For many years three organizations have occupied a special place in my heart. They’ve been sources of inspiration, friendship and knowledge. And you’re about to learn why.
The first group near and dear to me is the Rotary Club of the Sunshine Coast-Sechelt. Long name, even bigger objective — to change the world we live in. The reason I’m mentioning it this week is twofold. Number one is the news that Terry and Jan Umbach, one of our Rotarians and his wife, have just delivered solar lights to all the students at an elementary school in Kenya. For several years our club has adopted the village of Ndandini, bringing water, education and solar power to some of the world’s poorest people. For those of us who have so much, their need is beyond our comprehension. We always want to do more for these wonderfully appreciative Africans. But that takes money. Here’s where you can help.
On Oct. 17 we hold our annual scotch tasting evening. A night of superb dining, the food is spectacular — and apparently the drink is the teardrops of the angels. All told, a fantastic bargain for only $125, which includes six of the finest whiskeys that will ever pass your lips, plus a feast and a drive home so you can relax and enjoy all of it. The great folks at the Sunshine Coast Golf and Country Club need numbers by Oct. 14. If you’ve been procrastinating, just do it! Pick up the phone and call Darcy at 604-740-4432 or Ann at 604-741-7903 and get your tickets today.
My second shout out goes to the Sunshine Coast Community Foundation and the work Catharine Esson and Don Basham have done to produce Vital Signs under the Foundation’s umbrella. Catharine’s ability to research and Don’s contacts in the community make this report one that should be required reading for every service club and all levels of government on the Coast. Anyone who wants to know where our strengths and challenges lie need look no further than this easy-to-read, 16-page booklet. If you’re running for public office this November, do yourself a favour and get your hot little hands on this information. You need to know what will make a difference.
And while we’re on the subject of municipal silly season, if you happen to be a budding or experienced politician, I invite you to check out my third passion — Toastmasters. There are three clubs on the Coast, and all the dates and times they meet are outlined in our community calendar. In my not-so-humble opinion, there are two kinds of public speakers who run for office — those who don’t know what to say or how to say it and those who say far too much. So whether you’re under-confident or over-confident, we have an audience for you. You’ll never find a friendlier crowd, more supportive people or honest unbiased feedback. Call me if you want more information.
