The summer General Meeting of the Ross Bay Villa Society – for members and volunteers – was held at Ross Bay Villa on August 23, at noon. A short business meeting was held, where Simone Vogel-Horridge, the president, reported on progress since the AGM in March.
Membership is up to 80; and Charitable Status has been applied for. The gift-shop has been renewed with new shelves and stock; and all artifacts stored off-site have now been returned to the Villa. The annual Canada Day Lawn Party was a success, with a new Roscoe brand of tea – formulated by Murchies – being launched at the event. Saturday tours had been well-attended, and special tours and classes had also visited Ross Bay Villa since March.
A call for volunteers was made, noting that 2015 will be the 150th anniversary of the construction of the Villa, and many special events, tours and exhibits are being planned throughout 2015. Each month will have a different focus for tours and exhibits, with a big event being planned for July. There will be lots of opportunities for volunteers to be involved.
Mike Hewison, the treasurer, reported that the Society was doing well, having made a profit on the Canada Day Event. Necessary expenses, such as Alarm and Sprinkler tests, had been carried out during the year.
After the business meeting, everyone tucked into a good potluck lunch, with everyone enjoying the warm sun on chairs placed on the lawn, under the shade of our heritage apple trees.
The next General Meeting is planned for Sunday afternoon, December 14 at 2:30pm at Ross Bay Villa.
The business meeting will be held at 2:30pm, with Christmas drinks and goodies to follow. An Open House is planned to follow the meeting from 3 to 5 pm for volunteers, members, invited guests and supporters of the Villa.