Visitors
There were lots of visitors tonight to enjoy an evening of bowling at Whitby Bowling Club. Dinah McEwen, Velma Knight, Nathan Waddle, Glenys Greaves, Margaret Pine, Clare Waddle, Jan Phillips, and Dianne McGavin were all made very welcome. For some reason, Maureen Gillon was omitted from our welcome last week. Apologies to Maureen - you're always welcome.
What’s coming up in April and beyond?
Next week we'll be in April so Tuesday 5 April is committee night. Please take note that the meeting will be held upstairs as the floor downstairs is being 'done'.
The District Conference on 8/9 April has never been as easy to attend. There are some great speakers and you don't even need to leave your home. Find out more and register here.
On 12 April the meeting will acknowledge some of our members for the long service they have given to Rotary. As this is a very special meeting partners, spouses and friends are very welcome.
And advance notice that our Club Changeover will take place on Tuesday, 5 July. Please put this date in your diary.
For future events go here.
Emcee
Bryan Waddle took charge of the proceedings tonight. He welcomed everyone and paid tribute to our long-time member, Les Austing, who had orchestrated the Bowls Evening for many years. He thanked everyone for their support.
After the stalwarts among us had finished competing on the lawns, or just drinking and chatting, Bryan organised a corner to corner competition. After the first round, there were six finalists. A bottle of wine was awarded to the eventual winner, Graeme Tongs, and the booby prize went to John Barber.
Dinner, beautifully prepared as always by Elite Caterers was a delicious interlude, after which Bryan orchestrated a 'game' of Heads or Tails. This tested everyone's general knowledge and the eventual winner was Jan Phillips, the partner of our newest member, Bruce. Speaking of Bruce, his profile is now in the Club Members' database on the Intranet.
Finally, there was a raffle. Colin Whyte took the third prize but Graham Wallace walked away with the second and the main prize of a basket brimming with goodies!
Bryan thanked Philip Whearty for all the work he did behind the scenes, as usual, with preparation and setting up and President Kay thanked Bryan for creating such a fun evening for everyone.
Snippets
Allan Nichols reminded members about Guess Who's Coming to Dinner which will be held on Saturday, 30 April. Allan needs six people who are prepared to be hosts for eight people each. No catering is required as the food will be delivered to the hosts' doors. There will be drinks at Allan and Barbara's house first and then a secret draw to let you know whose house you will be going to. A board was passed around, but if it missed you, please get in touch with Allan.
President Kay reflects how wonderful it was to see so many of our Rotarians at Noel's Funeral, so ably led by Wendy Betteridge. The tributes from our members were all excellent. 'Be at peace, Noel.'
The Almoner said …
It's sad to report the loss of another from our close Rotary 'family'. Former member, Julie McLagan's husband, Rob, passed away on Saturday. Our thoughts are with the family.
Parting thought
Kay gave us the Parting Thought tonight from Hunter S Thompson, an American journalist, who said, "Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming 'Wow! What a ride!' "
Who’s on duty for the next month?
Unable to do your duty? Please find a replacement and inform Graham Wallace.
If you're a late 'no show' please tell President Kay.
Please arrive at 5.45 pm if you're on Door duty or hosting the Guest Speaker for the evening.
Need to apologise or bring additional guests?
Advise the Receptionist at Professionals before 10.00 am on the Monday before the meeting on 233 9955 or email paremata@dwre.co.nz if you prefer.
Please provide the name (and spelling if necessary). The same applies if you're going to be late.