2018

Week commencing 10th December, 2018

Like most other organisations at this time of year, our Rotary Club will celebrate with a Christmas -themed meeting with friends and relatives next week before having a break. Otherwise, business has slowed down but the planning must go on!  We are already discussing the Primary School Quiz at the end of February, always a highlight of our season.  The Glee Club team with two more gigs before Christmas have quite a busy schedule through the early months of the new year.  Not wishing to give away too many secrets, I reckon if we did a Top of the Pops poll of our repertoire, numbers one and two might be the “The Lispin Leghorn” illustrated here, and the “Bold Gendarmes”.

 Mind you there is another performance coming up fast on the inside straight which involves a mannie and his good lady from Rhynie (or wherever we happen to be) on a motoring holiday in the US of A!  Who said Rotary was a bit stuffy and po-faced?! Like so many things in life you get out of it as much as you contribute!

On the foreign affairs front, I had a quick word with John Nicol regarding our school project in Uganda which he visited earlier in the year but with his full report and presentation in the offing, I will leave you with just a titbit from our conversation.  You may remember the previous reference to this project soon after John returned home, I commented that he and Mrs Nicol had attended a church service of thanksgiving which included the baptism of over 50 babies!  What he failed to mention at the time was that he was presented with a GOAT and some chickens!  Being an agriculturist of some standing, I'm sure he wasn't phased by that but relieved that the church folk would be happy to look after the livestock for him!  Think on the mess they would have made in his garden in Kintore, never mind the import of livestock regulations!

It was another enjoyable Rotary evening in the KA including the Mushroom soup and the Lasagne!

Week commencing 3rd December, 2018

It was back to business with a thump this week! In fact, there was very little business to conduct.  Importantly, however, members were reminded that the meeting on 18th Dec would be a Christmas evening to which wives, husbands, partners and close friends would be made welcome – so long as members remember to let the secretary know of their intentions in good time. It would be a bit embarrassing if there wasn't enough turkey for everybody!!

The one report of note was that a team of members had been on duty on Monday in the Bon Accord Centre, in charge of the Annual Christmas Car Raffle Appeal. They had a successful time during which they sold tickets to the value of £300 or thereby.

I have to say that earlier in the day, Mike Barron, Eric Massie and I attended a lovely wee tea party at Hanover Court along with a team from the Men's Shed. It was a 'thank you' gesture to us for successfully completing a bit of landscaping around the building. It was a very pleasant interlude.  The other comment about the project which I wish to make was the way in which Rotary and Men's Shed came together to enhance an essential facility in the town. In this case the elderly residents will benefit. Co-operation is the name of the game and long may it continue because it is amazing what can be achieved when like minds get together!

Having closed the meeting, President George then called a Special General Meeting! This was principally to approve the audited accounts for the year and then to elect our office bearers for the year 2019 – 20!  This never ceases to amaze me, because the new team will not assume office until the second half of 2019 – so be it!  The Rotarians voted into office are President- Iain Mathers, Vice-President Kay Diack, Secretary – Sandra Turnbull and Treasurer – Charlie Taylor.    

Week commencing 29th October, 2018

We had a night off this week! Well not quite, we gathered with partners, wives, husbands and friends (about 60 of us) to have a meal together and to celebrate our Patron Saint – St Andrew.

President George Ross was in fine form and as usual, he had a rather interesting point to make. In the company were two members and a guest namely Kit Pawson, Mike Hay and Stuart Watson with something in common! In the 1953 list of Founder Members of this Rotary Club is to be  found three names – Black, Hay and Watson – the father of Kit, Mike and Stuart! 

Events programme organiser Howard Hughes had a short but excellent entertainment line up for us starting off with Singer/instrumentalist Raymond Mack from Dyce. His songs and stories were extremely well received, by all but there was more to come. Our next guest was Alistair Cameron, a member of the Elgin Club. We were treated to an 'Observational Lecture' which had the audience in fits of laughter. It was about Inverurie and 10 mile round, it's people and in particular the members of Inverurie Rotary Club. It was a proverbial HOOT of a performance  both clever and very witty.  Bert Maitland had the pleasant task of thanking all  - the hotel staff for providing an excellent meal, the events committee and our guest performers.

It was an evening to remember.

Week commencing 12th November, 2018

Back in harness after my holiday and what a week it has been in my Rotary world.  Returned on Wed 7th, on Thursday 8th we had a Glee Club gig for Senior Citizens in Huntly in the afternoon and then, in the evening, I had the privilege of compering the Rotary-sponsored  competition for young musicians in Inverurie Academy and what a terrific night that turned out to be.  Congratulations are due to the school authorities for selecting nine very worthy performers and to my Rotary colleague Murray Matthew for 'pulling it all together'. All instrumentalists this time, the competitor's ages ranged from 13 to 16. The judging panel ( including our Honorary Member Linda Davidson) awarded the top prize to 14 year old trumpet player Hannah Reid, who played the very engaging tune Ragamuffin composed by Pam Wedgwood.  Hannah will now go on to compete in the District Finals.

Two days later, on Saturday 10th, another Rotary team headed up by Peter Donaldson participated in the  Farmers' Market at the Town Hall! Overall it was described as rather a quiet day nonetheless, there was significant interest in the Rotary movement and the team did sell a wheen of tickets for the annual Christmas Car Raffle in aid of the CLAN charity.

….....and that brings me to our regular meeting! Members arrived expecting it to be, shall we say the usual mundane 'Information meeting'  but,  we were in for a BIG surprise, not only did we have several visiting Rotarians from Ellon, Portlethen and Belford/Duffield (Derbyshire) but we had a speaker from- BRAZIL!  Cinthia Goncales du Silva is a Rotary Peace Fellow studying for a masters degree at the University of Bradford!  The title of her message was 'One Shade of Gray: Peace, Policing and Counterterrorism!

I guess not many present would have been aware that, since 2002, the World Rotary Movement sponsors and supports over 100 such students working world wide. There are six other University sites offering courses for these students. Having originally graduated as a history teacher, Cinthia went on to study for an MA degree on Political Violence & Terrorism!! During her studies, she had to live anonymously about 5 miles away from her family home! That says it all!  It was a complicated and frightening tale of people trafficking and so much more.  As one colleague remarked " we don't know the half of it"!

Following  several questions, answered very expertly, Cinthia received a very warm and enthusiastic round of applause. The vote of thanks was proposed by Jim Hatter.

That's Rotary for you – busy in the local community but with an eye on what is going on world wide!

Week commencing 15th October, 2018

My report this week is brief and secondhand!  I missed Tuesday night's Rotary meeting because I had  more important 'fish to fry'!  I attended the end of series Beechgrove Party in Aberdeen. It was a fine affair, as usual meeting up with many of the people associated with making the programme who we never see!

That said, round about the same time, the Inverurie Rotary Club Gavel team played an away game at Turriff. Here is Mike Barron's report of the shenanigans.

' Inverurie Rotary Club defeated Turriff Rotary Club 10-6 on the away “turf”in the Gavel competition.. The excitement was growing when at round 6 with the last challenges to be played, all 4 Inverurie pairs won. The rounds included tractor pulling, jenga, putting and dominoes.  The successful pairings in the last round were Charlie Taylor and  Mike Barron, John Nicol and Murray Matthew, Bill Duncan and Bill Murdoch and Peter Donaldson and Jim Sommerville.

With Inverurie losing to Kintore, and then this victory, the final in this round will be played on Tuesday 23rd at Inverurie with Oldmeldrum being the visitors. The winners go on to the north east final.'

Mike's photo of the Tractor pulling just about sums up the character of the gavel Competition. It is an opportunity for well respected adults to return to their childhood, picture the scene,  scrabbling aboot oan the  flair on their hans and knees playin' wi Dinky toys!!   To explain the technical aspect of this caper, the competitors had to roll in the tractors on a spindle facing away from them!

 I guess the winners were toasted in a more adult fashion.

Week commencing 8th October, 2018

It proved to be a busy night on Tuesday principally because we had a match on our hands!  President George Ross, in his opening remarks, welcomed a team from the Rotary Club of Kintore, Kemnay & District who would later compete with the Inverurie team in the first of the season's Gavel Competitions, more of that shortly.

President George then continued with his opening remarks including the sad news of  the passing of Mrs Alma Massie, the wife of Past President Eric Massie, after a long illlness.

Past President John Nicol recently returned from his trip to Uganda gave a brief summary of attending a meeting of the  Kampala Club and subsequently visiting the school projects funded by Rotary. More of this cracking story when John has time to report in full. For a taster, John  told of attending a Roman Catholic Church service where the Bishop christened 55 weans! Can you just imagine the racket?!

It was past-president Peter Donaldson's turn next, he has been involved for some time now on plans to modernise the workings of the club, frankly to make it more attractive to potential new members. In other words, despite the fact that we do an amazing amount of charitable work our image somehow doesn't appeal to modern day society.  Here is a typical example, it was only a week ago that it was announced that Rotarians Eric Massie and John Nicol had just completed a project at Pitscurry amounting to about 40 hours of unpaid maintenance work! 

At the end of the month, the club meeting will take the form of a visit to the Garioch Heritage Centre.

Now to this gavel Competition – the challenges were Putting on a mat with the queerest looking club you ever did see. Harry Lauder's walking stick would have been a distinct improvement! Quoits, Dominoes and Bagatelle!  Typical old -fashioned bar sports but still much enjoyed by all involved and a wheen of spectators forby. Unfortunately, the home team lost by just two points! 

Well done Kintore & Co. The big question now is -will there be changes to the team for the away game with the Turriff club which comes up next.  The manager has yet to decide!!

Week commencing 1st October, 2018

What an interesting evening it turned out to be on Tuesday last!  The essentials were finished rather sharply, including the fact that next week we play host to the Kintore/Kemnay and District Gavel team for the first match of the season – can't wait! After welcoming a couple of our regular guests Lorraine and Dorothy, president George handed over proceedings to Rotarian Joe McDowall who introduced our third guest Dr Bill Gribbon a Belfast scientist, now based in St Andrews.  Bill is the proud holder of The Polar Medal (which was passed round for all to see), awarded in 2014 for pioneering work in Greenland and the Canadian Arctic having led 6 student parties into that area, conquering something like 60 peaks, most of them first ascents! In studying the rock beneath the melting ice it was deemed to be the nearest on earth to moon rock!

But that was not the story we heard, it was all about the experiences of action man Joe and colleagues who explored the same area on a 12 week long odyssey in 1969, coincidentally at the time of the first moon landing! From Newcastle to Denmark to Greenland they travelled finally setting up base camp on an uninhabited island!  Accompanied with some stunning pictures it was about cycling, hiking, climbing, crevasses, green ice, slippery rocks, mountain peaks, skinny-dipping before breakfast,(just the normal ablutions you understand), ferry boats, supply boats, wee boats which had no room for your legs, husky transport – the lot!

Delivered at a sharp pace, Joe covered his remarkable experience in record time. The only time he hesitated was when asked the question 'What was it all about?'   It was obviously an experience of a lifetime and in fact there was a little bit of research carried out in between times.  A great story, well appreciated by the members. 

What did Joe's guest Dr Gribbon have to say?  On this occasion, not a lot but maybe we could have him back sometime because he has some story to tell, including being arrested by the French Government for dodging army call-up.......................!

Week commencing 24th September, 2018

Let me tell you a story! Should have included it last week with all the other sporting tales but ran out of space! In 2017 our Mr Howard Hughes represented the club in the Scottish Rotary Fly Fishing Championship at the Lake of Menteith and WON!  By the way, those of you who have come to live in Scotland, will often hear the Lake of Menteith described as the only lake in Scotland. Reason – all the others are Lochs! To the tale – he has gone and done it again! Howard is the 2018 Scottish Champ! When congratulated on his second win in a row, he simply replied 'Well I just wanted to prove that last year's win' wasn't a fluke!'  Well done, lad, let's see you get three in a row.

Now to this week's get together, the business was dealt with pretty brusquely by President George with one or two pleas for help of different kinds –these requests will now be passed to relevant committees for consideration. In this context, Rotarian John Nicol sets off for Uganda this week, as he has been involved in the new school project which our Rotary club with others has helped to finance. Bon voyage John.

This week, our speaker was introduced by Rotarian Marie Simpson, it was none other than Martin Simpson who together with his father George, set up Deeside Water in 1994.  Since then the business has grown steadily over the years and described by Martin with great clarity from the discovery of the properties of the water drawn from the Pannanich Wells to the modern development, distribution and even to some of the present-day problems like recycling plastic waste!

Back to the location - Ballater known back in the late eighteen hundreds as a spa town because of the properties of the well water, endorsed by no less a person than Queen Victoria! Very soon it became widely known that the water had health benefits. Notably, it was said to have beneficial effects on people suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis! The proof of this was researched when it was proved to be something to do with a very small molecule size!  At this point, I was so glad that Martin changed tack! Back to the realities like delivering 40 crates of bottled water per day by car!  The company currently employ 12 people and in this ever more sophisticated world, new uses for the spring water are being researched  - cosmetics being an obvious target.

A marvellous success story, well told and after a few questions the vote of thanks was given by Bill Murdoch. 

Week commencing 17th September, 2018

We had another good meeting on Tuesday night with a couple of guests and our speaker, over thirty sat down for the meal.  Rotary Clubs across the globe have a number of traditions, some of which may be dropped as clubs begin to modernise their proceedings. I mention this because it was my turn to say Grace before the meal AND the vote of thanks to the speaker. None of the ordinary members escape the essential duties, whilst the principal office bearers are deemed to have enough to do!

The business session was short and to the point with convenors having little to say except Eric Massie as sports supremo. He reported that the annual club golf competition had been very enjoyable and successful though numbers competing were down on the previous year. Ladies winner was Phyllis Walker whilst Joe McDowall took the gents prize.  The prize-giving took place after the company enjoyed the excellent hospitality of Inverurie Golf Club.  Meantime two further competitions are about to begin – the curlers will soon be hearing the shout 'Sweep, Sweep' whilst a team of members get ready for the first round of the Gavel Competition, a home game against the Kintore/Kemnay Club. What does this involve? I hear you ask! Loosely described as 'bar sports', the home team gets to decide.

I will now leave you in suspense but promise to reveal all when reporting on the result!

Our speaker from the Kintore/Kemnay club was Henry Riddoch to give us an up-date on ALEC the Aberdeenshire Life Education Centres.  Last time Henry was with us he described the demise of the ALEC caravan that was taken  around schools with the specific purpose of teaching primary school children about the dangers of drug and other abuses and to make meaningful life choices. The caravan formula became prohibitively expensive so the retired design engineer put his mind to producing a pack containing all the essentials, which could be carried in the boot of a car. Wow! That was the reaction of members first time round. On this occasion, Henry reported on the latest development, for which incidentally he received the highest Rotary Award – A Paul Harris Fellowship medal.

The new kit can best be described as a blow-up tent able to accommodate about 25 children. It is fully air-conditioned and actually designed to be used indoors. It is equipped with screen, projector, ipad and numerous other gadgets and still able to be accommodated in the back of an estate car!  This 'Life Space' prototype has been developed because financial pressures threatened the existing project. In 2017, its trial year, it was attended by over 20 thousand children, 3 thousand secondary school pupils, almost 2 thousand teachers and a thousand parents.   Members' reaction this time round could be described as 'Gob-smacked'

In the coming weeks there will be some publicity associated with demonstrations of this innovative facility – if you get the chance, go have a look!

Giving the vote of thanks was an honour.

Week commencing 10th September, 2018

We had a busy evening on Tuesday with three separate sets of guests, firstly, one of our 'associate' members came to the meeting and hopefully she will become a full member in due time. Secondly, President George went on to welcome a party of Rotarians from Turriff on what was obviously their 'scatter' week.  I have explained the device in the past but briefly, each Rotary club in the land will declare a week when members are expected singly or in groups to arrange to visit another club of their choice in the name of fraternity. As a result, many mutual and lasting personal friendships have built over the years.  As well as being good for Rotary and for communities, in a very practical sense, ideas and experiences are exchanged for the benefit of all concerned.

With due respect to the guests mentioned so far, the highlight of the meeting was the attendance of the two young people, sponsored by the club who attended the Rotary Young Leaders (RYLA) camp this year.  They duly received their certificates from President George and were persuaded to express a few thoughts on their experience. First up was Sarah Davidson who very eloquently described some of the outdoor events and challenges set for them including mountain biking, climbing, water sports etc.  Some were individual events but others, just as importantly were team events.  Undoubtedly, for me the biggest challenge for these young guys is to walk in to a room of people of their own age whom they have never met before!  If our team, in conjunction with school teachers and advisers, make the right choices, in other words, if they see something in the candidates for the trip which suggests that that individual just needs a wee shove in the right direction, they will accept that challenge and go on to face the other tasks, enjoying every minute of the journey.  That came over to me in Sarah's comments, as it did when the other successful participant Fraser Robertson took the platform. The same messages came through from Fraser – a new confidence in himself and that emerged on Tuesday night as he stood up in front of 30 adults he had never met before with microphone in hand, nae bother! He talked about physical and mental challenges, the value of team work, team spirit and so on, echoing much of what Sarah said.

So RYLA, once again has 'produced the goods', if these two youngsters are anything to go by.  Sarah and Fraser received a very hearty round of applause with best wishes to both expressed by Joe McDowall.

On a sadder note President George marked the passing of Andy Dick a former Rotarian, indeed a former President, well known to many in the community and remembered as a vibrant participant in many Rotary ploys over the years, including the early efforts of the first Glee Club.  Thoughts and condolences to the Dick family were warmly endorsed by members, a number of whom remain close friends of the Dick family.

Week commencing 27th August, 2018

From time to time I make reference to the fact that Rotary is like one big family. This week I paid a visit to the Alford Branch invited to speak by a colleague from my days  at Craibstone in the 1970's!  Not only did I meet other 'family' members but I was reminded that I hadn't been back since my previous visit in 2005! It was almost like a mild reminder from an old aunt or uncle with the unsaid implication - don't make it so long till next time! It was a very enjoyable visit.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, so to speak, it turned out to be a memorable night in more ways than one. Firstly it was announced that our oldest Rotarian Jack Hendry been awarded a 'Pride of Inverurie' accolade – well done Jack, you thoroughly deserve  not only for your work with the Colony Park Juniors but I would add The Heritage Centre and Rotary and all that implies.  Secondly – we have a new secretary!  Sandra Turnbull has agreed to take on the role – well done Sandra!

Thirdly but by no means least, Sandra introduced to the members Phyllis Gordon the project officer for 'Dementia Friendly Aberdeenshire' The aim of the organisation is to make people  in the area aware of the problem. The presentation started with a powerpoint which consisted of a short video film showing a 'day in the life of' a dementia sufferer. There is nothing quite so dramatic as being face to face with this problem but it did illustrate how the situation can be readily altered with a little bit of understanding by a change of approach -speaking slowly, clearly and softly, asking simple, short questions. In other words, making an effort to empathise makes all the difference – to both parties.

As it happens, the vote of thanks was offered by Howard Hughes, currently boss-man of the Glee Club and he was able to pick up on the importance of music to help assuage the condition, mentioning that at least 12 of our forthcoming gigs are for older folks and many of the groups will have dementia sufferers in them. The point about the importance of music and singing was soundly endorsed  by Phyllis. 

Week commencing 20th August, 2018

We had a comparatively quiet meeting this week, an information  session  when convenors of our various committees report to the club. For example our Foundation/International convenor John Nicol reported on a visit to the St Fittick Club in  Aberdeen to hear about one on their initiatives – in Sierra Leone! They have taken the lease of a cottage there to accommodate and look after young women, saved from 'the streets’ .   They are accommodated for a period of 6 months during which they are given an education and guidance. Called 'Sisterland', this project is funded entirely by Rotary!

From the sublime to the ridiculous! Our events mannie Howard Hughes went to confirm the booking of accommodation for one of our fund raising functions to be faced with an example of the new Data Protection rules! To each of his questions on available dates, options etc he was faced with the same answer 'because of the new data protection rules, I canna tell ye!’  Hilarious but more to the point – farcical.   Goes nicely with the news story about the failure to pass on information about the presence of asbestos in school buildings  - there’s a ready made excuse!

From the ridiculous back to the sublime with a report from David Taylor emanating from a visit to the Ellon Club on their efforts in foreign fields 'First Steps in Nepal'. The Rotary Club of Oldmeldrum has also been involved in this valuable school building programme

So much for keeping up to date on the various charity projects Rotary becomes involved in, the final report was on the theme 'all work and no play....' when sports convenor Eric Massie reported that the Rotary Curling Club in our area was about to reach its 50th anniversary being celebrated with a  traditional dinner. 

Week commencing 13th August, 2018

From time to time, I make reference to the relationship between Rotary clubs across the country, for example recently I mentioned a visit to a Club in Cyprus when we were on holiday. There is another angle to this involving families.  In the eighties when I first joined Rotary, our two youngsters were still at Primary School or just into secondary.  Very soon we realised that families were very much involved in the Rotary scene, having particularly fond memories of ‘family weekends' when we joined other families for a jaunt.  Aviemore was one venue I remember where we could swim, golf, walk, curl and so on.  If we were lucky there might even be a bit of a dance after the evening meal when the youngsters could join in to learn to master The Gay Gordons, Quickstep, Hokey-Cokey etc. It reminded me of one or two  family weddings where there is also a wide age range. There was and still is a tradition of family involvement.  It was magic stuff.

Tempus fugits and these same family members may well have flown the coop by now some will be married  and have children of their own!  In other words, we have to look for excuses now to have social gatherings  of a slightly different style as well as the well tried and tested Burns Night and  St Andrew’s Night hoolies!   In recent times, we have had visits to theatres in Aberdeen, Inverness and Pitlochry, the last two requiring an overnight stay, with more time to socialise and get to know each other because these events, involving other family members, engender a sort of team spirit which can only be good for the health and well-being of the club.

How’s that for a build –up?

This week a sizeable group of members and friends visited The Beechgrove Garden on a perfect summer evening - the sun shines on the righteous! This was followed by enjoying an excellent supper together in The Garlogie Inn. 

After the meal, President George Ross very briefly formalised the event  by welcoming members, families and their guests,  thanking all those involved –principally organiser Howard Hughes (with a little help from yours truly) and finished off with  a toast - To Rotary the World Over. 

Next week we are back ‘tae auld claes and parritch'

Week commencing 6th August, 2018

This week’s Rotary meeting turned out to be a cracker! We had two guests, two excellent speakers and a good turn out of members. Visiting us from the Belper and Duffield Club in Derbyshire was James Kerr a native of  Inverurie known to some of our older members! What a welcome he received.  Then, sitting opposite me was Crosbie Chisholm a weil kent face from the Westhill Club.

The first guest speaker to be introduced was Dr. Pat Wightman from the Bennachie Visitor Centre Trust.  Pat is the Chair person of the Trust and her reason for attending our meeting was to launch her new booklet on the Plants of Bennachie and to say thank you for a bit of Rotary assistance!  I reckon it will become a 'must' for local wildlife devotees and visitors alike. 

As I flagged up last week, our main speaker was Kenny Duguid’s nephew Stuart Winterburn, Managing Director of Dynamic Edge and his subject was Cyber Security Awareness. I tell you what no-one had a bit of shut-eye when the lights went out, members were riveted to their chairs as Stuart opened the door to a world of intrigue, mayhem and mystery concerning the IT world. In essence it was all about the protection of personal data with the basic message 'Don't leave it to others' and that is precisely what I do!  Listening to mutterings around the room, I wasn't the only one.

With examples from big business across the world with headlines such as '4.7 million instances of fraud in the 12 months to Sept. 2017' or ‘NHS hit by ransom threat estimated to cost £4 billion’ and  'Hackers  are becoming more sophisticated and we are the weakest link' , members were paying attention alright

Stuart left no stone unturned he covered subjects like Malware which can 'sit there on your computer' (methinks like a praying mantis) waiting for the chance to strike.  Credit card fraud is commonest with password leaks not far behind – his advice was basic, DON'T use simple words and sequences. Beware of using wi-fi on trains, so easily mis-directed, and so he went on. 

Like many things in modern society the good is often challenged by the negatives! It was a scary thought that crossed my mind! How did we ever manage without that mobile phone let alone the i-phone, i-pad etc.?

After fielding a few questions, Stuart was warmly thanked by Rotarian Bill Duncan .

Aye, it was an eventful night in the KA!

Week commencing 30th July, 2018

At this time in the Rotary calendar, it would be safe to claim that every Rotarian across the country is asking himself or herself to think about their membership of this great organisation because it is time to pay our subscription for the coming 12 months! The decision will come, hopefully after a period of introspection, by answering two questions.  Firstly, what do I get out of it? Secondly, because membership works both ways, what can I contribute?  Is it to be money well spent?  Only the individual can decide, I certainly aim to raid the piggy bank!

The funny thing is, the inter-relationship of these two questions is so close because what you get out of being a member in terms of friendship, camaraderie, a chance to solve challenging problems as part of a team, helping others less fortunate, meeting interesting people, is likely to be why you accepted the invitation to join in the first place!  There has to be an element of discipline of course and guidance on that comes from ‘on high’!

We recently had a timely visit from Roddy Duncan, deputising for Asst. District Governor Kenny Thomson whose job was to stress again the importance of what we do whilst abiding by our core values – Fellowship, Integrity, Diversity, Service and Leadership.

At a time when increasing the membership is challenging, we need to be prepared to change, in other words we have to ask the question – are potential new members put off by what they see?  If that is the case, we must move with the times, it is probably as simple as that and it must be said, some clubs are already on the move. I am reminded of a holiday occasion several years ago when we visited Cyprus.  The local Rotary club met in the hotel we were staying in so I decided to 'visit'!  They met informally at 9pm, members and guests had a coffee or a glass of something stronger, the business of the day was discussed and then they were offski! All within an hour! That may be one of the ways we can change – simply put - 'less formality’.

Our priorities, in no particular order, will remain pretty constant – continue to espouse gender balance, maintain activity with schools and young people, continue to support international projects such as the abolition of polio, continue to offer help to people who are old or infirm. In other words, use our skills and knowledge for the benefit of others less fortunate – whilst enjoying each other's company.

We had much to talk about this week; just as well we had no speaker!  Next week, we look forward to welcoming Stuart Winterburn, MD of Dynamic Edge, a relative of Kenny Duguid's. His subject is Internet Technology.  That will be a refreshing change from navel -gazing!

Week commencing 23rd July, 2018

The theme of this week’s meeting could have been 'Keeping in Touch' but more of that shortly.  President George Ross opened the meeting of a reduced number of members, holidays being the reason for low attendance and in a sense, there was a holiday attitude within the club. Most notably, probably because of the fine weather, the attire adopted by many members was rather casual! There were not so many 'jaikets and ties' evident!  I believe that to be a good sign in that it is not what we wear that counts, so long as the mode of dress is ‘respectable'! It is what we are about that matters and in that regard, we are as busy as ever.

To that theme however, firstly President George was able to tell us that Past President Cath Nash had been in touch.  Many will remember that Cath and husband Pete moved south several months ago and the welcome news was that Cath has joined the Rotary Club of Frampton & Longtown! Secondly, George was able to welcome into our midst Past President Ron Kelly who is now a member of the Lancaster Loyne Club.

It was great to see Ron again and to reminisce on his time with us, especially the early days of the Glee Club in which he was a very active participant.   

Included with some of the regular reports came news from Murray Matthew about the launch of a new Rotary initiative with the charity ALEC which was set up to teach primary age children about the dangers of drugs etc.  As many will know, the charity started by trundling a mobile classroom around the countryside to visit schools.  It was a very costly and time-consuming exercise. Then, along came Henry Riddoch a member of the Kintore Club.  Henry devised a very condensed version of the ‘classroom' which could fit in the boot of a modest sized private car. For those of us who saw a demonstration of the kit, there was only one word to describe it and that was ‘Brilliant’ but the mannie was not content with that!  Now referred to as the ‘Life Space 2’ project, the latest edition is about to be launched, probably in late August. Watch this space!  I have no doubt that there will be an opportunity to view the kit before it goes into service.

Week commencing 14th July, 2018

Playing catch-up this week and firstly I must return briefly to that WAGS Charity Dinner we held back in May.   Chairman of the organising committee George Ross asked me to include a word of thanks as follows: “The Rotary Events Committee would like to thank all who contributed to our recent fund-raising Wags Dinner. To Table Hosts, Sponsors, all who donated Raffle Prizes and Auction items and to all who attended the function on the night. Through your generosity we raised the magnificent sum of £13,500. This money will be divided between ‘Friends of Anchor’ and local charities supported by Rotary.”  Well done and so say all of us!

The mannie was back in the Rotary headlines last week when he assumed the Presidency of the Rotary Club of Inverurie for the second time (just like his predecessor!)  George held the Presidency way back in the Rotary year 1981/82.  His Vice President, referred to as the President Elect, is Iain Mathers with the rest of the Club Committee listed as follows: - Ian Ewan, Alex Lamb, Robert Maitland, John Nicol, Sandra Turnbull, Charlie Taylor, Stuart Watson and Secretary Mike Barron.  A powerful and experienced team indeed whom we wish well in their term in office.

In the meantime, the good work continues with a team of members supporting the Farmers’ Market in Inverurie last Saturday. It was, apparently, an enjoyable exercise with much to report!  The most important element was the potential recruitment of a new member or two! A chat with touring Rotarians from the far south, like Croydon for example.  As a result of handing out bottled water to those in dire need, £40 was raised for the Wateraid charity.  The fairy tale to end with concerned a lady of mature years coming face to face with George Ross for the first time having been buying his rowies weekly for the last 50 years!

It will soon be rehearsal time for the Glee Club!  We received a schedule this week from “Choirmaster and Organiser' Hughes to the effect that we have 16 gigs lined up for the coming season (with an additional list of reserves!) Cue for a song ‘Oh dear me..........!'

Week commencing 2nd July, 2018

Life is getting more complicated as the weeks go by. For example, I wonder how many of you have been deeved by these messages that come up on the electronic media about security and safety, requiring you to sign up to allow this and that - it is called Data Protection or something quite bewildering by the time you get to a certain age (unspecified!).

Due to an unforeseen circumstance (I wisnae feeling great) I did not attend the Rotary Club meeting on Tuesday night – I’m fine now by the way but I missed out on the proceedings which entailed our new management team going through the plans for 2018/19.  Before a blow can be struck, there is a list of obligations to be met, issued by the heid office!  That would be the Rotary International- British Isles, referred to thank goodness as RIBI. These obligations include: Equality & Diversity, Health and Safety, Safeguarding Children, Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults, Data Protection and Insurance.   What a complicated world we live in but the fact is, every Rotary Club in the land has to nominate a member to be answerable on each one of these matters on behalf of the club!  That is quite an onus.

That is followed by a report from each of the main committees on their plans for the coming year.  These will include – Admin, responsible for the general running of the club.  Events and Fundraising with dates for principal annual events some already decided. Youth Service – which includes many of the regular annual events like the Primary Schools Quiz, Young Photographer, Kids out etc.  Each activity has a preliminary budget assessment made.  The Foundation & International Committee will have listed their priorities which includes a levy from RIBI to help fund major worldwide efforts like End Polio Now. Finally, the Community Services committee will continue to have responsibility for the Christmas Raffle, the Collection Cans and one or two other local initiatives for example with the Inverurie Environmental Group.

……….. and then of course, there is the loose cannon - the Glee Club, a force to be reckoned with but difficult to categorise!

Looks like we are in for an exciting and busy year. 

Week commencing 25th June, 2018

It was another quiet night on Tuesday with quite a few members on holiday at this time.  Stuart Watson took the chair for the last time as next week he will hand over to our President for the 2018/19 year George Ross.

One of the low-key initiatives which has been developing over the last few months is the ‘Associate Member’ group. It is made up of people willing to assist with the objectives of Rotary without being full members. Last night from the body of the kirk came a suggestion that we invite them as guests to our inaugural meeting of the 'new' Rotary year. An excellent idea but some may think that a little premature, we mustn't rush our fences!

Secretary Mike Barron and Rotarian Ken Duguid had been  round the town gathering the takings from our Blue Collecting cans that you see in some of our retail outlets and believe it or not when the contents were counted a sum of £467 was reached.  A warm thank you is due to those of you who contribute the small change from a transaction rather than put it back in your pocket.  Quite a remarkable sum to boost one of our charity priorities.

As a tail piece to that, Rotarian Bill Murdoch was able to report that a bunch of pupils at Daviot School which his grandchildren attend, recently contributed £46 to the Wateraid Charity – what’s that old saying about starting them young!?  Well done you guys keep up the good work.

I’ll finish with another cracking story which came from ex-Rotarian Roger Langtree.  Dave Thomson working on behalf of the Banana Trust, arranges to collect redundant football strips from Colony Park FC, has them laundered, Roger gets a heap of cardboard boxes from Tesco to pack them in and delivers them to the Banana Trust in Dundee on Tuesday - they will be shipped to the Trust’s Malawi base this weekend. Nae bother! Just think of the joy that will bring to the young recipients! Explaining fit Colony Park is aw aboot micht tak a filie! They micht meet up in the World Cup in 10 years time!  

Where there’s a will there is always a way!  Good things do happen regularly in our communities.

Week commencing 18th June, 2018

Last week I reported on the Kids Out event at Craibstone run by the Rotary Clubs in our area for the benefit of youngsters attending St Andrews School here in Inverurie and from similar establishments in surrounding districts.  In total over 400 children took part. Chairman of the organising committee is our very own Graham McWilliam and on Tuesday night he gave us a full account of the event. On a personal note Graham was able to say that he had been involved in the event for 13 years! The good news is that following the early fears which I alluded to last week about the uncertainty surrounding the availability of the venue, Graham was able to report that  for the next two years, Craibstone will still be the chosen site.

Whilst the organising team consists principally of Rotarians, Graham was full of praise for the valuable support and physical efforts of others. Top of his list were the 17 'strapping lads’ from Sub Sea Seven, 10 from Anderson, Anderson and Brown and a wheen of senior school pupils  from Westhill Academy. On top of that, whilst Aberdeen FC Association couldn’t have a physical presence, they did present a pair of football shorts, suitably endorsed of course, for every child at the event!  Wait a minute though says their rep. – you better find room for these 20 footballs as well! Such is the generosity engendered by this project.

When the cause is just, the enthusiasm and support is there, a strong characteristic of our society.

Voted the best yet, the 2018 Kids Out, Chairman Graham was warmly congratulated for his enthusiasm and leadership. In turn before sitting down Graham thanked all the companies that helped in one way or other - our very own JG Ross making sure that the youngsters (and the helpers) had plenty to feed their enthusiasm!

……….and then there was the Bike Ride last Sunday!  Excellent weather and a full turn out of enthusiasts ensured that a successful day was had by all.  Only one accident was reported with the cyclist unhurt and with not a scratch on her bike! The troops manning the tent in Kellands Park had a busy time running the bottle stall and handing out leaflets to potential recruits for Rotary and they were keen to register how well they were kept fed and watered by Maeve McDowall! At the end of the day over £300, including a contribution from Aberdeenshire Council, was raised for the Prostate Cancer Charity.

Our next important ‘gig' will be at the Farmers’ Market in Inverurie on Saturday 14 July.  We hope you will stop by for a chat.

Week commencing 11th June, 2018

This week’s meeting had an end of term feel about it as we approach the 'hand over’ date when the new administration takes over.  We had no visitors and no speaker because  it was  also an Information evening when we discuss the goings-on at the last Council meeting.

Sounds all very drab but not so, there were reports from the team of guys who helped put out the floral displays around the town centre last weekend..  Eric Massie also reported on work he and John Nicol had been doing at Pitscurry on maintenance of the lovely decking which they with others built a year or two back.  Joe was on his bike again (the Bike Ride this coming weekend) and Graham McWilliam  gave us an up date on the Kids Out event at Craibstone which happened yesterday. Over 400 children were expected with a team from Inverurie Rotary accompanying the local children!  The very good news reported by Graham was that, with the generous help received from some of the major companies in the area, the continuation of the Kids Out initiative for the next several years has been  assured BUT there is a big problem  facing the organising Rotary clubs in the future. They will have to find a suitable venue to replace the Craibstone site that will no longer be available.

One of our members Jim Young has had a 'free transfer' to the Turriff Club due to a change in his personal circumstances – I never ask why but it could be as simple as moving house! The important thing is that Rotary will still benefit from his skills and experiences. We wish him well. Ken Duguid brought greetings from members of several other Rotary Clubs he met over a round of golf at Grantown -on-Spey.  This would have been an annual re-union to mark and remember a golf trip to Canada several years ago organised by the Canadian Rotary Clubs - a significant element illustrating the world-wide fraternity of Rotary. 

There is still some concern amongst club members about our inability to recruit new people and consequently there is a suggestion that we elect a small group, a 'membership committee’ to put their minds to the problem.

Finally, the Glee Club is alive and kicking though not available for gigs at the moment! Mind you, the gaffer (H Hughes Esq) tells us we have something like 15 engagements already on the books for next winter!  My reason for mentioning the Glee Club is to announce that we will meet later this week to test out a new sound system!  Will it make us sound better?  That's for me to know and you find out - in due time!

Week commencing 4th June, 2018

We had two young guests at our meeting this week. Sarah Davidson and Frazer Robertson had recently been chosen as our representatives at the annual RYLA camp to be held at Nethybridge, starting  after the end of the school term. All the Rotary clubs in the district can send delegates to the week-long camp run by Rotarians to encourage and benefit young people who have shown promise in their school careers. It takes them out of their comfort zone, meeting new people, undertaking challenging tasks, learning the value of teamwork, testing themselves in the outside world, perhaps overcoming shyness. Above all, building confidence in who they are and making new friends.  We wish them all the very best knowing from our own experience of RYLA that they will have a great time.

George Ross confirmed that the successful WAGS dinner had raised just over £13k for charity. Not content with that, Joe McDowall was on his feet again raising the profile of the Great Cycle run on Fathers' Day. Whilst our primary purpose for supporting this event is to raise funds to fight Prostate Cancer the hopeful dual side effects will be to explain a little more about Rotary and indeed recruit a new member or three!

Am I finished rabbiting on about charity?  NO! Would you believe it, we haven't reached the longest day yet but The Hatter was dishing out raffle tickets for us to sell for the CHRISTMAS raffle!  As they say down Glasgow way - gies a brek Jimmy!

All of that was soon forgotten (temporarily, of course) as our speaker for the night got underway.  There was a feeling of excitement in the room because this guy had spoken to us before, it was our very own Jim Sommerville.  On this occasion he gave a masterly presentation on the Genealogy of his own family!  In the process Jim was able to highlight the life of working families back to the 16th century!  Primarily, he was able to describe coal and iron mining from its beginning in the 18th century. As you would expect from a geologist (that in itself is an extraordinary coincidence), he showed maps of where the coalfields were to be found in certain rock stratas – stretching across lowland Scotland in a diagonal from Ayrshire to Fife   His family were coal miners!

Way back then families were large – 6 children were not uncommon, living in a 'single end' with no sanitary facilities and very little furniture!  Women and children worked down the pit! Women particularly laboured long hours hauling the hewn coal sometimes 200 yards along seams with just 2 ft headroom!  During the 1900’s the expectation was that there would be 1000 deaths every year from mine accidents.

Progress was made when ponies were introduced to do the hauling, at one time there were reckoned to be 70.000 pit ponies in Scotland!  Steam and electric power were eventually introduced and eventually specific safety regulations had to be formulated to cope with the most serious danger of all – the incidence of Firedamp, leading to explosions causing lethal  rock falls! Wee boys with flickering candles walked in to the unknown to test for the deadly gases!  Jim brought it home to us in a pretty dramatic fashion – basically, he said ‘I wouldn't have been here if my grandfather had been on the early shift on a specific day when there was a fire in the pit. On that fatal day, he was on the back shift!

It was a masterful presentation, enjoyed by all, Rotarian Kay Diack had the privilege of voicing our thanks.  

Week commencing 28th May, 2018

The main talking point amongst the Inverurie Rotarians this week was undoubtedly the fund-raising WAGS dinner held on Saturday night in the Town Hall. This is a night designed to raise as much money as possible for nominated charities, the principle recipient being ‘Friends of Anchor”.

When the assembled company were seated and top table guests introduced President Stuart Watson gave a warm welcome to all ending his brief remarks on the charitable challenges faced by Rotarians, then by saying Grace.  In a break with tradition, before the meal, we had a quick résumé of the work undertaken by the Friends of Anchor with an emphasis on the fact that ALL the money raised will be devoted to the cause, wages and running costs being covered by the charitable company set up by Jimmy Milne, one of Aberdeen’s extraordinarily generous business persons.

Good company, good food, once again provided by Harry Fraser Catering and a bar efficiently run by two volunteer Rotarians – Sandra Turnbull and Don Gordon ensured us of a splendid evening which at the outset was planned and organised by the events committee headed up by Mr J George Ross.

The fund raising started straight away – Heads and Tails and if you want to participate it costs you a tenner! The winner, of course, receives a handsome prize. If you know the drill you can skip the next bit – All stand, either put your hands on your head or behind your back- toss a coin heads for heads, tails for tails! Unfortunately if it comes down heads and that’s where your hands are you are politely asked to sit doon! Got the idea?  Peace reigns for a while as we enjoy the meal.  During this time, if you wish to participate in the raffle, you sign a chitty and put a fiver in the envelope. The prizes were drawn and delivered to the winners at their table. An excellent idea.

Chance then for a comfort break before the main event – four speakers vying for the top prize of the night, the winner being the speaker voted by the guests as The WAG of the night.  What a brilliant session we had. Given no more than 12 minutes each, the first in was well known local wag Raymond Whyte, whose topic was ‘The University of Life – a never ending learning curve – but who wants to end up round the bend?’ Raymond didnae win but he set a very high standard from the ‘off’. He was followed by Alistair Robertson, another well known local performer on ‘My advice is to get married, if you find a good wife you’ll be happy and if not you will became a philosopher’, then a visitor from Loch Ness side Willie Cameron known locally as Mr Loch Ness. His theme ‘Moving and Shaking in Highland Tourism – The truth is out there’. Sounds a bit dry but it was anything but, another cracking performance. Finally, we heard Jimmy Dick, a farmer from Echt. His theme ‘You don’t stop laughing because you grow old. You grow old because you stop laughing.’ Suffice to say Jimmy was the winner but it was a close-run contest thoroughly enjoyed by the company.

The final play of the night was the auction with some staggeringly good items, all donated. I have just room for a few: Dinner for 2 at Eat on the Green, Golf for 4 at Meldrum House, Radley Ladies Handbag, BrewDog Hamper. There were 12 in total. Huge thanks are due to the donors and indeed to all the good folk who supported the evening.

The total sum raised on the night was over £12,000.  Truly, a worthy outcome from a well organised evening.

Week commencing 21st May, 2018

This week I want to give you a flavour of the kind of overseas project which Rotary clubs get involved in.  This particular example is just one of the Inverurie Club’s efforts. Our convenor in charge of ‘Foreign Affairs’ John Nicol provided the information and photograph. We are off to Uganda using extracts from the most recent report!

Monde Primary School is located in a remote village in Luweero District in Uganda. The school runs from Primary one to Primary seven. Currently the school population is 170 children aged 4-14 years. For many years the pupils at Monde studied under trees and the classroom they had was a dilapidated building without windows and doors.  Monde Primary school lacks a store and a kitchen where lunches can be prepared. Currently, when it rains it is difficult to prepare lunch for the children. The toilet facilities are also very poor at the school. Most of the parents for this remote school are involved in subsistence agriculture. The community and the pupils of Monde Primary are very appreciative of the support from our Rotary club in helping them renovate their school. The first phase included the renovation of a three classroom block and the second phase will include the construction of a kitchen, store and toilets. So far, the renovation of the block has lasted for four months. The classrooms have been re-built, fitted with strong metallic doors and the windows are metallic fitted with glass. The whole block has been painted inside and out. The pupils are very excited because they now have a decent place to study.

The renovation of the school has been beneficial to the community in many aspects.  For example it has helped to build the bonds of togetherness and the spirit of working together. For example, the community of Monde has been collecting food and fire wood and preparing lunch for the builders, The rural road going to Monde Primary school was full of potholes but because of this project the community worked together to fill these potholes with stones so that the trucks ferrying construction material would access the school easily. Since the renovation of the school started the school has registered 25 new pupils and as the work is completed more children are expected to join.  The youth in the community have mobilized themselves to provide labour.

A good news story indeed. Interesting to note that they have pothole problems too!

Week commencing 14th May, 2018

Of late I have tended to rabbit on about the charity work we support but there is another side to the Rotary movement and that is friendship, camaraderie and companionship. We have a good example this week – a lower attendance of members at this week’s meeting because the ‘walking group’ were on their annual trip to the Lake District!  This group was formed about 10 years ago with a bunch of enthusiasts deciding to ‘do’ the West Highland Way!  They went on to tackle some of the others –like the Southern Upland Way and so on. Having conquered a number of these walks in Scotland the next move was south of the border to the Lake District – you note the transition with the passage of time, from the testing Scottish challenges to the slightly more douce slopes of Cumberland!  They will be back soon refreshed and full of stories of derring do! I jest of course because I’m just jealous!

Despite our numbers being reduced somewhat, our meeting on Tuesday, chaired in his inimitable style by incoming President J G Ross, turned out to be a cracker because our guest speaker was Alan Johnston, Acting Deputy Head of Inverurie Academy soon to be referred to as the Inverurie Community Campus! Part of Alan’s role is to monitor and keep in touch with the evolving new structure which is quite a complicated process.

The new facility is being built on what was the neighbouring playing field whilst the work of the day continues in the adjacent building as now.  Complicated – you bet, more like a minefield I would suggest. In a very accomplished and interesting way Alan took us through the process with the aid of excellent visual images.  One interesting point is the fact that the new building footprint is smaller than the present one but will accommodate more pupils!  Because it is a three-storey building!  I guess minimalising the disruption is going to be an on-going tough task.

There were, of course a whole host of plus-points, not least being the fact that the contractors have actually involved the current students in how the process works. Yet another clever move is to bring St Andrews School into the campus – with its own entrance and play facilities but cheek by jowl with the main school. The intention being of course to bring the students of both into contact, a familiarisation move, which ought to pay dividends in time.

As far as facilities go, you name it and there it is – 3 different pools, fitness and dance studios, performance space, gymnasia, meeting rooms.  The not so subtle point being that it will no longer be just ‘the big school’!  The new campus concept is for all the residents of Inverurie. I’m sure many of you will have opportunities in the coming months to learn more as the project develops. Final completion is timed for 2021.

After some questions, the vote of thanks was offered by Rotarian Joe McDowall which included a wee sermon of his own!  Well he is an educationalist himself, so we kind of expect that!

Week commencing 7th May, 2018

We had an ‘information’ night at Inverurie Rotary this week – it comes round every month to allow ordinary members to quiz the management on what they have been up to! Accounts are examined and secretarial reports analysed, I suppose it is what you call democracy, in other words the parliament is answerable to the people!  Works well at our level.

Chat round our table concerned the Home-Start Quiz Night on Friday in the Town Hall!  Whilst some of our chaps and chapesses are manning the bar, one brave fellow, who shall be nameless for the moment has entered a team in the competition! I will report accordingly next time.

Further details of the Great Inverurie Bike Ride were discussed. Apparently our team of volunteers are split –one lot will steward the Struie Hill section of the race whilst the others will man the start/finish tent wherein there will be further information on the charity ‘Prostate Cancer’ and maybe a wee fundraiser on their behalf – a bottle stall is the likely mechanism. Let’s pray for a fine day!

A plea came from Graham McWilliam for more volunteers to help with the Kids Day out at Craibstone in June.  Similarly, further support for our WAGS dinner fundraiser at the end of the month was voiced by Rotarian Howard Hughes.

Would you believe, mention was made of the Christmas Car Raffle 2018 – is that forward planning or wishing our lives away?  Much nearer at hand, with the said Mr Hughes, I’m taking the dosh at the door next week and our guest speaker is to be Acting Deputy Heidie at the Academy Alan Johnston.  

Week commencing 30th April, 2018

Charity! Charity! Charity!  I often stop to wonder what state this country would be in without the charitable work and giving of many in this land.  Whilst many would argue successfully that our Society is changing, indeed it must change to meet the challenges before us, that’s fine but God help us if we squander our ability to be charitable to those less fortunate than ourselves.  It is certainly one of the tenets of Rotary that first attracted me to the organisation way back in the early eighties.

No sooner had the meeting of the Rotary Club of Inverurie started on Tuesday night got down to brass tacks when up stood Joe McDowall to flag up the coming Great Inverurie Bike Ride on 17th June. Proceeds in aid of Prostate Cancer research and treatment.  The troops are needed to erect and man the Official Tent where competitors clock in and where further information on the condition can be obtained, stewards required to man some of the check-points around the route and so it goes on.  A few hours spent helping to raise funds to battle this awful disease is something that Rotary can and do do! 

In recent weeks, I have highlighted our involvement in the provision of another Defibrillator for the town, a childrens’ quiz, a childrens’ photography competition, Glee Club entertaining old folks in Dyce  (our last performance of the 2017/18 season!) Last Monday 3 of us spent time sizing up a wee landscaping job in the town.  Meanwhile, George Ross  and his team are working to make our WAGS dinner on 26 May, a success. It is our major fund-raising event for Charity.

I haven’t tried to add up the number of Rotarians involved in that little lot, the hours spent, the miles driven and it did not cost the community a PENNY.  To my mind, that is charity work at its best and there are so many other organisations who rightly claim to be making the same efforts – for our community, our society!  What do we get in return?  Satisfaction – yes, but just importantly we get to enjoy each other’s company and I reckon our enthusiasm spills over to affect the very people we are helping!

Further to that retrospective, I can report that we had a guest speaker with us on Tuesday. – Rona Millar joined us to describe the work of Charlie House.  This charity was formed in 2011 set up by a young Aberdeen mother who lost twin babies. She and her family needed specialist, expert, targeted support and maybe that was a difficult thing to find at that crucial time. Charlie House is there to assist families who have youngsters with complex disabilities some of which are life limiting! This is undoubtedly heart-wrenching stuff, I reckon everyone listening to Rona’s presentation was seriously affected by it. The organisation have plans to improve the facilities for affected families in Aberdeen and in the Shire. And that will cost a bob or three.

Without prejudging any discussion on the matter, I would expect our club to respond positively to any request for support, who wouldn’t?

Murray Matthew very effectively reflected the feelings of the club members when asked to offer a vote of thanks to Rona. 

Week commencing 23rd April, 2018

Inverurie Rotarians attended two meetings on Tuesday night! Before being called to order by President Stuart Watson for the Annual General Meeting of the club, we had our normal weekly meeting!  Quirky?  Yes!   A pain in the butt?  No, because we do respect tradition which, when once despatched may be lost for all time! That said, we are not thirled to the past, we must modernise and that is high on the agenda for most of us.

As part of the ordinary meeting, Sandy Lamb was able to report on the final of the Primary Schools Quiz held at Meldrum Academy. Twelve local schools took part the winner coming from Alford with Kintore runners-up.  The Inverurie team represented by Strathburn had an off day, coming 5th!  Interestingly, each team turn up for the event with a reserve who may not be required SO, the organisers created two extra competing teams from the 12 reserves. A brilliant move, because involvement by all is key.  What a sensible thing to do but on reflection, can you imagine the stushie if one of these ‘bounce’ teams had carried off the first prize!! 

Moving swiftly on to the matter of our AGM which follows a well-trodden path,  members had received the minutes of the previous AGM which were duly agreed and approved with no questions.  In fact, a feature of the whole meeting was  that all sub-committee reports had been circulated in advance by the secretary Mike Barron a move that was  applauded by the president and members because it saved a great deal of time. Even the matters arising were dealt with swiftly and efficiently.

The treasurer Charlie Taylor was cheered when he judged that membership fees would remain the same for another year, not only that but the 2018/19 budget would remain the same.  The official membership remains at 28.

The President’s review of activities was brief and to the point. He did add  wryly that since the last time he was ‘in the Chair’ (that would be  1988/89) there was a great deal more paperwork to contend with – a sign of the times dear boy, a sign of the times! He reminded us of the passing of John Blevins and David Keith during the year, noting the contributions both had made to the well-being of our club.

Looking forward, we then went on to confirm the management team for 2018/19. President - George Ross, Vice President  - Iain Mathers, Secretary - Mike Barron, Treasurer – Charlie Taylor. Convenors -  Robert Maitland, Howard Hughes, David Taylor, John Nicol, Eric Massie and Sandy Lamb.

In the any other business category, acknowledgement was made of the continuing activities of the Glee Club and the initiative to introduce new people to the aims and objectives of Rotary.

Week commencing 16th April, 2018

What a night we had on Tuesday!  The club met earlier than usual to see a display of photographs taken by school children in the area, entered into a competition organised by our very Rotarian and Past president Jim Hatter. Representatives were there from Port Elphinstone, Kellands, Chapel of Garioch, and Oyne schools.    The children  were accompanied by their parents, brothers and sisters.  President Stuart Watson presented the winners with their certificates, with special awards to the top entrant in each category.  Our photograph shows overall winner of the  intermediate  class, 11year old Eve Strachan from Oyne Primary school along with President Stuart and Mr Hatter himself. 

Votes of thanks abounded!  To Mr H for his work in organising a very successful competition, to the School authorities for endorsing the project , to the parents for their support and to all the children for their clever interpretation of the theme ‘A Different Perspective’.

There followed a report  from Jim Sommerville on the swimming gala which took place on Sunday with over 40 swimmers participating in 32 races, able bodied and less able battling for every winning place – another brilliant event though some of the referees and timekeepers took a while to recover their normal hearing!  A sign of the level of excitement enjoyed by all.

We enjoyed the company of three Banchory Rotarians, choosing to visit us in this their scatter week and finally the meeting ended on a rather sad note as we learned that our first ever lady member Cath Nash with husband Pete has moved on to live in Cumbria.  She had been our first Lady President and for a time acted as our treasurer.  We have happy memories of Cath and naturally we are sorry to see her move on. We wish her and Pete a happy life south of the border.

Week commencing 9th April, 2018

This being our ‘Information  meeting’ in other words a discussion on the monthly Board members report, there was no speaker but we did have a quiz!

Apart from the Treasurer’s  report, updates on members absent because of illness, the arrival of new grandchildren, in other words  the weekly elements affecting the Rotary family, the time was largely spent discussing the future!  Firstly we heard details of next week’s meeting when we will be able see the work of the young people involved in our Young Photographer of the Year competition organised by Rotarian Jim Hatter. The winners will receive their certificates on the night.

Next on the agenda was our WAGS Dinner, our most important fund-raising event of the year with proceeds going principally to Friends of Anchor.  Once again I feel bound to explain the term WAGS – it has nothing to do with sportsmen’s wives and girl friends!  The reference is to that old word  ‘wag’ meaning a bit of a story teller.  The event will be held in the Town Hall on the 26th of May.  At £50 a ticket, that might seem to be a bit expensive but and it is a big BUT there is no question that it is a value for money evening – a first class dinner followed by superb entertainment in the form of 4 excellent speakers each speaking for 10 minutes on a given a quote, the audience to vote on the most entertaining contribution!  These are a given, the optional extras include a raffle and an auction. OK, my challenge to those of you who think that it is an expensive night out is this - ask yourself how much will it cost to attend a top sporting event, with no guarantee that the outcome will please you? Put that to one side, the huge bonus in the case of our WAGS dinner has to be the final destination of the ‘profits’! Think of the charity and the sufferers, this could be your opportunity to improve their lot!  

I’m not finished!  Following the WAGS dinner, volunteers from the Inverurie Club will join members from the other 16  Rotary clubs in the area at Craibstone on 13 June for the annual KidsOut jamboree for children with additional support needs!  Something like 500 –600 children accompanied by over 300 teachers will be entertained and inspired by a whole chain of activities lined up by the Rotary Clubs.  An expensive exercise no doubt but already there is sponsorship in the kitty to the tune of £13k ! Well for a start there are over 1000 mouths to feed during a day filled with all manner of treats like the bouncy castles, puppet displays, a small animals zoo, crawling out, in, over a Fire Engine or a police car, riding in a pony and trap, face painting, dancing and countless other games and activities.  It could be described as a hectic day for one and all but by jingo it is worth it!

Everyone involved will be praying for a fine day!  We wish them all the best.

At the outset I mentioned a quiz! It was business all the way on Tuesday but to end the evening on a lighter note, Secretary Mike Barron came up with an interesting quiz to get the members involved before heading for home!

Week commencing 2nd April, 2018

It was my turn to have a seat at the top table on Tuesday!  Another simple Rotary courtesy – I was there to accompany my guest who was to be our speaker for the evening! 

The habit of having a top table is less precious than it once was. Nowadays it is seen to be a bit too formal – like the wearing of jackets and ties but to my mind the top table is there for a rather obvious and significant purpose.  If you go in to a concert hall to see and hear your favourite singer or watch a play, you want to be looking at the stage, don’t you?  That would be the top table equivalent then, would it not?  

Meal and business over, it was time to introduce our speaker and therein lays another tale. Regular readers will have heard me mention our Scatter Week, when Rotarians visit other clubs in the district in a gesture of friendship within the Rotary family. I took the easy route by visiting the Oldmeldrum Club, meantime I was conscious that I had still not arranged to find a speaker for 3rd April at my own club! Time was running out. Then out of the blue so to speak an Oldmeldrum member whom I had not met before quizzed me about our Glee Club activities.  He introduced himself as Andrew Mcpherson and though a Meldrum club member for two years, he still has strong links with Elgin Rotary Club and where he still  sings in the town’s male voice choir. To cut a long story short, someone in the company mentioned that he did a very good talk to club members entitled ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’ at which juncture I pounced!

Doctor Andrew Mcpherson duly enthralled our members on Tuesday night. There was no electronic gadgetry to distract, just a pack of apples lying in front of him! Andy simply stood up and socked it to us.  A GP and a specialist in medical teaching , he discussed diets and the ‘10 portions a day’ stuff!  The things to do and not do to maintain a healthy lifestyle!   Cigarettes and alcohol came in for a mention and so too did simple things like ‘if you’re a entitled to a flu jab, you must get it!’  Why?  Quite a simple reply – if you get that flu jab you are not only protecting yourself but you are protecting ME , said Andy sticking a forefinger in his own ribs!

The importance of fitness and regular exercise was emphasised  ‘Always take the stairs’ he said and I cringed!  Talk to your doctor about concerns  after all ‘you are a partner in any treatment’ said Andy.  Talk to others suffering the same ailments. ‘Check things out with Dr Google’ was a surprising comment.  There were lots of questions and to end a very well received session, Rotarian Marie Simpson proposed the vote of thanks. 

Needless to say there was a queue waiting to have a ‘quiet word’ after the close of the meeting.

It’s time now for my knee bending session!

Week commencing 26th March, 2018

There was quite a buzz about the Rotary meeting this week as we all returned to base, so to speak, after our week away which we describe as our Scatter Week. Members visited the following neighbouring clubs Huntly, Aberdeen, St Fittick, Oldmeldrum, Banchory and Alford and needless to say brought back news and greetings.  The most notable story came from John Nicol who visited the Huntly club.  No doubt you will be aware of Rotary’s ‘EndPolioNow’ campaign?  Last year our efforts had the title Purple4Polio which led to thousands of purple crocus being planted across the country to draw attention to the appeal. Some of the Huntly Club members suggested they sell Purple Ice cream to boost the fund-raising, the town being rather famous for this delicacy!  As a result, a team of Huntly Rotarians have been invited to attend the world- famous Melrose Rugby Sevens Tournament this year!  NOT to take part in the rugby sevens but to SELL their famous ice cream!  Well done Huntly, the End Polio Now initiative is achieving a significant measure of success as a result of Rotary efforts like this.

Our guest speaker Laura Davison is a Complementary Therapist working with the charity CLAN that is significantly supported by Rotary Clubs in the area – The Christmas Car Raffle being the outstandingly successful fund raiser.  Laura was accompanied by Fiona Cormack from the charity who was able to assist in answering some of the questions for members.

The role of the therapist is vital in the care and treatment of cancer sufferers because they can act as a buffer/conduit/confidant for the sufferer and the family members who themselves are likely to be significantly stressed by the situation.  That trusted friend has a significant  and vital  role to play something which I for one hadn’t recognised.  This vital point was endorsed by one of our members who was able to confirm just how valuable the role is!

The members certainly accorded our guests a very hearty vote of thanks.

Week commencing 5th March, 2018

I didn’t manage to get to the Rotary meeting on Tuesday because of the weather conditions, As I said to a colleague I couldn’t swim a length of the swimming bath nowadays let alone try to doggie-paddle from Meldrum to Inverurie! Yes, it was that bad in several places.

These very same travel conditions affecting vehicles and pedestrians were what caused us to cancel a Gardeners Question Time due to be held this Thursday night in the Garioch Heritage Centre, in aid of Rotary Charities. Hopefully we will manage to find another suitable date ere long.  This brings me back to a favourite theme and that is the Rotary motto ‘Service above self’’. You don’t need to be a Rotarian to sign up to that, indeed many people do.  There is no doubt that our society is changing largely influenced by rampant commercialism and the modern media and in my view, which adversely affects many people here and abroad. Thankfully there are enough people around who still have a mind to help others worse off than themselves and that is where the charity organisations step i

In a sense, you might imagine that the charities including Rotary and the myriad of other good causes, are competing against each other, So what! Competition is a good thing and in many cases I believe that different initiatives appeal to different people, the vital point is that  doing nothing isn’t an option! Having been convinced of this approach over the years there is a vital key to the success of any appeal – giving both ways! I’m convinced that when you ask people for money you will be more successful if, in return you give something back! On the one hand it might be a gamble like the very popular Rotary organised Christmas Car Raffle. No matter the odds people will have a go!  Our much-appreciated Glee Club activities GIVE a bit of light relief without demanding a return but I can’t remember an occasion when we didn’t receive a donation. In that scenario, we set out to be the GIVERS but the ‘clients’ want to GIVE! The amount doesn’t matter it will all go into our charity fund. What does it cost?  A bit of time and a few quid on petrol, what did I say earlier ‘Service above self’. The proposed Question Time would GIVE a night of exchanging views, answering questions and giving enjoyment etc with the help of non-Rotarian colleagues also willing to GIVE.  Most people want to help, the skill is in finding a way to GIVE a quiet sense of self satisfaction.

As Rotarians, we will keep doing it.

Week commencing 26th February, 2018

Despite the inclement weather and dodgy travel conditions we had a good turn out at this week’s meeting. Twenty eight members and guests gathered in the KA  for supper and to hear one of our guests tell an interesting but bleak story of life in Nepal at this time.

After our meal, in his current dual role as President and Secretary, Stuart Watson moved on through the business part of the meeting, taking time to congratulate Sandy Lamb and his team for their efforts in organising another very successful Primary schools quiz last week.

From time to time I refer to Rotary being one very large family readily hosting members of that family from oot aboot!  One such this week was good friend and fellow Rotarian from the Banchory Club – Eddie Gillanders.  He was not the furthest travelled by far however, our main guests, invited by Rotarian Ian Mathers came all the way from the Kirriemuir Club! It was a delight to welcome Barbara Lovegrove and George Aitken, their purpose  being to bring us up to date on a project their club is involved in, it was entitled simply ‘A Trip to Nepal’.

Working mainly with a New Zealand charity called First Steps Himalaya and a Ghurka based charity in Nepal, the Kirriemuir Club have raised over £30k to aid the building of new school classrooms following the devastation wrought by an earthquake back in 2015. We saw plenty pictorial evidence that is still there.  In a sense, the scenes are not unlike the man-made chaos we see on our television screens at the moment, coming from Syria. Nonetheless, there is still help out there. The Kirriemuir Club are moving on to another phase, you don’t just need classrooms, for one thing you need ‘sanitation! The good folk from ‘Kirrie’ are looking to raise over £100k!

Following man made or natural disasters, the effect on the human population is catastrophic, young lives are ruined and whole societies destroyed. In so many cases, inept and dispirit governments fail to cope, so thank goodness, for the sake of humanity that more stable societies like ours want to better the lot of these poor individuals. Our governments and aid agencies do their bit but so many organisations like Rotary contribute immense amount of work too, targeting help direct to societies in dire need.

To help others worse off than ourselves, we have to raise a bit of dosh!  In this regard, The Rotary Club of Inverurie have organised a fundraising Gardeners Question Time, in the Garioch Heritage Centre on Thursday 8th March commencing at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £5 and are available from any JG Ross Shop. The panel on stage will be Carole Baxter, Susan Burgess, Colin Stirling and me!  We are delighted to announce that our Inquistor on the night will be the one and only Robbie Shepherd.

Week commencing 19th February, 2018

You know how it is when you have somewhere special to go but there are chores to be done first? Rotary was a bit like that this week, not that I am belittling our regular weekly meeting in any way – it is the key to our existence. Nevertheless President Stuart Watson had other things on his mind when he opened the proceedings.  It was a case of – greetings, meal, essential business reports, one or two announcements, the final toast to ‘Rotary the world o’er’ then oot the door! All done by about 7.15pm

The fact that there were quite a few empty seats at the meeting was the clue that something else was going on. In fact, another squad of Rotarians were already at the Hopeville Club setting up the stage for our annual Primary Schools Quiz.  I hurried there with the President and others, to join the team.  The quiz was due to start at 7.30pm  and when we arrived the place was buzzing, the stage was set – six primary schools were competing from Chapel of Garioch, Kellands, Oyne, Port Elphinstone, Strathburn and Uryside, the last named got a huge roar of welcome as they joined the throng for the first time!   The rest of the function suite was filled with relatives and friends and supporters.

After explaining the rules Rotarian Joe McDowall, acting as Question master kicked off with the first of 10 rounds of questions. The teams of 4 were faced with 6 questions in each round.  The range and level of questions had many of the adult supporters nodding their heads in puzzlement but these youngsters stuck to their task with little fuss. The rounds were headed – Alphabet, Geography, Natural World, Literature, Maths, Sport, History, Media, Pot Luck and Pictures.  I should add that the questions are set after discussions with  one or two primary school contacts  (NOT from competing schools) to ascertain their suitability and level  for Primary School  children)

The eventual winners were a team from Strathburn School and after some refreshments they were awarded the shield and individual miniatures (of the shields!) by President Stuart Watson.

Our thanks are due to the organising committee, headed up by Sandy Lamb. On duty were Jim Somerville, Jim Hatter, David Taylor, Murray Matthew, who did a terrific job  in setting the questions, organising the paper work and the visual presentations, it all worked a treat.  Rotarian Kay Diack also attended on behalf of the Events Committee and finally, once again, thanks to Joe McDowall the question master – his style and ad libs are much appreciated.

Rotary at work in the community once again – that’s what we are all about.

Week commencing 12th February, 2018

On Tuesday morning, I had a fleeting thought that there might be no-one turn up for Rotary at night – because of the weather! As it happened, 24 worthy souls signed in for our regular weekly get-together but for how long will that be the norm? This being the week after a Club Council meeting, we had no guest speaker, the time after the meal being allotted to discussion of the latest Council report!

Each committee leader is invited to comment on their particular projects and responsibilities, whilst the secretary winds up with other relevant matters including requests for help from individuals and from other clubs. Our President, Stuart Watson is the Acting Secretary whilst Secretary Mike Barron is on holiday and whilst never in danger of being over-worked, the President and Acting Secretary, an old hand at the game, is inclined to make the most of his current status! Hopefully you will detect an under-lying theme of humour regarding Stuart’s present situation because contrary to some of the feedback we get from time to time, we are not a bunch of po-faced old gits! There is plenty of time for banter and teasing! 

Announcements included a reminder that next week the Rotary-sponsored Primary School Quiz, with seven teams competing, will be held in the Hopeville Club. My experience of previous quiz nights is one of fun and enjoyment together with enthusiastic rivalry, to be enjoyed by children, parents and Rotarians.

We learned that Home Start Garioch are having a fund-raising quiz night in the Town Hall on 11th May with some of our members acting as stewards. I understand that at least one of our numbers has agreed to ‘take a table’ in other words they are keen to participate. Maybe some of you folks out there will be similarly motivated to support this excellent local help group?

I referred to the main topic for discussion in my opening paragraph.  We had 24 members in attendance but when I joined Rotary in the early eighties there were over forty members!  We need to recruit new members so what is stopping like-minded people from joining? Is it that thing about being too staid, too formal, too expensive?   If so we must be prepared to change. We need to rise above these criticisms because we know there are like-minded people out there willing to help others less fortunate than themselves. Hence the move to form Associate groups who will meet in a less formal fashion to develop their own help programmes under the Rotarian banner. I look forward to reporting regularly on this new initiative.

Week commencing 29th January, 2018

Whilst every Rotary Club in the land is allowed to ‘paddle it’s own canoe’ there is a regional, national and world wide structure that is constantly passing on edicts, themes and new initiatives to bring to the attention of individual clubs, some may be priorities identified and endorsed by the ‘heid-bummers’!  For example, I guess the ‘End Polio Now’ campaign must be seen to be the most outstanding success story – ever! We are almost there.  The system works pretty well but never more successfully than in the local scene.  On a quick count, for example, we have about 20 Rotary clubs within a 25 mile radius of Inverurie! We talk to each other; we visit each other from time to time.  That is almost mandatory because once a year each club will declare a  ‘Scatter Week’ when members, in groups or singly arrange to visit other clubs in the area. That club is ‘warned’ to expect them!  Some have been known to take it as challenge – going from Inverurie to Wick for example, or it might have been Ullapool! No matter, methinks there was an ulterior motive – it might have been the fish or, more likely - the beer!

Here’s a current example, President Stuart made it known that members would be made very welcome at next week’s meeting of the Huntly Club when guest speaker will be the local MP Colin Clark!  I guess a few of our local farmers might be quite keen to cross swords with him!

Moving swiftly on to a development much closer to home, our guest speaker this week was Ashley Wilson, managing secretary of BID, she was introduced by Rotarian Eric Massie.  This local business organisation, chaired by Mr Ian Sinclair became operational in August 2017.  The initials mean Business Improvement District which has a Board of 12, comprising members drawn from a wide range of commercial businesses in the town.  They are working to deliver a 5-year plan with a £500,000 budget to benefit the local economy, businesses and the community at large.

Ashley started with some quite startling statistics comparing the number of retail outlets in Inverurie in 1938 compared with the current number.  Many years ago Inverurie was quoted in the statistics as having the FEWEST high street vacancies across the land!

Whilst trying to help tackle that scenario, which must be like trying to stop the tide coming in, BID’s remit also allows them to go into partnership with community groups to help them achieve their objectives with advice and incentives. 

At one time Business Associations might have been in a position to effect changes to benefit the community but it would seem in these fast changing times that we have to change our ways and perhaps BID and similar organisations will succeed where others have failed.  They have a huge task ahead of them. After a short question session, Rotarian Don Gordon offered an appreciative vote of thanks.

PS  John Nicol’s Foundation sub-committee met to have a quick up date on plans for a Charity Fund- raising Gardeners Question Time  in early March! Watch this space

Week commencing 22nd January, 2018

 The Rotary members and guests gathered on Tuesday to celebrate the life and times of Robert Burns.  In all about 70 people sat down to the traditional meal  of cock-a-leekie soup, haggis, neeps and tatties and  a sweet entitled Tipsy Laird!  Before all that President Stuart Watson welcomed one and all then David Fraser, himself a Kintore Rotarian piped in the Haggis which was duly welcomed and addressed by Ian Mathers. This was followed by the Traditional Grace ‘Some hae meat…..’ delivered by the President.

After the meal and the Loyal Toast, President Stuart handed over to George Ross, convenor of our Events Committee who with Howard Hughes, introduced speakers and guest artists.  Assistant District Governor Kenny Thomson, another Kintore Rotarian kicked off the proceedings by proposing the principal toast of the evening – to ‘The Immortal Memory of Robert Burns and a rare job he made of it. I have been attending and participating in Burns Suppers for 50 years and more and I have never ceased to be amazed at the variety of style and content in which this task is tackled. A measure of the success is the attentiveness of the audience, the laughter engendered and the applause at the end. I can report that Kenny done good!  Next up – the Toast to the Lassies. The lucky lad given this task was Norman Shearer and straight away ye kent he had din this job afore! Praise one minute, a bit of humility the next, a wee cautious jibe here and there and lots of humour – well done Norman. 

On this occasion the ‘right to reply’ was shared, by two young ladies who proceeded to the job in song!  Moira Docherty and Gill Smith, accompanied by Graham Davidson did the job in grand style, starting with a little ditty directed to our Club and some of our members. Some might have wondered who had provided the ammunition, it was definitely an ‘inside job’.  Needless to say, ‘les girls’ were warmly applauded.

To the less formal part now – some more gorgeous singing from Moira, a recitation by George Ross of Tam o’Shanter, a wonderful tale told superbly once again by JG.  Then it was the turn of George, Stuart and yours truly to tell the tale of Willie brewing a peck o’ maut!

The entire company had their opportunity to let rip by singing together The Star o’ Rabbie Burns followed after thanks to the hotel for a splendid repast, to all those who bought raffle tickets and those who provided the prizes and especially to all the performers from President Stuart, by singing Auld Lang Syne.

Fit a grand nicht we had!  That’s Rotary enjoying itself! 

Week commencing 15th January, 2018

For only the second time in it’s 20-year history, the CLAN Christmas Car Raffle supported by Rotary Clubs across the region, was won by a Rotarian - a member of the Stonehaven Club!  This cancer charity does a terrific job and Rotary members are enthusiastic supporters of their work.   Hence, as well as selling tickets in their own areas, they man the kiosk set up featuring the Mini car, in the Bon Accord Centre, Aberdeen in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

At our meeting this week, we heard details of the outcome, the vital one being that over £35,000 was raised for the Charity. Well done everyone who made it happen and that includes you good folks who bought tickets.

Our evening started with President Stuart Watson welcoming one or two guests and welcoming back Pat Mitchell who has returned from a trip to NewZealand with wife Liz, to visit daughter Paula and family. Didn’t have a chance to chat but it looked as if they had some fine weather during their stay. Considering our recent weather and what is currently scheduled for the next few days, I bet they wish they had stayed a wee whilie longer!

It was a fairly short meeting but that allowed time for several sub-committees to catch-up with the business side of our club.  George Ross and his team were putting the final touches to the arrangements for next week when members, families and friends celebrate the life and works Robert Burns.  It promises to be another cracker!

Not surprisingly, perhaps, I am a member of the Admin/Service committee, chaired by Past  President Peter Donaldson.  We tackle stuff like Press relations; something called Face Book;Publications;Website and facilities.  This week we had quite a lengthy chat about microphones, loud speakers etc.

The Glee Cub are in the middle of quite an intensive programme of gigs and frankly our sound system is bulky to transport, time consuming in setting up (and dismantling) with lots of wires all over the place. We need to modernise it and that was the main item on our committee agenda.  Next week, on Burns Night to be exact, the Glee Club will lead the biggest sing-along in town when they entertain the Age Concern members in the KA. If it is anything like last year we are ‘going to have a ball’ but, the place will be packit foo wi nae room for jiggin’!

Week commencing 8th January, 2018

Following our festive season break, The Rotary Club of Inverurie members were back in business this week and wish everyone A Guid New Year and many of them.

It is quite appropriate for me to quote Robert Burns at this time because we will soon be celebrating his life and works around the anniversary of his birth on 25 January 1756. Sometimes ‘The best laid schemes o’ mice ging aft agley’  Why so, I hear you ask.  Our first meeting of the New Year on Tuesday 9th coincided with the Glee Club’s first gig of the season!  Whilst the choristers and comedians of the Glee Club were entertaining in Bridge of Don, the other members met in the KA.  One of our own, Sandra Turnbull was on the bill to give her ‘My Job’ talk

A bit of a computer whiz-kid, Sandra works with Computers and Integration SCIO here in Inverurie.  I hadn’t a clue what SCIO meant (until I asked!)  It means that Computers and Integration is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation. They are delighted to announce that they have received a grant of just under £10,000 for a new project called “Be Connected”, it started on January 8th, 2018 and will continue through to the end of December.

The project will provide three free 1 ½ hr sessions, free child care if required and help with transport costs for anyone wishing to learn how to use information technology to access services and information on whatever each individual requires. You can call them now to book your place on Inverurie 01467 623600.

At the present time, Sandra is helping and tutoring 30 clients every week!  In this day and age of advanced communication techniques, it is brilliant to know that help exists for everyone, regardless of educational skills, to be able to keep pace in a fast -changing world!

Finally, the Glee Club returns to duty on Thursday to participate in the funeral service for Past President (2006/07) and Honorary member David Keith, who has passed away after a long and painful illness.  Our thoughts are with his wife Moira and the family.