Minutes of May 12, 2014 Meeting

Announcements

Nash- International Night- a very successful evening. Paul wanted to thank Steve for piano music, Rick for wine contribution, Dean F. for a $500 donation and all Club members who donated wine. A special “thank-you” to all members of the RH Cmte. as well as to all who sold tickets. A reminder that the Town of RH donated $2000 and Samir donated $1100 towards our International project.

Camp Enterprise- Dr. Abarra- 52 kids from all over Dist. 7070 attended this past weekend. Our Club’s negotiation activity again went well. Thanks to Dr. Abarra for his leadership here.

Golf Tournament- June 17- Cyril
As of today we have 104 golfers between the RH and Newmarket Club. June 2 is the deadline to inform Cardinal Golf Club re: numbers. We have 14-15 sponsors but still need more. There will be a silent auction as well as prizes. Cyril is still looking for giveaways and prizes. $175 includes lunch, dinner, cart and golf.

NO Meeting next Monday- Holiday.

Special Presentation- Nash presented Club member Bryon Wilfert with his second Paul Harris Fellowship. For his leadership and efforts to the common good of Canadians and in the international arena.

Special Speaker- classification speech-  Bryon Wilfert.

Nash introduced Bryon, a 31 year member of the RH Club. Bryon was a member of the
Federal  Government from 1997-2011. He has received numerous national and international awards, including the “Honor of the Rising Sun”- the highest honor given in Japan.

Bryon- he is now an honary Counsel to Miramar( Burma). In 1962 a military coup took over the country and put it into ruin. Recently it has become a democracy and their goal is to modernize their economy. Canada and the UK. still refer to this country as Burma. 89% of the country is Buddhist. Bryon’s position is non-paying and his role is to provide more international exposure for the country- specifically in the areas of investment, education and tourism.

The country is situated between India and China and has tremendous natural resources. Bryon will be on the diplomatic circuit trying to connect with other countries. Their move towards democratization is unstoppable. Included in their population are 135 nationalities.
The Muslims and Buddhists have lived in harmony for hundreds of years- but now tensions are starting to rise. Canada has now set up an Embassy there with English being the predominant language. The people of Miramar want to learn about the outside world through a vibrant press. There is real growth of the middle class. So far- there is no Rotary Club..

Samir thanked Bryon on behalf of the Club for his enlightening and informative presentation.