What an inspiring presenter we had this week in Rev Natalie Dixon -Monu! Stay tuned for opportunities to help collect Items to go into the 650 Christmas hampers, or to pack the hampers, which BCO provide to the many individuals and families they support. See later for Anne’s report on Natalie’s talk.

As my email to you all explained, due to cost increases at BASScare, we will trial buffet style meal service in order to keep the price increase to a minimum. However we will eventually need to find a new venue for meetings as the building we meet in will be demolished and redeveloped sometime next year. Members of the board are already searching for a new venue. If you have any ideas for venues, or questions about the changes please contact Rob Simpson or myself.

Last weeks recycling resulted in$10 for RC Canterbury. Keep those bottles and cans coming in.

As we finish End Polio Month, I have made it to just over 200km walked and Tony has walked 125km (a measly effort but considering he came back ill from the mission there is an excuse - The Ed). I have knowledge of the long-term effects of Polio as my uncle had it, so I am dedicated to support its eradication. I think many people assume polio is gone from the world because it is far less visible these days, much like measles (hence the decline in vaccination rates and the subsequent decrease in herd immunity), but if you get it, it’s devastating! Please support the End Polio and Walk with Us campaigns with your donations. Unfortunately, the donations have been relatively sparse - only $356 to date for the whole team. Last day today so if you have a couple of bob to spare here is the link again - https://www.rotarywalkwithus.org/st/153/1021 

Enjoy the long weekend, then be back on November 11 to learn some Tai Chi from Tony L - remember loose clothing and comfortable shoes. Put Nov 18 in your calendar to be sure you come to hear all about the most recent Philippines Medical Mission. STOP PRESS, as of yesterday evening and with many members and guests unable to make it the date for the presentation by the Philippines mission team has been moved to November 25th.

What else was mentioned in the Matters In the Interest of Rotary

• Cathie put out a call for RIMERN volunteers and has followed this up with an email. Please make sure you let her know your availability as she is set to prepare the roster for next year
• Tony, on behalf of John, put out a call for a volunteer for a 3 hour shift this coming Sunday as we had a member advise on availability - thanks to the Pres for putting her hand up - the roster is included below
• John spoke about the change to meals at BASScare - also covered by the Pres above