The regular May meeting was opened by welcoming remarks by the newly-elected president Elaine Moore. Elaine is a capable leader who will continue to encourage members to do great things for the auxiliary in the interests of the best patient care.
Reports were given by the Treasurer and activity representatives. These include Tuck Cart\Showcase, Membership, In Memoriam Fund, Goodwill, Coin Boxes, Facebook and Board Liaison. All is going well. Two of the activities need attention, There was no growth in membership. As September is the month for membership renewal hopefully at that time there will be an influx of new members. New members are needed to maintain and develop the mandate of the Auxiliary to assist the Manitoulin Health Centre in every way possible in the interests of the best patient care. Carole Labelle has volunteered to make up a booklet to be given to all members. It will contain the new Constitution and pertinent information especially to acquaint new members with the activities of the Auxiliary. Some are finding it difficult to get on to the Auxiliary Facebook page. Once on Facebook, search for Manitoulin Health Centre Auxiliary and click ‘Like.’ If you’re still having difficulty, call Sue at 705-368-2336 and she’ll help you.
Two events took place over the last month. The Book Sale in the Cafeteria at the Manitoulin Heath Centre on April 29 and 30 was great, More than $250 was raised. Thanks to helpers Dawn Orr, Doris Schwar, Glorea Myronuk and Dave Sylvester. Glorea and Dave are mainstays and have participated in set up and take down at every Book Sale. Glorea is also the cashier. Book Sales will begin on Saturdays from 9 till noon at the NEMI Farmers’ Market from May 21 till October 8. Donations will be accepted at the Market but please call Laila at 705-368-2580 before you bring your books. Vesey Bulbs are in transit and should arrive shortly. Sincere thanks for your support of these two fundraisers.
Two new leaves with Auxiliary connections have been added to the Tree of Life. The Genereux family has purchased a leaf in memory of Lawrence with funds raised at their Golf Tournaments. Lawrence was a real go-getter and was dedicated to the Auxiliary. He was awarded a Provincial Honourary Life Membership after his passing in 2010. Carmelita is still an active member and does a weekly shift at the Tuck\HELPP Lottery at the hospital. The auxiliary purchased a leaf in memory of Gary Van Zant, a member of the RCMP who met an untimely death in 1976, while serving in British Columbia. A yearly donation has been made to the Auxiliary from the family Trust Fund for more than 25 years.
We hear the question “What can I do?” Now is your chance! As the Auxiliary is a member of the NEMI Farmers’ Market, it was decided to have four bake sales at the market during the summer. So put on your chef’s hat and make sure you donate to the sales. Mark these dates on your calendar: May 21, July 2, July 30 and September 3. Call Sue Lafreniere at 705-368-2336 to let her know what you’ll bring. Other items will also be on sale. More details will follow in the June Auxiliary News.
The June Dinner Meeting is on June 2 at Green Acres. This meeting gives members a chance to gab, look back on the accomplishments of the year and encourage one another. It is also your chance to attend if you are a member but don’t have the time to attend meetings. Call Marilee Hore at 705-368-2547 to reserve a spot. There will be specials to choose from. We usually have the back room to ourselves so we can share a few laughs and be as lively as we like!
The next regular meeting is on Thursday, September 8 in the Multi-purpose Room upstairs at the Manitoulin Health Centre.
