As the first quarter of the Rotary year draws to a close, we realise how time flies, especially when you are busy, says president Marita van der Sluys. For the past six months, Paarl Rotarians have been busy sourcing wines for the annual Winelands Rotary Auction which takes place on 22 October.
July was a busy month. We had a visit from our DG, Ann Wright, who inspired us with her enthusiasm for Rotary. We visited Butterfly House youth centre whose motto is ‘Hope has wings’ which fits in well with our theme this year.
Kitty, our short-term exchange student from Hungary visited her host family in Paarl. They took her on a camping trip to Namibia, a new experience for her. She and Corli visited our club and did a presentation on Hungary. They are already planning to revisit each other soon.
On 27 August a large group of Rotarians and friends took off to the Barnyard for a fun evening of music (both Tina Turner and Mick Jagger made an appearance on stage) and fellowship was enjoyed by all.
The Rotary ladies’ coffee morning has been revived. Numbers are growing fast and everyone looks forward to the next venue.
Unfortunately, we have lost one member who resigned due to personal circumstances but we have also gained a new member: welcome back Alan Richards!
We were able to donate more than 200 blankets to Butterfly House, Wellington ACVV, Valcare and Rusthof old age home. We are experiencing a very cold winter so the blankets were really appreciated.
From 9 to 13 September we hosted a group of 6 Rotarians from Oregon, USA, for a Friendship Exchange. They visited Butterfly House and saw the need for lights during loadshedding. The group decided to donate 10 rechargeable lights before they left. What a lovely gesture. Among the places they visited were Amado horse therapy centre, Paarl Mountain, Franschhoek and Babylonstoren.
Five students from various schools will once again go to the Ryla camp over the school holiday. Hidden talents are discovered as new leaders are born. A great experience for the learners.
It has been a busy three months and our wine auction is just around the corner. By taking action and becoming involved we can make a positive change in our community.
Some wise words from PDG Tracey Wilson: Words may inspire but action creates change. We are people of action. We are Rotarians.
* We had to say goodbye to a longstanding Rotarian, Kaufie Kaufman. We will miss his loyalty and guidance. May he rest in peace.
Rotarians from Oregon and Paarl enjoying a night out during the Americans' visit as part of a Rotary friendship exchange.
Rotarians enjoying themselves during a visit to the Barnyard Theatre.