Reports on Events and Meetings

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting.

TFTD

Sean Doran provided TFTD, commenting on the 75th birthday of the NHS and as an organisation they need vision and goals to meet future needs, much like President Alan for the coming year.

Business Matters

Nothing raised or reported.



President Alan’s introduction

Alan opened his speech by commenting on the two years since accepting post as Brian’s Junior Vice President time has flown by. He thought his infamous vocational would have been enough to guarantee he would have been bypassed for the position of President based on not passing the Rotary three F’s assessment, Fun, Fellowship & Fundraising, but looks like a further two F’s needed to be added – forgive and forget.

His focus areas for the new team are as uncovered via the members survey. It was recently brought to Alan’s attention that a WAG existed in 2011 and wrote a report he was able to review. Twelve years ago, they had the same challenges, although were a club of 70 members instead of 50, with aspirations to grow and have a more diverse membership. So, focus remains on attracting new members from all areas of society and growing our membership numbers.

Ambition for each year is to have all active Rotarians members of at least one committee. This year Alan has not allocated people, instead he is looking for members to reach out to convenor of group they are most interested in joining. There is nothing stopping people being members of two or more committees. Your choices –

David Walker Strategy

Ronnie Pook Membership

Ian Wilson Fundraising Convenor

Ian Morris **Programme Convenor

Sean Doran International & Foundation Convenor

Neil Wilson Community Convenor

Matt Brown Public Relations Convenor

** Programme already has a complete committee and Ian hopes all will stay involved.

If there are some areas where we do not get enough volunteers, or active Rotarian’s do not volunteer, President Alan will allocate to each Convenor as required.

Alan finished with saying we should all be proud of our club and share / publicise our successes. We all joined Rotary to help with local, national, and international activities, while having fun, so he hopes the high member support continues for the coming year.



AOB

Tom Sunter raised a point from the floor on the challenges all the Dunfermline clubs were facing and if we could reach out to see how we can better support each other. Also, as per National guidance, it is vital we do all we can to retain Rotarians and it was suggested we look at recent leavers across all clubs, find out their reasons for leaving and if there is anything we can do to entice then to join us. Council to consider possible approaches, that were discussed in detail during the meeting.

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, including guests Claire Blanchflower and Anne McFarlane. Hamish Ligerwood and Bill Runciman were also in attendance, which as highlighted by President was great to see.

TFTD

Sean Doran provided TFTD, commenting on The Paps hunting or hiding news, and holiday time is here for many to fly away, although many having to stay inside and hide, cooled by air conditioning supplied by China!

Business Matters

Neil Wilson thanked Rotarians who responded to the short notice request for help at the Food Drive last week. 1.44 metric tons collected at the Fire Station Tesco. He did a quick tally of amounts collected recently – May 2 tons & Dec 6 tons. Therefore, Rotary have recently helped to collect 10 tons of food for the foodbank.

Ian Morris reported on behalf of Ralph on the upcoming Festival Visit on 10th August, bringing to everyone’s attention the email sent asking for final numbers. Ralph needs a response by end of day Friday 14th to allow time to book tickets for two comedy shows planned.

Escape Rooms update was also reported on by Ian. This is now being arranged for 30th November, as it was not possible to get all three rooms in August. Ian asked for people to respond to his email sent Thursday regarding this event so he can get the initial 18 names, hopefully establish a waiting list, and more importantly book with confidence.

President Alan reminded everyone of need to pay membership dues of £105, that were due by 1st July. To date only 50% of Rotarians have paid. Also, can everyone look at changing their 50/50 draw payment to be made annually as part of membership fee payment (i.e., paying £165 in total) to save on Bank charges for the club. If you do this, please remember to cancel your monthly standing order.



Speaker

Brian Blanchflower, former Heedy of Dunfermline High, was introduced by FP Alan Condie. Brian’s career took him to, Inverkeithing, Buckhaven, Beath, Lochgelly & Dunfermline high schools. He talked through his rich career, focused on pupil indiscipline, approaches to controlling and successes.

Brian himself received the belt on several occasions in P3 / P4, most of which were trivial and gave an example in S6 for being 2 minutes late, when the busses were off and Brian walked to school in the rain, unlike his mates who took the day off (no mention of resulting retribution for those people). President Snooks (hope I got that right) was also a recipient of the belt on numerous occasions, with one in S6 for wearing a black shirt instead of white, and a “noncompliant” tie. These are both bad examples of teachers managing pupils inappropriately and looking back, a dark time in the teaching profession.

When Brian started as a teacher, he was expected to buy his own Lochgelly Tawse (you can still buy them! https://johndick-leathergoods.co.uk/catalogue/lochgelly-tawse/heavy-weight-lochgelly-tawse/) and be willing to use. In 1982/83 the belt was manned in schools due to a European Human Rights ruling, however that did leave challenges in schools like Beath High were some pupils became uncontrollable, with systems / approaches were not yet developed and adopted by all.

Approach and rules, developed by teachers and pupils is now much better. Pupil support is in place and the curriculum has been developed to provide more courses to cover all types of people, as opposed to a set of qualifications that favoured highflyers. Course appropriateness and success was evident by Lochgelly winning a competition round F1 in schools during Brian’s time there - www.f1inschools.co.uk.

Today there is much more of a three way partnership between teachers, pupils, and parents, although inevitably there are some parents lacking in that area, resulting in problem pupils. These pupils cannot be excluded, which means 95% of pupils do have their education impacted. Brian gave examples of a new 1st year, quiet girl, who was found to be passing on cannabis to pupils, that turned out to be grown by her father. Outcome was the parent being subject to the biggest drug raid in Fife that year. Brian has confiscated knifes, swords and on one occasion a gun at Lochgelly HS (pupil had brought in to swap for something with another pupil), where he never had a dull moment in his 19½ years there. Despite this, he is still of the view corporal punishment could not return to schools.

Brian talked about staffing challenges inherited and the poor way these were managed, telling us when he was assigned to Dunfermline HS they were rated as 14th out of 19. After tackling incompetent teachers and where he could staff shortages, he got the S4’s to top performing for 6 successive years, and second place for S5 and S6. In no small part, his time at Buckhaven HS helped, where he worked with an excellent Head, who showed him best practice and the way forward, that included focus on teaching teachers to teach.

VOT

Thank you for doing this instead of me Keith, from the slightly dyslexic Secretary!

An excellent VOT from a fellow pupil at Dunfermline HS, attending at same time as Brian, and a few others in attendance. Again, our members provide the most interesting and entertaining presentations. The speech also showed, with required supported, reformed characters can go onto better things, like our non-compliant current President! Keith knows lots of people who have worked with or been pupils during Brian’s time and he continually hears how he was good, fair, and always respected. He also now appears to know every second person in the town.

There were 19.5 Rotarians in attendance, with Keith being the half, having turned up late only to drink the hot brown liquid that passes for coffee at the Garvock, nick a toffee from the top table and leave to go to another meeting !

Given that the meeting was primarily a fellowship meeting with hardly any reports, that may have been the highlight had it not been for the recounting of a friendly foursome golf tie. In the absence of Ralph ( who was un-explicably missing ), it was left to his golfing partner to give a report. Members were left open- mouthed to discover that Ralph and Mike had blown a four- hole advantage with seven holes to play, only to lose the tie. Mike refused to blame his playing partner but instead noted that the opposition were “lucky” – luckily winning the 12th, the 13th, the 14th, the 15th, halving the 16th, winning the 17th and 18th to finish 2up. Some Members look forward to hearing further from Ralph and receiving a more detailed account of events, particularly with regard to the 3 putt from 4 feet on the 17th !

In other news, Ian gave another humorous TFTD involving his usual ramble through random recent events, reassuring members that everything he said was absolutely true because he is on first name terms with Mr Google.

Dates for the Diary –

Food drive at Tesco 30 Nov, 1st and 2nd Dec

Charity golf day at Pitfirrane – 9th April. Looking for 20 teams to take part

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, including a long list of guests and our speaker Margaret Steedman, the outgoing Inner Wheel President. Alan Farquharson, Ian Grieve, District Governor Brian Mitchell, Alan Gilles, and a long list of Inner Wheel ladies where present to support their President.



TFTD

Our Club Bard, John Anderson, made guest appearance delivering TFTD, welcoming our charming guests, our speaker Margaret Steedman who this evening had an audience of men that could not voice any opposition - what an opportunity!



Business Matters

Only business matter reported was for this month’s 50/50 draw –

£60 – Brian Blanchflower

£40 – Ralph McCran



Speaker

President Alan gave brief introduction to Margaret, the outgoing president of Inner Wheel for 2022/23, who was persuaded to take on the role having been President previously in 2019/20 during the covid outbreak. Margaret’s year in the chair has also been a massive year for the Steedman family with three siblings weddings, with one in New Zealand!



A brilliant and insightful speech from Margaret, covering the history of Inner Wheel, activities in the last year, and the close partnership with our Rotary club (something that very much caught the attention of the District Governor as per complimentary comments made to President Alan and end of evening).

Margaret thanked so many of her ladies for coming along and supporting her this evening. In the past, Rotary Presidents each year make a presentation to the Inner Wheel group at one of their evening meetings, so when asked to reciprocate it was hard to refuse.

Inner Wheel was originally formed for the wives of Rotarians, but now is open to all ladies, and is now a partner organisation to Rotary. Today they have 100,000 members across 104 and is one of the largest women’s organisations globally.

Dunfermline’s charity works this year has included supporting the District Chairs charity, Air Ambulance, after much appreciated experience of their services. For Margaret’s chosen charity, they donated a TV for a patient’s room at the Haematology Unit in Victoria Hospital. The team also supported –

Toys for Salvation Army

150 Easter eggs for women’s aid

Donated cash to the Turkey earthquake appeal

Helped with a book bus in Zambia.

2024 is the centenary year for Inner Wheel and the club have bought some rose bushes to be planted in The Glen Rose Garden.

And lots more that the secretary could not capture as he cannot scribble fast enough!

The team are especially proud of the new fund raising initiative, the Ladies Day. They filled the Wee Jimmies venue in Cowdenbeath earlier this year and raised £2400. No doubt looking for a bigger venue in 2024.

Inner Wheel falling membership is a district concern, along with people taking on roles. Dunfermline have managed to buck that trend, with 6 new members last year and 4 this year.

Partnership with Rotary continues –

Joint Burns Supper is well established and an excellent evening.

Daffodil Tea support

Assisting with the Gin Festival in May, which now means they receive a donation from the profits generate, which is very welcome.

Margaret joined Inner Wheel in 2012 and hoped to bring commitment and enthusiasm to the organisation locally. She has gained much more out of Inner Wheel, with more friends, fun and satisfaction from community giveback. The experiences with Round Table / Rotary / Inner Wheel communities in Dunfermline over the years have resulted in gaining some very close and valued friendships.



VOT

Purely by chance, the rota meant Graham Steedman was scheduled to give the VOT. Graham walked a careful path in his comments, at some points. Margaret delivered an excellent speech, soldiering on despite having been unwell recently. A very very busy year with lots of effort and passion delivering. Graham rightly concluded on how proud he was of his wife for all she had done in the last year and in delivering her speech this evening.

Now this has been established, it is hoped that we will be able to rely on the outgoing Inner Wheel President to visit us annually and give a presentation on their year just past.

Senior Vice President David welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, with special welcome to Moira Watson who was joining us this evening. Vacant were Alan Condie, Graham Steedman, Ronnie Pook & Ralph McCran, although there had been an attempt to make a video call make and claim remote attendance!

TFTD

Ian Morris delivered this week’s TFTD. President Alan is away “on the lash” with a group of golfing Rotarians in Ireland this week. Last week’s Festival outing taking in some questionable shows, with lesson learnt being, read the reviews before booking.



Business Matters

Neil Wilson reported on a letter of thanks received from Sarah Beveridge for our further financial support. This and our man hours efforts from 11 active supporters and 2 who are onboarding, goes towards Dunfermline Foodbank delivering annually –

115 tons of food

9204 clients fed (3516 of which were children)

Each adult client receives a parcel of around 15kg, each value at £30, which provides approximately 10 meals.

We played a part on this, so thank you to everyone for all your help, monetary, food donations and personal time from Rotarians.

Food Drives, there is a possibility of one being scheduled in September, and there will be drives in December, so watch for dates please.

Sandra Beveridge will be speaking to us on 26th October, so we will find out more then.

Neil also reported on Kids out, which is going ahead on 6th September as planned. Required Funding secured, pending anything unexpected. Rotarians are welcome to come along on the day, so please call out to Neil if you plan to do so for car sharing to be arranged.

Neil concluded by reporting this Rotary Years Gavel competition is starting, with 57 clubs challenging for our crown, 8 of which are new entrants.



Brain Blanchflower reported on the Festival visit and the challenge of finding a good show. That aside, still a good evening (and afternoon for some) for Rotarians, managing to catch the last train home to Inverkeithing and face the scramble for taxis at the station.

Brian also highlighted next weeks speaker, Lewis Steer. Lewis is a former Head Boy from Brians time and Dunfermline HS, who was a cut above those before and since. He spoke to us at our annual leadership awards, since then securing two back to back degrees and now working as a vet, running two practices. Please bring guests along, as Lewis is an interesting and inspirational speaker.



Speaker

The Secretary delivered a presentation on communication tools in our club with intention to demonstrate accessing and setting up Google Sheets and Google Calendar to all in attendance via screen share of his mobile phone. Technology let him down, turning the presentation into a car crash. Thank you to the patient Rotarians in attendance as I tried to muddle through, reverting to showing this on the laptop screen instead of on a mobile phone in logical order.

As you can imagine, somebody “in the trade” tested this in advance, both at home and in the hotel, and it worked (although slowly at the hotel). I then tested when getting home. No problem. I can only deduce my encouraging people to connect to hotel Wi-Fi at start of pitch reduced bandwidth available to perform screen share from my mobile phone to laptop.

However, lots of people did go into huddles to work through set up as per explanation on screen. We uncovered the need for a Google User Account for both Sheets and Calendar was not enough –

Upon accessing Sheets an automated request was to Ian Morris for access approval.
For Calendar, you need a Google Account, and the administrator needs to be made aware of that account to issue a fresh access request email. However, when I got home, I did find we could make the calendar available to public access, so that has been set as nothing sensitive is within.

If anyone cannot access Google Sheets or Calendar directly, please reach out personally for assistance. I will issue a separate email with instructions for Android users. I will also try and pull something together for Apple users.

Ian Morris also tells me overnight 15 people were granted access to Google Sheets, so great to see people setting up their phones for access to help keep up to date with upcoming meetings / events.

The Secretary concluded the presentation with an extra. The new club clothing has now been arranged via a local Dunfermline supplier. Members can access the club web page to order, that currently has six items to select from, with the Rotary Club of Dunfermline logo to new Rotary branding standards. There were a couple of items brought along to allow people to see. Question raised on option to have name embroidered at bottom, which had been removed as new Rotary image standards did not mention. However, it did not say was not permissible, so Secretary will have this added back in as an option and after which, send a note out to all covering details of where to order. Hopefully, we will see people wear at Rotary fund raising, community support, and sporting events.



VOT

John Anderson had the unenviable task of a VOT for tonight’s car crash, that he had been looking forward to learning a lot from. For now, John will be sticking with his paper diary, although willing to configure his phone to access once everyone else understands and has set up.

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, including some Rotarians partners, along with our speaker for the evening, Lewis Steer.



TFTD

Sean Doran delivered TFTD –

The Lionesses could not make that step.

Hibs could not make that step.

Rangers did, almost.

Tonight, we listen to Lewis’s successful development and career steps.



Business Matters

President Brian reported that Jack Wardell had decided to retire from Rotary at end June. While this was communicated, it looks like some members may not be aware, so letting everyone know again this evening. Hopefully, we can still look forward to seeing Jack doing a turn at our Burns Supper.

David Chalmers and Keith McFarlane won Friendly Foursome final. Ian Wilson who was in losing pair along with Andrew Croxford reported being all square at 15, then losing the 16th and 17th. President presented David with the trophy.

Sundays Fun Couples Golf this coming weekend on Sunday 27th. Keith has issued an email for a 4pm start and dinner afterwards, but what it does not say is, he would like everyone to meeting at Pitfirrane GC at 3:15pm please.

Ian Morris reported on coming programme events – Outside meeting next Thursday, so no meeting at GHH, and people attending watch for email from Ian on arrangements and payment. Wednesday 6th is Kids Out. 7th September, next time back at GHH with Keith Mason returning to talk further about trams in Fife.

Ronnie reported he now needs final names for Dumbarnie Links outing on 17th October for Rotarians & Guests. JT Thomson trophy will be played for that day. £105 per person and for those already signed up, Ronnie needs payment now please.

Ronnie also mentioned he can get tickets for the upcoming Walker Cup at St. Andrews, so anyone interested please reach out to Ronnie.

The Secretary highlighted the readiness of the new club clothing for members ordering, including name option. He also had garments available on the nights for people to see sizes.

https://www.printoutsidethebox.co.uk/collections/dunfermline-rotary-club

The Treasurer announce the August 50/50 draw, with £60 going to Noel McKenna and £40 to Bill Livingston



Speaker

President Alan introduced Lewis Steer, who as a former Head Boy had presented at our Rotary Club. Lewis is a Dunfermline born and bread boy, who attended Commercial PS and Dunfermline HS. At an early age, his aim was to work in the care of animals, and in time gaining a veterinary degree from Edinburgh, along with a Zoology degree.

Lewis opened with his experiences and support from our Rotary club and mentioning his speaking to the club as DHS Head Boy. Rotary sponsored Lewis to attend the Peace Conference at the Hague Peace Palace, which impacted Lewis in no small measure throughout his education and work life.

Amongst the humorous stories Lewis shared with us, he recalled a time sat in class at DHS when “Blanchi” came into classroom and asked to take Lewis out of class. When asked why, Blanchi’s response was he was being taken to see a farmer friend and examine semen being taken from a bull. As you can imagine, that stuck with Lewis through his remaining years at DHS.

120 students started the veterinary course, with lots of people from abroad with required funding support. Not so much the case for Lewis, who had to hold down various pub and farm jobs at the weekend. Unfortunately, Covid struck in his last year at university, while on exchange at Colorado. So, exchange cut short, brought / sent home, and no graduation other than virtual.

Lewis’s first assignment was to Dunoon, a small quiet place with an old fashioned practice. However, due to Covid and the other vets in the practice being ill with Covid, Lewis was thrown in at the deep end with a staffy that had jumped out an upper floor window, despite Lewis not yet being fully certified as a vet! Then onto Orkney, with all the transport challenges between islands. His favourite island was North Ronaldsay, with a population of 40/50 people and where the sheep grace on the walled off beach. Some great experiences with sometimes eccentric people and their animals before deciding it was time to move closer to home, initially doing an internship at Edinburgh vet collage, before an opportunity in Aberdeen / Peterhead to become a Clinical Director at Buchan & Deveron Group.



VOT

Senior Vice President David delivered the VOT, commenting it was evident Grandparents Brian & Elizabeth Steer were proud to bursting point! Lewis had all in the audience in awe of the fantastic career he has had to date for such a young fella, multiple funny and challenging experiences, along with managing some tricky questions from the audience. David encouraged Lewis to keep a written note of his interesting and funny experiences to date and in the future, like the one eyed Elvis lipped snake, as they would make a terrific book.

President Alan welcomed 24 Rotarians to tonight’s meeting, normal service returned with regards to attendance, along with our speaker tonight, Keith Mason.



TFTD

Delivered by Sean Doran – Rugby trampled, football subdued, political altercations, shocking, no more a disappointment. Recent earthquakes and floods, which is shocking, and will no doubt prompt “people of action” to respond.



Business Matters

President Alan asked those present for views on quick response, via Shelter Box, to recent earthquakes. Proposal from the room and agreed by all was to pause for a week until needs are clearer, especially now floods have occurred, and we do that via Rotary guidance and initiatives.

Gordon Black announced upcoming social events and he needs to start taking names for one –

3rd November, Get Ready for Christmas Wine Tasting at Juniper. Six wines, with nibbles, 6:30pm to 8:30pm, so options for people to go on elsewhere afterwards. £30 per head and spaces are limited. Please email Gordon now if you plan to attend. gblack5020@gmail.com
3rd December Christmas Lunch. Please note in your diaries if you have no yet adopted Google Calendar and mapped to your club diary for entry to appear automatically.

Sean Doran reported the Shoe Box appeal has started, so please let Sean know how many boxes you require, as he needs to know if he should order more to add what he already has stored in his garage. 15th November is final date for return.

President Alan informed all that the Cowdenbeath Rotary Club Charter is on 3rd November (unfortunately same evening as our wine tasting). This is one of our daughter clubs, so Alan will be attending and asks if some others could also come along to show support for the club in Cowdenbeath.



Speaker

President Alan introduced tonight’s speaker, Keith Mason. Keith was born in Forfar but moved to Fife in his schooldays. He studied law in Edinburgh, became a solicitor, working for Dunfermline District Council, then to Fife House, and finally to the Church of Scotland HQ in Edinburgh.

Keith first became aware of trams as a young boy in Forfar, when enquiring what the tracks were in the Forfar High Street. Tram tracks came the answer and if you want to see trams, get your parents to take you to Glasgow where they still run. Dumbarton Road in Clydebank was where he first encountered trams, closely followed by holidays to Blackpool and seeing the trams there. This all sparked a lifelong interest and Keiths first presentation on trams was delivered at the young age of 13.

Keith gave a great presentation on our local history. Two points he mentioned worth highlighting were, it took only 10 weeks to construct the first tram track from Dunfermline to Cowdenbeath and three days later the first tram ran. The speed was no doubt helped by roads and pathways mainly being dirt tracks and no modern day infrastructure buried within. Also, the tram route from the Alhambra (see picture attached) and Rosyth Dockyard carried 4.3m passengers and was the second most profitable route in UK. That all stopped with Alexanders Buses came along with lots of money and promises to build roads.

I have found some pictures online that I am sure Keith included in his presentation and as Keith commented, people can see where Dunfermline buildings still remain and the view remains largely unchanged, something common across pictures of the Dunfermline area Keith shared.



VOT was delivered by John Haxton, who is Keith’s next door neighbour. John and Keith have had numerous chats over the garden fence on Keith passion for trams and steam trains, sharing appropriately a glass or two of Porta 6 wine (see attached picture for reason appropriate). Thanks to Keith for coming to visit us again and delivering an excellent presentation. His knowledge of trams and the wider Dunfermline was evident and kept his audience very engaged. Maybe next time he can give us a presentation on steam trains in Fife.

Senior Vice President David opened by reporting President Alan has been taken hostage by the Inner Wheel ladies and sought confirmation from all in attendance we would not be paying any ransom, then moved on to welcoming all to tonight’s meeting, including our speaker Andy Foster and our monthly West Fife visitor, Ian Grieve.

TFTD

Delivered by John Anderson – Autumn leaves appearing on trees, animals thinking of hibernating, but not Rotarians who have fund raising work through the coming colder months.

Business Matters

SV President David reported that due to Alan and Sean both being absent this week, a decision on Morocco / Libya support will be held back till next week.

Ian Wilson reported to all the key dates for coming fund raising –

27/10/23 Charity Quiz

19/11/23 Santa Dash

06 & 07/12/23 Marine Band Christmas Concert

16/12/23 Santa Sleigh Collection – High Street

19-22/12/23 Santa Sleigh Collection – Tesco Car Park

Brian Blanchflower reminded everyone of the Charity Quiz being held on 27th October at McKane Park at 7.45pm for 8pm. Entry, including a first raffle ticket, will be £5 per head. Any donations of raffle prizes will be very gratefully received. To assist with table arrangements, it would be helpful to know of Team Sizes and names well in advance to help with arranging the room. brian.blanchflower@btinternet.com

Gordon Black reminded everyone of upcoming social events, and he needs to start taking names for both –

- 3rd November, Get Ready for Christmas Wine Tasting at Juniper. Six wines, with nibbles, 6:30pm to 8:30pm, so options for people to go on elsewhere afterwards. £30 per head. Please email Gordon now if you plan to attend. gblack5020@gmail.com

- 3rd December Christmas Lunch. gblack5020@gmail.com

Secretary reminder to all in Sean’s absence - Shoe Box appeal has started, so please let Sean know how many boxes you require, as he needs to know if he should order more to add what he already has stored in his garage. 15th November is final date for return.

Speaker

SV President David prior to introduction thanked Brian Steer for shortbread distributed to all. This could become a new duty rota item!

David introduced tonight’s speaker, Andy Foster from the Deer Centre, who hosted the recent Kids Out event where we met Andy. Andy has had a rich and varied career that we will no doubt hear more about.

Andy is the education and conservation manager at the Deer Centre, but covers much more than that, including event hosting and outside presentations. Lots and lots of academic qualifications (I could not note down quickly, unlike Neil!) and work / life experiences are wide and varied.

The Deer Centre is a zoo and not a farm, therefore Zoo standards expected on education, which should inspire the next generation on preserving the natural world. The centre has deer, wolves and lynx, and Andy explained the challenges in Scotland with deer numbers are growing out of control as there are no natural predators (due to humans). He went on to explain the challenges of releasing wolves into the wild to help address. Modern infrastructure and desire to keep animals in a set location make that unworkable today and will remain so until science can prove otherwise.

Andy moved onto biodiversity and natural carbon capture, and despite some knowing this occurred via plants including sea grass, nobody knew that 70% of carbon was captured by sea plants. That then raised the question of why we put bleach down our plugs and ultimately into the cyclic water system. A good example of Andys education sessions helping to change behaviours as people better understand the consequences of their actions.

VOT

VOT was delivered by Neil Wilson, who thanked Andy for an interesting and enlightening presentation, commenting on Andy’s many qualifications, job roles and now many hats at the Deer Centre he must juggle. Education with fun, focusing on conservation was interesting and enjoyably delivery.

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, including some Rotarians partners, Jackie Mutter, Margret Wilson, Isa Anderson, Margaret Livingston, Joan Fraser, Moira Watson and Wendy Spence, along with our speaker for the evening, Nicola Dibley from the Japanese Garden at Cowden.



TFTD

After five weeks away from Rotary, that included a visit to the US, Ian Morris gave tonight’s TFTD. Commenting on the narrow coverage on US news while on holiday (nothing global and mainly Biden and Trump), the Rugby success last weekend and the recent NRS life expectancy for Scotland dipping, with Ian encouraging all those over 70 for flit to Carlisle!



Business Matters

President Alan reported places for the Cowdenbeath 100th Charter we limited to 10 tickets and all were now taken, with a waiting list.

Please everyone note, the email from Gordon Black regarding change of date for the Wine Tasting –

Saturday 18 November. Wine Tasting at Juniper Wine Café, 14 New Row Dunfermline. Starting at 6.30pm. Max number able to attend is 28 people.

Topic – Christmas Wines

There will be nibbles to help the wine go down. Cost is £30 per person. Tasting will conclude between 8.00 & 8.30 pm for those who wish to go on somewhere after the event. If you would like to book a place, please send Gordon an email to: gblack5020@gmail.com

President Alan let all in attendance know of recent resignation received from Ian McDermid, due to increasing work demands on Ian’s time. Ian hopes to return to Rotary one day, and thanks all for making him feel so welcome.

The Morocco Earth Quake disaster support was discussed now Rotary sponsored options are clear. Shelterbox provide quick short-term relief and Rotary have established a foundation to help with longer term support. Proposal from the floor to donate £1000 to each, which was agreed by all in attendance.

Inverkeithing & Dalgety Bay have asked for a loan our Santa Sleigh again. No objections raised, so agreed Ian Wilson can respond back.

Charity Quiz, Brian Blanchflower is still looking for teams and raffle prizes. Brian is going to be away for a couple of weeks, so please pass any raffle prize donations to Ian Wilson, otherwise please let Brian know of any team entry to quiz - brian.blanchflower@btinternet.com



Speaker

President Alan introduced Nicola Dibley, the Education and Outreach Officer for the Japanese Garden at Cowden, near Dollar.

Nicola opened by telling people that the garden is still open, although will reduce opening hours when the clocks change - https://cowdengarden.com/

Ella Christie is the lady who had the inspiration, and left a legacy via building the original garden. Her family lived in Midlothian and were prolific travellers, collecting plans as they visited various places across the globe. Looking for somewhere suitable for their plan location they came upon the Cowden estate and bought this in the 1860’s.

“A desire to see over the next hill”, as quoted by Ella’s sister, was strong and Ella travelled widely from the 1870’s to 1940’s. Central Asia got her attention more than most, especially her trip to Hong Kong, China and Japan in 1907, specifically her time in Kyoto. Japan was opening to the world more at the same time, and the visit inspired Ella to create a Japanese garden at Cowden, that was to become a Japanese / Scottish fusion. After the first Japanese designer completed her year in Scotland, she was followed by various Japanese consultants who matured the garden.

The however due the passing of Ella and funding, the garden closed to the public in 1953, and was severely vandalised in 1963 with buildings burnt to the ground. 2013/14 the restoration began after securing funding and was opened to the public again in 2018, operating as a charitable trust.

Footsteps and Fresh Air – in a mindful landscape, are the desire. The garden is “laid out with perspective and scale focus, with everything considered”. The concept of Mai, which is things individually placed and appreciating the space between objects.

The garden now receives 40k visitors a year, and Nicola recommends seeing the garden when the autumn colours are at their best.

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, including a number of guests – Sandy Russell, Tom Nichol and Eric Spreng. Alan also welcomed our speaker for the evening, David Cook, Chairman & CEO of Dunfermline Athletic.

TFTD

Was delivered by John Anderson, with a message regarding the world being a threatening place, but now under threat due to climate change.

Business Matters

President Alan communicated a funding request received from Alan Stewart who was the DHS Community Policeman. He now helps children with significant special needs in the new ASN Dept in DHS. They plan to help gather litter in the Glen and in their local community and asked if Rotary could assist with the purchase of 10 litter pickers (£200) for the ASN kids’ project. Approved by Council, that includes all Trustees, and no concerns raised by membership this evening.

Alan also communicated on behalf of Council and Trustees that once charity account funds are added to via Christmas activities, plan is to publicize we wish to make donations via a press release. It is expected charities will respond. Plan to reduce that down to six and invite them to a meeting to make their case, from which we will decide size of donation from funding available.

There are still a couple of spaces available for the Wine Tasting at Juniper Wine Café on 18th November. Please reach out to Gordon if you would like to attend - gblack5020@gmail.com

John Haxton reported in 9 weeks time the Marine Band Christmas Concerts will be past. Everything is coming together, although the abatement level applied to fee has still to be concluded. Tickets are on sale now, so please reach out to John – jrhaxton@hotmail.com

Keith McFarlane reported it is time again to help with Poppy Scotland distribution. He is hoping some of the new retirees can assist. Watch for email comms please.

Treasurer David Fraser reported on this month’s 50/50 draw –

£60 - David Somerville

£40 – Jim Millar

Ian Morris reported on upcoming events (please see list below). He also encouraged all to adopt the online tools of Google Calendar and Sheets, and note for the duty rota the online Sheets version should be regarded as master version, not the club handbook, due to high number of changes requested by members since handbook was published.

The Quiz Night on 27th October, please email Brian Blanchflower with team names. Raffle prizes are still very welcome, so contact Brian or Ian Wilson – brian.blanchflower@btinternet.com

Sean dropped off Shoeboxes for this year’s appeal. Please make a point of taking some when attending the Thursday meeting, or if all gone contact Sean – thedoranclan@me.com



Speaker

President Alan introduced David Cook, Chairman & CEO of Dunfermline Athletic. Born in Dunfermline, raised in Aberdour, and a season ticket holder at the Pars since 1980. His first Pars game was at 5 years old during the Leishman Eira, so he was hooked!

David has had a rich and interesting career, before and after a major change of direction when he chose to study an MBA in Football Industries. This took him to various roles at Celtic, Etihad (not football but following a lady he later married) and six years at Nottingham Forrest.

David’s network allowed him to return to home and help with the German negotiations where he could share his views on Dunfermline going forward, eventually replacing Ross McArthur at Chairman in 2022. The German buyers had been looking for a club to invest in for three years until they met Ross, who was one of the most honest and open they had come across.

He shared the vision for the football club, which is not something you see often outside of major corporations and their senior management, never mind a provincial football club!

Sport improvement

Living true sportsmanship values

Sustainable club (commercially)

Maintain Community Ethos.

Relegation, while expensive, had presented a big reset opportunity, including searching for a young manager that fitted the model / journey the club were starting on. Fife Elite had run its course and Dunfermline now have their own academy, and from that numerous young players with a promising future are now on three year contracts with the club.

The Rosyth training centre is expected to start imminently now challenges have been overcome, and this will be executed in carefully considered stages.

Dunfermline now have 1000 kids per week engaged under the Pars Foundation, which covers more than football, as they look to identify and deliver on community projects.

The communication with supporters continues to get focus and improves continually as needs change.



VOT

Ian Morris delivered the vote of thanks, a lifelong Pars supporter. What a difference a year makes to the team and club we have now. Ian is back to really enjoying his Saturdays in the ground watching the team. It is very obvious to all the fans, manager, chairman relationship is excellent.

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting

TFTD

Was delivered by Bill Spence. An innovative and excellent TFD poem, using the Dunfermline press as prop and reference point for goings on.

Business Matters

President Alan drew everyone’s attention to Ian McDermid’s recent and sudden poor health. We all send our best wishes to Ian and hope he gets well soon.

Alan also reported on behalf of Brian Blanchflower that Tracy McAlpine from Dunfermline High School had recently lost her battle with cancer. Tracy provided us with lots of help hosting our youth events at DHS over the years.

The President then went on to report on the recent outing to Dumbarnie last Saturday. A “stinker” of a day, with never ceasing wind and rain. Winners were awarded trophies on the night –

Sclar Ralph McCran Stableford score of 40

JC Thomson Ian Wilson Net 76

Reminder of the Quiz Night on 27th October, raffle prizes please and email Brian Blanchflower with team names. brian.blanchflower@btinternet.com



Secretary reminder - Shoeboxes for this year’s appeal. Please make a point of taking some when attending the Thursday meeting, or if all gone contact Sean – thedoranclan@me.com

Sorry about length of this, but busy time of year. Will try to keep summarised!

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting.

TFTD was delivered by Ian Morris.

Business Matters

Ian Morris reminded all of the Foodbank appeal, which ends at next meeting on 9th November. Here are your options -

Do a shop & bring to Rotary next Thursday.
Do a shop & deliver it to Ian’s house if you won’t be at the meeting next week (just leave it at his front door if nobody is home)
Do a shop & Ian will collect it from your home or place of work.
If you are time poor but still wish to participate you can, drop in some cash to Ian’s house or pass over to Ian at next week’s meeting. If it’s easier you can transfer funds to Ian’s bank account & he will withdraw these sums.

For option 4, Ian will do a shop on your behalf and complete a gift aid form to increase your donation to the foodbank by 25% at no cost to yourself

Dockyard & Frigate visit. There are still spaces for 1 or 2, but we must have names now for security registration. Will be 6pm meeting and Ian will send further details nearer the time.

Gordon Black reported there are now 2 places available for Wine Tasting on 18th November. £30 per person. Please let Gordon know.

Gordon also reminded everyone of Christmas Lunch -

3rd December, 1:30pm for 2:00pm

£37 per person

Please let Gordon know via email ASAP if you will be attending - gblack5020@gmail.com.

Finally on social front, the Bruns Support is on Thursday 18th January, and again is a joint event with Inner Wheel. This will be £35 per person and further details coming soon. Please keep date in your diaries and encourage your friends and family to come along.

Ian Wilson reported on a successful Quiz Night, with 70 people in attendance and £1100 raised. A big thank you to Brian Blanchflower for pulling this together.

Key fund raising dates –

Santa Dash – 19th November. Press article this week. Only 17 runners so far, so please publicise.

Santa Sleigh – 16th December (High St). Press article in progress.

Santa Sleigh – 19th to 22nd (inclusive) December (Tesco fire station)

Santa Sleigh – 23rd December (Kingsgate TBC)

Rotas coming soon.

Marine Band Christmas Concert – 6th & 7th December. Press article in progress

We need to sell tickets. Even if you cannot attend, please try to sell tickets to friends and family for this excellent evening. jrhaxton@hotmail.com

Brian Blanchflower reported DHS have invited us to take part of Press Photograph for our donation to ASN Dept at the school. 10 litter pickers at £200 to allow then to gather litter in the Glen and in their local community.

David Chalmers report on Trees in Africa project, planned for 2022 as part of our centenary. Was to be 5 Primary Schools across Kenya and 2022 trees. Delayed due to drought, but now started and will on one school and 5133 trees! Photo expected soon.

Keith McFarlane highlighted campaign to retain The Gavel this Rotary year has started. Please look for his email distributed by Secretary looking for team to compete in first round on 15th November.

Cowdenbeath Charter on 3rd November. All going, where applicable please wear your past president jewel.

Sean Doran reminded all of this year’s Shoebox appeal. Deadline is next week’s meeting for getting filled boxes to Sean. thedoranclan@me.com

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, along with guests Christine Evans from Poppy Appeal Scotland and our speaker, Jim Leggat from Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

TFTD was delivered by Ian Morris, who gave us the poem Lest we Forget, by Rudrard Kipling

Business Matters

Thank you to Brian Steer for providing shortbread to go with our coffee this evening.

President Alan has been in touch with the team in Kenya planting trees, who thanked us for our support and hope to work with us again in the future.

Graham Steedman reported on our attendance at the Cowdenbeath 100th Charter. Three speakers, their President who is the local undertaker, who commented on a good business outlook based on attendance demographic, Donald Findley who redeemed himself from previous iffy speeches and our own President Alan, on the close relationship between our two clubs.

Ian Wilson reminded everyone of Santa Dash on 19th November, for which there is a splash in The Press today. 30 runners have registered and we need 11 more to break even, although not a fund raising event. We are a little ahead of last year’s numbers, and entry tends to be last minute, so fingers crossed.

John Haxton reported all is now confirmed for the Marine Band Christmas Concert, so please push ticket sales.

Ian Morris reported the Foodbank drive concludes tonight and thanked all for their contributions. This is being collected from his house on Friday, as there is too much for him to deliver personally! A fourball at Aberdour GC was donated by Tom Sunter towards our Foodbank appeal and auctioned at the meeting, with Graham Steedman making the highest bid.

Ian also reported the Dockyard / Frigate Construction visit details (meet place, time, etc) will be sent to all who indicated they want to attend this outside event. Remember, no meeting at GHH next week.

Ian also reminded everyone of the Escape Rooms evening on 30th November. £13 for this needs to be paid now (remember to tag your payment clearly), and if you no longer want to attend, please let Ian know as he has a waiting list.

Gordon Black reminded everyone of Christmas Lunch -

3rd December, 1:30pm for 2:00pm

£37 per person

Please let Gordon know via email ASAP if you will be attending - gblack5020@gmail.com.



Speaker

President Alan introduced Jim Leggat OBE, who is an RAF veteran and volunteer speaker, as well as currently Deputy Lieutenant in Fife. Alan shared a thorough background of Jim as part of his introduction, that reflected a very rich and varied career.

Jim tells us there are in the UK alone –

306,000 Commemorations (names on walls)

13,000 War Grave Locations

170,000 War graves

And in Fife we have 75 War Grave Locations, with two closest to us being Douglas Bank and Dunfermline Cemetries.

The youngest with a war grave is a 14 year old boy buried in Comley Bank Cemetery in Edinburgh.

Sir Fabian Ware establish CWGC in 1917, via a Royal Charter to establish the graves registration. After World War One, Rudrard Kipling suggested the War Graves creation was the largest single piece of work since the Pharos.

Globally there are 900 gardeners, that include people in Gaza and Israel!

There website contains lots of information and a method for families to search for relatives - https://www.cwgc.org/



VOT

Keith McFarlane delivered a heart felt vote of thanks, complimenting Jim on the work he did as a volunteer, that came across much more as a professional. A fantastic presentation bringing their work to life for all, along with those like Keith who have visited the war graves in France / Belgium while on holiday

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, along with guest Jim Leggat, who joins one of our meetings as a possible new member.

TFTD was delivered by Sean Doran, who commented on it starting to look a lot like Christmas, providing evidence and reminders of number of sleeps till Santas Sleigh and the Marine Band Christmas Concerts.

Business Matters

President Alan opened by reporting Dunfermline Foodbank are looking for a volunteer to help with financial side of their operation. Please let Alan know directly if you can help, or maybe nominate a volunteer from your business who can provide some time to this charity.

In Ian Wilson’s absence, President Alan reported on the highly successful Santa Dash at the weekend. 100 people took part in the Dash and 5k on Sunday and we will have a surplus of about £300 from the event. Huge thanks to all Club members who helped on the day. Good article in The Press about a girl (Hannah Downie) who ran the 5K for charity and raised £370 for Cash4Kids. First home in the 5K completed in a very creditable 19 min 40 sec.

Christmas Collections – Ian Wilson will be in touch with you all in coming days for Rotarians availability. Please respond promptly to allow Ian to pull together the rota.

Brian Blanchflower reported that Bill Runciman has deteriorating alzheimers and is currently in the Victoria Hospital, with no return to home expected. A place in a residential home is being looked into. Eileen has asked for NO well meaning phone calls for now as she works through a very stressful and emotional time.

Brian also asked for volunteers for Saturday 2nd December to go along to Bill’s garden for a couple of hours are do some winter maintenance. Five people volunteered on the evening, so no more required.

Brian went on to cover programme matters in Ian Morris’s absence -

Escape Rooms, everyone who has signed up will have received an email from Ian with instructions. Please be at designated escape room early, as the doors will be locked when challenge starts (you will not get in if you’re late). Payment direct to Ian please for Escape Room. Remember, meal is cash only as restaurant will not split bill over multiple electronic payments. Also, one person has dropped out so if you would like to come along, let Ian know.

Burns Night on 18th January. We now only have one meeting in December and one in January before this event. Please respond now with numbers if you plan to attend. We need to let GHH know numbers now! ianmorris62@me.com

Sean Doran reported 26 Show Boxes handed in and on their way to Eastern Europe.

Various Christmas Lunch various, but please look at recent email that lists all attendees and if you are not listed and should be, let Gordon Black know gblack5020@gmail.com. Those attending, please make payment to general account and mark appropriately to allow David Fraser to identify. Of course, if you want to attend and have not let Gordon know, please do so before Monday.

David Chalmers reported on Foundation projects and new proposal that will be taken to Council for final approval. This will mean the classroom furniture project will be dropped (people in Nairobi have other funding options) and more expensive project converting a shipping container into a business hub for new grads will be delivered instead. Vision Africa and Seed of Hope are partners for this. £1025 taken from classroom project, council have already approved £1000 and a further £475 will be required.

John Haxton reminded everyone of final push for Marine Band Christmas Concert ticket sales. John also asked for more volunteers to help each night, as there will be two entries into Abbey and this presents challenges checking of electronic tickets. Please let John know if you can help jrhaxton@hotmail.com.

This month’s 50/50 draw –

£60 Bill Spence

£40 Ian Morris

Ralph McCran reported on a successful start to this Rotary years Gavel campaign, winning the three team round against Carnegie and Kirkcaldy. However, the unbeaten run of the golf game came to an end, with Keith McFarlane and President Alan being defeated by 2 ladies from Kirkcaldy.

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, wishing everyone who did not attend Ronnie’s Big Quiz last week a Happy new Year!

TFTD was delivered by John Anderson, who opened with New Year resolutions made that no doubt for most have bit the dust already. John recommended in his poetic style that Rotarians should not try to predict or anticipate the future, instead sit back and let their lum reek.

Business Matters

President Alan, along with fillers courtesy of Ian Morris, reminded everyone of next week’s Burns Supper –

Final Numbers are now at 79, which will be confirmed to hotel today (Friday)
If you or your guest required vegetarian option, or have special dietary needs, at a push Ian needs to know today. He does suspect there are a couple more who have not responded.
Please be there for a 7pm start. A free drink will be served on arrival.
Payment, if you’re on the delinquent list please pay. If you are unsure, please check with David Fraser. Money transfer to General Account is preferred method.

102nd Charter Dinner. This has been moved again due to some members attending the charity Mastermind Event. It is now on 30th March, so everyone please make a note in your diaries. And yes, we know this is the Easter Weekend!

Charity Donations. There is a Council Meeting scheduled for 22nd January and on the agenda will be donations in this charity year. The Dragons Den approach to donations is still scheduled, but we need to establish proposed charities both for invitations to that event and for possible smaller donations prior to. Please let President Alan know if you have any on mind.

In Ian Wilson’s absence, it was reported that a lesson learnt from this year’s Santas Sleigh collections is we need more members with Zettle ID’s and the app on their phone to allow us to take electronic payment. We are looking for volunteers please. You will be shown how the app works.

Keith McFarlane reported on next round of the Gavel against Glencourse Stirling, which is still going ahead on 30th January. Team members are being contacted.



Next events:

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, including guests Claire Blanchflower and Lynda Milne from Shiresmill Therapy Riding Centre, tonight’s speaker.

TFTD was delivered by Sean Doran who shared a common view on January feeling like the longest month of the year, being the wettest, windiest, and for some the “driest”.

Business Matters

President Alan highlighted the post Christmas charity donations, as reviewed and agreed at this week’s Council meeting, had been emailed to all members (list copied below). £3500 being distributed. No questions or issues raised, and members in attendance approved the proposed donations.

Marine Band Christmas Concert financials are still concluding with £4000 to be paid for pre-agreed costs / donations (Schools, Sea Scouts, etc). That will still leave is with £7250 profit.

President Alan brought to everyone’s attention the email from the Secretary sent on behalf of John Haxton, whose daughter has a pupil looking for help completing a questionnaire on climate change and how it links to political beliefs. Please do look out and take 10 minutes to complete. If you cannot find the email, please let the Secretary know and he can resend.

Also, District are looking for volunteers to help with Young Musician Competition Final on 3rd February at Loch level Campus. Again, if you can help and cannot find email, please let The Secretary know.

Dragons’ Den charity evening is now postponed until after the Gin Festival to allow for raising of more funds for donation. The format to be concluded and charities we will invite to be decided.

On 15th February we will instead be running a Room 101 evening, as an approach to supporting Rotary’s focus on mental health. Everyone is encouraged to bring along their pet frustrations in life and make a proposal to all in attendance why this should go into 101. Everyone please think about how you can sell you Room 101 nominations. Format will be explained on the evening, for now you just need to be able to present your nomination and reasons why.

Keith McFarlane reminded everyone about next round of the Gavel against Glencourse Stirling, on 30th January. The team of six are all aware, and we assume are “in training”. The team members are to watch for Keith’s email sharing details.

David Fraser reported on the December 50/50 draw –

£60 Ken Young (yes no longer a member, but wanted to continue supporting the club, hence participation)

£40 Ian Wilson



Speaker

President Alan introduced Lynda Milne. Lynda’s career was with a large insurance company in Edinburgh, working in IT, then Facilities and latterly in HR as Fleet & Expenses Manager.

She retired in 2009 and wanted to volunteer and do something worthwhile, but preferably out of doors. Around Easter 2010 she saw a leaflet about Shiresmill and “has never looked back”. At a wider level, Lynda has also been Chairperson of the Fife, Edinburgh & Lothians Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) and a member of the Regional Committee.

https://www.shiresmill.org/

Shiresmill Therapy Riding Centre, an arm of the UK Riding for Disable, is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Their core aim is fun ridding for disabled people, which they have been doing since 1996 on the current site, but that aim has much wider benefits, including for non-ridders.

Financial year 2022 – 23 saw them deliver 876 equine facilitated activities to 96 attendees, to all ages and abilities, delivered by 81 volunteers (there are no paid staff) who cover a mix of support, and not all are horse related. As an example, the 9 maintenance men perform a key role.

It costs approximately £9000 per year to run a pony. And that is planned spend, the unexpected like dental intervention can cost as much at £1000 as per example shared. They also cannot take any pony and must look for suitable ponies with good temperament and physically fit to carry the mix of riders.

Lynda thanked Rotary for their support in past years, which is reflected in our logo being included in their Warm Room display of key sponsors / supporter’s.



VOT

Dave Sommerville gave the vote of thanks, sharing that his daughter used to ride a Shield Bank in Salen and he was reminded this evening of the Sunday morning taxi of daughter to horse riding, during six nations time!

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, including guests Claire Blanchflower and Sandy McIntosh from Woodmill HS, tonight’s speaker.

TFTD was delivered by Sean Doran who concluded with a Life Quote as the Six Nations gets off to a start this weekend – hard work beats talent when talent does not work hard.

Business Matters

President Alan reminded everyone of the meeting on 15th February, which will be a Room 101 themed evening. This is a fun approach to help Rotarians mental health, giving them the opportunity to vent about anything that frustrates. Everyone is encouraged to bring along their pet frustrations in life and make a proposal to all in attendance why this should go into room 101.

Alan also mentioned Ian Morris was today getting his long awaited operation after suffering pain for a long time. We look forward to Ian returning to the fold and wish him a speedy recovery.

Ronnie Pook highlighted Golf will be returning soon, with early signs of Spring starting to emerge. 9th April is the Charity Golf Day, and tee times for 20 teams have been booked. Golfers are asked to start selling this day to their colleagues, friends and family and Ronnie would welcome entries ASAP.

David Walker brought to everyone’s attention the Whisky tasting on 7th March – see flyer attached. He has 12 names already, with 20 available, so please be quick!

Keith McFarlane reported on our team’s success in the Gavel against Glencourse Stirling. Pip Yates stepped in at the eleventh hour as a substitute for David Walker, helping to secure the win. A possible Fife Derby with Glenrothes in the next round awaits, who Keith thinks we have not come up against before.

David Chalmers reported on the current project in Kenya building a business hub from an old shipping container, that will form part of a larger business complex. The team in Kenya tell us there is a meeting on this project scheduled for 23rd February and any club members in Nairobi on that date are welcome to come along! I checked, neither Ryan Air or Easy Jet fly to Nairobi from Edinburgh!



Speaker

President Alan introduced Sandy McIntosh, who has been Rector of Woodmill HS since 2012. Apart from the day to day challenges of running of a large secondary school of around 1400 pupils, Sandy has had to contend with a major fire which completely destroyed large parts of the school buildings in August 2019. More recently, Sandy has been heavily involved in the planning and construction of the new Woodmill HS as part of the Dunfermline Learning Campus, which is due to open in summer 2024.

Sandy opened by telling everyone’s the countdown has started at we only have five months left till the school opens.

The Dunfermline Learning Campus is one of the largest education builds ever in Scotland. The intention for these new buildings is to pass passive compliance, making the high schools the largest passive building in Europe.

The high schools will cost £123m to build and the new Fife Collage £100m. 87 local people are employed building, of which 500 hours have been delivered to date by apprentices.

This will be two schools in one building, with shared dining room, assembly hall, but both schools retaining their culture and identity.



VOT

David Walker gave the VOT of thanks, commenting that despite the warning from Sandy of there being 94 slides, his engaging delivery and passion for the project made them fly in. There was lots of engagement and questions from Rotarians and Sandy’s enthusiasm for his school and the building project shines through. Exciting times for all involved.

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting.

TFTD was delivered by John Anderson who made references to the Corries song, My Brother Bill's A Fireman and the line, “he pits oot fires”, in advance of our members tale from David Someville.

Business Matters

President Alan opened by letting everyone know the Daffodil Tea is scheduled for 7th April and while Inner Wheel are this year taking the lead, most of the funding is coming from Rotary and they will still need volunteers. If you are able to assist on the day, please let Neil Wilson know - neilwilson50000@gmail.com.

Mike Williams reported via Alan that he has four schools signed up for the Primary School Quiz. However, Mike is unavailable to schedule this event and is looking for a volunteer to own. This will also need to cover arranging a suitable venue. The quiz is to be held prior to end March. Charlie Downie volunteered to take on and own.

President Alan reminded everyone of format for next week’s meeting, which will be a Room 101 themed. Get your gripes ready! Can you please drop Alan a quick email outlining what you intend to proposed for our Room 101 - alancondie.rotary@btinternet.com

David Walker reminded everyone of the Whisky tasting on 7th March. He now has 15 names, so please be quick! dmwalker7@outlook.com

Ronnie Pook highlighted the Charity Golf Day on 9th April is the Charity Golf Day. Golfers are asked to start selling this day to their colleagues, friends and family and Ronnie would welcome team entries ASAP - ronnie@scotland-tours.com

Keith McFarlane confirmed the next round of the Gavel is a Fife Derby with Glenrothes, on 6th March and McKane Park. Team is being pulled together, so those who know, watch for email from Keith.

David Fraser shared two 50/50 draws

January

£60 Ronnie Pook

£40 Keith McFarlane

February

£60 Neil Wilson

£40 Andrew Bathgate



Speaker

President Alan introduced David Someville’s members tale, covering the increase in wildfires, in impacted by climate change, that will only continue to be a growing contributor unless we can change the cycle.

David gave a detailed presentation and I have tried to pull out salient points –

2023 was the hottest year on record, 2024 is looking similar and we have now exceeded the 1.5 degrees threshold - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-68110310.

A Wildfire is defined as, forest fire, bushfire, wildland fire or rural fire is an unplanned, uncontrolled and unpredictable fire in an area of combustible vegetation. The World Health Organisation define the impacts - as PM2.5 from wildfire smoke is associated with premature deaths in the general population, and can cause and exacerbate diseases of the lungs, heart, brain/nervous system, skin, gut, kidney, eyes, nose and liver.

Wildfires are not new, but they are becoming more common and much larger.

Arson accounts for 20% of wildfires and the rest are accidental ignitions from the likes of a discarded cigarette or a used portable BBQ’s that retain their heat for a long time.

Scotland, despite our damp climate, is not exempt, seeing more wildfires and we have the additional challenge of peat fires to contend with. Key for any wildfire is to get control, and in most cases wait for rain to totally extinguish, hence our peat fires being a challenge with heat being trapped well underground that can re-ignite! Climate change gives us hotter weather, so more combustible material can dry out and exacerbate the spread of any fire.

From 2000 – 2011, 350 firefighters died on duty. The heat stress can cause reduced personal awareness, along with an increase in cardiac events. Climate changes are exposing humans to more risk from wildfires. This could be loss of property, or impact to human health directly, or secondary.

In 2023 we had the largest wildfire outbreaks, in places like Rhodes, Corfu, Canary Islands and The Algarve. 20 million tons of carbon was released into the atmosphere as a result, making climate change worse - how can we grow trees quickly enough to counter act this, along with everything else we are doing. It was estimated 9.3 million hectares of trees lost to fire, with increases being in North and South America, Europe, and the UK.

The deadliest wildfire on record is burning now! - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-68215354

https://www.wri.org/insights/global-trends-forest-fires

Some questions raised at end tended to focus on the Regal Cinema fire in 1976 rather than wildfires. For those that have not lived in Dunfermline that long - https://www.dunfermlinepress.com/news/20270426.dunfermlines-regal-picture-house-remembered-trip-memory-lane/#gallery0



VOT

Graham Steedman, after being a little surprised he was to deliver, gave the VOT. A masterful recovery showing Graham’s ability to think on his feet. His suggestion of a row of aeroplanes with a huge fire blanket attached could bring that last compliment into question!

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, including our guest Ian Grieve from West Fife paying his monthly visit.

TFTD was delivered by Sean Doran, who comment on a dreich day and we were about to all start finding fault via our Room 101 evening, but encouraged everyone going forward to be gentle, thoughtful and to spread the love!



Business Matters

Whisky tasting on 7th March. Names to dmwalker7@outlook.com. Please be quick.

Primary School Quiz is scheduled for 12th March. Helpers required. Please let Alan know. alancondie.rotary@btinternet.com

Daffodil Tea is scheduled for 7th April. If you are able to assist on the day, please let Neil Wilson know. neilwilson50000@gmail.com.

Charity Golf Day on 9th April. Golfers are asked to start selling this day to their colleagues, friends and family. Ronnie would welcome team entries ASAP. ronnie@scotland-tours.com

Gordon Black reported the 2023/24 Charter Dinner is booked for 30th March, 6:30pm for 7pm. Black tie dinner, open to members and guests. £40 per ticket, which will include a drink on arrival. Please let Gordon know if you will be attending and number of tickets required. gblack5020@gmail.com



As you would expect, the Room 101 event was run under Chatham House Rules!

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, including our speaker for this evening, Linsey Proctor from Fife Gingerbread

TFTD was delivered by Sean Doran, who comment on challenge delivering this on a Leap Day, resulting in not a lot of “on this day” history. We should however use it to look forward to Charter Dinner (30 days), Gin Festival (73 days) and Whisky Tasting (7 days).

Business Matters

President Alan opened by reminded everyone of the Charter Dinner on 30th March, which is only four weeks from now. Jim Leishman has been secured as speaker. Please let Alan or Gordon Black know ASAP on ticket needs, and remembers guests welcome. alancondie.rotary@btinternet.com gblack5020@gmail.com

Heads up for joint meeting with Inner Wheel on 16th May, where Inner Wheel are hosts, and Ian Greenshields, ex moderator Church of Scotland will be presenting. We will have to align to Inner Wheel processes that evening, so Rotarians must tell us in advance if attending.

Alan & David Walker reported Primary School Quiz is scheduled for 12th March. 6:45pm meet for 7:00pm start. Helpers required. Please let Alan know. alancondie.rotary@btinternet.com

The Secondary Schools Technical Challenge is scheduled for 18th June. Please make note in your diaries. Scotland play Switzerland on 19th, so 18th is clear for all!

Daffodil Tea, 7th April, reminder for volunteers required. neilwilson50000@gmail.com

Brian Blanchflower reported we have Head Boy and Girl coming from all four High Schools, along with principal teacher. District Governor, Jim Hatter will also be attending. So can we please have a good turnout of members, as we will be requesting the Rosemalen.

Charity Golf Day on 9th April. Now at 16 teams entered, so 4 team spaces remaining. Get in quick. ronnie@scotland-tours.com

Ralph McCran gave a briefing on Gin Festival kick off, starting with drawing Rotarians attention to web site, that includes new ticketing costs and advertising videos - https://dunfermlineginfestival.co.uk/. Please share with friends and family, encourage people to attend. We need to find sponsors for Gins and an event sponsor (that could include glass advertising).

Finally on a busy evening (I am trying to summarise!), David Walker reported he had attended a charity event with Real Life Options, a charity we have supported. From what was presented, it is a very worthwhile cause for us to support. https://reallifeoptions.org/

Speaker

President Alan introduced Linsey Proctor from Gingerbread, a not for profit charity that supports single parents. Linsey comes from Markinch, has worked for Gingerbread for 6 years, and is currently their PR and Fund Raising Manager.

Gingerbread, while mainly supports mothers due to circumstances, also supports fathers and there are 9 Dads in Dunfermline receiving support from them currently. Referrals come from local authority, NHS, schools and foodbanks.

Founder was originally attending toddler group in Lindon, recently bereaved, and found in toddler group there were other single parents struggling. Gingerbread was formed to support those single parents 50 years ago, with the Fife group being formed 37 years ago. 41 employees currently, with most qualified in support work.

Gingerbread has a tie in with Children in Need because of target group and positive outcomes achieved. 30% of funding comes from Fife Council, 40% from other funding bodies and the rest from their fund raising activities and donations. We fall into last category and 100% of donations go direct to families supported. Recently we helped fund a baby tent that is used weekly in The Glen.

The huge passions Linsey has for Gingerbread was very evident to all and the people the group support touched a chord with all Rotarians in attendance, as evident by the questions and chat after the meeting.

VOT

John Anderson delivered the vote of thanks, opening by saying he was gobsmacked by the levels of deprivation and parents struggling with providing structure and care for their children in our community and the support provided by Gingerbread was fantastic.

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, with a plethora of guests – School Captains from each of Dunfermline’s four high schools, along with principal teacher from each, District Governor Jim Hatter and Brian Mitchell representing Area.

TFTD was delivered by Ian Morris who gave us a selection of On Life As We Know It quotes to consider.

Business Matters

President Alan opened by reminding everyone of the Charter Dinner on 30th March. We are now at 47 attendees and minimum for hall booking is 51. So, if you are in two minds, please help and come along. Jim Leishman in his role as Provost has been secured as speaker. Please let Alan or Gordon Black know ASAP on ticket needs, and remembers guests welcome.

alancondie.rotary@btinternet.com

gblack5020@gmail.com

On Tuesday past, the Primary School Quiz was held. Pittencrieff PS emerged as the winners and will go forward to next round at Auchmuty High School. Thank you to David Walker and his team for pulling together.

Ronnie Pook reported the Charity Golf Day on 9th April, which is now at 17 teams entered, so 3 team spaces remaining. Get in quick. ronnie@scotland-tours.com

District Governor delivered an address to the club, opening by saying he was heartened by what he sees at Dunfermline and across the District. He encourages clubs to develop their offering to suit their purpose, as no one size fits all. As attrition (a more appropriate descriptor than that used by Jim!) currently outstrips new members, nationals target is 60k new members by 2028, which is a very challenging aim.

Speakers

All are delighted we have now fully resurrected the High School senior pupil’s event, and a big thank you to Brian Blanchflower for facilitating. As usual all were impressed by the pupil’s motivation, hard work and humbled by the work they do for their school, community and charities.

VOT

District Governor delivered an interesting VOT, opening with him reconsidering his current post in District and breaking this to his wife. He did eventually move onto his journey to Dunfermline on a dreich day, but the presentations this evening made this very worthwhile.

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting, including guest Ian Grieve from West Fife and special mention to Tom Arnott and Hamish Ligertwood who joined us this evening after some time away.

TFTD was delivered by Ian Morris who gave us a selection of thoughts on life as we muddle through getting old, although no poem on world poets’ day.

Business Matters

President Alan opened by reminding everyone of the Charter Dinner on 30th March. We have to conclude on numbers with the hotel on Monday, so please be quick. Let Alan or Gordon Black know ASAP on ticket needs, and remember guests welcome. Request for dietary requirements pending with some members to confirm, which also has to be advised to hotel on Monday.

alancondie.rotary@btinternet.com

gblack5020@gmail.com

Charity Golf Day on 9th April, still has team spaces remaining. Lots of great auction prizes. Be quick. ronnie@scotland-tours.com

Ralph reported on the Gin Festival starting to ramp up – have you reserved 11th 12th & 13th May in your diaries as we need volunteers. Despite this being our 4th Gin festival, we are complacent on attendance and sponsorship, so please lend a hand to publicize the event with friends and family and try to sell tickets and sponsorship.

John Sim highlighted to all his email regarding Gin festival black tee-shirts and asks all to look for email and respond with details of tee-shirts Rotarians have at home. We do not want them returned, only to know numbers available, hopefully meaning not need to purchase more and eat into event profit.

Neil Wilson highlighted to all the need for Rotarian volunteers on 7th April at Daffodil Tea, as we need the room set up / broken down, and some drivers on the day to transport guests. Please let Neil know - neilwilson50000@gmail.com

Keith McFarlane reported we still await confirmation of our Semi Final opponents for The Gavel. Six other teams remain, from Thurso to Dundee.

David Walker who recently attend District Conference clarified a few points from last weeks DG talk. Norstar Project is to take UK membership from 34k to 60k by 2028, which is still a heck of a challenge. To help with focus on that target, analysis shows across UK 75% of members are or over 75 years old! Appears target area is large companies being approached to start their own club for their staff, so we may be approached for our contacts list soon.

David Fraser reported on March 50/50 draw –

£60 Graham Steedman

£40 John Alan

TFTD was delivered by John Anderson who highlighted the companionship of friends that is our Rotary club and despite the wet / cold weather, the company at weekly meetings is always warm.

Business Matters

President Alan opened by reporting on a successful Charter Dinner, with Jim Leishman doing a good 30 minute turn, and keeping all at the top table entertained. Thanks go to Gordon Black and Ian Morris for pulling together this year’s dinner.

Alan also highlighted to members the Gen Festival is fast approaching –

If you can secure any Gin sponsorship please try and conclude and let Ralph McCran know.
The plea for confirmation on Gin Festival tee-shirts numbers held at home by members, please let Ralph McCran and John Sim know what you hold.
Please help sell tickets to your friends and family – https://www.jumblebee.co.uk/dunfermlineginfest2024
Have you reserved 9th, 10th 11th & 12th May in your diaries as we need volunteers. Please also look for email from John Sim sent on 4th April and let him know your availability for rota. We need replies from everyone, even if you cannot assist.

Neil Wilson updated Rotarians assisting at Daffodil Tea on 7th April. We need people at Crossford Village Hall at 12:30pm for room set up and we expect event to conclude at 4pm, with hall cleared by 5pm. Rota of drivers on the day to transport guests has been sent to those helping. Can anyone else assist with transporting attendees? neilwilson50000@gmail.com

Ronnie Pook reported the Charity Golf on 9th April now has 18 teams entered. All have been contacted directly by Ronnie with details, so if you have missed it, check your inbox / junk mail. Tog and Jim are doing check-ins in the morning, but it would be helpful if we had people for afternoon covering check-ins and collecting score cards. Prizes will be awarded at 7:15pm. Remember to order your lunch if you are a morning tee off time, or if afternoon tee off come early to have lunch before your round. Fingers crossed for weather, as forecast does not look good and course may be closed – watch your inboxes! ronnie@scotland-tours.com



Speaker

President Alan introduced Jim Leggat, who was giving his vocational. Jim has had a rich and varied career, receiving various awards. We first met Jim on 9th November when he presented to us on his work with the War Graves Commission. He liked what he saw, attended a few meetings / events and joined us as member on 14th December.

His parents met through the forces and Jim was born when they were living in Kirkcaldy. The family moved to West Lothian where at 14 years old Jim joined the Air Cadets, and mentorship received influenced his life long career. In 1976 he had been selected to go to New York, and this cemented his career choice further as it allowed him to travel and see the world.

Originally, he applied to RAC Biggen Hill to become and officer and while accepted, he was asked to come back in three years. So, Jim joined Fife Constabulary, coming across Brain Steer who always took time to support young constables. After 6 years in the Police, he applied to the RAC again, was accepted and assigned as a Pov Officer, initially posted to Germany after training, leading a group of Military Policemen in Berlin. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Air_Force_Police

Further postings followed, inevitably at the time including Northern Ireland, at the same time as the Lockerby PanAm crash, where he and his team provided support to policemen on the ground at Lockerby.

1996 saw Jim promoted to Wing Commander, moving on to own IT Security across the RAF as they adopted more and more computing capabilities as part of modernising defence needs. Promotion to Group Captain followed in 2000.

Jim and his wife Penny met through the forces and Jim had to live with the worry of Penny being posted to Iraq, while has next posting was to take him to the Falklands. However, a week together in Hanover was fitted in, no doubt sealing the deal as the both married in Cheltenham, Pennys home town.

Jim has collected lots of qualifications, including two degrees, he is a Fife Deputy Lieutenant and was awarded an OBE, picked up at Buckingham Palace from the now King.

Jim retired in March 2023 after a rewarding career in the RAF, he and Penny are season ticket holders at Edinburgh Rugby, they love musical theatre and travel. The War Graves and Deputy Lieutenant duties keep him busy.

VOT

Neil Wilson delivered the VOT of thanks, commenting on Jim’s remarkable life and career. A very impressive set of qualifications and recognitions for Jim’s work. Neil wished Jim a very warm welcome to our Rotary club.



Next events:

Meetings

11/04/24 Sunil Varu, Sunil Varu, Economy Adviser (Town Centre Development), Fife Council

18/04/24 Andrew McLellan, HM Inspector of Prisons (Retired)

25/04/24 25 Years of Rotary, An Enriching Experience - David & Helen Lyth's Swan song

02/05/24 Fellowship and Gin Festival check point

09/05/24 No meeting

Sport

09/04/24 Charity Golf Day

Community

07/04/24 Daffodil Tea in partnership with Innerwheel

Fund Raising

9, 10, 11 & 12/05/24 Gin Festival

Duties

Host Andrew Bathgate

Reception David Lyth & Brain Steer

VOT David Chalmers

TFTD Ian Morris

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting including our guest speaker, Sunil Varu, City Centre Development, Fife Council

TFTD was delivered by Ian Morris who gave one of his longer TFTD, that merited a VOT. Everything from tax increases on fags but not beer, OJ Simpson, Sean’s judo success beating up another old man in Malta! Ian concluded with Andrew Croxford representing Carnegie Trust in New York for Tartan Week, and great to see the thistle getting attention instead of the shamrock.

https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=443088674959812&set=a.178947028040646&locale=de_DE

https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=894415319357196&set=a.336768938455173

Business Matters

Alan highlighted to members the Gin Festival is fast approaching –

Plea for confirmation on Gin Festival tee-shirts numbers held at home by members, please let Ralph McCran and John Sim know what you hold.
Have you reserved 9th, 10th 11th & 12th May in your diaries as we need volunteers. Please also look for email from John Sim sent on 4th April and let him know your availability for rota. We need replies from everyone, even if you cannot assist.

Neil Wilson reported on 8 Rotarians assisting at Daffodil Tea on 7th April, along with, 11 Inner Wheelers looking after 32 guests. Lots of home baking and entertainment, with lots of guests also commenting they are already looking forward to next year’s Daffodil Tea.

Neil also highlighted upcoming food drive, 17th – 19th May, at the three Asda stores, people for 2 hour shifts and drivers required.

Due to significant precipitation in March / April, and on the day, the Charity Golf day on 9th April was cancelled. Rescheduled to 7th May and would appear so far, most teams can make this new date. However, gaps for more teams if this date is more suitable than original date, so get in touch with Ronnie.

Finally, President Alan highlighted the joint meeting on 16th May with Inner Wheel where Rt Rev Dr Iain Greenshields, ex moderator Church of Scotland who will be talking about his years tenure which included the death of Queen Elizabeth & the coronation of King Charles. We will need names and payment in advance, as Inner Wheel are hosting, so we default to their process (truth is, approach is insisted upon by hotel, we just get dispensation). Only £18 for the meal ??. Look for email from Ian Morris.



Speaker

Sunil gave an excellent presentation on the councils plan to develop Dunfermline as a new city. The new City Square has approval and will take 18-24 months to complete. He hopes to find budget to “relay the city centre carpet and declutter”. There are lots of opportunities for Dunfermline’s young people in the future due to the Green Port, the anticipated growth of the city from 60k to 90k via the new western expansion, and focus on the small conference market, that Dunfermline is well placed to accommodate.



VOT

David Chalmers, as he put it a boy from Kinross, gave the VOT. He personally likes the plans for the future and the ambition, although hopes to see an overarching plan emerge. New people coming to the city centre to use facilities could be a measure of success, or a trigger to tweak the plan.



Next events:

Meetings

18/04/24 Andrew McLellan, HM Inspector of Prisons

25/04/24 25 Years of Rotary, An Enriching Experience - David & Helen Lyth's Swan song

02/05/24 Fellowship and Gin Festival check point

09/05/24 No meeting

16/05/24 Joint Meeting with Inner Wheel - Rt Rev Dr Iain Greenshields, ex moderator Church of Scotland.

Community

17,18,19/05/24 Food Drive

Fund Raising

9, 10, 11 & 12/05/24 Gin Festival

Sport

21/05/24 Capitals Challenge v our mother club of Edinburgh

Duties (18/04/24)

Host Brian Blanchflower

Reception Tom Sunter & Gordon Black

VOT Jim Leggat

TFTD Sean Doran

Duties (25/04/24)

Host Not Required

Reception David Walker & Alan Mutter

VOT Andrew Bathgate

TFTD Sean Doran

President Alan welcomed all to tonight’s meeting including some guests along to hear tonight’s speaker – Jack & Jill Wardell, Joan fraser, Roland Amadi and Daniel Lyth.

TFTD was delivered by Sean Doran, reflecting on the last 25 years of Rotary and the changes that have occurred in our lifetime – vast technology changes, with 10 types of people in the world, or at least those that understand binary will get that geeky techie joke!

Business Matters

President Alan opened with need for 2 volunteers to help with supporting the Philanthropy Challenge on 6th June. This is scheduled for a Thursday. Please reach out to Alan if you can help.

The two spaces to join Alan and Norma at the Cowdenbeath End of Centenary Dinner remain. Please let Alan know if can join him on 28th June, representing our club.

Gin Festival is now only two weeks away and ticket sales are lower than past years –

Please sell sell sell tickets to friends and family
And publicise via all means available to each of you

The latest Social Event has been arranged by Gordon Black, so look for email on 23rd April and respond to. Dinner at Dhoom on 31st May, where places are limited so you need to be quick. gblack5020@gmail.com

Joint meeting with Inner Wheel on 16th May where Rt Rev Dr Iain Greenshields, ex moderator Church of Scotland will be talking about his years tenure which included the death of Queen Elizabeth & the coronation of King Charles. We will need names and payment in advance, as Inner Wheel are hosting. Responses on attendance and confirmation of payment to Inner Wheel account in advance required by 1st May.

Charity Golf Day now on 7th May. Only a few gaps remain for more teams so be quick. ronnie@scotland-tours.com

Keith McFarlane reported he is concluding on a team for this year’s Capitals Challenge, although at time of meeting he was 3 golfers short. togmcf@hotmail.com

Keith also confirmed the next round of the Gavel is against Kirriemuir, but not confirmed yet if home or away tie. Watch this space.

David Fraser reported on this month’s 50/50 draw –

£60 Eric Keenan

£40 Mike Williams



Speaker

President Alan introduced our very own David Lyth, who has decided to hang up his Rotary badge after 22 years membership, along with his wife Helen.

David was good enough to share the notes for his speech, so the Secretary has edited these to share some highlights in David words, for those who were not at the meeting.



The greatest impact on his life has been his Christian Faith. It began with childhood experiences via missionary parents taking Christianity to what are now the world’s most popular Christian religions of Central Africa and China.

David was born in Rwanda in 1947 and through his travels he has had numerous ‘Near Scrapes & Shaves’. No doctors in South Sudan where his father was based, so his mother bore him in a little hospital on a 1000 foot hill. Mother was “encouraged” to climb the hill to bring on labour in Rwanda, in a hospital built by his grandfather.

One of David’s playmates got polio and died. Helen had polio and survived, as did her mum, just! So, the Rotary focus of eradication of Polio always has been close to David’s heart.

In 1953 Sudan got independence and the family moved to London, then to a small village on the Scottish borders, where the school had 3 teachers and less than 30 children. Although only there for a short period of time, where 11 plus was failed twice, prior to moving to Africa and passing their 12 plus.

Always been a climber and “bagged” Kilimanjaro (aged 11 and 15), Mt Kenya, and Nyragongo in Congo.

His parents suggested a medical career. A local doctor friend gained a London teaching hospital post. He recommended David and he was offered a place without an interview, and with a just 3 A levels.

After qualification, David received a call from his brother who was in a missionary organisation that had a ship which was going to be immobilised in Iran unless they had a qualified doctor on board. David said “OK, I’ll do it”, and when reporting to their office in Belgium. The chief mechanic asked “Do you have a driving licence? We have a 5-ton truck with the ships spares and 7 people, but only 2 drivers.” “OK”. So, the next day they set off on the 4,500 miles to Iran. It took 3 weeks, breaking down every 200 miles.

After returning David spent the next 4 years studying for the FRCS, which has a 10% pass rate for each of the 2 exams. Scraped through and a few weeks later David Ieft for a mission hospital back in Iran that needed a surgeon. A year later David headed back to Middle East, landing in Bahrain where there was a Mission Hospital that hired him as a volunteer for 3 years, and then to a university hospital for another 3 years where David trained as a urologist.

During David’s travels, Helen and he had 4 children. She joined David in Saudi 2 weeks before Saudi went to war with Saddam Hussein’s Iraq, (Gulf war). People said she was mad! At Heathrow officials told her, “the baby has no visa”. She asked the older 2 children to fly alone so Dad did not spend another Christmas alone and she would sort things out and follow on. After a quick discussion, they both said “OK”. However, the visa was “fixed” by helpful airport staff and all travelled together.

After 2 years, the family returned to Scotland. At a Urology conference in Edinburgh, he met a Urologist friend from Uganda, who was now a consultant in Dunfermline. “We just advertised for a consultant but didn’t find anyone suitable, would you be interested? We have a new hospital, St Margarets”. David interviewed very badly. Completely failed to answer a question from our David Fraser. Narrow shave, but started at QMH in 1996. Next 10 years were like a dream and loved every day at work. Family said that moving to Scotland was the best thing we ever did. Found Rotary in 2004, at the beginning of 5 years volunteering in Africa where our club supported in no small measure the Fistula work, and then the Typhoid epidemic – thank you.



In 2014 Tom Arnott invited David to be President, which he refused three times, but they continued to twist his arm and promised “Everyone will support you”.

The most recent narrow scrape was bicycling accident on Townhill Road. 5 Ribs, and undiagnosed brain haemorrhage. David’s children decided that David and Helen would best be looked after by their daughter Joy in Edinburgh. She said my only condition is that you move to somewhere close, hence their recent move to Edinburgh.

Helen thanked everyone at the end of speech for supporting what was now an emotional David. They will be standing down as members, but will not be strangers.



VOT

Andrew Bathgate had the unenviable task for delivering a VOT for the speech covering a very rich, varied and fulfilling career, along with the various scrapes David has got into. Andrew focused on all the great voluntary work David has done in his lifetime and our Rotary club benefited from that same generosity of David’s time. He should be very proud of what he did for numerous people. Now it’s time to put your feet up and avoid getting into any more scrapes!



Next events:

Meetings

02/05/24 Fellowship and Gin Festival check point

09/05/24 No meeting

16/05/24 Joint Meeting with Inner Wheel - Rt Rev Dr Iain Greenshields, ex moderator Church of Scotland.

23/05/24 Fellowship and Gin Festival round up

30/05/24 Annual General Meeting

Community

17,18,19/05/24 Food Drive

Fund Raising

9, 10, 11 & 12/05/24 Gin Festival

Sport

21/05/24 Capitals Challenge v our mother club of Edinburgh



Duties

Host n/a

Reception Andrew Watson & Brian Blanchflower

VOT n/a

TFTD John Anderson

President Alan welcomed 15 Rotarians to tonight’s meeting on a sunny spring evening, which must have served as a distraction for some.

TFTD was delivered by John Anderson, which is to be his last as he steps down from this role. From John we heard his observations round Spring 2024 finally “springing”, allowing our farmers to produce all the food we require, but we must remember those less fortunate and continue to support our Foodbank.

Business Matters

The two spaces to join Alan and Norma at the Cowdenbeath End of Centenary Dinner still remain. Please let Alan know if can join him on 28th June, representing our club. alancondie.rotary@btinternet.com

Ian Morris reported on a very busy two months coming up, and we will need more volunteering from our membership pool. Please step forward where required and share the load. See below full list of upcoming events requiring volunteers.

Joint meeting with Inner Wheel on 16th May where Rt Rev Dr Iain Greenshields, ex moderator Church of Scotland is speaker. We have submitted names now to Inner Wheel for those Rotarians attending, but if you have changed your mind and can now attend, we can squeeze people in. Note – this is not a partner’s night, and if your partner is an Inner Wheeler and you think they have reported your attendance, we need to know also! brian.blanchflower@btinternet.com

John_Sim@msn.com

Andrew Watson highlighted details shared this week with all members for the 2024 Garden Party on 23rd June. A historically excellent event and this year the club is subsidising for each attendee to the tune of £5. Details have been attached to this meeting note. a.watson@watinvest.com graham@premierservicesfife.co.uk

Mike Williams reported the Technical Challenge on 18th June coming together, with Babcock and Exon committed to help. All Dunfermline schools are entering teams. Mike is looking for 2 volunteers to assist. michaelwilliams57x@gmail.com

The latest Social Event has been arranged by Gordon Black, so look for email on 23rd April and respond to Gordon. Dinner at Dhoom on 31st May, where places are limited so you need to be quick. gblack5020@gmail.com



Speaker

Ralph McCran reported on the work to date from this new committee made up of 5 Rotarians and their Inner Wheel partners –

Please sell sell sell tickets to friends and family, as are tracking below previous years ticket sales at this stage.
And publicise via all means available to each of you



Next events:

Meetings

09/05/24 No meeting

16/05/24 Joint Meeting with Inner Wheel - Rt Rev Dr Iain Greenshields, ex moderator Church of Scotland.

23/05/24 Fellowship and Gin Festival round up

30/05/24 Annual General Meeting

Community

17,18,19/05/24 Food Drive

Fund Raising

9, 10, 11 & 12/05/24 Gin Festival

Sport

21/05/24 Capitals Challenge v our mother club of Edinburgh

Social

31/05/24 Restaurant members night – Dhoom

23/06/24 Garden Party, at Garvock House Hotel



Duties – next meeting we are guests of Inner Wheel, hence not required for all except TFTD

Host n/a

Reception n/a

VOT n/a

TFTD Ian Morris



Full list of events requiring volunteers over next two months –

Thurs 9th - Sun 12th May - GinFest set up, GinFest & Clear Up (Refer to separate e mails for times, details & rotas)

Fri 17th May - Sun 19th May - Foodbank Food-drive at all three local Asdas. More support required urgently. (Names to Neil Wilson asap please.)

Thurs 6th June - Judging Youth Philanthropic Initiative at DHS at 6pm & meeting in GHH - Charity Discussions at club meeting on same night

Tues 11th June - Kids Out to Deer Centre in Cupar (Neil Wilson coordinating our club's volunteers)

Tues 18th June - Secondary Schools Technology Challenge in DHS (Mike Williams organising)