A ton of memories for me - Waitara is positive!

With Gus at ITOHAM plant

 Well, it was way back in 1970 when I came to live with my Salvation Army Officer brother David and wife Joan in Waitara and went off early every morning to Bell Block to work in the local cheese factory.  99 cents an hours was a very good wage in those days!!  Today, I had the opportunity to revisit this town and it was a lovely experience.  President Noel and Rosemary welcomed us into their home - complete with Jet,  a very lovely, lively poodle fresh from the barbers.  We then went to the local ITOHAM plant where we were able to hear of a positive input into the local economy made by this meat processing plant that produces 8.5 million patties for MacDonalds as well as salami and other delicacies - which we were able to sample.  In Gus's words, they are adding value.  That rings a few bells for me as this is what I trust all Clubs are doing in thor communities.  They export 25 tonne of salami to the

President Noel

Japanese market each month!!  Back at President Noel's home we sat down and discussed the programmes the Club is involved with -  I was able to get a quick glimpse of the 360 Dictionaries they have just collected from Wellington to be distributed to 10 schools to the 5th and 6 year students - all paid for by local businesses who were approached by the Club for sponsorship - top marks!!  A Woodcraft Fair, a Plant Sale and a possible Ford Car Show were on the plans.  Here is a Club who has sponsored many a child on the RYPEN programme, to Science Schools and has one scheme where they will helping a local college lad go to Costa Rica.  The meeting was friendly and welcoming.  My topic focused on the need to question traditions in the Club and to build a fresh Club image by being bolder in the Waitara Community - I know members will be equal to this challenge.  A good visit - 4 to go!