DG's Visits Week 30

The following day saw Daphne and I again involved in Interact business with a trip to Aberdeen for the chartering of the new St. Machar Academy Club at the weekly meeting of St. Machar RC. We received the usual warm welcome from President Margaret, Past District Governor Bill Wood and the other members of the Club. This more than compensated for the bitterly cold weather outside. It was a pleasure to be joined by District Interact Officer Janet Lowe. There was a very welcome opportunity over lunch to talk to the new President Rachel and other members of the new Club. They represent all that is good about our young people being polite, nicely confident, with clear views of their own futures and a commitment to put something back into their own communities. All of this was extremely well encapsulated by Rachael in her address to us all on the future of the new Club. After the presentation of the Charter Certificate, we had a timely reminder to all involved in Rotary of the Four Way Test and an excellent vote of thanks by Assistant Governor Elect Alan Pirie. My thanks go to everyone for another excellent occasion and especially to Janet Lowe and to President Margaret who have both worked exceedingly hard to bring the new Club into existence.

DG's Visits Week 30

After the extended break due to Xmas and the bad weather, it was time to get out on the road again. My first port of call was at the inauguration of the new Alford Academy Interact Club. Signs of the heavy snow were still quite evident as Daphne and I drove north. We were very warmly welcomed by the Alford Rotarians and the Rector, Moira Milne, and staff of the Academy. It was a most enjoyable gathering, with local Rotarians, school staff, other representatives of the senior pupils and local councillor, Richard Stroud, who has a particular interest in education. After the formalities of presenting the Charter Certificate and badges, we had an excellent address by President Natalie, outlining their plans, and an equally able vote of thanks from Vice President Andrew. This was followed by an excellent buffet which showed that the quality of catering has dramatically improved since my own school days. All the young people were a great delight to meet and with the strong support from Alford Rotarians and school staff, I see a bright future for this new Interact Club. The Club is one of a number being formed this year through the hard work and commitment of District Interact Officer Janet Lowe, and represents really good news for the future of Rotary. My sincere thanks go to Janet for all her efforts. Special thanks also go to Rotarian Paul Lawson who has worked tirelessly to bring the new Club into existenec.