Presidents and Performers at Rotary’s 110th Anniversary

At the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum (RBBM) on Friday 27th February, the Rotary Clubs of Alloway, Ayr, Cumnock, Girvan, Prestwick, Troon and Stranraer celebrated the 110th anniversary of the founding of Rotary in down town Chicago on 23rd February 1905. Dr David Hopes, the Museum Director, held his audience’s attention by delivering an information packed presentation on RBBM, its successes and challenges, and Rotary District Governor John Waddell gave a brief address. After a grace, specially composed for the occasion and delivered by Alastair Morrison, the 120 Rotarians, partners and guests enjoyed dinner and were then treated to a splendid evening of fun from the irrepressible Ron Dale, and a musical treat from marvellous baritone Bobby Irvine. Ron was accompanied by Bill Campbell, and Bobby by Robert Dibden.

The dinner was a triumph for the Cluster of seven Rotary Clubs, all being involved with the organisation of the event, then subsequently charging a small local team to deliver it on the evening. A raffle on behalf of the Save The Children Ebola Crisis Fund raised £575. Jan Barber, wife of the Ayr Rotary President, having won the star prize of a half hour flying lesson, handed it back for auction. This was ultimately won by George McLachlan for £150 making a total of £725 raised on the night. The star prize doner, Adnan Soojeri, President of Prestwick Rotary, then increased the value to a whole hour flying lesson. Three very generous people acting in the very best Rotary spirit! By a happy coincidence, Heather McGuffie, a Troon Rotarian and Chairman of the local branch of Save the Children was attending the evening and gave a spontaneous and moving thank you to all who had contributed to and supported the raffle.

Chairman for the evening, George Irving CBE of Alloway Rotary, masterfully presided over events, and the celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by Douglas Haddow of Ayr Rotary.