President Al welcomed everyone to the meeting and began with the Land Acknowledgement. Al introduced Ann Grahame, our guest speaker, to tell us some of her life experiences.
Ann was born in London, England in the mid thirties. Her father, the fifth of 7 children was a physician. Her mother was a keen volunteer where needed. In a very old house, father's practice was on the main floor, they lived on the second floor and others lived on the third floor. In 1939, the second World War broke out. Ann as a very young child was sent with her mother's good friend to live in the country while her parents remained in London, working and volunteering where needed. In 1940 the London Blitz began and Ann was sent to Ireland to live with her grandparents. Soon she returned to London and experienced a 7 year stretch in Boarding School which was difficult. Following completion of her school education, Ann went to medical school in Ireland. She wanted to be a large animal veterinarian, however registration was restricted to males. She graduated with a medical degree in 1959 and began an internal medicine residency. Next was an opportunity to practice in Bermuda for 2 years. The expectation was to practice medicine where needed so her residency was on hold.
After Bermuda, Ann returned to England to continue her residency but eventually switched her practice to dermatology. Here she met husband, Phillip, who was a teacher and later involved in administration. Philip wanted to go to Canada, having visited there on occasion so in 1977 they journeyed to Canada with their 2 children to the small Saskatchewan town of Norquay where they lived in a tiny 'wartime' house. Ann had a family practice here assisted by a wonderful nurse. A short time later Ann acquired a practice in Midale for 2 years followed by a move to Regina in 1979. Ann had a dermatology practice in Regina for over 20 years and was an Assistance Clinical Professor with the College of Medicine. She has been retired for many years and looks back on a full wonderful life.
Eventually hearing about Rotary and the meetings, the service and the parties, Ann was brought into Rotary by a Rotarian friend. The rest is history. She has been involved in all facets of Rotary. Ann also volunteered with the Literacy Unit at RPL, Government House Historical Society and more.
Editor's comment--I have known Ann for a long time through a family connection. We have enjoyed many family gatherings. Ann and I travelled together to Rotary District and International conferences. I have heard many of Ann's stories over a glass of wine, a meal, on a bus, on a plane, in a hotel room, on a boat and at afternoon Regina visits over a cup of tea. All were different and indicated a fascinating life. One thing I admire most about Ann is that she will do anything she is asked to do especially for Rotary always with a smile and enthusiasm--she is good at cleanup, she will hammer nails, help hoist a tent, help organize events and she is especially good with students--you name it. She has high standards which one soon realizes but you can be sure the task will be done well. Bravo Ann. You have honoured Eastview for many years with your work and talents.
One of the many pictures of Ann in our files--here with President Al Hoeft.
May is Youth Service Month —a time dedicated to celebrating the local and global impact of Rotary International’s young leaders. While their impact is felt year-round, this month provides a special opportunity to showcase the leadership growth and service efforts of the 350,000+ young people engaged in Rotary’s youth programs worldwide. Read more at: https://rotaryserviceblog.org/2023/05/04/celebrate-youth-service-month-this-may/
FAMILY OF ROTARY
Eastview has many May birthdays. The following are those celebrating: Tania Woroby May 7; Shannon Windrim May 8, Peter Neufeldt May 16, Vic Wiebe May 19, President Al May 24, Gary Carlson May 28, Gail Bradley May 29, Richard Taylor May 30.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROTARIANS
Anniversaries are Greg McNamara 30 years--Well done Greg, we miss you, and Allen Hillsden 45years.
Congratulations Rotarians
WE COMMEND YOU ALLEN FOR YOUR CONTINUING SERVICE TO ROTARY AND TO OUR CLUB. WHAT A GIFT YOU HAVE BEEN TO ALL OF US.
FELLOWSHIP HIGHLIGHTS
There was an abundance of happy bucks today especially due to the arrival of spring.
Al was happy because it was spring even though it arouses allergies. He rode around the block on his bike. Al was also happy to announce the success of the potluck fellowship gathering; Peter P. is happy to have his bike down off the rack and has had one big ride of 32.53 km. this morning and will do another later today; Doug Mortin has taken the cover off his motor bike, will purchase a license and will be riding this weekend; Sam Berg has been out for 2 bike rides; Doreen is planning her flower garden; Toshi was happy to have enjoyed 3 days playing golf; Greg Baca was happy to be out walking in the park with his daughter and loving the green; Ron planned to play 18 holes of golf but he and his friends made it to 9--there is still lots of time for golf Ron; Peter N. was happy to announce his Church, Grace Mennonite at 2935 Pasqua Street, is holding a garage sale on this Friday and Saturday with lunch served on Saturday. We wish you and the parishioners well with the sale, Peter.
Have a good week everyone. Remember 'Spring is nature's way of saying 'Let's Party"!
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