COVID 19
When we took on the role as joint presidents, we wanted to ensure not only our commitment to serve Rotary but to also have fun and fellowship within the club.
We have both been honoured to be your joint presidents.
We have taken on many challenges but with guidance and the amazing support we have had from all of our members we hope that we have both as joint presidents served Rotary and achieved everything, we set out to do in our Rotary year.
Some hard decisions had to be made during our year as joint presidents and some testing moments with tears and laughter but with your support, my partner in crime and my BFF we hope that we served not only you but Rotary on a whole
We have survived, we are still speaking and we have even jointly come out in sympathy with each other, me with my foot operation and on crutches and Jane with her broken shoulder in a sling but we did say we come as a pair and do most things together.
We have really appreciated you all embracing some of our crazy ideas on social evenings, going way back to our Christmas Rotary meal. Who would have thought Trevor that you would have ended up dressing as a goose and laying an egg or asking our members to make silly elephants out of playdough and wearing a pair of ladies tights plopping a potato in a cup, Allen Richmond to name one.
It’s a shame that our year is ending during this turbulent time, we were so looking forward to our 30th Celebration Charter at the Nottingham Golf and Country Club but we hope tonight will make up for it.
The next few months until we handover our presidential role will be a strange time for all of us but we are an inspirational Club with a positive attitude and great fellowship and we know this spirit and fellowship will continue. We will keep communicating with you all and as long as we keep communicating together, we will survive.
We mustn’t forget the incredible work of our NHS and pay tribute to people like Captain Tom and so many more and spare a thought for all of the lives lost during this awful COVID 19 pandemic.
Jane and l would like to take this opportunity to wish our upcoming president Derek good luck in your year and we hope you all keep safe and well until we meet again. The Loyal Toast
Presidents Jane of Maggie
Toast to Rotary International President Elect Derek Goodacre
Thank you Madam Presidents, Fellow Rotarians, Rotary guests and friends In terms of Rotary International, Service Clubs seem to have become less popular during the more recent affluent years. But Rotary is just as necessary today as it was when it was first introduced. Wars, civil unrest, natural disasters, water shortages and worldwide health issues continue to be a challenge for Service Clubs and in particular Rotary. You are part of over 1.2million Rotarians in over 35,000 clubs, in 534 Districts, in 210 Countries. When I say you are members of the world wide fellowship of Rotary International, I mean it literally. Rotarians from across the world have combined to eradicate Polio; are involved in - Promoting peace; Fighting disease; Providing clean water, sanitation, and hygiene; Saving mothers and children; Supporting education; Growing local economies. Rotarians love a challenge. To quote our founder Paul Harris at the RI Convention in Havana Cuba: “Rotary International Stands; Why and how? Because it is grounded not on fear, rivalry, and suspicion, but on the eternal and indestructible rocks of friendliness, tolerance, and usefulness". We are proud to be a part of Rotary International. Please join me with a toast to Rotary International.
Toast to The Vale of Belvoir Rotary Club From District Governor Vale of Belvoir Charter
Joint Presidents, honoured guests and fellow Rotarians may I thank Vale of Belvoir Rotary for inviting me to attend your virtual Charter tonight.
This must be a first for our District and I could not be happier in accepting the Zoom invite from the 2 lassies!
These have been difficult times for everyone and I am proud of how you and many clubs have adapted to these conditions. As you know Rotary International saves so many lives around the world and we have changed for the better through Rotary. We are now seeing how Rotary Connects the World, all be it electronically at the moment. Our Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland President, Donna Wallbank, asked me to relay her good wishes to you coupled with the greetings from our own District 1220. In fact I spoke with Donna yesterday at our Governing Council meeting who also wanted to compliment District 1220 for their work in the District Strategic Review, Rotary Engaging Chamber project and the current Rotary4foodbanks
Congratulations on celebrating your 30th anniversary and I wish to mark this milestone by wishing you a very happy Rotary birthday. I must say that’s about the same age as us all tonight. Keep thinking positively!
Your Mother Club Bingham must be proud of their daughter club’s achievements be it in the local community and internationally.
Your involvement in local projects speak for themselves:
For example:
Art and Craft Fair
Raised £3000 which was split between Air Ambulance and First Responders
Soup n’ Pudding Social evening
For fun and fellowship - we held a Soup n’ Pudding evening which also involved a games night. Members took part in a ‘Generation Game’ of making elephants out of play dough, novelty aprons, quiz and ‘Plop the Potato’ game which was hilarious all good fun and they took part in great spirit.
Vales Got Talent our 10th Anniversary November 2019
This was our 10th anniversary of holding this event bringing many talents of young and old in the community to showcase their talents.
Santa Float in the community and East Bridgford Garden Centre
We raised and amazing total £8,774.01 which is up £922.26 compared to last year.
The club also invested in a new Santa Float and Rudolph and separate funds were raised at our Murder Mystery evening to pay for the new float.
Burns Night Social evening
We held a bi annual Burns night which again was a great social event
Murder Mystery
Members of club very bravely took part in a play showcasing our acting skills (or not) to entertain the club and guests. The intention of the evening was to raise funds for paying for the new sleigh and Rudolph which was very successful and entertaining, raising £925
Memory Café
Continues to thrive with full entertainment monthly
Community Fundraising
Friary Homeless Project - Support for the Friary with Clothes Sale and tombola
Dove Cottage Hospice – purchased wheelchair accessible outdoor furniture which was donated form VOB club
QMC Donation of a cheque for £1,550 to the CBTRC at QMC (Queens Medical Centre) to purchase a Qubit Fluorometer, which measures microscopic samples of DNA and RNA
Youth
Junior Art Competition
Rota Kids - Support for our two clubs at Robert Miles and East Bridgford C of E Academy is ongoing. Both schools have a programme of what they wish to do and meetings attended.
Rota Kids Award – Cheryle Berry Rota Kids Award
Cheryle was District Governor when we managed to get our 1st Rota kids Club in the District at Robert Miles school, Bingham Allen Richmond (our club member) did a presentation to a District Meeting out lining how we had achieved this milestone.
You certainly punch above your weight so to speak.
More recently and as a result of Covid-19 you have donated to:
£250 donated to Rosie May Foundation to help running the Tuc Tuc serving the community delivering meals and groceries to the elderly and vulnerable. https://www.rosie-may.com/
£250 donation Rushcliffe Community Voluntary Service providing meals to homeless.
Thank you for your continued support for our own charity, Foundation and as you know we now have a GBI supported District wide project Rotary4foodbanks
Now if that does not impress you there is always such International projects such as:
Fishtail Continued support for Rajan Achaya and Krishna Acharya our sponsored students now in sixth form.
Polio Eradication–Radcliffe on Trent Junior School fully supported the planting of 4000 bulbs in Radcliffe on Trent
Child Aid Uganda –
Solar Lamps continue to support CHAU which are given to vulnerable families
Girls Latrines - The securing of a £1000 donation from Rushcliffe Club and a successful District Grant application to fund the construction of 2 Girls Latrines.
Natural Disaster Relief Donation of £500 to ShelterBox in response to the devastation in The Bahamas caused by Hurricane Dorian made. No further demands this year yet.
Heartfelt thanks for all you do proving that you Vale of Belvoir Rotary Connects the World.
Can I ask all guests and visiting Rotarians to lie back in front of their electronic gizmos and toast Vale of Belvoir Rotary coupled with Birthday greetings.
DG David Hood – 30th April 2020
Response by
Presidents Jane of Maggie
who will toast our Visitors and Guests
Entertainment (David V & Vera Lynn sang we'll meet again!
The Rotary Toast
Presidents Jane and Maggie
'point of order Derek' presented a picture of bouquets that were on their way to J & M
Goodnight and safe journey home !!! But before you go, here's our link to the video we produced for the occasion, celebrating 30 years of The Vale of Belvoir Rotary Club https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJCkunyHOmc
A closing message from Jane & Maggie:
When we took on the role as
Joint Presidents, we wanted to ensure not only our commitment to serve Rotary
in the Community and International but to also have fun and fellowship within
the club.
We have both been very proud and honoured to serve our Rotary Club
over the past year as Joint Presidents.
We have taken on many
challenges but with guidance and the amazing support we have had from all of
our members we hope that we have both as Joint Presidents served Rotary and
achieved everything, we set out to do in our Rotary year.
We would like to thank all our
members who have supported us during a challenging year and also our many
non-Rotary volunteers/spouses and wish our upcoming President Elect Derek
Goodacre our very best wishes during his year as President 2020/2021.
Maggie and Jane
Joint Presidents 2019/2020
Our 30th Charter was held "on-line", in a virtual conference style which 27 members 'attended' on screen, as can be seen by the picture & including District Governoer David Hood.
Maggie & Jane had sent out the Charter Agenda and once the 27 had joined Jane's Zoom meeting, away we went.:Vale of Belvoir Rotary Club
30th Celebration Charter
Rotarians/Spouses/Partners
Venue - Lounge/Kitchen/Bedroom
Zoom 7.00pm
Clapping for Captain Tom 8.00pm
Dress Code
Black Tie/Cocktail Dresses/Lounge Suits/Casual or PJ’s
(however you feel comfortable) Welcome
Presidents Jane & Maggie
Welcome Visitors
Grace
Mike Twells
Dinner
Drinks and Snacks Few words from President Jane
When Maggie and I were invited to join Rotary 13 years ago as foot soldiers, we didn’t think for one moment that we would ever be suitable candidates to stand as joint presidents of our club.
Well, here we are on our 30th Anniversary feeling proud and very honoured.
We have faced many challenges on our journey but as you can see we still remain close friends.
Friendship being the key word for us within our club, because with friendship comes support, and with support you can Build bridges and “Make a Difference.”
In our club we have an extremely diligent core of volunteers who put their hearts and souls into every aspect of the club. We would like to thank each and every one of you for all the support and the fun that we have had this year. Not forgetting our non-Rotary volunteers/ spouses who we would especially like to thank for without them our club wouldn’t be the same.
This year we have once again accomplished all we set out to achieve within the Community, In Youth and Internationally.
Not forgetting our fundraising team and club collectively, we have been able to support our chosen local and Rotary Charities.
And now in the most difficult of times we are finding new ways to communicate to keep the spirit of Rotary alive until we can meet once again.
We hope that in time the Rolling screen of all our achievements over the past 30 yrs can be shared with everyone as it epitomizes what our club is all about.
Special thanks go to all our Committee Chairs, David, David, Chris & Stan & also to Roy, Anne, Gordon, & to Derek for stepping in as our SVP at such short notice.
Few words from President Maggie
Well what a year it has been and what a strange end to our year during COVID 19
When we took on the role as joint presidents, we wanted to ensure not only our commitment to serve Rotary but to also have fun and fellowship within the club.
We have both been honoured to be your joint presidents.
We have taken on many challenges but with guidance and the amazing support we have had from all of our members we hope that we have both as joint presidents served Rotary and achieved everything, we set out to do in our Rotary year.
Some hard decisions had to be made during our year as joint presidents and some testing moments with tears and laughter but with your support, my partner in crime and my BFF we hope that we served not only you but Rotary on a whole
We have survived, we are still speaking and we have even jointly come out in sympathy with each other, me with my foot operation and on crutches and Jane with her broken shoulder in a sling but we did say we come as a pair and do most things together.
We have really appreciated you all embracing some of our crazy ideas on social evenings, going way back to our Christmas Rotary meal. Who would have thought Trevor that you would have ended up dressing as a goose and laying an egg or asking our members to make silly elephants out of playdough and wearing a pair of ladies tights plopping a potato in a cup, Allen Richmond to name one.
It’s a shame that our year is ending during this turbulent time, we were so looking forward to our 30th Celebration Charter at the Nottingham Golf and Country Club but we hope tonight will make up for it.
The next few months until we handover our presidential role will be a strange time for all of us but we are an inspirational Club with a positive attitude and great fellowship and we know this spirit and fellowship will continue. We will keep communicating with you all and as long as we keep communicating together, we will survive.
We mustn’t forget the incredible work of our NHS and pay tribute to people like Captain Tom and so many more and spare a thought for all of the lives lost during this awful COVID 19 pandemic.
Jane and l would like to take this opportunity to wish our upcoming president Derek good luck in your year and we hope you all keep safe and well until we meet again.The Loyal Toast
Presidents Jane of Maggie
Toast to Rotary International President Elect Derek Goodacre
Thank you Madam Presidents, Fellow Rotarians, Rotary guests and friends In terms of Rotary International, Service Clubs seem to have become less popular during the more recent affluent years. But Rotary is just as necessary today as it was when it was first introduced. Wars, civil unrest, natural disasters, water shortages and worldwide health issues continue to be a challenge for Service Clubs and in particular Rotary. You are part of over 1.2million Rotarians in over 35,000 clubs, in 534 Districts, in 210 Countries. When I say you are members of the world wide fellowship of Rotary International, I mean it literally. Rotarians from across the world have combined to eradicate Polio; are involved in - Promoting peace; Fighting disease; Providing clean water, sanitation, and hygiene; Saving mothers and children; Supporting education; Growing local economies. Rotarians love a challenge. To quote our founder Paul Harris at the RI Convention in Havana Cuba: “Rotary International Stands; Why and how? Because it is grounded not on fear, rivalry, and suspicion, but on the eternal and indestructible rocks of friendliness, tolerance, and usefulness". We are proud to be a part of Rotary International. Please join me with a toast to Rotary International.
Toast to The Vale of Belvoir Rotary Club From District Governor Vale of Belvoir Charter
Joint Presidents, honoured guests and fellow Rotarians may I thank Vale of Belvoir Rotary for inviting me to attend your virtual Charter tonight.
This must be a first for our District and I could not be happier in accepting the Zoom invite from the 2 lassies!
These have been difficult times for everyone and I am proud of how you and many clubs have adapted to these conditions. As you know Rotary International saves so many lives around the world and we have changed for the better through Rotary. We are now seeing how Rotary Connects the World, all be it electronically at the moment. Our Rotary in Great Britain and Ireland President, Donna Wallbank, asked me to relay her good wishes to you coupled with the greetings from our own District 1220. In fact I spoke with Donna yesterday at our Governing Council meeting who also wanted to compliment District 1220 for their work in the District Strategic Review, Rotary Engaging Chamber project and the current Rotary4foodbanks
Congratulations on celebrating your 30th anniversary and I wish to mark this milestone by wishing you a very happy Rotary birthday. I must say that’s about the same age as us all tonight. Keep thinking positively!
Your Mother Club Bingham must be proud of their daughter club’s achievements be it in the local community and internationally.
Your involvement in local projects speak for themselves:
For example:
Art and Craft Fair
Raised £3000 which was split between Air Ambulance and First Responders
Soup n’ Pudding Social evening
For fun and fellowship - we held a Soup n’ Pudding evening which also involved a games night. Members took part in a ‘Generation Game’ of making elephants out of play dough, novelty aprons, quiz and ‘Plop the Potato’ game which was hilarious all good fun and they took part in great spirit.
Vales Got Talent our 10th Anniversary November 2019
This was our 10th anniversary of holding this event bringing many talents of young and old in the community to showcase their talents.
Santa Float in the community and East Bridgford Garden Centre
We raised and amazing total £8,774.01 which is up £922.26 compared to last year.
The club also invested in a new Santa Float and Rudolph and separate funds were raised at our Murder Mystery evening to pay for the new float.
Burns Night Social evening
We held a bi annual Burns night which again was a great social event
Murder Mystery
Members of club very bravely took part in a play showcasing our acting skills (or not) to entertain the club and guests. The intention of the evening was to raise funds for paying for the new sleigh and Rudolph which was very successful and entertaining, raising £925
Memory Café
Continues to thrive with full entertainment monthly
Community Fundraising
Friary Homeless Project - Support for the Friary with Clothes Sale and tombola
Dove Cottage Hospice – purchased wheelchair accessible outdoor furniture which was donated form VOB club
QMC Donation of a cheque for £1,550 to the CBTRC at QMC (Queens Medical Centre) to purchase a Qubit Fluorometer, which measures microscopic samples of DNA and RNA
Youth
Junior Art Competition
Rota Kids - Support for our two clubs at Robert Miles and East Bridgford C of E Academy is ongoing. Both schools have a programme of what they wish to do and meetings attended.
Rota Kids Award – Cheryle Berry Rota Kids Award
Cheryle was District Governor when we managed to get our 1st Rota kids Club in the District at Robert Miles school, Bingham Allen Richmond (our club member) did a presentation to a District Meeting out lining how we had achieved this milestone.
You certainly punch above your weight so to speak.
More recently and as a result of Covid-19 you have donated to:
£250 donated to Rosie May Foundation to help running the Tuc Tuc serving the community delivering meals and groceries to the elderly and vulnerable. https://www.rosie-may.com/
£250 donation Rushcliffe Community Voluntary Service providing meals to homeless.
Thank you for your continued support for our own charity, Foundation and as you know we now have a GBI supported District wide project Rotary4foodbanks
Now if that does not impress you there is always such International projects such as:
Fishtail Continued support for Rajan Achaya and Krishna Acharya our sponsored students now in sixth form.
Polio Eradication–Radcliffe on Trent Junior School fully supported the planting of 4000 bulbs in Radcliffe on Trent
Child Aid Uganda –
Solar Lamps continue to support CHAU which are given to vulnerable families
Girls Latrines - The securing of a £1000 donation from Rushcliffe Club and a successful District Grant application to fund the construction of 2 Girls Latrines.
Natural Disaster Relief Donation of £500 to ShelterBox in response to the devastation in The Bahamas caused by Hurricane Dorian made. No further demands this year yet.
Heartfelt thanks for all you do proving that you Vale of Belvoir Rotary Connects the World.
Can I ask all guests and visiting Rotarians to lie back in front of their electronic gizmos and toast Vale of Belvoir Rotary coupled with Birthday greetings.
DG David Hood – 30th April 2020
Response by
Presidents Jane of Maggie
who will toast our Visitors and Guests
Entertainment (David V & Vera Lynn sang we'll meet again!
The Rotary Toast
Presidents Jane and Maggie
'point of order Derek' presented a picture of bouquets that were on their way to J & M
Goodnight and safe journey home !!! But before you go, here's our link to the video we produced for the occasion, celebrating 30 years of The Vale of Belvoir Rotary Club https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJCkunyHOmc
A closing message from Jane & Maggie:
When we took on the role as Joint Presidents, we wanted to ensure not only our commitment to serve Rotary in the Community and International but to also have fun and fellowship within the club.
We have both been very proud and honoured to serve our Rotary Club over the past year as Joint Presidents.
We have taken on many challenges but with guidance and the amazing support we have had from all of our members we hope that we have both as Joint Presidents served Rotary and achieved everything, we set out to do in our Rotary year.
We would like to thank all our members who have supported us during a challenging year and also our many non-Rotary volunteers/spouses and wish our upcoming President Elect Derek Goodacre our very best wishes during his year as President 2020/2021.
Maggie and Jane
Joint Presidents 2019/2020
Related pages...
2024 - 25 Gerry's year
more Gerry's previously President of Melton Mowbray R C before moving to the Vale of Belvoir to become President, continuing to fundraise and have fun.
2023 - 24 David’s year
more David was President of another club many years ago and we look forward to an enjoyable year with him at the helm.
2022-23 Rob’s year
more Our founder President has a second term “in charge” of the club.
2021 - 22 Gordon’s year
more Gordon is our second President to serve a second term and he will lead us, out of “lockdown” into “the new normal”.
2020 - 21 Derek's year
more We were unsure, with the Covid-19 pandemic, what this Rotary year would look like, but we held virtual meetings and did our best to adapt to the new challenges that we had to face.
back to page above this...
Our Fourth Decade, 2019 onwards
back here's the summaries of our activities in the 4th Decade