Good morning everyone,
 
This week saw us gather at our second home, the Pelican Waters Golf Club.  We love the opportunity to attend this amazing venue.  Taking in the view from the Club House across the Practice Fairway is a magnificent way to begin the day.
 
There is always someone who forgets the change of venue.  Sometimes these people just don't show up or others arrive wearing sunglasses.  We didn't mean to embarrass you that much, AB.
 
Chris M greeted us all as we arrived, and what a large group we were.  There were guests aplenty, with Roger and Sally bringing an entourage, our Guest Speaker Helen and her Assistant, Sharon, plus our very cheerful visiting Rotarian, Sue.
 
Chair for the day was PDG Alan Still OAM.  Might I say what a pleasure it was having our elder statesman so capably officiating.  To think this man can hardly see, is truly amazing - did you notice the way he pointed out each guest at their different tables and performed his duties without the aid of a 'run sheet'.
 
Alan was also upfront and honest with the International Toast, taking us to Rotary District 9400 - South Africa, in particular the Rotary Club of Johannesburg.  Thankfully Alan didn't dwell on this, I think it's been 'tampered' with too much already.
 
 
Megyn, one of our newest members, provided us with an excellent window into her life in just three minutes.  I don't know about you, but I love this segment we have each week.  It's fascinating to learn about the amazing people we have as members of our Rotary Club.
 
Coincidentally, the man of the moment, our Golf Committee Chair, Gorgeous Gordon, just happened to be celebrating his birthday on the same day as the breakfast was at his second home.  Thank you to our Welfare Director, Pam, who presented Gordon with a magnificent sponge cake.  Personally, I'd like to wish Gordon a very Happy Birthday and thank him sincerely for the time and effort he and his Team have put in to making our Annual Charity Golf Day the HUGE success it now is.  Find out about the Golf Day here
 
Our Guest Speakers reminded us just how intelligent animals of the Equine variety are.  We learnt about the program where horses are used in the treatment and management of mental health issues amongst our youth and how you can discover your real self by watching the reaction of a horse.  A lot like looking in a mirror really.
 
Genta has been very busy making gifts with a very personal touch to be given to the members of the Japanese Komaki Club, for the upcoming trip to Japan, for which a number of our members are leaving this weekend.  We wish them well and of course, safe travels.
 
A reminder, our Annual District Conference is scheduled for the weekend of April 20-22.  All sessions are free, as they are paid for in your annual dues - you just need to register for meals.  We would love to have a strong representation from our Club.  Register here and at District 9600
 
Don't forget to complete the Member Satisfaction Survey. If you haven't done so, please ensure the completed form is handed to Chris R by Tuesday at our next breakfast.  Download the form here
 
I hope you enjoy the rest of the week and get to watch the spectacle of the Commonwealth Games unfold.  Let's hope the competition is fair and that the 'win at all costs' mantra does not mar the spirit of The Games.