The lunch scenario was a little different from the norm on this occasion inasmuch as we found ourselves in Amica's ‘exercise room’, our normal room being occupied by others in an unrelated meeting. This was to some extent an advantage as we were provided with an elongated table that enabled all to hear each other without difficulty. Of course, it also introduced the ability, in moments of ennui, to consider the daily use by the residents of Amica of the surrounding barbells and parallel bars, an image with which one could only conjure.
Michael gave us an interesting and informative disquisition on the subject of the Rotary Student Exchange programme, he having had some recent experience in travelling around parts of the province. This international exchange scheme, valuable for both hosts and visitors from foreign parts, is based upon the worthwhile proposition that an immersion in another culture, leavened of course by some common Rotary values, offers educational and enlightenment opportunities to the young that are increasingly necessary in today’s febrile world of shrinking borders. (Your correspondent enjoyed a similar opportunity several years ago when an American boy stayed with our family, and despite being in appearance like a linebacker for the Seahawks, demonstrated an ability to play the piano about as well as Rubenstein; at 8 years old, our astonished son never forgot the lesson of withholding judgment.) The practicalities of the world, however, obtrude upon reality: to provide the necessary accommodation requires a number of necessities (such as accommodation, suitable locations etc.) that few of our Club’s members are at this point able to provide. The idea therefore received some considerable theoretical encouragement from the meeting, but further study was obviously a pre-requisite to a decision.
We were advised that Donna and Dianna are planning a Trivia Night at Donna’s facility at some time in November. The role assumed by Dianna, most members will recall, is to act as Quizmaster in her renowned GK exercise. Those who were there will recall that she has an expertise in this field better even than Alex Trebek, and that when necessary she has a stentorian (or glacial) voice as proves necessary. Watch this space for further news of the event … and start thinking about who you want on your team (actually, and more likely, who you DON’T want). Pleasure and fun is guaranteed, especially because everybody is apparently requested to bring a bottle of wine with them.
It was briefly discussed whether or not the Club would welcome - or indeed could endure - a collection of politicians coming to speak to us on election matters during the current political excitement (yes, some citizens view it in that light!). A curious suggestion was made that there was hardly time for each party to prepare and appear (presumably, for fairness, the Rhinoceros Party should also come … I rest my case!), but the issue was deferred, presumably because we are too reserved a Club to raise the needed enthusiasm, or indeed even to make a decision. However the point was made by Davinder (at least I think that she made the point) that the input of a few politicians would do great things to eliminate the aforementioned ennui.
Lunch was finished, the much-appreciated fish and chips consumed, in a lively and timely style in order to leave the room available for the residents’ afternoon dodgeball practice.
Michael gave us an interesting and informative disquisition on the subject of the Rotary Student Exchange programme, he having had some recent experience in travelling around parts of the province. This international exchange scheme, valuable for both hosts and visitors from foreign parts, is based upon the worthwhile proposition that an immersion in another culture, leavened of course by some common Rotary values, offers educational and enlightenment opportunities to the young that are increasingly necessary in today’s febrile world of shrinking borders. (Your correspondent enjoyed a similar opportunity several years ago when an American boy stayed with our family, and despite being in appearance like a linebacker for the Seahawks, demonstrated an ability to play the piano about as well as Rubenstein; at 8 years old, our astonished son never forgot the lesson of withholding judgment.) The practicalities of the world, however, obtrude upon reality: to provide the necessary accommodation requires a number of necessities (such as accommodation, suitable locations etc.) that few of our Club’s members are at this point able to provide. The idea therefore received some considerable theoretical encouragement from the meeting, but further study was obviously a pre-requisite to a decision.
We were advised that Donna and Dianna are planning a Trivia Night at Donna’s facility at some time in November. The role assumed by Dianna, most members will recall, is to act as Quizmaster in her renowned GK exercise. Those who were there will recall that she has an expertise in this field better even than Alex Trebek, and that when necessary she has a stentorian (or glacial) voice as proves necessary. Watch this space for further news of the event … and start thinking about who you want on your team (actually, and more likely, who you DON’T want). Pleasure and fun is guaranteed, especially because everybody is apparently requested to bring a bottle of wine with them.
It was briefly discussed whether or not the Club would welcome - or indeed could endure - a collection of politicians coming to speak to us on election matters during the current political excitement (yes, some citizens view it in that light!). A curious suggestion was made that there was hardly time for each party to prepare and appear (presumably, for fairness, the Rhinoceros Party should also come … I rest my case!), but the issue was deferred, presumably because we are too reserved a Club to raise the needed enthusiasm, or indeed even to make a decision. However the point was made by Davinder (at least I think that she made the point) that the input of a few politicians would do great things to eliminate the aforementioned ennui.
Lunch was finished, the much-appreciated fish and chips consumed, in a lively and timely style in order to leave the room available for the residents’ afternoon dodgeball practice.