President's Remarks for the  Week

With president Gavin already in Fiji for the district conference we had a meeting with a difference this week.

 

The first difference was that our catering was “Pizza and beer” although I noted there were a few who considered that wine and pizza was the way to go. Each to their own!

Of course this meant that our normal caterers weren’t there so surprise, surprise Heather and John Savoury stepped into the breach and even provided ice cream just so some members didn’t exhibit withdrawal symptoms.

 

The bar was expertly managed and Colin Monk provided service with a smile and a cheerful word. We are blessed to have such special people who truly demonstrate “Service before self.” Thank you, thank you, thank you.

 

I have to confess I was a little concerned when Gavin and Lynne set off for Fiji on Tuesday because we have been seeing scenes of devastation in Nadi with the rain from the cyclone at the weekend. However I did receive a text from him saying that “Arrived at hotel all good. No weather problems.” Knowing Gavin I had visions of him knee deep in the situation helping with the clean up. He went a few days early so he could visit the village where some members including him had a part in building homes a few years ago.

 

I have just had a phone conversation with Dorothy and John Osborne. Most of you will be aware that John has had major back surgery involving two extensive operations over the last three weeks followed by heart problems and then orthopaedic treatment. His adventures started at Ascot then he was transferred to Auckland and finally to Middlemore. He is at home and sounds cheerful but gets tired very quickly and has trouble concentrating. If you are thinking of visiting please ring first to make sure it’s OK.

 

The second difference this week was that I ended up as acting president at relatively short notice. My apologies if things were a bit ragged. No doubt I will get more practice in a few months.

 

Your new board will be having a planning session later in the month to prepare for the new Rotary year. If you have any thoughts or helpful suggestions please email them to me so I have time to organise our meeting.

 

Next week is wine tasting at Howick Club. If you turn up to the bowling club you will be lonely, hungry and thirsty. If you haven’t done so already confirm your attendance (and any guests) to David Owen and John Savoury.

 

“Ta ta for now” Jeannette and I are off to Fiji early tomorrow. I hope Gavin has got the place sorted by then!

 

Dave