September 2016 – President’s Message
The last weeks of August have been hot and the anticipation of hearing those words, “they’re going back”, are now a reality; welcome to the dance of Fall’s impending colour. It’s been another wonderful summer in Nanoose Bay and on the Island.
In August, our club continued to provide wonderful opportunities for friendship and fun with an exciting visit to the Venturi-Schultze Vineyards, the now famous Summer Appetizer Extravagana and Ladies lunch and golf event. Many thanks to our organizers and all those who made these events memorable.
September brings us another new interest club, our TED Talks Group. It will begin September 9, just after our meeting and should add a whole new dimension of debate and discussion to those who want to attend. As well, another golf date is being planned, but the month kicks off with our speaker Dr. Nicholson who is going to give us some insight into travel and business in China.
On a serious note though, Probus Canada has tabled a new National Marketing Program that I’ve been asked to discuss and promote. From 1999 through 2014, Probus nationally grew by 15%, but over the last two years the growth rate has come down to only 3%. With more and more people retiring and looking for opportunities to stay busy, involved, entertained…. the question is, what can we do to engage more of our peers in the fun of Probus?
Our club’s history has seen growth and decline and presently we maintain a strong membership. It’s our speakers, out-and-abouts and special events that drive our success and it’s because of a commitment from you – the members, that we enjoy a solid club. Nationally, we’ve all been asked to reach out to others in our communities to make sure as many people as possible know about Probus and what it means to be part of a dynamic organization that is all about friendship. Share the feeling of being part of something bigger than you; Probus is special for all of us!
See you at the meeting.