President Kristin Keller called the meeting to order and welcomed all at Palmera Inn and Suites
The prayer and pledge to the flag was offered by and led by Kevin Courtney
Announcements:
Former VLR member Ivan Bennett's wife passed away. Many in the club knew her.
The Social scheduled to be held in October may be moved, it will be taken up at the board meeting.
Raffle tickets are not here yet but will be available next week at the meeting.
Foundation Chair, Greg Wynn recognized Dick Storm and presented him with a PHF+5 pin. Thank you Dick for your continued support of The Rotary Foundation and membership in the Paul Harris Society.
Sergeant at Arms, Suzi Oliver collected Happy $$$.
Speaker
VLR member, Angie Stone who is the Assistant Town Manager of the Town of Hilton Head Island was our speaker.
Angie has worked for the Town of Hilton Head Island for 20 years, in various positions. She was a Senior Human Resources Administrator for 16 years, served as Human Resources Director for almost 3 years, and this year in April assumed the Assistant Town Manager position. With her specialty being HR, her focus is naturally on people. She says that the new town manager brings a different perspective to the town. Her presentation " Improving Access...Building Community" emphasized that everything that is done at the town is tied to a strategic plan and the need to bring our residents together. She discussed the organization changes at the town. The need to improve access to government participation, information, services, employment, facilities and arts, culture and recreation are all part of the goal. The Town website has been improved with this in mind. It now has a "translate" button, and includes meeting calendar, videos, minutes, financial data, online services and even information about building, streets, repair, Social media is used to communicate town initiatives, job postings, and informative videos. Angie spoke of the many services that are available to our residents, online and mail in as well as service by appointment and walk in. The town seeks ways to make facilities available to residents as well as visitors. Some which are coming: overlook at Islanders Beach Park, improving accessible beach access points (we are one of the first to use beach mats); providing beach wheelchairs for use for no charge. Other initiatives: public art displays, drive thru lantern parade, free symphony performance, inclusive playground equipment, free little art galleries, lantern making workshops and mural projects. All focused on improving access to build community and bring people together. Angie is always open to suggestions - you can contact her via her email (angies@hiltonheadislandsc.gov) or phone 843-341-4622 . Check our the town's website: hiltonheadislandsc.gov