Variety Village – David Kinsman and Ben Scholes

Our speakers were introduced by Shirley Zinman, a long time ardent supporter of Variety Village. David is in Administration, and Ben is more “hands on” with members activities.

David started by mentioning that today – May 11 – is That’s Amore Day for Kids, and every medium pizza purchased for $4.99 at Pizza Nova gives a $1.00 donation to Variety Village. So everyone should get a pizza today!

A letter had been given by David to everyone, telling the story of 2 examples of people who really needed Variety Village to help them. Jeanette came in a wheelchair, and through extensive therapy and use of machines at the Village, is now able to walk with canes. Her determination was matched, and helped, by Variety Village staff.

Davis is a young girl who had spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy, and was also in a wheelchair. She has progressed from a walker to just 2 canes, and is determined to be able to walk without even the canes. Again, the Variety Village staff worked with her to achieve these results.

Although these 2 cases were of people with disabilities, Variety Village is available for able people as well.

Ben gave us a verbal tour of the Village, starting with people who greet him every day, and tell him about their progress, which always puts Ben in a good mood. There are all sorts of people who are members – different ages, cultural backgrounds, levels of abilities etc. In the Field House, there is a 200 meter track, with basketball courts in the middle. There are Rock Climbing Walls, where even people in wheelchairs can be hoisted to the top to ring the bell, showing they have arrived. Parents are often surprised at how many activities their children can do. There is a Summer Camp both days and evenings for all ability levels. There is a Cardio Room with exercise equipment, and staff on hand to instruct people how to use it. In the

Weight Room, there is always an attendant trained in First Aid and CPR. The Aquatics area is used by swim teams who compete internationally, despite their challenges. Ben encouraged everyone to visit Variety Village anytime – he’s there 60 hours a week to greet you.

Membership can be for 4 months or 1 year. Rates are 560.00 per adult per year, or 319.00 per Senior or Youth per year, and financial assistance can be arranged if needed.

Skip thanked our speakers for their informative talk.

Attendance

We had 24 members and 4 guests on 11 May. In addition to our 2 speakers, the guests were Ishrani Annamunthado and Ruki Kondaj, both returning visitors.

Open Membership Classification

No open membership classification this week.

Announcements

President Mike referred us to the Bluffer, for notices of 2 funerals. Past member Hamish Wong passed away very suddenly, and his funeral is Friday May 14.
Jim Foster’s brother Fred will be missed as a great supporter of Ribfest, and his funeral will be on Wednesday May 12. Our condolences go out to both families.

Mike then coerced – I mean convinced – Eugene and Ron to buy the last chips in the Woods/Cunningham Wheel draw. Well done Mike!

Chris advised that since we have not received very many Nominations for Rotarian of the Year, or Paul Harris Fellowships, the deadline is extended to next Tuesday, May 18. Please consider nominating one of our many deserving members for these awards.

Chris further advised that the Guildwood Day Parade is on Saturday 05 June, starting at 9:30 AM at Sir William Laurier Collegiate. We will have Interact students to help, but need Rotarians to walk along with us, and hand out Ribfest Flyers. The theme this year is Loud and Proud, and all members are encouraged to attend – in brightly coloured attire!

Shirley passed out several copies of the newspaper SNAP, containing pictures of some of our members at Springfest. Please think of inviting SNAP to take pictures at future Rotary event, One example is Michelle Simpson’s Community BBQ on Sat. August 07, at Variety Village from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, where Shirley would love to see members.

Gerard thanked everyone for the Food Bank Donations today, but if you forgot to bring any items, you can make a donation in the envelope at the front desk, and the money will be used to purchase more food.

Woods-Cunningham Wheel

It was spun by our speaker David, for # 2. Pat had the chip, but only spun a King.

Sergeant-at-Arms – Gerard Baribeau

Gerard started by putting in a sad buck for Jimmy’s brother.

Pat was sad about Hamish, as she had seen him last Saturday night, and he was fine.

Skip is happy to have a second great-granddaughter!

Vic enjoyed the Theatre Night last Friday, but said if it was a Three Penny Opera, why did his ticket cost more?

Josie paid for Gary’s Birthday, so the Club sang the traditional song to him.

Gary paid because he was glad we sang (or maybe relieved it was over)

Norm advised that Organ and Tissue donations may not be allowed just with the signed part of your Driver’s License. See the Gift of Life on the internet for details.

Celebrations

Upcoming Meetings -to update your information, e-mail Gary at garymac@clarkehenning.com

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