Pearls were the theme for the 30th Anniversary and changeover ceremony for Quota International of Whakatane, held last month.  Special guests included seven charter members (three of which are still active members); Carol Somervell, District 37 New Zealand's first District Governor 1976-78 and Barbara Cummings who was President of Rotorua 1980 and sponsoring club for Whakatane.

Out going President Lorna Subritzky thanked the members for an outstanding year which included supporting Hospice with 'Dancing with Stars'; making Quilts for Haiti during Quota Cares Month; with donations to  Shine Girls, RDA for care of 'Dyak' the Quota horse, 'LOUD Shirt Day' and 'Beautiful Daughters in Auckland'. 

President Lorna thanked the members for their support and also the support they have given each other during this very successful year.

As outgoing president Lorna presented the following awards: Hands-on-service award to Lyn Irving who donated 204 hrs out of a club total of 1637 hrs.  

The President's Rose Bowl was presented to Yulene Watts - "Who stepped out of her comfort zone, and in one year has proved that she is a true Quota member".

The 25th Anniversary Awards was presented to Marguerite Timbs, "A member who has given outstanding service and leadership, who always seems to 'appear' wherever she is needed."

The 'Heart of Quota Award' - "This award goes to the member with an exceptional heart.  She has given time, talent and cared for several Quota members who were admitted to hospital this year. She has a lovely, caring bedside manner and has only been in Quota one year", President Lorna said, as Sammy Wilson presented Vijaya Lokuketagoda with a silver heart.

The membership award was shared by Jan France, Wendy Tozer, Marg Murray and Judy Woods who each introduced a new member to Quota over the past year.

The District 37 Team of Pam Ross, District Governor; Karla Hammond, Lieutenant Governor and Kathleen Drummond, District Sectreatary/Treasurer conducted the installation ceremony for the incoming board.

Board for 2010-2011:  Judy Woods, President; Jenny Mahoney, Pres Elect; Ina Murphy, 1st Vice and Treasurer; Karen Sharp, Secretary; Nola Lawson, Club Services; Lorna Subritzky, Ways and Means; Annette Steele, Community Service; Alison Johnston, Membership.

For more information on Quota, contact Alison Johnston at 07 312-6118.