Business Meeting at SCCC

President Colin welcomed 38 members and one guest, Gavin Brown, to a lengthy but lively Business meeting. This is but a precis of the full reports, comments and questions:

Secretary Andrew promised via email a simplified directory & committees list in the next 7-10 days.

Treasurer Martin reported that we remain solvent,

John Binns and Jonnie Dunk reported on Halcon project, from low point to new beginning with substantial TDDC support over the 3 estates and 6,000 residents. New premises with Howden-provided kitchen and we will supply cooker/hood. All welcome for Feb 10th public consultation on way forward, ask them for details.

Phil Greenway reported YouthSpeak District semifinal at Taunton Academy on Feb 7th, Young Chef held last week, 6 entrants. Proposes actively to improve joint working with Taunton Club.

Kathryn Robinson-Burge indicated that our two International projects, Gambia and Kenya, both needed to be fully checked out regarding on-the-ground supervision and financing before she could come back to the Club for decisions. Club agreed to wait for this. Meanwhile Roger Mason reminded us of the splendid results of the Vuleka school project (from 59 children to over 1000) and Kloof artisan training,[S Africa], both supported by Rotary and Inner Wheel.

Keith Bigwood asked for support for his two proposed charities, Somerset Sight and TOG, which was agreed.

Rory O’Donnell described a vision of the Breakfast meeting (note, not a potential separate “Club”) as part of Taunton Vale, offering the chance for Rotary to network among young professionals who at minimum could be useful contacts and might one day join Rotary. Our projects and their ideas would come before the whole Club. President encouraged team co-ordinated by Rory and Bill Tregillus to persevere, to encourage members and guests and to see where it leads. Next meeting Feb 7th at 7.15am – ask guests and let Rory know.

David Montgomery reminded the Club about new parking arrangements at SCCC – watch this space.
We have some potential Racegoers for April 25th and general approval for more out meetings, eg Hinkley C, Norton Manor, Rumwell Farm. We will cancel the meeting due on February 26th and hold a planned scatter week, during which members will visit 10 local clubs in a planned programme on different days. Volunteer drivers will aim to fill a car and visit and learn, (for better and worse!) what other clubs do that we don’t do. Admin to follow.

David Janes reported that Ian Harkness may be an infrequent attendee over the next two months because of radio therapy treatment.

David also reported that Alison Brown has offered to join the team of TuesdayGram scribes, other volunteers welcome.

John Binns won the wine but not the jackpot.

Next Monday Meeting on 12th Feb. Presentation by Conquest Centre. d/r R Goring s/f R Purves.

19th February will be Somerset Sight Report