May 2025

Impossible to believe that the calendar has now turned over to the month of May.  Where did spring disappear? Now for us to enjoy the ‘gift’ of May, as we reap the rewards of the awakening beauty that surrounds us.

The ever-changing seasons and passage of time have also dramatically affected the recent history of our Probus Club.  As a relatively new member and not fully aware of the history of our Club,  I was struck by a passing comment made by Past President Ron Commander (at our recent April meeting), which caused me to pause, reflect and research further.  Indulge me for a brief ‘walk-through memory lane’…

When, very excitedly, the announcement had been made at the April meeting that our membership has now mushroomed to 191 members, and how encouraged we are with the continual growth,….Ron immediately jumped in to share that at one time, pre-Covid, the membership of the Club had actually exceeded the 200 + mark, which is truly remarkable.

As with most Clubs and organizations, Covid struck its devasting blow as we all hunkered down in our private bunkers, avoiding any human contact.

Membership declined, as would have been expected. But, as with any change of season, there is always sunshine at the end of the darkness.

A testament to the resilience of the Club, as, despite all the challenges presented by the Covid era, our Club has now successfully rocketed back to the ‘success’ once enjoyed. That growth and development over the past few years has been due to the dedication of keen Presidential leadership; supported by highly capable Executive Teams; reinforced by a wealth of excellent monthly Keynote Speakers; social events and activities abounding; and bolstered further by the influx of new members, bringing fresh perspectives and opportunities for the emergence of a multitude of SIG’s (Special Interest Groups) to suit every interest level.

Quoting another Past President, Ann Lawson, in her President’s message of May, 2023, Ann shared that research has suggested that, “In addition to participating in most of the behaviours that our Physicians tell us to do, a major positive factor in maintaining intellectual capacity and becoming “super-agers”, turns out to be – wait for it- social activity”!   We can count ourselves so fortunate that our Club offers such a wealth of doses of social activity.

Thanks to all that have contributed to the Club that we enjoy today,….and in preparing for the future!

Brian Freestone,  President