Ravens Roost 115 Westminster, MD

Message from the Secretary, Lori Blake

Westminster Raven’s Roost Meeting    August 26, 2010 – 6:30 p.m. @ Rafaels

A meeting was held to gather information about the Westminster Roost becoming a Charter. We had several guests from the Baltimore Roost committee. We had great participation which was impressive to our visitors.

Chris opened the floor for questions from the group. We were told that we are able to pick our own charities and that this is left up to the local Roost. The two charities that we will initially support were shared (Pathfinders for Autism and Therapeutic Riding Program (TRP of Carroll County). They reminded us in addition to giving money to charities; we should also consider giving our service/time as well. The group shared several events that they participate in such as an annual bull roast, blood drives, and golf tournaments. There are no rules or restrictions on events; they are just to be tasteful.

It would be appreciated if our Roost participates in the annual Special Olympics Polar Bear Plunge. This is currently being held at Sandy Point Park; however they have ban alcohol consumption so an alternative site is being considered.

A question was raised about a mission/vision statement. Each group can create their own so we will look to do that. We discussed the purpose of the Roost to be a social group who enjoys common interests (the Ravens) and who will raise money along the way. It was agreed that we want to be formed as the “Westminster Ravens Roost”. Roost numbers are assigned and it looks like we will be #115. That will be confirmed when we are accepted as a charter.

Mark your calendars for the annual Ravens Roost convention in Ocean City, Maryland on June 2^nd through the 5^th. Many fun events take place including a parade, competitions of tug of war, volleyball, scavenger hunts and horseshoes, etc. There is also a cocktail party and party day with food. The hosting hotel is Castle in the Sand; however it may be difficult to get accommodations there. We will look to find a hotel and block out rooms for our Roost.

Our next meeting will be held on September 15^th at 6:30 at Rafaels. We need to prepare for our official Roost acceptance meeting which will be held on Friday, September 17^th at 7:30 p.m. at The Knights of Columbus in Catonsville. The address is 2021 Frederick Road, Catonsville, MD 21228. Phone is 410-744-3560. All Officers and Board members need to be present, but a good participation from members is encouraged as well.  We need to show them what a valuable Roost we will be. Below are directions from Rafaels. Plan to arrive by 7:10 and we will meet in the guest area. Carpooling was recommended as parking is somewhat limited.  We need to be prepared to introduce ourselves and talk about ourselves and what we can bring to the Council. Several questions will be asked including:

☼Can we sell tickets to the annual bull roast (of course we can)!

☼ What is our female to male ration (it is currently about 61% male and 39% female, but we will update it before the meeting as new members express interest in joining)

☼ What is our age demographics (we currently have members from 21-60 years? We need to verify this information).

We can discuss our presentation and plan for the 17^th when we meet on September 15^th at 6:30 p.m.