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Lions Clubs International - Lion Phil Nathan |
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Show you care, get involved, let's enjoy ourselves |
Past International Director Phil Nathan
International 2nd Vice President Campaign
Autumn in Ireland….
The mild autumn we enjoyed was a boon to travel and one I was pleased to take advantage of.
As many of you know, I have a strong affinity with Ireland and enjoy visiting. My last visit was a quick overnight hop to Dublin to participate in the inaugural meeting of what, it is hoped, will be a Club formed from members of the Irish Parliament.
I was invited to speak about what we do as Lions, our community impact, and also the experiences of the Palace of Westminster Club, the first such Club in the Northern Hemisphere.
It was a pleasure to meet with the Lions of Ireland and those, 20 or so, Parliamentarians who attended. Whilst nearly all knew of Lions' through the activities of Clubs in their constituencies, not all appreciated the global reach of the Association.
It was my privilege to have the opportunity to tell them!
After a day back in the office it was off to York, where Heidi and I had the privilege of being the 'Official Guest' at the 105NE Convention.
What an excellent weekend! As always it was a pleasure to meet up with the many friends I have made in the Lions of the District.
The magic show on the Friday night was impressive and worrying, such was the sleight of hand being displayed, and, no, even at point blank range I don't know how he did it!
After one of the most impressive, knowledgeable, warm and witty 'Welcome' speeches I have ever heard, given by Jonathan Wild, the Deputy Lieutenant of North Yorkshire. DG Alan led Convention gently but firmly through its business, ably assisted by his Officers.
In recognition of our International Presidents' environmental 'tree planting' project the Speaker offered to match, up to £1,000, if the District could offer the same.
They could and they did, indeed they doubled it, so, the Speaker did too, Wonderful!
It was an emotional moment when at the Banquet & Ball, I was asked to present a Melvin Jones Fellowship to Lion Fraser Tarbitt, for many years District Secretary.
The reception given to the presentation was a reflection of the respect with which Lion Fraser is held in the District. A well deserved recognition.