Speaker meeting via Zoom

17 members were on line to hear from Daniel Edozie, a forward with Bristol Flyers Basketball Club. Daniel gave a powerful testimony about holding on to what he described as “emotional hope” through adversity. Aged just 11, he moved with his mother from the UK to the USA . Having just a 90 day visa and virtually no money or legal income he described how they lived in a series of hostels and shelters and often on the streets alongside alcoholics, drug users and sex traffickers,more than once being detained by immigration officers. Eventually he became separated from his mother and was taken into foster care. That gave him a degree of stability, the chance for 6 years of education (followed by college) and for his sporting ability to be recognised, first at American Football and then playing NCAA Division 1 Basketball for Iowa State Cyclones.

In 2015 he returned to the UK following a contract offer from Bristol Flyers and has subsequently been reunited with his mother and siblings.

After a number of questions - Colin Barrell proposed the vote of thanks.

Kathryn Robinson-Burge confirmed that Moonraker is still on (Oct 10/11th) with the test walks scheduled for Monday 28th Sept. She read out a positive and very supportive letter from the Police.

The charity Golf Day will take place a week on Thursday in a socially distanced manner. 31 teams are confirmed.

Following a brief discussion, members agreed to allocate £1,000 from the Emergency Fund towards relief for the people of Beirut. Richard A and President Tony will investigate suitable channels, preferably involving Rotary, and report back to the club.

Nigel B reported that David Watkins is in ‘good form’ though not looking forward to his next round of treatment. 

The Ball Draw was won by Richard Dyke (not virtually present) so £85 on 24th.

NO MEETING next Monday. 

August 24th , Nick Harwood from Young Somerset (Zoom).

August 31st (Bank Holiday) Social Supper outside at Mr Miles (the last day of half price meals!).