Speaker - at the College

It's been another busy week for Phoenix. The endeavour began on Sunday with our club leading the way at the annual mulled wine event. I was unable to participate myself but understand there was a good commitment from all 5 clubs and David tells me that the net profit for the Mayor's charity should be £1400. 

Monday was club council when we had some lively discussion about a number of things; some of that will emerge at next week's business meeting.

On Wednesday a small team from the club took part in the 'Pointless' quiz at Rotoract; although on this occasion we let someone else win, I'm sure the evening was enjoyable.

So to Thursday for our usual meeting at the college. We welcomed our guests from PARC, Terry Green from Rivermead club and Janet & Mike Littlewood attending for the final time as guests. 

One of our 'occasional' 'visitors', Mark, said Grace - and later on made up for lost time by levying numerous fines. 

The meal was, I thought, maybe a tad above the usual good standard - certainly the beef was very tender. During part 1 I and others made a range of parish announcements.

I reported that Richard had taken on a role of reporter for trying to get a regular slot in the Essex Chronicle for the 5 clubs and he has submitted the first chapter.

There are still places available for the RiBI Presidents dinner at Ivy Hill on Sunday 6 Dec - please let me know if you need details. 

I reported that the club has been asked to participate in a RI survey (see note # below). 

David gave a report on the Mulled Wine event. 

Malcolm reported on his recent attendance at the Mildmay IT project and recommended others to join in; Richard said he intends to join. 

Mark reported on his attendance, with Kathryn, at a recent Hadleigh Castle Quiz. 

Kathryn reported on training she had attended for incoming Presidents. 

Bill reminded all to try hard to sell the xmas quiz sheets and Richard suggested visiting pubs during their quizzes as a good opening. If anyone is absolutely unable to sell their 10 sheets (how could that be?), then please return them to Bill who will co-ordinate numbers. 

Bill also chased up all to sign up for the carol singing on 20 Dec. This really is an event for which we need numbers to make it work so please come along. If you are shy about singing we still someone to take a stint wearing the 'Olaf' suit, which really attracts the children - and the donations from ma & pa. 

After the usual comfort break and loyal toast, I was very pleased to induct Janet and Mike Littlewood as new members. Mike told us a little more about their backgrounds and said how pleased they are to be joining us. 

The main event was presentation of cheque, for £2500, to PARC. Their chair, Siobhan Riordan and newly appointed Fundraising Manager, Amanda Richards were present and gave us a brief update on activities at the centre as well as grateful thanks for our support. Siobhan invited any member wanting to see their work to arrange a visit when she will be delighted to show us round. It is really impressive stuff - but if you go, expect a lump in your throat.

Finally, Siobhan performed the trick of drawing her own raffle ticket so took home the bottle of wine as well as the cheque!

Next week we are at college for a business meeting, the SGM and a short talk on Rotary Foundation. 

As it is a business meeting, please remember to bring along some donations for the FoodBank. The following is a list of their particular needs at this time: Christmas delights: Nuts Chocolates Tinned ham Tinned Biscuits Christmas cakes Children's sweets Christmas Puddings Pringles & Ritz Biscuits Mince Pies Wrapping paper Christmas cards. Some top-up items: Snack bars Tinned meat Tinned custard Instant custard Sponge Puddings Tinned vegetables Long Life Fruit Juice Tinned Fruit cocktail Packets mash Potato Long Life Milk (Blue or Green)

At the SGM we need to elect a VP and JVP to support Kathryn for next year. If you are intending to stand for either post, it would be helpful to notify me in advance of the meeting so that we can arrange appropriate 'elections'.