District 1230 - Group Study Exchange 2009

Come and Join me

2009-06-26T16:09:00.002+01:00

Hi Folks

a simple project which may eventually net some money towards Rotary

visit www.me2everyone.com/146121 and join me in a project to link as many folk within a timescale - you are given points and these will eventually become pounds

Lets see the power of Rotary work within this potential funding method

Jimmy

Reports

2009-05-14T19:17:00.002+01:00

Hi Folks

There is a cost for all good things, the reports have to be prepared and sent in before the end of June or they will have an impact on the application for the next exchange visit.

If there are any of the Canadian hosts reading this - could you do us a favour and send across any photographs which you have that you think would enhance the report - for example - we have no photograph of the Paul Harris presentations to the team - if you could help that would be great.

I am in the process of sending e-mails to everyone that I contacted in Canada and I will probably ask for some specific details, so keep your eyes open and your fingers poised over the keyboard for a speedy response.

I'll be in touch during the next week or so

Keep following and do please add comments

Jimmy

well - would you credit it?

2009-05-07T12:05:00.002+01:00

Hi Folks

Back home and eventually got my system sorted out - so simple too - a password had been changed to allow me to get web access to mail and it would appear that was all I needed to type in to sort out -

No I'm not thick - it kept on seeking a network password and as I don't have a network that is what threw me - it appears that is the way outlook works - sheesh!

They say a little knowledge is a dangerous thing - I obviously have a little knowledge - anyway - now that I am back up and running I shall be sending out my e-mails to all who passed on details and cards to me in Canada - I shall also try and do another little ditty like the legend below - if I can fit you in, I shall

keep your eyes on the blog in the near future

A GREAT BIG THANKS to you all

Jimmy

We're Home!

2009-05-04T23:47:00.003+01:00

Yup, thats right...we all made it home, safe and sound and surprisingly our bags were waiting for us when we reached Glasgow! So a job well done by Air Canada and BMI, I would travel with them both again.

But...I really dont know what to say now. It feels strange to be back home. 28 days in Alberta felt like such a long time, yet it also passed very quickly. Our first visit to Medicine Hat seems so long ago, yet almost like it was yesterday.

We have left behind so many amazing places, some great people and even more fantastic Rotary members. We would all like to thank each and every Rotary member we met for allowing us to visit District 5360. And a great big hug and many many thanks to each of the host families who took us under their wings and treated us as one of their own family. If you ever visit Scotland, dont hesitate to let us know...Maura has a big house you can stay in! Hahahaha sorry Maura!

It was back to the cold, rain and wind today and back to work for some of us tomorrow. Alberta, District 5360 and all of the Rotary members there will forever warm each of our hearts though.

Districts 1230 and 5360...you made our dreams real.

Thank You.

Your 100% Paul Harris Fellow GSE Team
x

The Legend of 'Jimmy Mallows'

2009-05-04T23:21:00.002+01:00

It was not too long ago, in the hills far west of Olds,
that the legend of Jimmy Mallows truely unfolds
The night around the campfire was one to behold
as the snow fell heavily on the ground and the air became cold

The group sat in a circle just laughing out loud
the songs were being sung by a very vocal crowd
then along came the stranger from a far off land
with a packet or two of mallows in his knarly hand

The city slickers and the cowboys look on in awe
as the axe fell on the wood pile cut by the saw
the logs stoked up the fire until the coals were red
and the embers flickered quickly between live and dead

Someone produced skewers that were made of metal rod
which could be used for branding - although a bit odd
but Jimmy sought a weapon that was made from wood
as it would soon prove that the others were no good

The Scotsman took the challenge and placed Mallows on the end
he had to protect the ladies against a new best friend
the duel went on for ages and the target was in sight
but Jimmy Mallows was soon the hero of the long cold night

The folk will talk for time to come about the Scotsman GSE
the legend will be spread around the whole of Rotary
The visit out to Canada in the year of two oh oh nine
and the skill for Jimmy Mallows will be seen as mighty fine

If you were a part of legend in the hills far west of Olds
then your duty is to spread the word the story to be told
the strange happening will live on and on in perpetuity
as the legend of Jimmy Mallows on a Rotary GSE

The skill is not in metal or in how you do the task
the method is to use the wood to stop - (WHAT? - they will ask?)
the secret of the legend is now only yours to keep
so protect it day and daily - yes, even in your sleep

So the story now is ended for this time that we do share
and the legend will live on for all of us who really care
for the visit that we had with you in the year of two oh oh nine
will be engraved forever deeply in the heart - both yours and mine

So goodbye to Jimmy Mallows till another time has come
when we do meet all together or perhaps just with some
and the legend will be born again around the open fire
as we share our happy memories of Jimmy Mallows - (available for hire!)

JImmy

Ayrshire Slickers

2009-05-02T00:02:00.002+01:00

A bit about our time in Olds :- we had an early morning Rotary meeting (7am) after a bit of breakfast and rotary business we presented our presentaion for the last time. It was a bit short as we were tight for time and a bit tired.

After breakfast we had a tour of a local manufacturing facility Logan one of the rotarians was the plant manager. It was a pharmaceuticals facility so the gowning up made for an interesting photo shoot. Jimmy's beard cover was lovely. We then headed off to the Olds college and high school campus it was a new development and the facilities were spectacular for the size of the town. The video conferencing was truly state of the art. Talking about art they also had a theatre where some of the sutdents art work was displayed it was amazing. We had a final visit of the morning to a taxidermy place - not sure we got it?

We headed out west where we were camping at a remote ranch. Luckily we had some log cabins it was a bit cold for tents. Martin & I went on a horse back ride with Doug he was really like a cowboy...after a while I found myself calling him Curly (you know out of City Slickers). The horse ride was about 3km by the river and through the pine woods it was snowing and there was quite a bit of snow on the ground it made for interesting underhoof conditions.

In the evening we drank and were merry having food and songs by the fire pit. The snow came on quite heavy it made our night!!!

TO MUCH TO SAY!!!

2009-04-30T01:54:00.004+01:00

I have to say sorry to all for my slow blogging AGAIN!!! Time is going in so fast, and with our busy schedules I just haven't had the time (or energy) to catch up!! Anyway I would like to just say (even though everyone else has said the same) that the weekend in Canmore was just amazing!! I have been so touched and overwhelmed but all our new friends' kindness and generosity!! Getting the Paul Harris Fellowship was so unexpected but so touching, I would like to say thank you to you all. It really was a weekend of mixed emotions. I found saying good bye to all new friends so difficult, needless to say in true girlie style, I had a wee cry (how will I get on at the airport?!?). However as we say its not good bye its see you later (you may all regret it).

After a busy weekend of doing our presentation and of course dancing, we moved on to Red Deer. My host in Red Deer were just fantastic, they took such good care of me, while making me feel so at home. In true GSE style our itinerary was busy: hospital visits, meeting the deputy mayor, rotary meetings and of course social events!!

Now again we are on to new adventures, visiting Olds. It sounds like we are going to go out with a bang!! Between hiking and camping I cant wait!!

At this point in the trip I have to say its bitter sweet; I cant wwait to see Colin (my husband) yet I don't want this unique experience to end, any one know of any cheap flights to Canada?!?!?

Until next time.......

I Saw Beaver!

2009-04-28T08:53:00.002+01:00

Get your mind out the gutter you dirty minded so-and-so's!! I did actually see a pair of wild beaver in the creek behind my current hosts house last night...so thats one of the animals I wanted to see over here crossed of the list! Still no sign of any elk, moose or bears...and I'm not going to start on the whole cougars and sabre-tooth tigers story! But I have to say something about my hosts home...it is stunning and so is the view! Hans and Lolita Weisner really have a small piece of paradise in their back yard! The view over the creek last night and this morning was stunning and I feel privileged to be staying here.

But we have had a great day today which started with a tour of the City Library services, and we then went on to meet the Deputy Mayor of Red Deer who gave us some excellent gifts. We then had a presentation over lunch and then I was taken back to City Hall where I had an enjoyable discussion with the IT Services Manager of the City.

Then needless to say Nicola and I went shopping!! And yes, I spent more than her...and yes it was all on clothes for myself! I swear I have no idea how I'm going to get everything in my bags for the flights home! We have been given so many gifts over here, and I keep buying things for myself as well! Does anyone know a good pilot who can charter us a free flight home for all our bags??

We then had what we now like to term as a "social gathering" to meet members of the various Red Deer rotary clubs which we wont have an opportunity to visit. When I say "social gathering" I mean we went to a bar to watch a Flames game and have a drink!! Hey, we're Scots...its expected of us to take a drink...and it would be rude to turn down the offer! hehehe! But it was an enjoyable night and it was a pleasure to meet some more Rotary members.

So tomorrow, or should I say later today since I just noticed the time, we have a visit to the local museum, another presentation to do, a tour of the city including the ghost stories, and then we have a social night at one of the club members homes for the team and our hosts.

And then sadly on Wednesday we need to leave Red Deer already and move on to Olds...where the plans for us were kept very "hush hush" at the conference...so we are intrigued!!

Till next time...

District 5360 Conference 2009

2009-04-27T05:25:00.004+01:00

I know Maura has already posted below about our weekend at the District Conference, but I felt the need to put in text my feelings on the whole 48 hours...

WOW!

Thats says it all. I have been blown away by the kindness, the generosity and the sense of coming together that I experienced in Canmore this weekend. I have never experienced so much goodwill from so many people. It was an inspiration and an honour to be a part of the conference, and I am sure I speak for the whole GSE team when I say that.

I will admit to anyone that I have had a hard time over the past 3 years, and the kindness and gratitude that was shown to us all for being there over the weekend totally blew me away. Then, to be awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship this morning, was mind blowing indeed. I think we all feel privileged to have been able to visit this district, the conference and to meet the people that we have.

It was an emotional day for me, not least having to say goodbye to the hosts and the people who have spent so much time with us at the clubs we have already visited. When I say people, I mean friends, because that is exactly what each and every one of them have become. And I'm now writing this with yet another tear in my eye! We have been shown so much love by the Albertan Rotarians, and I hope that in some way we can reciprocate that love. Rotary is one big loving and giving family...and its a faimly that I for one would love to be a part of.

Thank you to everyone who attended and to everyone who spoke at the conference and made it what it was. And another HUGE thank you for giving all 5 of the team the Paul Harris Fellowship, it is something we all are humbled and priviliged to have recieved.

I can only hope that we were able to inspire and possibly educate some of the rotarians who attended and watched our presentation. As Maura has already said, we had some great feedback...which again we can only thank everyone for.

Thank you for a great conference, I hope to come back next year!

WOW! - Canmore

2009-04-27T05:12:00.002+01:00

I wanted to ask 'Can more' surprises be found on this magical Rotary GSE exchange?

I wish to record my sincere and heartfelt thanks to District 5360 and all my fellow Rotarians for honouring the Scottish GSE with the 'PAUL HARRIS' Fellowships

I am aware that these are the highest recognition a rotarian can be bestowed and I feel very humble that you felt that we were worthy - The team are great and you consolidated that with the award

My experiences are not yet over with the District 5360 - but I can tell you that there is a fire in my heart to ensure that I repay each and everyone of you for the love, support, time, energy, care, hosting, transporting and feeding us during the visit

As 'Arnold' would say 'I'll be back'

Love you all - from the depth of my heart

Jimmy
(Go Flames - eh!)

Even the girls are Fellows

2009-04-27T03:37:00.003+01:00

Well, we have just spent the most amazing weekend at the Rotary District Conference here in Southern Alberta. It was held in the beautiful town of Canmore, nestling under the Rockies. It even snowed for us!

The conference was a real mixture of feelings for the team. The speakers on Saturday were really inspiring, and we have been challenged by the amount of good work undertaken by Rotary both locally and globally. Sunday was more emotional, not least saying goodbye for the second time to the many lovely folks we have met here, but more of that shortly....

We have had good feedback from our Group presentation....at least the Canadians understood our Scottish sense of humour. We seem to have made a really positive impact, which far from massaging our egos, has actually been very humbling. It came as a complete surprise to us all that today, we were presented with Paul Harris Fellowships - this is the highest award given by Rotary, and we are all extremely honoured to accept it. This was such an emotional moment!!

So, we are now entering our final week. It's hard to believe that we will be home by this time next week! I intend to savour these last few days, but sadly, I'm sure they will disappear as quickly as the preceding three weeks. We have now arrived in Red Deer and are settling in with our host families. We are meeting so many incredible people here and life-long friendships are being fostered. This Exchange has been an amazing opportunity and it blows me away that Rotary have honoured us by making us Paul Harris Fellows, when in reality, we all feel the debt we owe to Rotary. Amazing day, amazing organisation.

HR in the City

2009-04-23T16:56:00.002+01:00

It is not all play we have been doing some work honest!!!

I spent yesterday morning in the HR office at City Hall in Calgary. George McLauchlan the head of HR had kindly set me up ( I guess it was really Sheila that set it up thanks) with 30 min slots with some of his management team.

I spent half an hour with each and started with Mary Lou Flood we chatted about pay, benefits, job evaluation and pensions a lot to squeeze into 30mins. I then spoke to Cindy Munn she looked after recruitment and staffing. This had been quite a challenge as the booming economy a couple of years ago had led to real challenges in recruitment, unemployment rates in the city were 3% (these were the real duffers who couldn't get a job anyway). Cindy had even been over to the UK to attract talent.

Next on my list was Bill Oakes who had a remit for workforce planning. This role was quite important over here as the city is quite dynamic and is still growing quite rapidly. Thing are done in a similar way. Additional points of interest were how they measure effectiveness of workforce planning and bringing in knowledge transfer to their planning, it was a good idea but an expensive luxury.

I then had a discussion with Gillian Gibbs-Gray she looked after policy and process. There is a lot less employment legislation over here so not so much policy but the lay out and approval process is very similar to what we do. Similarly the same techniques are used for policy role out.

My final meeting was with Joan Kennedy and we had a chat about succession planning. Like ourselves there is no list of the chosen ones. They try to ensure that the right skills and qualifications are in place so that they can grow their own. I like the HR strategy it is simple enough for me to understand (get em - keep em - grow em) i think em is Canadian for employee!

It was getting near lunch time and I had to vacate my temporary office at city hall (the board room). George took me to flame central for lunch with Gillian and Sheila. For those back home the flames are the hockey team in town and it was match day how exciting.

In the afternoon I met Carol & Julia we had a chat about recruitment and training and got a feel for how HR in the private sector works.

Sheila said to me if I am thinking of working over here I should look them up, funnily enough some of the experienced staff must be over 50 there maybe some opportunities round the corner.

Bye for now.

Wallace.

Let it snow!!!

2009-04-23T06:37:00.005+01:00

Sooo...we have missed a day! Yesterday we had a successful presentation to the Calgary Downtown club and then were taken on a tour of the "Plus 15". This is basically an interconnecting series of tunnels and walkways between the buildings in downtown calgary to allow commuters and shoppers to move around the city when the weather is cold outside. Remember it can easily reach -30 in the winter here.

Needless to say it wasnt long before the shops provided a distraction and both myself and Nicola spent some of our canadian dollars on a set of hair straighteners and a Calgary Flames jersey. I'll let you decide who bought what!

Today (Wednesday), was our vocational day and I found myself in the University of Calgary meeting Dennis Tracz- Information Security Officer, Patrick Jungles - Security Architect, and Nicole Schultz - IT Security Officer for the Health Sciences Centre. This was an incredibly informative day and they have given me some great information particularly on raising awareness of security within our user population back home.

It was around lunchtime that the snow started...

And I cannot believe how much snow fell in just two hours! now, almost 12 ours later we have easily got 3 inches of snow:

Apologies for the blurriness of the last pic, but thats my phone on the table outside...and the snow is almost the same depth as the phone!

Tomorrow we have a few visits planned, including a trip to Calgary Zoo and then a visit to the Chinook Centre...Calgary's largest shopping mall. With more snow planned it could be an interesting day. But at least it lets us wear all the hats, scarves, gloves and wooly jumpers we brought with us, eh?

Gok signing off until next time!

Calgary

2009-04-21T17:36:00.003+01:00

Well, we are all now in Calgary and have spent the night in the homes of our host families.

We had a relaxing time in Bragg Creek, in what can only be described as beautiful surroundings, and if you have checked out the website for the lodge we stayed in you will see that we were in the lap of luxury!

Yesterday we were transported to Calgary and taken to the Heritage Centre where we learnt about some of the old cars and filling pumps that were used in years gone by. We then enjoyed lunch before heading over to the Canadian Olympic Park where the 1988 Winter Olympics were held. Sadly most of it was closed so we werent able to have a toboggan run...and the young ones (myself and nicola hehe) couldnt try out the zip slide from the top of the 90 metre ski jump!

We then had our first presentation in Calgary before spending the evening withour hosts.

I have just woken to news of the Kidnap of the Edmonton GSE team leader who is currently in Nigeria. To say everyone here is in shock, especially Rotary members, is an understatement. I think I can speak for the team when I say that my heartfelt wishes go out to her and her family...and I hope she returns to Canada safe and unharmed.

Today we have a presentation to the Calgary Downtown club before they give us a tour of the downtown area of the city...and then we have a relaxing evening withour host families.

I appear to be back!

2009-04-20T03:56:00.002+01:00

Thanks to the help from Martin and Dr Chuck I have been able to get some access to e-mail and also I seem to be able to blog again

The team have been marvellous and our hosts have been brilliant - I am finding it hard to express everything in words - as there are no words I can think of that will give an accurate reflection

To all in my own District 1230 - thank you for allowing me the priviledge of leading such a great team to such a great location

Jimmy

Down time

2009-04-20T00:40:00.002+01:00

Well, we have now reached the half way point in our study tour and are having a well deserved break in Bragg Creek. This is a lovely little hamlet about an hour from Calgary, at the foothills of the Rockies. This is giving us a chance to recharge our batteries, in the stunning surroundings of the Log Chateau. Check out the website!!
http://www.logchateau.com/

Jimmy, Wallace and I started Sunday by going to church at the local community centre. We were given a warm welcome and it was good to spend time praising and thanking God for the blessings of our trip so far. After church, we had a picnic on Jimmy's own personal veranda - how idyllic!

This afternoon had been ear marked for "chill time" and there have been a few zzzzzzz's!! Leah, from the Canada GSE team which came to Scotland, has joined us for a while, then we are all heading out for food. I am hoping for an early night , before we start the whole merry-go-round again tomorrow. Time is fairly flying past!

Maura

Beautiful Banff

2009-04-19T19:31:00.003+01:00

Since my last blog we were lucky enough to be taken to Banff by our Airdrie hosts. All I can say is that it is everything I thought it would be and more!! The drive in to Banff was just stunning (also having a real life Elvis singing next to me helped even more). I don't think I could ever get tired at looking at the Rockies! We went up in the gondola ride up one of the mountain's (my hand is still recovering from Maura's tight grip!). At the top the weather was still good and the view amazing!! We then were treated to a dip in the hot springs. The water temperature was 39 degrees while we looked at the snow on the hills!!

After a busy day seeing the sights of Banff we went to Darren's house for a meal cooked by the foreign exchange student Joe. He made a lovely Thai meal. It was lovely to catch up with all the hosts.

To finish the night we went out to Calgary for a wee drink and dance, how said it wasn't a holiday!!

This is our mid tour break, and I am glad of the rest!!

Until next time.....

There is no Buckfast in Airdrie

2009-04-18T00:25:00.002+01:00

I have decided that Airdrie in Alberta is much nicer than Airdrie in Scotland. For any Airdrie Scots following the blog I will do the public apology later. For the Albertans following the blog Buckfast is a tonic wine the youth of Airdrie Scotland are famous for consuming.

Anyway enough of that I spent Thursday morning at Town hall and visited the HR dept they really focus on managing their culture and link this to recruitment to ensure they hire the right staff. Their philosophy is if they hire right they will have less problems in the long term.

After lunch we visit a citizens link service this is where they link a variety of public services for the community to link into.

I picked the interesting option in the evening and went to dinner with Rod Anderson the local MLA a bit like an MSP back home . He was hosting Iris Evans she is the finance and enterprise minister for the whole of Alberta for the scots following the blog she has John Swinney's job.

There was a dinner then Rod (Were pals by now I'll show you the photo) presented a speech and thanks for those attending. He spoke from the heart but was a bit schmoozy. He then introduced the right honorable Iris Evans she spoke for about 20 mins then took some questions. I had my hand right up and got the first question in. The MC passed me the roaming mike and I introduced myself to the other 42 tables having dinner with Iris.

Anyway after explaining who I was and why I was in Alberta I asked her to explain the huge gap in the social programme over here which is housing and then what was she going to do about it? She acknowledge that this was a problem and explained that the funding programme was being increased. She asked to meet me and we swapped business cards and took a photo. She said she wanted to come to Scotland to see how housing and homelessness is managed. I will send her an invitation by e-mail. I was quite chuffed there were 250 people there and only about 6 got to ask a question.

Today we went to Banff and went on the gondola, a lazy way to get to the mountain top. The scenery was stunning. I had been to Banff a few years ago but didn't take that trip. We had some lunch on the mountain top then went to a natural hot spring and stripped off for a dip!! Of course we put trunks on but not the spedos.

We are now back at Darren's house where I helped Joe form Thailand prep a Thai meal, at least I chopped his veg for him .

Any we are going to eat soon I have another party to go to.

Bye

Wallace.

Sunset over the Rockies

2009-04-17T05:15:00.004+01:00

Hello from Airdrie (Alberta - not Lanarkshire!)
Another day, another city. I am not only finding it hard to keep track of which day it is, but also which city I am in. To further confuse, although we are being hosted by Airidie Rotary Club, which is a dormitory town north of Calgary, Nicola and I are actually staying in Calgary city - we have been up and down the road between the two centres several times already. Confused or what!!

We had a quieter afternoon yesterday, before doing our presentation at Airdrie Rotary last night. Today, we were up early for our vocational day. I went from Calgary to Airdrie, back to Calgary for a dental school screening visit, complete with fluoride varnish application, then back to visit "Community Link" in Airdrie. This centre provides a range of social support for many of the groups we consider to be "priority groups" in Dental Public Health in Scotland, although there is not yet any formal dental input to this centre. The dental service provision in Canada is quite different from Scotland, so I have found these visits interesting to compare and contrast the two countries - which is, after all, the whole point of Group Study Exchange.

This evening we went for a walk and saw the most spectacular sunset over the Rockies. We are off to Banff tomorrow, which will be great. There, we will see these magnificent mountains up close - can't wait!!
Maura

Its a hard life!!

2009-04-17T04:22:00.001+01:00

Well I was really sad to be leaving Drumheller, especially Tracy and her lovely family (missing buttons already!). Tracy I have put a comment next to your comment for you to read.

After leaving Drumheller I was feeling a bit sad and home sick (missing colin), however on arrival in Airdrie we were again greeted with open arms. Maura and myself met our host for our stay who thought that we would like a wee treat! So after lunch we were taken for a pedicure!! So now we have pampered feet with beautiful nail art. Its just a shame that we don't have any shoes to show them off!!

Last night we went to a rotary meeting where we were made to feel so welcome and again we done our presentation. Darren had done a lot of work to arrange a hospital visit for me which turn out to be very beneficial. I got the opportunity to talk to to one of the managers who gave me a great insight in to the running of the department.

Tonight Maura and myself attended a rotary meeting in Calgary, within a high school where a group of pupils cooked a lovely dinner. After a day of eating and not much moving Maura, one of our hosts Wayne, myself and his two dogs went out for a walk. After walking up into a park we had a spectacular view. On the left was down town Calgary and on the right was a sun set over the "Rockies" . It was beautiful and I don't think the boys will have seen such a sight from the pub!!!

I am really looking forward to tomorrow, as we are going into Banff!!! So I will leave it there for tonight and will take loads of photos tomorrow!!

Nothing bad about these lands!!

2009-04-15T06:26:00.001+01:00

Once again, we have been given a great welcome and have had a full schedule in Drumheller, in the so-called Badlands. We have met so many interesting people on our trip so far – it has been such a pleasure as well as a privilege – we are very fortunate to be given this opportunity.

Tuesday saw us all visiting the ‘penitentiary” – an experience! They did let us all out in the end......however, I am getting a reputation here for visiting prisons! This afternoon we spent some time at the world-famous Tyrell Museum, before being escorted on a “behind-the-scenes” tour by Leanna. Being connected to Rotary opens lots of doors – quite literally today!

I would like to thank my hosts Bob and Betty for opening their house to me and making me so welcome. It seems a pity that we are moving on again tomorrow. The time is going so quickly!! It is pretty tiring but we are all having the time of our lives. It turns out that, even though everything is so flat here, we are actually 3000 feet above sea level, so that explains at least some of our exhaustion!!

Maura

We're Hardly Davidsons

2009-04-14T14:37:00.002+01:00

Hello from Drumheller, I visited the local job centre yesterday to see how they manage unemployment. It was not that different from the UK except we have those touch screen kiosks.

We had a rotary meeting at lunch time and did our presentation. In the afternoon we did some sight seeing visiting the hodoos and some old mining areas.

In the evening we met at Ian Cassels for a gathering. Nicola's hosts Brian delivered her on a Harley Davidson. I was really jealous so like a kid who couldn't see the green cheese go by I got Brian to take me for a spin. Expecting a mile or so up the road I picked the open faced helmet.

We took a spin down to Wayne which was about 15KM away. I felt like a real US biker but there was something missing. I couldn't quite figure it out and then after 10k of bug chewing I worked it out. It was the hair I needed some flowing locks to blow in the wind. Next time I think I will wear a jimmy hat. Brian offered me the chance to drive back but I chickened out.

Bye for now.

Wallace.

I'm still here!

2009-04-14T07:50:00.002+01:00

Yes, yes...I am still here and I'm alive! You would think that being the geek on the team I would be on here all the time, but I have been taking a break from technology for a few days...

.....hahaha who am I kidding, I've just been tired, and had trouble with my laptop in Lethbridge so didnt want to take the chance of typing a mammoth blog in the off chance that I lost it.

So yes we had an amazing time in Lethbridge, some may say I had a better time than the others, but thats a story for another day, and one I am hoping to add to...so I may be back in Lethbridge over the coming months if I'm invited! (Hint, hint! hehe)

I would like to thank my hosts, Robin and Sharon Hood, so so much for their hospitality. You are both amazing people, and I really do feel as though I have an adopted "Canadian Mom". If that invite to stay is there I may take you up on it! I really cant thank you both enough!

While in Lethbridge, as you may already have gathered we presented twice, I visited Stephen Grahams IT company and also the IT Department of Lethbridge Hospital. They seem to be having the same logistical problems we have in NHS Ayrshire and Arran, which is unfortunate as I had hoped they could give me a solution! But it was informative, and I realised that we are incredibly understaffed compared to IT departments in Canada.

So we have moved to Drumheller, the badlands and home of the dinosaurs and Hoodoos! It truley is a unique landscape. I had my vocational visit to the hospital today and spoke with the Health Records manager as their IT support is located in Red Deer where we visit in a couple of weeks.

We have had a great reception in Drumheller and would like to thank everyone involved for what has been a very well organised visit.

We are visiting the Penitentiary tomorrow, and then moving on to Airdrie on Wednesday...so I will try and update this a little more often.

I shall await the comments to this post from the Lethbridge members about the night of the Social! hahaha

Oh...and if anyone is looking for older blog posts, scroll to the bottom of the screen and click on "Older Posts"...I have had a few people ask me about that!

Ta ta for now, eh!

Drumheller Welcome

2009-04-14T02:25:00.002+01:00

Hi Folks

you will soon notice that I am leaving most of the detailed blogs to the team - who are doing a great job. We had our first presentation to the Drumheller Rotary today and they provided us with an extremely warm welcome and great hospitality

Tonight my hosts Ian and Diana are having a social evening in their home for all the team and their hosts - (I'm keeping out of the way while they complete everything)

We had a tour of the valley today and visited the HooDoo's as well as the shooggly bridge (BTW - I was well scared and it showed) - the water and ice flowwing under the bridge as it was swaying in the wind made it a crazy crossing in both directions - there were kids running back and forth - jings I'll need to grow up someday - hahaha

Keep following the blogs and don't forget to make your comments

keep in touch - eh!

Jimmy

Its me again!!!

2009-04-14T01:55:00.004+01:00

Well seen its been a while since I blogged, when I can't even do it right!!

I have been having a great time and been really busy!!! Our time in Lethbridge was was fantastic from both a vocational and professional angle. So I better start with the vocational aspects (well that's meant to be the main reason for the trip and I better say that in case any of my bosses are reading this!!). I spent one full day in the general hospital. I was meant by the nurse educator for the operating theatres, Suzanne. She was great as she could give me a good insight into the running of the complex, whilst also giving me food for thought. In the afternoon I got to spend sometime with the senior nurse who was the manager of the OR. I found this really informative as she had conducted alot of work on bed flow and theatre efficiency. This was a role that I worked on part time last year. So she gave me plenty of ideas and tips on how they overcame many problems, whilst becoming a very useful contact.

My hosts Richard and Di were lovely and made me feel very welcome in their home. Robin and the other rotary members gave us a great tour of the local sights, which my other team members have already commented on, however I have to say that I really like Waterton and I am so glad that Robin and Jo took the time to take us there, Thanks!!

I was really sad to be leaving as they made us all feel so welcome and at home. However that's what this trip is all about; moving on, meeting new people and having more experiences!!

On coming to Drumheller we were welcomed again by open arms. I am now staying with Tracy, Brian and their kids. Even in just a short time they have made me feel so at home in their house. On Easter Sunday we had a lovely BBQ (Brian is a great cook) and watched the ice float down the river from the "swinging bridge". This was amazing to watch, but a wee bit confusing as it felt that it was the bridge moving instead of the water (and no this had nothing to do with the wine, well I don't think so anyway!!). Today was great and packed with a hospital visit and local sight seeing. Just going to Ian's house for a wee party!!

So until next time, over and out .....

Long time no see

2009-04-14T01:50:00.000+01:00

The Easter Bunny

2009-04-12T14:26:00.003+01:00

I got up at 6.30 am to go to the Gym but unfortunately it was closed as it is Easter Sunday. So since Karen (my host) and I were up early we had to keep ourselves busy so we hid lots of Easter eggs and bunnies (Lindor Chocholate MMMM the Easter bunny is high quality in Canada)round the house for Audrey (Nearly 10) and George ( definitely 7) to find.

I have to say I really hid some of them, it is a big house so they could still be there next Easter. !!!!

Wallace.

Leaving Lethbridge

2009-04-12T06:00:00.002+01:00

The last night has just come to a close, we are off in the morning - with a song in our heart and a whole lot of additional memories to add to the medicine hat visit

Yet again the Rotary family has opened their hearts and their homes to us - we leave our extended families and move on to Drumheller - has anyone warned them what they are about to receive?

My blog will be short - as I have been told I talk too much (by my team - would you credit it EH!)

Thanks Lethbridge - you guys and gals are wonderful

Jimmy

One week down already!

2009-04-12T00:29:00.000+01:00

Well, we have been kept busy by everyone here in Lethbridge, so there has barely been time to draw breath, much less blog!! We have had a tremendous welcome again, and I must thank all our hosts – especially Suzanne and Joseph, for looking after me so well, and also Robin, who is organizing our few days here.

After our sunrise meeting in Thursday at 7 am (yes, I did see the sun coming up and, yes, it was lovely – the sky is so BIG here), we had our vocational day. I went to the prison, where Lori Beresford told me lots about the nurse practitioners working there in the healthcare centre, although there is little oral health provision. After meeting the Mayor (as Wallace reported below) we were interviewed by the Lethbridge Herald – so we now have another picture in another local paper!

In the afternoon, I went to the University of Lethbridge, where I met Sharon Yanicki, who is coordinating an undergraduate degree in Public Health. This plans to increase the Public Health workforce, without taking people, such as nurses, from their clinical jobs. We also met Karoline Philipp, Director of Population Health, who explained about the health promotion programmes which are run in the former Chinook Health Services area. It was good to see oral health included in this! Chris Hosgood then showed me around the University – it is very impressive, built into the coulee hills. I even saw a poster for my “alma mater”, the University of Glasgow!

Friday was a chance to see around the local area. First we went to Head-smashed-in Buffalo-jump - the names of these places are so descriptive here! This was where the First Nations peoples used the natural landscape to catch their meat quota for the season – the details are a bit gory, but we can appreciate their ingenuity!! Our next stop was Frank slide, the site of one of Canada’s worst natural disasters, where part of a town was lost in a huge landslide early in the 20th century. The scenery was spectacular, but the history lesson highlighted the power of nature.

Our final destination was Waterton Park, where I was able to appreciate the stunning beauty of God’s creation in the landscape here at the foothills of the Rockies. I felt this was ‘real’ Canada, with its mountains and lakes – a truly spectacular day.

Finally, in the evening, we attended the Rotary Social, where we were able to show off our tartan, as well as give our presentation. Once again, we were made to feel very welcome and it has been wonderful to meet so many interesting people. Lots of Canadians have connections in Scotland, which never seem to be far from where we live back home. Several folk have mentioned they know Largs and the surrounding islands – it is a home from home. There was even a radio programme of celtic music, presented by a Scot. If I closed my eyes, I could have been back at home!

Saturday dawned bright and sunny again. The weather has been spectacular. Today, we visited a Hutterite colony as part of our cultural development. There is no real equivalent in the UK, so it was quite an experience. We were shown around their colony and given lunch there, which was simple but very tasty. In the afternoon, we visited a local attraction in Lethbridge, Fort Whoop Up (another amazing name!!) where the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Force had its origins in controlling the trading – and the whisky!!

We have had an amazing few days here and I find it hard to believe that a week of our tour has passed already. Tomorrow, we will again have to say goodbye to our hosts and move to our next destination, Drumheller. It is sad to leave behind folk we have got to know so well over the last few days. Thanks to you all for your welcome and hospitality.

Maura

at last

2009-04-11T14:05:00.002+01:00

Hi Folks

I'm having some issues with my laptop - trying to resolve these at present - still unable to overcome mail problems - therefore no e-mails going out or in now - to all of you who have sent them to me I send an apology and hope that you can wait until I get back to Scotland.

DR Chuck in Lethbridge is trying to help me resolve the issues - it looks as if my ISP had a problem during the week and the data may have been lost or corrupted somehow.

We are now at the end of our first week and it has raced by - I wish to record my sincere thanks to all the Rotary family in Alberta for the tremendous hospitality shown to the team and myself.
If the two stops in Lethbridge and Medicine Hat are an example of the reception we are to expect elsewhere - then there is only one word - WOW!

I'll catch you all later EH!

Jimmy

Battle Stations

2009-04-10T15:39:00.002+01:00

It was Family night in the Gunn's house last night we had a mega steak dinner with lemon potatoes. I need to get the recipe. After tea we walked round the lake and I showed George how to do keepy uppy with a lob wedge and a golf ball.

We watched the TV programme Survivor they seemed to be really into it.

After the TV programme ended I was challenged to a game of battle ships by Audrey (Aged 10 almost!!). The pressure was really on I could feel the beads of sweat accumulating on my brow. A smart 10 year old had challenged me to a game of war strategy.

We set our boards up and started. There was a lot of missing until after about 15 goes a hit!!! The blood bath would begin. I was determined to win, you know not that I am Mr Competitive!! I soon sank one of her little boats. Undeterred Audrey soon struck back she had a hit on my Aircraft Carrier. I had christened it the SS Missouri (from a Steve Seagull Film). With clinical accuracy and aggressions Audrey sank my Carrier.

The game edged back and forward for an hour and a bit and eventually i got her!! sinking all her ships and cleaned up. The victor was a close thing Audrey was only about 2 hits from winning.

What a relief I think I might possibly be smarter than a 10 year old !!!!!

Wallace.

Vocational Day at Lethbridge

2009-04-10T00:21:00.002+01:00

Hello,

Today was our first full day in Lethbride. I was up at 5.45am for a Rotary Meeting at 7am in town. We had breakfast and the Rotary Club did their business, we presented a shortened version of our presentation.

My first stop of was at the homeless shelter where Deanna and Pete showed me around. The service had a wet room where drunks could sober up this meant the police did not have to divert their resources. The sleeping quarters were like a gym hall with a plastic mattress and a sheet. There was an art room where the clients could undertake all sorts of art, wood carvings as well as painting. We also visited the soup kitchen which relied mainly on donations. This facility had been in place since 2002, who knows what they did before that?

My driver Ian than took me on a tour round the park at fort Whoop Up this is where the whisky traders introduce the Natives to their moon shine until the Mounty's saw them out of town.

Ian then took me to the youth shelter this was a facility for homeless children under the age of 18.

We then stopped of at the Town hall to meet the mayor Bob Tarleck, he was pretty down to earth and had a clear vision for the city to build better communities through better working together.

The local paper the Lethbridge Herald then interviewed us and took a range of photos. I think we are almost famous!!!!

We took a walk down town to Gault park sponsored by the Rotary. Ian then took us to lunch at the country club where I gave into the Burger and Fries. It was their first day open for the new season so the new seasons menu was not available yet.

After lunch I went to the hospital and met a few of the managers at the local health, Teri Myhre (Director of Worforce Planning), Marty Sholtz (Executive Director Labour Relations), and Dean Oikawa (Director Human Resources). We swapped ideas on the workplace and had a general discussion for around 2 hours. Ian met up with me and I headed back to City Hall and met up with Diane Randell who was the Manager for Community and Social Development, we had a chat about each others jobs and about how service are structured in Lethbridge. Diane then introduced me to Dawn Vickers who was the Family and Community Services Coordinator.

It was 4pm by now and it seemed like a long day. Ian my driver took me to the Allied Arts Council of Lethbridge where I purchased some art for my house. Ian showed me his studio where he paints, his pictures were really cool a bit big to transport home.

I headed back to my hosts about 5.30pm and we had a nice steak dinner and a relaxing evening.

Wallace.

Anyone for hockey?

2009-04-09T05:25:00.001+01:00

Well, we have now arrived in Lethbridge, having said farewell to our hosts in Medicine Hat. Thanks to Sharla and Wayne for opening their house, as well as Dr Ray and Dr Al for chauffeuring me around during the day. I like this “Dr (first name)” business – I have been introduced to all and sundry as Dr Maura and I’ve decided I like it – take note all at Ayrshire & Arran!!

I am now staying with Suzanne and Joseph, who are both former GSE team members. It will be good to exchange stories over the coming days. We have a packed programme, but there should be some “down time” built in (I hope!). We started by going to an ice hockey game this evening – it was quite exciting!! Sadly, the local team did not win.

This is just a short blog, as we are up at 6 am tomorrow for our first “sunrise” meeting – that’s a nice way of saying “you’ll be shattered the rest of the day”!!

Then I am off to the prison (to meet the Healthcare Manager) – do you think they will let me out again??!!

First report from Canada!!

2009-04-08T04:56:00.002+01:00

I think that I am now going to be the slow blogger of the group, however my excuse is that since arriving in Medicine Hat I have been working very hard!!

Firstly I would like to say that our trip over went very smoothly, while our welcoming committee was a real treat!! We have all been so well looked after by our hosts and I would like to say a big thank to Sharla and Wayne who have taken good care of Maura and myself whilst in Medicine Hat.

So what have I been up to???? Well I started both my vocational days by reporting to the OR (or as we would say in Scotland the operating theatres) at 645 am. Yes you read right 645am!!! Who said this was a holiday!! On Monday I spent the full day in the theatre complex observing how it is run, talking to the staff and gaining plenty of experience. I finished the day at 4pm, popped home (no not Scotland) for a quick change, and went to the evening Rotary Club. Here I had a lovely meal and as a group we gave our first Canadian presentation. After spending the evening there it was home to bed to start the next day bright and early!!

Today I was again in the OR in the morning, where I got to ask more questions and look a bit deeper after reflecting on the day before. In the afternoon I was in the ER (I am starting to sound like a local!!). I got to see how the department was organised and see how patients can be organised to go straight to theatre.

Even though this is my first experience within the theatre environment in Canada I can see plenty of differences in how the departments are run, whilst noticing the positive and negatives in both settings. Needless to say I already have plenty to take home!!

Tonight we had a free night and Maura and myself had a very enjoyable evening. I wont say any more as Maura has already reported on this.

So to end my first Canadian blog I would like to sign out by saying hello to all back home, especially Colin (I am missing him already!!!) however I am having a really great time!!! Until the next time..........

Last day in MH

2009-04-08T04:30:00.002+01:00

Tuesday 7th April
I started today with a shock - as I was eating my breakfast and reading the paper, I found our picture from the Rotary meeting last night! We are only in the country a few days........!! Thanks to all in the Medicine Hat clubs for giving us a great reception last night.

Another busy day at the (dental) office. I visited Riverside Dental Clinic, where Dr Al used to work. It has amazing views of the river, which I would find quite distracting if I was actually seeing patients! Then I went to visit the local Women's Refuge, which is like our Women's Aid. This is run by a Rotary member, Natasha. They have very little oral health input, so hopefully I might have raised their awareness of this?? (It IS supposed to be a two-way exchange of information!!). After lunch, I visited the Crestwood Dental Centre, where I met Dr Kershaw. He gave me a white coat to wear (the first time in about 12 years!!). He runs a busy clinic, using two dental chairs at a time, with the help of four dental assistants (nurses), who all have "intra-oral" qualifications. The work rate was impressive with so many pairs of hands! It is very interesting to see how working practice varies between our two countries.
We had a lovely evening meal at the Cypress Club (which used to be men-only, but not any more!), then went for a walk by the South Saskatchewan River, to burn off some calories (we have done a lot of eating since we arrived!). The river is still partially frozen, and large lumps of ice are just starting to float down the river - very spectacular.
We have already had to say our first goodbyes, even though it is hardly any time since we arrived. This is going to be one of the more difficult features of our trip!

We're Famous!

2009-04-08T02:57:00.005+01:00

After last nights successful presentation to all 3 Medicine Hat Rotary Clubs, we have appeared in the local daily newspaper! Well...Maura and Nicola were lucky enough have their picture taken...obviously the journalist wanted some glamour in the paper rather than our ugly mugs!

So here are the pictures:

But time for an update from the team "Geek":

On Sunday I was introduced to my hosts in Medicine Hat, Bob and Theresa Arthur, who have made me completely welcome and part of the family. I cant thank them enough for their hospitality, especially Bobs enlightening and uplifting chats outside under the veranda in the afternoon sun!

Monday was the first of our vocational days, and my first port of call was City Hall and a meeting with Harold Otterdyckswho is in charge of network services within the IT Department there. It was an interesting meeting where I was shocked at how leniant they are with Security compared to the NHS. He did however give me a few good ideas which we could use however because of the difference in size of organisations I'm not sure how practical they would be.

From there we moved on to a meeting with the Mayor, Norm Boucher, which was incredibly informative as he told us all about Medicine Hat and its population.

We then had lunch at Medicine Hat College, which I was very impressed with! It almost made me want to go back to college...especially when I found out that 65% of the student population are female! I then found Bob who is an IT lecturer at the College and he took me to visit a couple of local IT businesses which he supports. First was Josh Sehn who supports a number of local businesses with their IT infrastructure, and then Josh Hudson at Memory Lane Computers who provide retail, sales and support to local businesses.

It was then a short break in the sun at Bob and Theresa's house before the Rotary Meeting and our first presentation. Every Rotary member was very welcoming and I must thank all three Medicine Hat clubs for their hospitality. The presentation was well accepted, and I managed to slow my speed down enough to be understood!!

And onto Tuesday where I was recruited by Uwe Krickhahn to give him some computer advice for his website before he took myself and Wallace on a sight-seeing tour of the town. I must admit my thoughts were with Nicola who has been working like a trojan the past two days in the hospital, having been there since 7am both mornings...which I am sure she will blog about herself!

We then had lunch at Connaught Golf Club before going back to the College where I met with John Gutfreund the Manager of Client Support Services for the college to discuss how they impliment their IT Security strategy. In all honesty the college seem to face the same problems as NHS Ayrshire and Arran so it was a great discussion, and confirmed that I think we are heading in the right direction.

Wallace and I then met up with Bob again who took us for a quick beer...well Wallace had one...at the closest thing we could get to a british pub. Then it was home again for a lovely dinner cooked by Theresa again! We then managed a brisk walk on one of the many trails around Medicine Hat on the edge of the Coulee, which is basically a gorge which has been forged into the ground by the river over the years.

At this point I, as we prepare to move to Lethbridge tomorrow, that I must thank everyone in Medicine Hat again, but particulary Bob and Theresa for their friendship and hospitality and for welcoming me into their home. I have also been amazed at the weather, I packed lots of hatgs, gloves and scarves, and for the past 3 days the weather has been around 15 degrees without a cloud in the sky!

As Jimmy has been quoted in the paper as saying: "Medicine Hat is our first stop and I'll tell you, everybody else has got alot to beat...this has been awesome"

Thank you Medicine Hat!

Vocational Visits & Update

2009-04-07T23:14:00.003+01:00

Thought I would update you on some of the vocational visits.

I spent yesterday morning at city hall with Karen Charlton she is the Head of Community Development at City Hall. We had a chat for just over an hour about how the place is run and financed. The City Council members are not politicians so they are effectively nine Joe Blogs who campaigned on their particular agendas, I found this a bit strange certainly very different to Local democracy in the UK. After a tour of city hall we went round some of the facilities in the town they have excellent leisure facilities given the size of the population which is 68K. They have a centre a bit like the magnum back home but with a 50M pool, the have another 6 ice rinks.

I also visited one of the senior centres, it was a bit like interlink back home providing a variety of services to the older citizens. I met Diane who was the centre manager and I also met the catering manager.

We visited the college for lunch and met up with the VP Ralph Weeks.

During the afternoon I met up with Debra Best who was responsible for mental health in the community. She took me over to the local hospital and I had a meeting with Blain Bell who is the executive director for HR. The health board is going through a massive restructure basically merging with 4 neighbouring areas.

The labour relations side is pretty similar but the TU density is much higher they still have the closed shop scenario so almost everyone joins.

I got back to the hosts house at 5.25pm and we had a meeting at the rotary club at 6pm so a quick change and back out. We had a meal and they did their rotary business and then we were on. Our presentation was well received and then they gave us lots of gifts (paper weight, t Shirt, Canada flag etc.

By the time the meeting closed and we headed back to our hosts it was 10.30pm. I had a malt with Brian then went to bed about 11pm.

Today (Tuesday I think) we returned to the college and I met Roxanne Plante . She was the HR director for the college and was really nice. We all had pink shirts on, we HR people we are so connected!!!.

Tonight I am going to dine with the family that is hosting Martin. I have been told to bring my trunks I think we are going to have a hot tub party!!!!!

Any that's it for just now.

We leave Medicine Hat tomorrow and are heading to Lethbrige.

Oh I nearly forgat to mension we were in the local paper at least the girls were!! Every one has been really nice to us we are being treated like celebs.

Wallace

Medicine Hat - Monday 6th April

2009-04-07T00:11:00.001+01:00

It’s been a great day today, with clear blue sky and sunshine. It is a lot milder that I expected – maybe I won’t need my thermals after all!

We had our first vocational day today. I was escorted by two charming Rotarians, both retired dentists, Ray and Al. First, we visited an orthodontic practice in Medicine Hat (I love the name of this town!!). Keith runs a state-of-the-art orthodontic practice, with all the latest equipment – very impressive. We then joined with the rest of the GSE team to meet the Mayor at the City Hall, before going to Medicine Hat College for lunch. Both the Mayor and the Principal of the College are members of Rotary. We were given a very warm welcome in both these places. After lunch, we split up again to pursue our vocational visits. I went to the Medicine Hat Medical Clinic, where the oral health team is based. We had a very interesting discussion with Iris and her colleagues about our Scottish Childsmile initiative and their programme for “Seniors”. It seems that oral health of vulnerable groups can be a challenge, no matter where in the world you go!!

Now we are having a bit of “down time” before going to the Rotary meeting this evening - the three Medicine Hat groups are combining for a dinner tonight, where we will make our first team presentation.

Thanks to everyone who made our day so memorable.

A night at the Theatre !!

2009-04-06T21:06:00.003+01:00

We have now travelled down to Medicine Hat from Calgary it was about 300KM which took a wee while. We got a lift from some nice Rotarian's from Calgary Brian & Christine who took us half way. We then swapped to Ewe and Coreen who took us down to Medicine Hat to our hos rotary families.

We had some dinner and then redevouzed at The Esplanade which is the award wining theatre in the City of Medicine Hat. The production was "Bye Bye Birdie" which was generally about a rock star who was going on his military service. Sounds familiar ? well he looked a bit like that Elvis guy.

The show was of a high standard and very professional. We felt like celebs as we were literally in the box seats. I think every one enjoyed the show.

That's all for just now.

Wallace.

Hello

2009-04-05T18:06:00.002+01:00

This is an update from Wallace the slow blogger. That is I am the last of the team to post a blog. Like Jamie says I have tried something new today as I am a it of a virgin blogger.

Anyway we are getting ready to leave Calgary to head off to Medicine Hat. We had a heartly breakfast and are set for the day. I am not sure how far it is a fair way I guess. Been up since 3.30 am a bit stupid I know but I couldn't sleep so got up and went to the gym.

Any way thats all for now.

Bye.

The Eagles Have Landed!

2009-04-05T01:01:00.006+01:00

Well, we have finally arrived in Calgary, and are currently resident in the Delta Hotel at Calgary Airport.

And what a reception we received at the airport from members of the various clubs we will be visiting while we are here. It was an unexpected but amazing surprise, and was great to meet everyone who was so friendly. A huge thank you to everyone who met us at the airport, especially District Governer Mark Starett.

The sun was out for us when we arrived, although there is a real chill to the wind. The rotary members who met us at the airport assured us that is is now going to get warmer after a very bad winter, although we may still see some snow flurries depnding on where we are.

Both the flight from Glasgow to Heathrow and the connecting flight to Calgary were extremely smooth, although we are now all very tired. Everyone else managed to get a sleep on Friday before leaving, but I am now still on the go since 10am on Friday with only a few short cat naps on the plane to Calgary! So its time to freshen up, get some dinner and then some well deserved sleep!

So I will sign off, and leave you with some pics of us in the official GSE team attire...

2009-03-28T11:45:00.002Z

Jimmy and the team with DG Catherine, during one of the team training sessions at The Glasgow Hilton, they have just had a great lunch and the 'Foundation Chair' Jim Morton took this picture of Jimmy in full flow - sharing his words of wisdom, he was lucky to catch such a rare image (me sharing wisdom, that is)

It should be pointed out that earlier that morning the team had a bonding session with a very tough agenda - first they were, relaxing in the steam room, then the jaccuzzi, then the pool - then back to the jaccuzzi before having the well earned lunch.

May I record a formal thanks to the manager and staff at The Hilton for providing access to the facilities and the great service.

The Final Countdown

2009-03-28T11:15:00.002Z

In less than one week (in fact an extra hour less) h'mmm how can I have an extra hour but it is less - this english language confuses me - hahaha

Let's start again - next Saturday we depart for Calgary - if like me you are going out to a 'shindig' on the Friday night (aye right!) and you are heading home in the wee sma' hours - stop in at Glasgow Airport from 4.00am to say your best wishes to the team before they check-in and go through security.

We have worked hard to ensure that we are as well prepared as we can be and we are all going with a spirit of adventure to soak up the tremendous experiences that District 5360 have in store for us.

Many thanks for all your support and encouragement - keep looking in to the site and feel free to comment - who knows - you may have to provide us with some additional information if we get asked difficult questions.

Jimmy

2009-03-25T21:24:00.002Z

Less Than 2 Weeks To Go!!!

We have all met for the last time, getting ready to pack our cases and get going to Canada!! Its getting really exciting and feeling more real than ever!!

I have only 6 shifts left to do at work and only one weekend at home!! I am really looking forward to the full experience but feeling a wee bit nervous at the same time!!

I will see my team mates soon and all the new friends I will make in Canada!!

I canny wait!!

Nicola

Countdown continues!

2009-03-17T20:47:00.002Z

It's now 2 weeks on Saturday that we are leaving - it's coming around very quickly! The Canadian dollars have been ordered, I have a tri-band phone and (most importantly for us girls who have to take EVERYTHING with them when they travel) I have a new trolley bag!

We had a great evening last week in Erskine, giving our presentation to the 1230 District Meeting. Thanks to everyone at the meeting for such a kind reception and your words of encouragement as we set off on our trip.

Now that the presentation is mostly complete, the team are meeting for the final time this week to sort out all the travel plans. It all seems very real now!

Less than a month to go!!!

2009-03-09T20:24:00.003Z

Yes, thats right, less than a month until we all leave...well...25 days to be precise, but who's counting?

Before then we have our first real presentation to do on 11th March at Erskine Hotel to the District Council. The presentation is complete, with only a few small changes possibly to be made on the day once we all meet again at the hotel.

There have been a few small set-backs and delays created within the team due to work and family commitments, but i think it is testament to all five of us that we are as organised as we are.

The flights are booked (red eye flights at that! Who decided on us leaving Glasgow at 6.30am anyway? haha), we know our generous baggage allowance, and I'm sure everyone else is as excited as me as the 4th April creeps gradually closer.

But lets the presentation out of the way on Wednesday and we'll see what kind of feedback we get from that...just so long as its positive! hahaha

A big thank you and well done to all

2009-02-10T09:48:00.003Z

Hi Folks

My initial contribution is a massive thank you to District 1230 for allowing me to lead the team, a second thank you is to the team themselves, they have been great at meeting deadlines and also they have participated wholeheartedly in the preparation for the visit.

Each have taken on a particular responsibility on behalf of the team and this has made my task so much easier - all they have to do now is look after me when we are away (oops! should I be looking after them?)

A third thank you is to the Hosts in Calgary - who have provided support and information by return - we are all looking forward to participating in the itinerary they have arranged for us.

An finally, as they say in the news - a big thanks to Harry (GSE chair) Jim (Foundation chair) Catherine (District Governor) and the GSE committee - for providing us with the support and insight to represent the district.

Jimmy

Hello and a small introduction to your GSE Team!

2009-02-09T22:45:00.007Z

Hello and welcome to this, the very first post in the Rotary District 1230 Group Study Exchange 2009 blog! This year Distrcits 1230's team are visiting Canada, District 5360 in Calgary and the surrounding area.

So I guess I will introduce the team, and what better way than to show you a picture:

From left to right: Nicola Roxburgh, Maura Edwards, Jimmy Johnstone MBE (Team Leader), Martin Duggan and Wallace Turpie.

We are all really looking forward to the trip, and cant wait until April 4th when we board the plane to London...and then off to Calgary!