Presidents Message - August 2014

When we are busy having fun, time flies!  This month has certainly been challenging, very enjoyable and unbelievably short.  At first impression, the "long" month of July seemed to be extra long, one that included 5 meetings including the yearly visit of District 7070 Governor, Brian Thompson.  Surely this month would never end!  Now, having barely started, it is over and we are embarking on August.

Our first speaker featured a most interesting presentation by and about the life and achievements of our President Elect, Robert Keeler.  Is there anywhere in the world that this most capable man has not worked his magic in the field of electric power production?  Even his courting and engagement to Doris, who is from Colombia, involved many interesting twists and turns.

Speaking of world travelers, we hosted Jonathan Van Bilsen, the local photographer and journalist who took us around the world in 25 minutes and had us all wishing we could have experienced what he has seen.  Add to that his wit and humour and we had a very enjoyable "trip".

July 23rd brought District Governor Brian Thompson to the club to review what The Rotary Club of Port Perry is and does.  His encouraging message to the club made us feel that we are truly an important part of this great Rotary District....Thank you, Governor Brian!

Yesterday, our club experienced the most bitter sweet program we will likely experience this year. July 30th was the final meeting for our Rotary Exchange Student, Saara Laine.  On August 1st, she will board the Finnish Air plane and make her one way trip back home to Finland.  Saara has been an outstanding representative of her family and country having been a very positive ambassador here in Canada, Ontario and most importantly, Port Perry.  We wish her the very best as she reacquaints herself with her life at home.  Hopefully she will return to Port Perry where she has a warm welcome and a second home here in Canada.  Come back soon, Saara, we miss you already!