Club News Archive ― 2008-09
From the Club Bulletin, June 2009
President Ian's Swan Song (Tune: 'Happy Feet')
It seems no time at all since I was writing my introduction for the Bulletin last May, and now it seems that the year has flown past and it is time for my parting comments.
With the Government in turmoil over their expenses and many of our MPs being forced out of office I feel that at least in my case I knew that the end was nigh – and I must say I have been surprised at how very much I have enjoyed my term in office as President of Largs Rotary Club.
Unfortunately over the year a number of our members have been the victims of various illnesses but thankfully they are all now recovered or on the mend and it shows the measure of the Club that other people came forward to carry on their good work and help ensure that we have had a very successful year.
We have been involved in many and varied fund-raising activities as you are all aware – from the Fiddle Concert, bag-packing at Morrisons, to the Fashion Show at Brisbane House Hotel – quizzes, involvement in the school coffee mornings and ferry collections. And I would like to thank you for your unstinting support throughout.
We have also had members keeping close ties with other clubs by visitations and taking part in sports competitions with greater or lesser success – but remember it's not the winning, it's the taking part that counts (or so they say).
Gaining new members is still a problem, but I am happy to say that this year we have managed to attract some new faces who are proving invaluable in their enthusiasm, and I am sure will be a great asset to the Club.
Thanks to our fund-raising activities, we have been able to supply a heart start machine to the local medical centre and, with the plaque in place, feel that the name of Rotary is better known in the local district for supporting local charities.
One way in which I feel we could improve is by concentrating on advertising our coming events locally and further afield.
May I finish by extending my thanks to the staff of the Willowbank Hotel throughout the year for their unfailing cheerfulness and good service?
And finally my very best wishes go to Roy Ellison and his team for an extremely successful and profitable year 2009/10.
Thank you all for helping to make my year in office such an interesting experience. BUT, it is NOT goodbye from me – just au revoir!
All the best,
President Ian
RIBI Conference - Fiona reporting
"You'll call for me at WHAT time? Oh, you really did say 6.30am! No - of course that's no problem." Thus started our trip to the RIBI Conference in Edinburgh. We – President Ian, Roy and myself, did indeed set off from Largs at that unearthly hour on Saturday April 25th.
The trip to Edinburgh went very smoothly and we were at the Corn Exchange in good time for the conference start - in such good time, in fact, that they were still putting up the signs as we arrived. We were joined there by Ian and Davina Birss, the rest of the Largs contingent.
This was my first RIBI Conference and I found it much like the curate’s egg – good in parts.
It was ably hosted by RIBI President Ian Thomson and we were welcomed to Edinburgh by the Lord Provost. I found it interesting to hear first-hand from RI President Dong-Kurn Lee, and the enthusiasm of Interact and Rotaract groups was encouraging. By far the highlight of the programme for me was the live TV presentation by Konnie Huq of the Rotary Young Citizen Awards – their stories were truly inspiring.
The afternoon business meeting was less stimulating and I have to admit that there were some points when I found myself losing the will to live – but then we did have that early start which may have explained this!
Sunday brought a start at a more civilised hour. Among other contributions we had presentations for 'Ordinary Rotarians Doing Extraordinary Things'; and promotions both for the Birmingham Convention and the Bournemouth RIBI Conference in 2010. The last speaker was Michael Portillo who provided a polished and entertaining finale.
President Ian Thomson, in his conference welcome, expressed the hope that we would "share the experience of the breadth and depth of Rotary experience in Great Britain and Ireland". I certainly returned home feeling that I had gone some way to doing so.
Primary Schools Quiz - Fiona again
On Thursday May 7th I headed with some trepidation to Kelburn Primary to act as Quizmaster for the Primary Schools Quiz. Thankfully, I was not alone. The other Rotarians attending were Bill Armstrong, Bill Patrick, Ken Thomas, Joe Hannah, John Watson and David Walsh.
When I introduced this illustrious group as 'my beautiful assistants' it seemed to cause some amusement among the quiz participants – so much for poetic license!
We had teams from six schools. Kelburn, Brisbane and St Mary’s Primaries represented Largs; Fairlie, Skelmorlie and Cumbrae Primaries also took part.
The Robertson Shield was won by Fairlie Primary with 39 points out of a possible 45. Each member of the winning team also received a small shield and monetary gift. All quiz participants went off with small tokens of Rotary's appreciation for their hard work and enthusiasm.
Kelburn Primary were hospitable and provided both an excellent venue and very welcome refreshments.
I made some interesting discoveries; everyone knew the name of the US President but few could name the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer and most people knew the name of Queen Victoria's husband, but no-one was able to name George VI as King during World War II.
My personal favourite? – the famous Scot who invented the television was John Logie Bear!
Sports Report - from Eddie McKenzie
Bowls: We have again been invited to take part in the Friendship Cup at Kirkmichael on 24 June, and in the Scottish Rotary Championships at Alloa on 2 July. It is hoped we will be able to have a rink at each of these competitions.
From the Club Bulletin, April 2009
It's A Small World - from John Hepburn
At one of the Largs Bay Rotary Club meetings that Helen and I attended, the speaker was Mr Suren Krishnan, an Adelaide specialist in head and neck surgery. We had a chat with him afterwards, and he mentioned Canniesburn Hospital, and the surgeon Ian Jackson of "Boy Pete?" fame. He then mentioned another surgeon whom I did not know, and then asked if I knew a Mr John McGregor.
In 1979, John McGregor was a registrar in Ian Jackson's unit, and his parents, Isobel and Jack McGregor, lived in Wemyss Bay and were friends of ours. Jack proposed me for membership of Largs Rotary, which I joined in January 1979.
Academy Accolades
Seven Rotarians went back to school last month, not to be taught, but to learn of the abilities of junior class members to make speeches and give PowerPoint presentations. The youngsters are to be commended for their efforts.
Topics ranged widely from Netball to the Red Arrows, and from My Dog to Music. The young man who was the most entertaining spoke on the credit crunch: "I used to think the credit crunch was a chocolate bar…" and he went on in similar fashion. But the worthy winner in the speechmaking contest gave a very detailed and polished account of the life of her favourite author, Roald Dahl.
In the PowerPoint presentation, the spoils also went to a young lady. The winners were: S2/3 PowerPoint: Charlotte Hannah (subject: The Queen); and the S1 Speechmaking Champion was Catherine Burton. Her subject was the children's author, Roald Dahl.
Young People Nowadays! - some reflections from the Editor
My more direct involvement with local schools, particularly Largs Academy, has renewed my faith in the upcoming generation and in the teaching staff. Our recent Euroscola, Daniel West, is a prime example of youngsters with social ideals allied to a personal ambition to fulfil some worthwhile purpose in life. He is an impressive young man focused on wider horizons and will undoubtedly play his full part in influencing others of his generation whatever path he may choose to follow, perhaps, as he hinted, in European politics. Stuart Watson, a teacher at the Academy, is in the process of organising a trip to Namibia during June/July. Twelve students are likely to take part. Each participant is expected to raise £3,600 to fund the trip, a considerable undertaking. Our club will assist financially to an extent, and would also be willing to involve the students in some of the fund-raising activities scheduled by the Club, to our mutual benefit. Stuart is also scheduling a series of coffee mornings and would hope to benefit from our direct involvement and our organisational skills.
There are other areas of Rotary fund-raising in which students could become involved to our mutual advantage and in helping to raise the profile of Rotary. The first is the bag pack at Morrisons on 11 April. It is hoped that at least six students will take part. Students might also become involved in the annual Cumbrae ferry collection on Saturday 6 June, and our first effort on the bottle stall for Ardgowan Hospice at the Largs Agricultural Show. The more energetic could participate in or help to steward at the annual fun run on 10 May.
Meaningful links with the primary schools cluster continue to be fostered with an eye to contacts being established as the youngsters develop. The Robertson Trophy competition, having passed through various incarnations, presently is a quiz based on the curriculum, with Fiona setting the questions.
It may be a recently acquired grandfatherly instinct that has prompted the desire to establish meaningful links across the generations and to pass on the shared values we seek to foster through Rotary. Much is being attempted and achieved.
Ayrshire Rotary Curling League - the final reckoning
All clubs with the exception of Garnock Valley will play again next year, including Loudoun/Troon, a combination that has proved to be a successful format. This gives seven rinks in the league, and every effort should be made to find one more. The organiser will write to all Ayrshire clubs with a further composite rink being an option, supported by Ayr, as they have plenty of curlers. A fall-back solution will be for Ayr to field an extra rink.
It was agreed that most of the games will be on Fridays, but the organiser should attempt to have some games on other evenings, similar to this year. 9.30pm ice should be kept to a minimum.
Ardrossan & Saltcoats had reached the final of the Ram's Head played at Perth in March. This was a great achievement and congratulations to them.
Coaching had taken place at the beginning of the season and had been a reasonable success. It was agreed to go ahead with coaching again, and the organiser will write to each club inviting them to join in. There is doubt about Harveys Ice Rink continuing, so the coaching will be held in Ayr.
The trophy for League winners is missing, and was not presented last year. No one knew of its whereabouts, and the organiser should write to all the clubs.
The Billy Dunlop trophy for Ayrshire Mixed has not been played since 2005. A note will be sent to clubs to assess interest.
Sports Report
Curling: The last match of the season, against Loudon on 26 March, ended in defeat and brought another "average" season to a close. Ayr 1 took the final honours with Loudoun/Troon the runners up.
District Fellowship Challenge: Only twelve of the fifty six clubs in District have entered the DFC. By the luck of the draw and without breaking sweat we have progressed to the quarter finals where we will play either Barrhead or Bothwell and Uddingston. As challengers we will not decide what or where we play. The match has to be played by 31 May.
From the Club Bulletin, February 2009
RIBI President's Visit - by Roving Reporter Fiona
It was a cold, dark and wet winter evening and the wind moaned eerily in the trees .. no, not a ghost story – a group visit of six Largs Rotarians to the Rotary Club of Hunterston!
As we set off on Wednesday January 28th for Seamill Hydro I have to admit that the question uppermost in my mind was not 'What excitements lie in store for us this evening?' but 'Why am I going out on a night like this?' On the way I remarked to my travelling companions that I'd much rather have stayed cosily at home tucked up by the fire - by the end of the evening I was to eat my words.
The meeting was billed as a normal Hunterston Rotary meeting but it was clear from the time of our arrival that it was far from that. We were directed to the hotel's largest suite where Rotarians from all around the district were gathered and where an atmosphere of anticipation was already evident. Around 10 clubs were represented, as was the Inner Wheel. All of the Group Study Exchange (GSE) team preparing for their visit to Canada later in the spring attended. Five club presidents were there as well as District Governor, Catherine Stewart, and an assortment of Assistant District Governors, District Committee convenors etc.
A normal evening? I think not.
As a former teacher I'd like to think that the turnout was because of the evening's speaker, the Head Teacher of West Kilbride Primary School. She gave a very interesting and informative illustrated talk on developments in primary education.
However, then it was the turn of the real 'draw' of the evening - Ian Thomson, the current RIBI President. Ian is a native of Dunfermline but is now based in Cheltenham. He had been given the 'graveyard shift' and as it was by now 9.00pm I wondered if he would find it difficult to retain the attention of his audience. I need have had no fears on this score.
He spoke with both ease and enthusiasm and without the assistance of notes for almost 40 minutes and kept his audience captivated throughout - a charismatic speaker, indeed.
He began by welcoming various groups including a coterie of lady Rotarians – Hazel, Valerie and myself. We were pleased by his choice of terminology for our group – a definite improvement from the 'coven' occasionally used by fellow Rotarians to describe us!
Ian then went on to speak of his own experiences in Rotary, particularly in this, his RIBI Presidential year. He placed great emphasis on the fun and fellowship of Rotary and the need to demonstrate this to potential Rotarians. He succeeded in being entertaining throughout without detracting from the serious nature of much of his subject matter, in particular the eradication of polio. His talk was peppered with humorous anecdotes, both actual and apocryphal, and was rewarded on conclusion with appreciative applause - for the talk and not the conclusion!
After some time for questions, a short speech from District Governor Catherine and a vote of thanks to both speakers the evening finished in a flurry of photographs, some of which will no doubt find their way to the website and maybe into the 'Wee Paper'.
Finally we set off for home. It was still a cold, dark and wet winter evening and the wind still moaned eerily in the trees but arriving home just after 11.00pm I knew exactly why I’d gone out on a night like this and was very glad I’d done so. I can only say that those of you who stayed cosily tucked up at home missed a treat.
Sports Report
Curling: We earned our easiest points of the season when Garnock Valley withdrew from the competition - we were due to play them on 20 March. Our final game of the season, barring withdrawals, will be on 26th March against Loudon.
District Fellowship Challenge: No word yet from the District Sports Officer.
From the Club Bulletin, January 2009
Largs Town Twinning Association - from Lewis Rae
Well, it's official! Largs is now twinned for the first time ever with a European town, namely Andernos Les Bains in France. This should open the door to an interchange of sporting events, casual visits and information exchange between primary and secondary schools in both towns.
The French party of eighteen, led by the Mayor M Philippe Perusat and some of his Council members, arrived on Thursday evening (22nd January). Amidst a busy weekend including civic events at Cunninghame House and Moorburn Manor, they were invited to attend a gathering at Largs Academy where Mr Jones had assembled his heads of department and the heads of the three local primary schools to talk to the French party. A tour of the Academy, talking to pupils and hearing the School orchestra, visiting the special needs area, both gymnasiums and the newly built classrooms, left the French visitors seriously impressed by the ambience of the School and the warmth of the welcome. Arrangements were made by the French Councillor, Chair of their Education Committee, to set up e-mail contacts between the schools.
The Twinning document was signed by Provost Bobby Rae at a formal ceremony in the Clark Memorial Church Hall on Saturday afternoon, and this was followed by a concert of local talent from primary school children to more mature members of Largs entertainment groups. This was organized by LTTA Committee member, David MacDonald, and left the French party quite staggered at the quality and variety of talent available here in our town.
A dinner at the newly refurbished Nardini’s restaurant was an opportunity for the French party to lead us in their exuberant party style, and we should now be able to order the newly created "Town Twinning" ice cream sundae in the café.
The group attended the Burns supper at Brisbane House Hotel and - although many of them did not understand the language - did we understand it you may ask? - they enjoyed this bit of traditional Scottish culture.
Altogether, a very successful and satisfying weekend.
From the Club Bulletin, November 2008
Some Thoughts On Recruitment - from Bill Laing
At a recent Club Council meeting, I was rash enough to raise the thorny issue of recruitment, and was given the 'all clear' to assemble a small group and come up with some ideas as to how to possibly proceed. I got together with Fiona Urquhart and Ken Thomas, and we cogitated on the subject, the net result being my recent talk to the Club.
One of the first things we identified was the simple fact that, although we were disappointed that the idea of a second Largs club, based on evening meetings, did not seem to fit the bill, nevertheless the present Largs club was recently quite successful in recruiting five members, including 'our ladies', so that, even before we might start another recruiting campaign, we have enjoyed success in the recruitment 'game'.
A further deduction that could be made from all this activity was that this success arose in part from concentrating on attempting to recruit from the retired population of Largs and its surroundings. There are plenty of retired (and active!) folk around, and this is probably a good pointer as to where a new approach might be concentrated; but perhaps there are other groups we might concentrate on, so suggestions would be most welcome.
One thing is very clear. While a small group from within the Club can act as a catalyst, we will require the support of every member in a recruitment drive. I would think that we ought to be able to get our plans well worked out by early 2009, and then the 'big push' in the Spring.
Some observations made by Fiona Urquhart, based on her experiences elsewhere and on joining our Club, are shown below.
Rotary Recruitment Possibilities - from Fiona Urquhart
- 'Welcome to your new home' packs - a welcome card/letter, an information booklet on Largs and a brochure inviting Rotary contact - perhaps all combined in one booklet - Rotarians would give these either personally or by posting through letterboxes whenever someone moved into their street/block, etc. or when a new development is built - like currently right opposite the Willowbank!
- A high profile marketing event such as a stall in the foyer of Morrisons throughout a Saturday - lots of groups do this, so presumably it works! Leaflets advertising our presence in various outlets throughout the town - library, information bureau, and any retail outlet prepared to stock them - as simple as possible - I found the information I was originally given a bit weighty and confusing;
- Posters in locations, as above;
- Making sure that our 'Wee Paper' entry always has a contact name and number;
- A compilation item for the 'Wee Paper' with photos/information on all the Rotary events of a Rotary year;
- A regular entry in the various 'What's on in Largs' brochures;
- Brochure distribution at our own events - Fiddle Concert, etc.;
- Making sure we have some sort of representation at all major Largs events - e.g. Could we have a mulled wine and mince pie stall on Yuletide Evening?
- A drive in recruitment from Millport - other groups have significant Millport membership - why shouldn't we?
- An 'Open Day' - perhaps a Saturday morning - when we leaflet widely and invite visitors for free coffee and cakes and to see what we do - we'd need a good display for this with perhaps a looped video and some good communicators to chat to people;
- A guest lunch with the whole meeting geared to visitors - normal meeting format, but rather more informal and with a good speaker promoting Rotary - members might focus better on inviting friends or acquaintances to this sort of event;
- More awareness of the needs of visitors and new members at normal weekly meetings - I don't think we communicate well - as a recent addition, I could write a book on this!
District Conference - A Novice's First Impressions - by Hazel Gray
Friday Afternoon
We've arrived - looks good - warmly welcomed with goodie bag. What's my room like? Has everything I need - small but adequate. Unpack - then down to reception for coach to Royal George - friendly, chatty gathering and wine. Back 'home' to Queen's for dinner then off in coach to New Concert Hall for fellowship, music and song.
Saturday Morning
What - breakfast really at 7.00am? Coach to Royal Concert Hall.
Plenary Session 1 - Rotary the World Over. The main speaker, Chris Moon of Leonard Cheshire International, grabbed my attention. If ever a positive attitude was demonstrated, it was by Chris. He summed up: "However bad the situation, you can choose how to respond" - in his case, whilst in Cambodia, clearing landmines - it went disastrously wrong - resulting in the loss of a leg and arm - facing death, he chose life. He is now father of three children.
Plenary Session 2 - Ian McIntyre introduced the Ambassadorial Scholars. The Ambassadorial Scholars and Group Study Exchange Team concluded with the following quotation: "Rotary can be compared to a pile of dung: if seen in a heap, can be offensive, but if spread around, can do a lot of good."
Saturday Afternoon
Some free time. Into the glad rags for informal reception with El Presidente Macpherson, then coach to formal Civic Reception in Dewars Centre, followed by the Grand Fellowship Ball - enjoyed by all.
Sunday Morning
Breakfast again at 7am. Coach to Concert Hall for an uplifting service by Rev. David Cameron.
Plenary Session 3 - Humorously delivered speech from Robin Hood (yes, that is his name!) and members of Calgary Group Study Exchange Team. Jimmy Beg and Willie Watters introduced us to the Ayrshire Coastal Path. What an accomplishment! - They well deserved the recognition later awarded.
Coffee, followed by Plenary Session 4 - awards/vote of thanks and final farewell.
Overall
An enjoyable weekend. Thanks to Roy for driving us (John Watson, Fiona and me) to and from Perth. I'm looking forward to sleeping in till 8am tomorrow morning and not having to wait for a coach!
Upcoming Events (November 2008)
- Nov 1 - Fiddle Orchestra
- Nov 27 - Quiz Night
- Dec 11 - Yuletide Night (Wishing Well)
- Dec 16 - Christmas Lunch
- Apr 11 - Bag-Packing at Morrisons [subsequently cancelled]
- Jun 6 - Ferry Collection
- Jun 13 - Largs Agricultural Show (Bottle Stall)
Sports Report
Curling: An average start to the season saw victory against Cumnock (10-5) on Tuesday 14 October, followed by defeat at the hands of Ardrossan & Saltcoats (12-7). We were unable to raise a full team for the second match; only two regulars were able to play. 'AN Other' was drafted in, but at a cost of 3 shots - rules is rules!
Bowls: A rink has been entered for the District Indoor Bowling Championship on 26 October at Kilmarnock. This is new to us as we had not been invited to play in the past.
From the Club Bulletin, October 2008
Visit By Annemarie Harte, CEO, Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland
We were pleased to welcome the new chief executive officer of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland (RIBI) to our club last month when she told us how she hopes to help drive the national organisation of volunteers into a new era. (See photo below.)
Annemarie Harte, a charming young Dubliner, was on a fact-finding tour to learn more about the range of humanitarian work being carried out in the area, as well as explain her hopes for the organisation's future.
Annemarie worked in the media industry for eight years, including the Telegraph Group and Associated Newspapers in their sales and commercial development departments, for both paper- and on-line advertising. From there she moved on to work with volunteers at Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Chamber of Commerce in Dublin, eventually becoming their Manager/CEO.
The first ever CEO/Secretary for RIBI plans to instigate a range of changes over the next few years to secure it as Great Britain and Ireland's leading humanitarian organisation, with the aim of attracting more young people and women to join what is wrongly misconstrued as an old-fashioned organisation.
Tasked with helping to raise Rotary's profile and show off the wealth of volunteer and fundraising work carried out by the 58,000 members, she is hoping to encourage all clubs to pledge their support to the challenge.
Annemarie said: "Rotary is a truly amazing organisation and really does help to make a positive impact on communities both home and abroad. Members invest a huge amount of time and effort to improving the lives of others, from organising events which raise thousands of pounds for local charities to sending out aid to victims of natural disasters overseas.
"My challenge is to show the world that Rotary is more relevant today to business people and community leaders than it was when the first club was formed in 1905. In these challenging social times, be it at home or abroad, there is a need for people and businesses to give back to their communities. Rotary helps them do this and so much more – it also gives the opportunity for friendship, advice and support and extending those ideals to a global audience, helping to build bridges and understanding. Members should be incredibly proud of themselves and my aim is to encourage others to join this wonderful network."
Upcoming Events (October 2008)
- Oct 3 - District Conference, Perth
- Nov 1 - Fiddle Orchestra
- Nov 27 - Quiz Night
- Dec 16 - Christmas Lunch
- Apr 11 - Bag-Packing At Morrisons [subsequently cancelled]
Sports Report
Golf: The previously abandoned Hunterston Charity competition was replayed on Thursday 11 September. Unfortunately our illustrious team - John Cook, Stan Martin, Norman Reid and Bill Armstrong - failed to live up to expectations, despite having the Lochwinnoch Seniors Champions in their ranks. The weather was little better than on the scheduled date and it was with reluctance, but in the true spirit of Rotary, that our fair-weather lads took to the course. There's always next year...then again...Curling: A dedicated coaching session for improvers has been arranged for Rotarians at Ayr Ice Rink on Thursday 2nd October, 1700-1900, cost: £2 per person. Contact Eddie McKenzie for details.
Largs Rotary Coffee Morning, 13th September 2008
The Rotary Club of Largs held its Coffee Morning in the Clark Memorial Church Hall on 13th September 2008. A grand time was had by all!
Photo credits: Grahame M Ross
Secretary/CEO of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland Visits Largs
Annemarie Harte, Secretary/CEO of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland, visited Largs on 2nd September 2008. L-R: Neil Fraser, Rotary International Membership Coordinator, Zone 17, Annemarie Harte, Ian Macpherson, President of the Largs Club, and Bruce MacPherson, Assistant Governor (Area 2) of Rotary District 1230.
Photo: Grahame M Ross
From the Club Bulletin, September 2008
Largs Town Twinning Association
The formal twinning between Largs and the French Town of Andernos-les-Bains will take place in December of this year. This is the result of a great deal of behind-the-scenes work, and will hopefully open a new interest for the people of Largs.
As part of the twinning contacts, 30 people from Andernos will visit Largs from 4th to 8th September. It is hoped that private hospitality will be available for these visitors on a bed-and-breakfast basis, with hosts being included in some of the social events planned for the weekend. At present we are still short of a few beds so, if anyone feels able to offer accommodation, please contact Lewis Rae.
Vocation And Youth
The Rotary Club of Queens Park, in conjunction with Strathclyde University, is organising a Schools Essay competition for secondary age groups, with prizes ranging from £50 to £200. They are looking for 500 words on "3 billion in the 60s, 6 billion now. Is this a sign of a healthy species or of one about to fail? Discuss".
In recent weeks we have been working with Largs Academy, which has been very keen to take part. In the week before the schools closed, four essays were sent to Queens Park, so we will be invited to send a delegation along with the Academy delegation to the Final Announcement event in Strathclyde University on 11th November. Let's wish our young scholars luck!
As in past years, the Club is encouraged to nominate a Euroscola.
Foundation
The GSE team from Calgary arrive this month; the District 1230 team will make a reciprocal visit in April/May 2009. Nominations are sought for a team leader and team members.
At least four Ambassadorial students are due this year, and one Counsellor is still required. Six Rwandan students are also expected - a further two Counsellors are needed, plus Club support.
Sports Report
Bowling: The annual encounter - no longer a contest, apparently, but a mix-and-match affair - took place on 30th July at Fairlie. Stan Martin won a bottle of wine - the prize for the "highest-up" rink. First lady, Hazel, also received a similar presentation for being daring enough to join her male counterparts in this exhilarating show-down.
Golf: The Hunterston Charity competition had to be abandoned due to the summer "splash". The pity of it was that our team - John Cook, Norman Reid, George, the willing substitute, and Bill Armstrong - had scored net "birdies" at the par-3 first. It was only when our team made it to the second green that the trail of dejected golfers indicated that the match had been abandoned. The event has been rescheduled for Thursday, 11th September.
The first League match of the new season on 21st August against Loudon ended in a double triumph. The credit goes to our formidable team: John Cook, Norman Reid, Tom Clark and Bill Armstrong.
Curling: The season normally gets under way in September, but no details have been forthcoming. Dedicated coaching sessions have been arranged for Rotarians at Ayr Ice Rink as follows: Friday 19th September for beginners 2030-2230, and Thursday 2nd October for improvers 1700-1900. Cost: £2 per person. Contact Eddie McKenzie.
Vice-President
On 19th August 2008, Fiona Urquhart was unanimously elected as the Club's new Vice-President. She also took over from Ian Birss as Convener of the Foundation Committee.
Upcoming Events (as at July 2008)
Various events are planned for the remainder of 2008:
- 13th September - Coffee morning
- 3rd, 4th, 5th October - District Conference in Perth
- 1st November (7.30 pm) - Fiddle Orchestra with Largs Academy participation at Barrfields Theatre
- 27th November - Quiz in the Masonic Hall
- 16th December - Christmas lunch
District 1230 Governor Visits Largs
Catherine Stewart, Rotary's first lady District Governor in Scotland, came to visit Largs on 15th July 2008. She is seen here with Ian Macpherson, President of the Largs Club.
Photo credit: Grahame M Ross
Faces Old and Faces New
The Club reached two important milestones on 1st July. First, Ian Macpherson took over from John Watson as president of the Club. John is shown below, transferring the chain of office to Ian. Secondly, David Walsh, now retired from a distinguished career in retailing, was inducted into the Club. John Cook was his proposer. Interestingly, it was John Cook who also introduced Ian Macpherson to the Club some twenty years ago.
John Watson (left) and Ian Macpherson
L-R: Ian, David Walsh and John Cook
Photo credits: Grahame M Ross
From the Club Bulletin, July/August 2008
On 1st July 2008, Ian Macpherson took over from John Watson as president of the Club. This is what they wrote:
Presidents Go ...
Well, that's a year come and gone already, and I can hardly believe it has it has gone so fast. I have really enjoyed my year in office; but all good things come to an end at some time, and so I hand over the baton knowing full well it is in the good hands of Ian Macpherson.
During the year we have had many ups and, sad to say, a few downs. The loss of our oldest member, Donald Cameron, immediately springs to mind. His contribution to Rotary was excellent, and I am sure we will all miss his naming of the Rangers teams of the early 1900s.
The only other down I can think of was due the cancellation of the Race Night due lack of support from our members. I am sure this will be rectified in the coming year. This was an opportunity lost in adding a potential £500-£1000 to our fund raising efforts.
On the good side we had many interesting and excellent speakers at our meetings, and we were fortunate to have them.
I think we can say the Antiques Evaluation Fair went very well along with the other projects we ran.
Although not fund raising, our Jubilee Dinner went very well with excellent after dinner speakers, great food and good company. Thanks must go to Ian Birss and his organising committee and, of course, also to the Willowbank Hotel.
In closing, I would like to formally thank all the convenors and their committees for their support and hard work behind the scene; and, of course, to all members of the Club for their support.
Finally I would like to offer Ian Macpherson and his team best wishes for the coming year and I will always be there to assist in any way I can. I know I leave the presidency and the running of the Club in excellent and capable hands with Ian and his team. Good luck. Thank you.
... by John Watson, President 2007/08
And Presidents Come ...
When I was approached to be President of Largs Rotary I felt a certain amount of pride and pleasure. It will only be when the chain of office is placed on my shoulders I will realize that my life at that moment will certainly change - in more ways than one.
I have already attended a number of meetings and conferences, including a recent one in Blackpool. Each highlighted the standard of service required by all clubs and emphasised that the position of club president carries great responsibility, in which I fully expect and hope that I can count on your support over the coming year.
The Committee structure is established and I am confident we all have the knowledge and enthusiasm to make next year a success for our club. One objective is to improve our image as regards PR. We know there are no magic formulas for recruitment to Rotary but each of us should take up the challenge to introduce one new member over the coming months.
We must try not to become too complacent. We must ensure we are effective and work together to make the Club stronger than ever. Let's have a good year!
... by Ian Macpherson, President 2008/09
Well Done, Joe!
The award of a Paul Harris Fellowship to our peripatetic Assistant Governor, Joe Hannah, was well merited - another highlight of our Jubilee Dinner.
BFB Weight Reduction
Within the space of 5 months Roy Ellison managed to shed 18 lbs and relieve our members of £330, or about £18 per lb - the price of a decent steak. The money will go to the Institute of Cancer Research. Roy has been relieved of a burden and the rest of us have been relieved of cash. What more could a body ask? Well done, Roy!
The allied "Guess the Weight Loss" competition prize was shared between President John and John Cook. A further prize is on offer for anyone who can guess what BFB stands for.
Disbursement Of Funds
Erskine Hospital (Ferry Collection +) £700 Shelter Box £500 Rotary Foundation £600 Polio Eradication £200 Stones Corner Project £1,000 Largs Health Centre £3,000 British Lung Foundation (from Fun Run) £1,800 Ayrshire Hospice £200 Ardgowan Hospice £200 Other smaller donation went to speakers from various charities. In total, almost £10,000 was distributed in 2007-08.
King Camelot
Our recently appointed Syndicate Spiv has enjoyed a modicum of beginner's luck. His erudite explanation - full details are on the Camelot website - that three numbers produces £10, and this had been achieved on four lines; and, for whatever accountable reason, four numbers produced £40. Amazing!
The good news is that Jim's accumulator grossed £774, which included a posthumous donation from Donald, and a cheque for that amount was duly presented to the Club.
Jim would welcome other participants in the syndicate. His whimsical comments are worth more than the £4 monthly contribution. By the law of averages, a jackpot win should be just round the corner.
Sports Report
Bowls: There are three games coming up: the first is the Scottish Rotary Bowling Championships at Alloa on Thursday 3rd July, the second is The Friendship Cup at Kirkmichael on Wednesday 9th July and, lastly, our annual match with Probus at Fairlie on Wednesday 30th July.
Curling: A rink has been again entered for the Ayrshire League this winter.