Mike's Meeting Notes from Centennial Lucheon - Feb 22

Posted by Mike Storey

Today was a celebration of Rotary's 100th anniversary and we were honored with many guests, visiting Rotarians and dignitaries.

Mayor Lois Jackson presented the President Brenda representing the Ladner Rotary Club with a Certificate of Appreciation. Mayor Jackson spoke glowingly of the positive impact that the Ladner club has had on the community of Delta. On behalf of the residents of Delta, Mayor Jackson thanked all Club members, past and present.
Marion Burnett and Dorothy Burnett were honored guests of the Ladner Club at this special Centennial celebration. Many spouses attended including Geraldine Birk, Susan Bollen, Teresa Cooper, Jean Gaetz, Margaret Irvine, Linda Ottho, Kathy Storey, Frieda Wise, Valerie Witcher and Ruby Wu. Another special guest was Mark Elliott, one of the monthly winners in the Rotary Calendar draw. Art Birk also had friends Bob & Ann Stewart.
Assistant District Governor Dave Hamilton represented the District and was invited to speak. Including Dave Hamilton, we had Rotarians from both other Delta Clubs as well as a visiting Rotarian from Prince George, Vic Bowman and the always-welcome Wilbur Waldron from Richmond. Rita Penco represented the North Delta Rotary Club. The Tsawwassen Club Rotarians attending our special luncheon included Jim Northey, Graham Mallet, Cindy Phillip, Murray Lott, Ed Ly and Greg Condon.
Val Roddick gave a brief talk and presented Brenda with the Proclamation on behalf of Premier Gordon Campbell. Brenda read the Proclamation to the club and visitors.
Dave Hamilton spoke and his talk was on What Rotary Means to me; For Dave, it has presented the opportunity for incredible friendships and incredible opportunities for service. Dave was invited to join the Rotary club in Terrace in 1982 but soon moved to Richmond. He was unable to join the only Richmond club but jumped at the opportunity to join Tsawwassen in 1992 when invited by Bill Learmont. Dave volunteered to be editor of the bulletin and that turned into a seven-year commitment. Eventually, Dave became the 9th president of the Tsawwassen Rotary Club. This opportunity led to his participation in PETS (President Elect Training Seminars), which can be described as the best conference of his life. New long-term friendships developed from his weekend at PETS. Del Paterson asked Dave to be Assistant District Governor, which has also turned to be an exciting three opportunity to meet new Rotarians and make new friends. Dave has enjoyed all aspects of Rotary and reminds everyone, Service Above Self and live your life according to the Four Way Test.
Mike Storey, Chairperson of the 2004 Rotary Auction, presented a $16,000.00 cheque to the Rotary Club of Ladner. Each club in Delta shared equally and each have received $16,000.00, which will allows Rotary to continue the community projects in Delta.
Pami Buttar, treasurer of the Calendar Committee presented Mark Elliott with a $250.00 cheque as one of the monthly winners.
Leo Nimsick, Past District Governor, spoke on his experiences in Rotary. For 41 years, Leo has had the tremendous enjoyment to work with many Rotarians throughout Canada and the States. Leo has worked extensively with RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) and more recently, has held the Membership Development post. Leo's biggest influences included his father and Paul Harris. Leo urges all Rotarians to ask yourself, are you an active Rotarian?

Are you an active member, the kind that would be missed?
Or are you just contented that your name is on the list?
Do you attend the meetings and mingle with the flock?
Or do you sit at home yourself and criticize and knock?
Do you ever take the time to remember who is sick?
Or do you leave it to the few, and talk about the clique?
There's quite a program scheduled that I am sure you know about,
And we'd appreciate if you too, would help us out.
So come to meetings often and help with hand and heart,
Don't just be a member, but take an active part.
Think this over member â¿¢ you know right from wrong,
Are you an active member or do you just belong?
Ted Towers, one of our senior Rotarians gave his unique perspective on Delta, Rotary in Delta and about having fun. Ted was a charter member of the Ladner Club and has been active in Rotary since 1957. Ted gave examples of active Rotarians including Art Birk and Bob Stewart.
Thanks go to Jon Yee for organizing the annual Chinese New Years Celebration Dinner this past weekend. This is an event looked forward to by many members of the club as well as friends of the club.
Dave Hamilton reminded all that this coming weekend will be the March 5 Arts and Wine Gala. Contact President Brenda and she can help arrange tickets.
Everyone enjoyed a fine lunch, a glass of wine and a special Rotary Birthday cake.
One of our visitors from the back of the room had their lucky ticket drawn but they did not draw the blue marble so the pot grows for next week
A reminder that the Rotary Ride Committee is meeting on Thursday, Feb 24. Contact Barry Irvine at 597-8547 if you would like to be part of this committee.