GyroScope
JULY, AUGUST, SEPTEMBER 2011
GYRO INTERNATIONAL NEWS MAGAZINE
HILTON CLEARWATER
BEACH RESORT
Clearwater, Florida
Gyro International Interim Meeting
January 9-12, 2012
DETAILS INSIDE
Dancers from Down Under
Royal Nova Scotia Tattoo
Memories from the Halifax Convention
-1-
July, August, September 2011
Volume 93:Number 4
INTERNATIONAL OFFICERS
President
James P. Hyland
26 Forest Hill Road
Youngstown, OH 44512-1437
[email protected]
First Vice President
Larry L. Duba
6111 N. Brooks Circle
Fresno, CA 93711
[email protected]
Second Vice President
W. Michael “Mike” McNally
88 Green Forest Court
E. Amherst, NY 14051
[email protected]
Third Vice President
Alonzo “Lonnie” Turner
2801 West Terrace Drive
Tampa, FL 33609-4027
[email protected]
Immediate Past President
Harold R. Bernard
155 Morley Avenue
Truro Heights, NS B6L 1N1
[email protected]
Secretary-Treasurer
Emil L. Baijot
1210 Puget Street
Bellingham, WA 98229-2144
[email protected]
DISTRICT OFFICERS
District I Governor
Lew Lause
2103 Crissinger Rd.
Marion, OH 43302
District II Governor
Neil Baker
7014 Holdorf Rd.
Bluegrass, IA 52726
District III Governor
Erik Miller
117 Summer Hill Lane
Williamsville, NY 14221
District IV Governor
Matthew “Matt” Johnson
5809 Ashbourne Lane
Olympia, WA 98501
District V - Salt Lake City President
Chuck Mitchell
3309 S. 3130 East
Salt Lake City, UT 84109-3103
District VI Governor
William MacKinnon
19 Cameron Street
Dartmouth, NS B2Y 2G7
District VII Governor
Ted Shewchuk
Box 1013
Red Lake, ON P0V2M0
District VIII Governor
Ken Baker
59 Woodgreen Drive SW
Calgary, AB T2W 4G6
District IX Governor
John MacDonald
1903 Temple Avenue Unit 301
Signal Hill, CA 90755-5609
District X Governor
James Ellis
694 Clearcreek Dr.
Osprey, FL 34229-6814
District XI - Central Texas President
Felix C. Munson
2921 Cuero Cove
Round Rock, TX 78681-2316
International Web Page – www.gyro.ws
(follow links to Gyro Store, Conventions et al)
Gyro International
Editor: Emil L. Baijot, Secretary-Treasurer
Gyro International – 1096 Mentor Avenue – PO Box 489 – Painesville, OH 44077-0489
Headquarters Phone: 440/352-2501
Fax: 440/352-3882
e-mail: [email protected] - or - [email protected]
Please – when communicating via e-mail, give us your complete name and club affiliation – Thanks!
~ “WITHIN THE SCOPE” ~
GYROPINION:
P3 / The President’s Message
P26/ Why I Joined Gyro
P33/ Fabulous Snowbirds
OF INTERNATIONAL INTEREST:
P4 / International Interim, January 2012
P7/ Executive Council Members
P9 / 2011-2012 International Budget
P10/ From the Editor’s Desk ~ Significant Changes
P14/ Membership Letter ~ Duba
P15/ Halifax International & D-VI Convention Report
P23/ Cincinnati Convention Registration / Flyer / Schedule
P28/ Hello to New Members
P29/ Farewell to Departed Members
P35/ Membership Report ~ McNally
P42/ Betterment Fund Pledge Appeal
DISTRICT WIDE EVENTS:
P15/ District VIII Convention Report
P34/ District II Convention Report
P37/ District IX Convention Flyer
INDIVIDUAL CLUB EVENTS:
P13 / Edmonton
P21 / Camosun
P22 / Akron
P27 / Winnipeg
P33 / Chicago
P27 / Port Colborne
P29/ Prince George P38/ Victoria
P39/ Hollyburn
P31 / New Glasgow
P32/ Fort Lauderdale
ABOUT THE COVER:
Interim location: the Hilton Beachfront Hotel in Clearwater, Florida -location of the off-again, on-again International Interim Meeting
now scheduled for January 9-12, 2012.
Of interest: several backgrounds relating to the Cincinnati Centennial
are partial photos taken of other galaxies by the Hubbell Telescope.
ABOUT THE DIGITAL GYROSCOPE VERSION:
This issue is in .pdf format. To print a copy, simply select PRINT
and the printer will start with pages in order.
To open properly, use the free Adobe Acrobat 7 or higher.
-2-
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
What a time the Gyros were treated to in Halifax. The hospitality and
friendship we were shown was overwhelming. My congratulations to all the
committees involved on putting on a very successful convention.
For those who could not attend, picture our flag raising ceremony topped off
with a tribute to Gyro from the mayor of Halifax. Thanks to Immediate Past
President Harold Bernard, the Mayor is now an
honorary Gyro. The dinner was a feast where you
chose between lobster or steak. Simply fantastic!
And other than the Saturday Night Ball, the featured
event, the Royal Nova Scotia Tattoo, was a show I
can't say enough about. A more detailed report on the
convention with a lot of pictures can be found in this
issue.
Halifax Mayor
Several resolutions that were passed in
Savannah were revisited at the business meetings. Most relevant to this message
was whether or not to have an International Interim. The issue was again brought
to the floor, voted on, and the decision to cancel the interim convention was
reversed. I hope most of you are as pleased with this vote as I am.
JAMES HYLAND
2011-2012 President
Gyro International
I'm happy to announce that we will be at the Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort
in Clearwater, Florida, from Jan 9 - Jan 12, 2012, (hiltonclearwaterbeach.com).
With less than the normal time to plan the interim, there might be some small
"tweaks" so please check the website (gryo.ws), and please, keep your members
who do not have a computer in the loop.
We were able to secure great room rates. What normally goes for $219 $249/night, we will be getting for $139/ night. I hope everyone can be there,
looks like a super location. Please find additional information within this issue.
Our next big, big, huge International Convention will be in Cincinnati, Ohio
on June 12 - June 17 at the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza. Even though they
have a tough act to follow after Halifax, this is our Centennial Anniversary so I
expect many charter members will be there!
Rick Wiggers and some of his committee members gave a presentation at the
Halifax meetings. They have a great venue planned and it looks to be an event
not to miss. We were told they even brought special cookies to Halifax embossed
with the Gyro logo, but they were held up in customs. I'm sure the agents enjoyed
them, sorry Rick.
Did you know you have the opportunity to have your convention fees paid?
There are raffle tickets available. If your club needs tickets, please contact HQ or
me ([email protected]) and we will make sure you get them. The
winning ticket will be drawn in Clearwater.
EILEEN HYLAND
Eileen and I hope to see everyone at both of these events as well as many of
your district conventions. Remember, check the website (gryo.ws) and, as
always, Invite A Friend To Gyro.
-3-
GYRO INTERNATIONAL
Interim
Meeting
January 9-12, 2012
Clearwater, Florida
JUST 20 MILES FROM TAMPA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
many attractions
Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort
400 Mandalay Avenue, Clearwater, Florida, United States 33767
Tel: 1-727-461-3222 Fax: 1-727-461-0610
see page 6 for tentative schedule
BUSCH GARDENS
SeaWorld
Hilton Beachfront Hotel
Beach Trolley
-4-
because of the recent decision to reinstate the interim,
as this issue goes to press, the registration
costs listed below have not been finalized.
please review any later information
on the website for any adjustments.
REGISTRATION FORM
2012 GYRO INTERNATIONAL INTERIM MEETING
January 9 - 12, 2012
HILTON CLEARWATER BEACH RESORT, CLEARWATER, FLORIDA
Gyro: ______________________________ Gyrette: ____________________________
Address: ____________________________ City: ______________________________
State/ Province: _______________________ Zip/Postal Code: _____________________
Phone #: _____________________________ E-Mail: ____________________________
Club: ________________________________ District: ___________________________
Arrival Date: __________________________ Departure Date: _____________________
Room Requirement (x)
1 King Bed ________ 2 Queen Beds ________
Room Rate - $139 US + taxes – valid 3 days before and 3 days after Interim Meeting
Registration Fee:
Couple: $ 120 US
Single: $ 60 US
Registration Fee pays for: Buffet - $45, Refreshments - $10, Entertainment -$5
Payment for 1st Night’s Room Deposit ($139 US Check or Credit card) &
Registration Fee ($120 US Check only)
By ____________ (Check) ___________ (Credit Card)
Card Type _________ Number __________________ Expiration Date ______________
Deposit for Room Reservation and Registration Fee must arrive at
Gyro International Headquarters in Painesville, Ohio:
No Later Than Wednesday, December 7, 2011.
Mail To: Office Manager
E- mail: [email protected]
Gyro International
P.O. Box 489, Painesville, OH 44077
-5-
Phone: 440-352-2501
International Interim Meeting
January 9 through January 12
Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort, Clearwater, Florida
Sunday
7:00pm – 10:00pm
Monday
- Executive Council Dinner
DISTRICT OFFICERS ARRIVE
8:30am
12 noon
3:00pm
5:00pm
7:00pm
9:30pm
-
5:00pm
- 5:00pm
- 7:00pm
- 9:30pm
- 11:30pm
12 noon
1:00pm
5:00pm
7:00pm
9:30pm
11:30pm
- Executive Council Meeting
- Executive Council Ladies Luncheon
- Past District Governors Meeting
- Hospitality Room open
- Dine around – EC & BOG
- Hospitality Room open
Tuesday
8:30am 12 noon 1:30pm 5:00pm 7:00pm 9:30pm -
- Board of Governors Meeting
- Hospitality Room
- Board of Governors Meeting resumes
- Hospitality Room
- Dine around – EC & Board of Governors
- Hospitality Room
Wednesday
8:30am - 12 noon
9:30am - 11:00am
10:40am - 11:00am
12 noon - 1:00pm
5:00pm - 6:00pm
7:00pm
10:00pm - 11:30pm
- Leadership Development – Section 1
- Ladies Coffee Social – Hospitality Suite
- EC meet with ladies
- Hospitality Room
- Hospitality Room
- Dinner (on your own)
- Hospitality Room
Thursday
8:30am - 12 noon
12 noon - 1:00pm
afternoon
5:00pm - 6:30pm
7:00pm - 10:00pm
10:00pm -
- Leadership Development – Section 2
- Hospitality Room
- free time
- Hospitality Room
- President’s Hotel Dinner **
- Hospitality Room
“Sightseeing and tour information will be in your ‘Welcome Envelope’
Tentative Schedule as of September 2011
-6-
( ** casual dress)
James P (Jim) Hyland, President
Youngstown, Ohio ~ District I
Jim was born and raised in the Youngstown area. He is a graduate of Ohio
State University with a degree in Accounting/Finance.
He has been a stockbroker for 20 years and is currently an Investment
Executive for Lombard Securities.
While at Ohio State, he met his wife Eileen. They have been married for 25
years and have three children – Jim (1985), Bridget (1987) and Maura (1989).
Jim joined the Youngstown Club in 1987 and served as President from 1995 to
1997. He was District Governor in 2004-2005.
In his spare time, he enjoys the challenge of sailing on Lake Erie and to the
British Virgin Islands. He has also been known to play golf and is no stranger in
the kitchen.
He and Eileen have enjoyed meeting new Gyro friends during his years on the
Executive Council.
Larry J. Duba, First Vice-President
Fresno, California ~ District IX
Larry was born in Seattle, Washington in 1943. His family moved to Portland four years
later and then to San Jose, CA when he was 12. He earned a B.S. degree from San Jose
State in 1967, and then worked for Pacific Gas & Electric as a communications engineer.
He joined the Air Force in 1968 and was stationed at Vandenberg AFB for four years. He
supported the down range testing of missiles launched at the AF Western Testing Range.
After obtaining a M.S. degree from USC, he rejoined PG&E and was promoted to
Communications Supervisor he then moved to Fresno where he has resided for 36 years.
He joined the Air Force Reserves, retiring in 1995 with the rank of Lt. Colonel. He
retired from PG&E in 2006 after 40 years of service.
He married Alice in 1976 and they have two children from her previous marriage and
three grandchildren. He belongs to 18 clubs and holds the office of President of the
Czech Club and Commander of Heros of ‘76. As Past President of the Central
California Thunderbird Club, he enjoys driving their ‘56 Thunderbird in events.
Larry joined the Fresno Club in 1999, and became Governor in 2006
His theme is “Share Gyro with a Friend.”
W. Michael McNally, Second Vice-President
Buffalo, New York ~ District III
Mike has been a Gyro since 1983 and is a PDG of District III. He has been
married to Cynthia for 28 years. Both Mike and Cynthia were born in Buffalo,
NY and are living in East Amherst, NY, a suburb of Buffalo. They have three
daughters, Meghan, Kaitlyn and Shannon. Mike and Cynthia hail from Gyro
families. Mike's father Wayne is a Buffalo Gyro and Cynthia's father was PIP
Don Heath.
Mike is a Certified Financial Planner® and Wealth Management Advisor with
TIAA-CREF.
Mike is also a golfer and skier, as well as a honey-do list laborer. Mike and
Cynthia look forward to continuing their service to Gyro .
-7-
Alonzo (Lonnie) Turner, Third Vice President
Gasparilla, Tampa, Florida ~ District X
Alonzo “Lonnie” Turner was a founding member of the Gasparilla Club in
Tampa, Fl in 1985. He has served as club president, District X Governor 2005-06
and has received Editor, Best Club Bulletin in 2001-02.
Besides his commitment to Gyro, he volunteers his technology skills with his
church, high school reunion committee, and at the EAA Fly-ins in Lakeland and
Oshkosh.
After attending the U of Tampa, he worked for Goodyear Tire & Rubber in
various management positions, retiring after 25 years. He met Betty Lou at their
35the high school reunion and married in 1997. Betty Lou is a retired elementary
school principal. Five children and 9 grandchildren between them brings lots of
pleasure.
They spend their time between Tampa in the winter and Jacksboro, TN in the
summer. Their travel trailer will be used to travel the US and Canada visiting
Gyros.
Emil L. Baijot, Secretary-Treasurer
Bellingham, Washington ~ District IV
After living in a remote Alaskan village where he was CEO of a native corporation for
several years, he and Joan relocated to Bellingham, WA in 1977. He was soon introduced
to Gyro and traveled to various events, joining Chilliwack in 1980. He formed the
Bellingham club in 1981, serving in all the offices several times. He has received many
awards including the Merit Award in 1988 and the Honor Key in 1994. He served as
Governor in 1988-89 and as International President in1993-94. He has been the
International Sec.-Trea. since 1999.
In previous lives he attended Stanford but graduated from the UofW as an Industrial
Designer; has been an Army Lieutenant during the Korean conflict; manager of a large
art group at Boeing; Master of his Lodge & President of the Shrine Club; served nine
years on County Planning Commission and until retiring, a designer/builder of custom
homes for 30 years; and currently, he is a member of the County Appeals Board.
He and Joan were married in 1958 and they have four happy and successful children
and seven grandkids. Joan keeps active as a partner in a daycare that schools up to 90
children and is a hospice volunteer.
Harold R. Bernard, Immediate Past President
Truro, Nova Scotia ~ District VI
Harold has been a member of the Truro Gyro Club since 2000, serving as Club
President from 2002 to 2004. He served as District VI Governor for two terms from
2004 to 2006.
He is currently serving as Immediate Past President of Gyro International.
In 2007 he received the Award of Merit which he wears with great pride and
humility. He is proud of his Prince Edward Island heritage, has lived in five
Canadian provinces, but has been a resident of Nova Scotia since 1978. He and Trudy
are the proud parents of two married daughters and two teenage grandchildren.
Harold graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Master of Education
Degree in 1974 and from Dalhousie University with a Certificate in Educational
Administration in 1988. As an educator he has taught and administered in the Public
School Systems of the Provinces of Manitoba and Nova Scotia.
Harold and Trudy are active in their Church and Community; and are very
appreciative of the tremendous opportunity to serve Gyro International while greeting
previous friends and welcoming new ones.
8
Budget
2011-2012
Actual
Proposed
Inc & Exp
Budget
Budget
2010-2011
2010-2011
2011-2012
5/1/10-4/30/11
5/1/10-4/30/11
5/1/11-4/30/12
SALES OF SUPPLIES
15,309
20,000
17,000
COST OF SALES
11,929
16,500
13,000
GROSS MARGIN
3,380
3,500
4,000
203,400
PER CAPITA FEES
169,420
168,000
NEW CLUB FEES
0
0
0
INITIATION FEES
3,874
4,800
4,500
30,189
30,300
0
TRANSFERS FROM MEMORIAL FUND
TRANSFER FROM BETTERMENT FUND
0
12,000
12,000
206,863
218,600
223,900
EXPENSES
Convention - Hospitality
500
500
500
1,000
1,000
Executive travel & visitation
33,655
35,000
43,500 ***
GyroScope
20,758
16,368
26,000
Liability insurance & bonds
11,949
10,500
12,000
Office & other
16,940
17,000
17,000
4,231
7,000
5,000
0
0
1,369
500
1,300
935
920
950
Secretary's expense
8,209
9,500
Real estate taxes
2,461
2,350
2,500
Honorarium Fund
3,000
3,000
1,500
Staff costs
69,102
63,000
74,000
Telephone
2,247
1,700
2,000
Utilities
2,011
1,800
2,000
Extraordinary computer expense
1,838
2,000
2,000
Extraordinary building expense
1,000
1,000
1,000
Database related expense
1,872
5,000
3,500
District officer training expense
1,399
4,500
3,600
186,449
182,638
210,350
20,414
35,962
13,550
Depreciation
Postage
Loss (gain) on currencies
Presentation & awards
Professional fees
NET INCOME (LOSS)
484
2,489
OPENING EQUITY
11,000 ***
20,414
33,964
CAPITAL EXPENDITURE (SEWER SYSTEM)
22,000 ***
GENERAL FUND EQUITY, CLOSING
11,964
*** The following adjustments were made to the Budget approved at the Convention General Meeting on 7/9/11:
Executive travel & visitation
Increased from $36,000 to $43,500 to provide for increased Halifax expense.
Secretary's expense
Increased from $8,000 to $11,000 to provide for the Interim and increased Halifax expense.
Sewer System
Estimated cost was increased $3,700 ($24,300 to $28,000 less $6,000 deposit) to
provide for additional cost.
-9-
From the desk of the Editor ...
Significant changes from Halifax Convention ...
Many of you were aware that the Board of Governors at the Interim Meeting in Savannah last January passed a
number of changes that would have considerably altered the face of Gyro. Since there were both by-law and
constitutional changes, these changes required affirmation at the convention in Halifax at the Annual General Meeting.
To review, in summary they were:
?
?
?
?
?
?
?
1. to change the title of Secretary-Treasurer to Executive Director. Passed 105-0.
2. to approve a new position of Database Administrator. Passed 105-0.
3. to eliminate the position of International 3rd VP. Passed 105-0.
4. to eliminate the position of International Immed. Past President. Passed 105-0.
5. to eliminate the International Interim meeting for two years. Passed 54-48.
6. a proposed per capita dues increase of $10. Defeated 70-35.
Item one was simply to make Gyro appear more business-like. Item two was to recognize the ongoing need to have a
skilled individual available to make additions/corrections/improvements to the new database. Items three and four were
aimed at saving some costs by reducing visitations. Item five was a cost-savings measure assuming saving dollars was
more important than face-to-face contact. Item six was proposed as an alternative to fund continued operations rather
than to continue to cut visitations and potential training.
In Halifax, it was obvious that in the six months following Savannah, the Governors and district officers had the
opportunity and time to discuss the many elements contained in the changes. They canvassed their district clubs for
direction and opinions then came to Halifax prepared to have open debate on the issues. That debate in the BOG meeting
concluded that upon reflection, visitations and face-to-face communications between executives and clubs/members was
of the utmost importance to the well-being of Gyro. Thus the continuance of the officer structure was deemed more
valuable than saving minor costs. Similarly the Interim meeting was a major part of that communication and training.
Finally, there had not been per capita increase in seven years and it was perhaps time to recognize that costs and inflation
have escalated. Thus each item was revisited, the results as follows:
1. change S/T title to Executive Director. Defeated 105-0. Title change not considered imperative.
2. approve Database Administrator and honorarium of $250/month. Confirmed 105-0.
3. & 4. eliminate 3rd VP and IPIP. Defeated 72-33 and 68-37 respectively.
5. eliminate the International Interims. Defeated 68-37.
6. a new motion to add a $10 dues increase was approved by 70-35.
The Database Administrator position (constitutional change) was approved at the Annual General Meeting. Since all
other previous changes were negated, no further delegate vote was required. A location for the reinstated Interim Meeting
was to be determined as soon as possible and publicized in this issue of the GyroScope.
Representatives from the Cincinnati Club – sponsoring next-year’s Centennial Convention – were in attendance with
a rousing promotion offering many planned activities. Plan on it. … 100-year celebrations only come once!
GYRO CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
100 YEARS OF GYRO FRIENDSHIP ~ CINCINNATI ~ SUMMER 2012
-10-
District VIII
Convention Report
from
Wallace, Idaho
- submitted by Larry Duba
Wallace, Idaho is known as the Silver Capital of the
World, and Dr. Dick Vester is the current Mayor. He is,
also, a member of the Wallace Gyro Club which hosted the
District VIII Convention during June 16-19, 2011.
The activities started on Wednesday, June 15th for some
of the local Gyros, since the radio station KWAL provides
time to let the Gyros promote Gyro Days, the BBQ, sell
tickets and have a lot of fun doing it.
Registration was organized by Dean Cooper and his
wife Jill on Thursday at the Elks Club. The Welcome
night was held at the Elks Club, and after dinner, the
Gyros and Gyrettes went to a local 1313 Saloon. A band
made up of drummers and trumpeters led the revelers out
of the bar and down the street to the next bar where people
were given miners hats equipped with lights. People were
led much like the Pied Piper did in leading the children out
of town. The reward was better, since they were led to
seven different bars.
En route they passed
by a Bordello.
Several Gyros were
seen standing in line
at the door with cash
in their hands – not
knowing that the
Bordello was closed
in 1988.
On Friday afternoon, a Bocce Ball tournament was held
on the Northern Pacific RR Depot lawn. The tournament
was won by Marty and Shirley Larson of the Edmonton
Club. A set of bleachers and refreshments were provided
for the participants as well as the observers.
A carnival was set up in the street, and there were many
antique and other stores to visit and shop in.
On Friday evening, the installation of officers was
conducted at the Elks Club (without antlers). The officers
were introduced as a boxer might be brought into an arena
(smoke, lights, and a strong announcement of the party).
Larry Duba, 2nd VP, was the Executive Council rep who
would install the officers. Prior to installing the officers,
Larry presented information about the history of the
-11-
district, recognized various Gyro Award recipients and
gave some information about the background of the district
officers and wives. Recognition was given to the three
Past International Presidents that were present and
members of clubs in District VIII as follows: Keith
Lowings (Lethbridge Club) served in 1987-88; Marty
Larson (Edmonton Club) served in 1992-93; and Ian Greig
(Stampede City Club) served in 1997-98.
Larry installed Don Boyle (Norma) from the Cranbrook
Club as Immediate Past District Governor, Ken Baker
(Ann) from the Calgary Club as District Governor, Dale
Woodroffe (Mary Ann) from the Sherwood Park Club, as
1st Lt. Governor, and Jim Malott (Rita) from the Sherwood
Park Club as 2nd Lt. Governor. Jim Barr
(Renate) from the Calgary Club
had another obligation, so he
will be installed at a later date.
The golf tournament was
held on Saturday at the
Shoshone Golf Course. It was
reported that the golfers had
fun, although the course was a
bit wet from the late spring
rains.
A major fund raiser for
student scholarship money is
the Lead Creek Derby. Tickets
are sold with a time on them which an estimate of how
long a large ball will take to flow down about 10 miles of
the creek. On Saturday,
the ball was dropped
from the Last Chance
Bridge at Mullan at
noon, and it took just
over three hours to
reach town, since it got
hung up a few times on
tree limbs. The people would stop several times along the
creek to watch for the ball to float by. While waiting they
were fed hamburgers and refreshments from the back of a
flat bed trailer. People really enjoyed the time together
and the excitement every time the ball would pass by.
Saturday evening we returned to the Elks Club for a BBQ
dinner. Various awards were given to participants of the
many activities.
On Sunday morning, we were treated to a great farewell
breakfast before departing to other destinations.
Congratulations to the members of the Wallace Gyro
Club for hosting very successful District Convention. The
four days included a lot of Gyro fun, fun, and more fun!
-12-
Edmonton’s 90th Anniversary
- excerpted from the 90th year edition of the Edmonton Gyrolog as submitted by Editor Fred Schulte
The formation of a GYRO Club in Edmonton was first talked about by Reg Henry and Harry Fuller in the early months
of 1921. An organizational meeting was held at the Hudson's Bay building in April 1921. At this meeting, the plan and
idea of a Gyro Club was fully discussed and the formation of the Gyro Club of Edmonton was decided upon. Twenty-three
gentlemen were in attendance.
Chartering of the new club with 32 members took place on Friday, July 29th at the Hotel MacDonald. Vancouver Club
President, Rowe Holland, was the Installing Officer. Reg Henry was installed as President, Bert Huff as Vice-President,
Harry Fuller as Secretary and Stu Johnstone as Treasurer. The celebration was a gala affair complete with a gourmet meal
and orchestra. Edmonton Mayor J.J. Duggan delivered the welcome address. Representatives from the local Rotary and
Kiwanis clubs were present to wish the young Gyro organization long life and prosperity. A toast to these "sister" clubs
was delivered by charter member Nelles Buchanan. The gavel, presented by Rowe Holland, was made of material from
the old Hudson's Bay steamer 'Beaver', the first ship to sail into Burrard Inlet of present day Vancouver and one of the first
steamers on the Pacific Coast.
So, who were these 32 men who attended the Charter Meeting of the Gyro Club of Edmonton on July 29th, 1921?
They were young men under the age of 35 who represented many of the business professions operating in Edmonton.
The Edmonton Club continued to increase its membership. At the end of 1921, they had 46 members; 1921-22, 61; 192223, 64; 1923-24, 82 and by 1928-29, they reached 95 members. Membership dwindled in the 1930s but rebounded again
in the 1940s. In the past 90 years, hundreds and hundreds of men have joined the Gyro Club of Edmonton. Some stayed
for a short time and others found long-term friendship and a need to stay connected with a remarkable group of likeminded individuals. These men came from all walks of life, checked their egos at the door and participated in countless
meetings and events, all the while enduring good-natured ribbing as described by Stanley Noel Smith on another page in
this edition.
The annual Club membership fee was set at $7.50. The age limit for club members
was set at 35, but on March 13, 1924, that was increased to 40. At this stage of development, the Club did not want two or more members from the same type of business. The
intent apparently was to extend the membership of Gyro to every walk of life.
One of the first things to come before the club was the “Objective”. On August 9th,
1921 only 11 days after receiving their charter, it was decided to provide “Playgrounds
for the Children”. Though they were established primarily as a friendship club, the
members thought they would like to become involved in Edmonton's growth. The club
capitalized on the popular notion that society should focus more on children. The motto
September 8, 1925
of Gyro was "Power, Poise and Purpose" which were high ideals, but when translated by
the Edmonton Club into "Playgrounds for the Children", it was a realistic one. The Great War had increased the awareness
of Canadians about their health since many had to be rejected for military service for health reasons. Consequently, the
community accepted this initiative with delight and gratitude.
After the Club relinquished their role in the building of Gyro Playgrounds, efforts were turned to the provision of
scholarships for Grade Nine boys and support was also provided to students in arts, drama and music. The Club sponsored
Marek Jablonski for three years at the Julliard School of Music in New York City as concert pianist. Prior to 1980, the
Gyros continued to raise funds through casinos and bingos. In 1980, Harry and Ruby Mills started the Hockey Pool to
raise money to help those in need. For the following 12 years, Harry and Ruby produced and sold about 200 tickets per
year and raised $26,000 which the Club used to create a Benevolence Fund. In 1992, Al and Bette McClure took over the
operation of the Hockey Pool with assistance from Dave Duchak, Bob Lippe and Marty Larson. By the end of the 2003-04
hockey season, $50,000 had been raised. The Hockey Pool continues to operate today under the leadership of Dick
Nichols.
The GYROLOG is also approaching a significant milestone in September 2011 when it will celebrate its 88th year of
publication. The editors have changed, from Jack Oliver our founder, to many others including Gord Rennie, Allan
Douglas, Peter Fairbridge and your present Editor, Fred Schulte, but its purpose has not. The Club bulletin continues to
keep its members informed on upcoming important special events, meetings, summary information on guest speakers,
posting of new member applicants, notice of birthdays and anniversaries and a bit of humour from time to time.
-13-
A Letter on Membership from 1st VP Larry Duba:
interested if invited to a short evening seminar on
what Gyro is all about. For example, I know two
people who live in McMinnville, Oregon, who
might be interested.
•
If you know of a key person who would be
willing to help in the process of forming a new
club, please contact the person and get permission
for you to give me his contact information.
•
Let me know if there is a group of people
who now socialize amongst themselves (old
classmates, bridge players, etc.). This small group
could become the core of a new Gyro club, and
they would then be exposed to greater
opportunities to travel to locations where they
would then make new friends and reunite with
older friends.
On January 24, 1912, our Fraternity of Friendship
founders, Ed Kagy, Paul Schwan, and Gus Handerson
established Gyro based on their solid mutual
friendships. We members have benefited greatly as a
result of their organization and planning. We all had a
friend invite us to join them at a club meeting and/or
activity. In my case, it took two years before I
accepted the invitation, due in large part to other work
and club commitments. I am very happy that Jack
Selvian kept asking, and his wife Vi kept telling us
about all the fun they had attending the conventions
that were held in both the United States and Canada.
As a result, Alice and I have enjoyed the travel and
especially the opportunity to make new friends in our
two great nations. Now, I have the honor as serving as
an international officer of our great fraternity.
So, am I satisfied to such an extent that I can just
attend meetings and reap the benefits of the fraternity
that so many others worked to expand? The answer is
an absolute NO! My Mother and Dad taught me as a
youngster to share. As a result, I believe in sharing
with family and friends those things that can benefit
them as well. This is why, at one point, I had brought
in about 30% of our Fresno Club members, and at least
three of them have been able to reap the benefits of
traveling and making new friends. The others, due to
other conflicts have been still enjoying the activities
and new friends they met in the club.
After receiving the above information, I will
coordinate with others to find a few couples who could
attend a short evening dinner presentation to find out
what Gyro is all about. We would apply to the
Betterment Fund to help with the expenses for this
gathering, so that volunteer coordinators will not have
to foot the bill for the event.
The sooner you think seriously about your family
and friends and forward the contact information to me,
the sooner we can start taking action to Share the fun
with a Friend!
We all know that we need to inject new blood into
I have been given the extra assignment of working
on the internal and external expansion of Gyro. I was
doing this before, without an official assignment. I
would ask acquaintances and friends to come to a
meeting and/or a club activity. Now, I am to help on a
national scale with this worthy mission. So, I am
requesting your assistance in this endeavor.
As you are aware, for internal expansion we each
need to “ask a friend to join Gyro.” For external
expansion, we need to form new clubs. You can help
in this second task by doing the following:
•
Let me know if a former club member
moved to an area without a club. Some of these
friends may by International Associate members
and others may have just dropped out. Please
give me their contact information.
•
Let me know if you have a friend or relative
in an area without a club who might become
the organization, since we need to make sure that not
only are new friendships being made, but that we have
additional members who can be developed to take
leadership roles in our clubs, districts, and at the
international level. Remember, we get out of an
organization what we put into it.
Our organization has some very strong clubs which
always reach their membership cap, and some have
waiting lists of those who wish to join Gyro. Perhaps
another club could be established nearby or in the same
city. Why should potential members have to wait for
extended periods of time to reap the benefits that we
now enjoy? If you were on that list, what would your
preference be?
Well, this letter is a bit longer than intended; but
you get the idea, “Invite a friend to Gyro”, and let me
know who might be a potential member at a location
without a club. Thanks for your help in advance.
“ Invite a Friend to Gyro “
-14-
“ Keeping the Fun in Gyro! “
photos by
Patty Anderson,
Naples
Halifax International Convention & District VI Report
-15-
International Convention
& District VI Report
- submitted by
Harold Bernard, IPIP
?
The Marriott Harbourfront Hotel in Halifax, Nova
Scotia was the site of the Gyro International and District VI
Convention on July 4 -10, 2011. All seven District VI Clubs
were the Convention Hosts. A committee with
representatives from all the clubs under chair PDG John
O'Regan and registrar PDG Jim Sweet are to be thanked
and congratulated for planning and orchestrating a
financially successful convention.
?
The proceeds from the silent auction allowed the
committee to provide some of the amenities that would not
have otherwise been available. Thanks to all who were
successful bidders and thanks to all those who provided
auction items. The Convention was attended by 237 Gyros
and Gyrettes and by 26 one-event attendees.
The Convention was officially opened on Monday, July
4th by the raising of the Gyro Flag on the flagstaff in the
Halifax Regional Municipality Parade Square. This is a
tradition which began at the 2007 Convention in Niagara
Falls.
The Executive Council meeting held discussions on the
items on its agenda on Tuesday, July 5th.
Secretary/Treasurer Emil Baijot provided an historical
review from his reading of past minutes at HQ and his
finding that the issues the Gyro organization is confronting
in these times are not unlike the issues faced in previous
years. Dues and membership have always been problematic
discussion topics.
?
Various budget scenarios were discussed
?
The sewer connection at HQ is still a work in
?
progress.
?
The historical information that was available to
?
International and District officers is no longer
?
received in hard-copy format. We must ensure
?
that it is posted on the website for historical
?
record purposes and as information for all our
?
members.
?
The Centennial issue of the GyroScope is
?
progressing well under the chairmanship of PIP
?
Arnie Crass and an outstanding committee. The
?
financial costs will be managed through the
?
GyroScope budget.
?
Centennial Glasses to commemorate Gyro's 100
?
years will be available to the attendees of the
?
Cincinnati Convention.
?
To ensure district officers pass along the Leadership
?
development information and skills they receive at
?
International Conventions and Interims will require
?
better follow-up by the assigned EC officer.
The Past District Governors meeting, chaired by PDG
Roger Lindley, was held on Tuesday. Its recommendations
were presented to the BOG for consideration.
1. The Past District Governors recommend that Interim
Meetings be reinstated by the Board of Governors for 2012
and 2013. Some of the reasons are:
?
Leadership Development sessions for Governors
and Lieutenant Governors will suffer without face to
face meetings.
?
Limited friendship bonding of District Officers and
Executive Council with only one meeting a year, thus
weakening our organization.
?
A stronger organization results with face to face
meetings and information exchanges.
2. The Past District Governors recommend that the Board
of Governors provide for a dues increase of $10.00 per
capita. Some reasons for the increase are:
?
A dues increase is needed to strengthen the
organization by allowing for more Executive Council
visits to Districts and to eliminate a drain on our assets
that have resulted from moving money from other
funds for operating expenses.
3. The Past District Governors recommend that the Board
of Governors reverse the decision made at the Savannah
Interim meeting, to reduce the Executive Council from six
members to four members by eliminating the Immediate
Past International President and the Third International Vice
President. Some reasons for the recommendation are:
?
A reduction to four members overloads the officers
with fewer people to visit clubs and districts and to
understand the attitude of the same.
?
Reduction reduces working knowledge of the
Executive Council with less training time as the
officer moves forward to becoming President.
?
Since the Executive Council is a marketing group
to all of the clubs and districts, we would lose one
third of the group, thereby further reducing this
important function
Gyrettes Coffee Parties:
Trudy Bernard was the hostess for the Gyrettes
International coffee party on Thursday morning. This is an
opportunity for the Gyrettes to become better acquainted
and to discuss interesting topics. It is, also an opportunity
for the Gyrettes to meet the members of the Executive
Council for the exchange of information and ideas.
Pat MacKinnon hosted the Gyrettes District VI coffee
party on Friday morning. A very informative presentation on
the history of Pier 21 was given by Carrie-Ann Smith, Pier
21 Research Manager.
-16-
Halifax International Convention & District VI Report
Board of Governors Meeting -- heard the reports of the
Executive Council members, the Secretary-Treasurer, the
Executive Council meeting, the Past District Governors
meeting, the Betterment Fund Committee, the Future of
Gyro Committee, the 100-Year Centennial Magazine
Committee, and the District Governors reports.
A special report was presented by Secretary-Treasurer
Emil Baijot on Strategic /Action Plan and Analysis in a
PowerPoint slide show with appropriate explanation.
Old Business –
?
Database status: PIP Ab Nightingale highlighted the
program – reviewing the levels of availability -- and
indicated that the system was now 100% functional.
?
Centennial Status: IPIP Ken Klinck noted that the
Cincinnati chairman was here to promote the event. 350
tickets have been sold to date re: special entertainment
funding. Hopefully now that we are past Halifax, many
more could be sold. The money collected so far would
cover the costs of the prizes. Any more sales would benefit
the convention.
?
Administration – S/T described the staff changes at the
Gyro Headquarters. As of July 1, Sheila Kucera was now
the Office Manager, and Jan Fiederer the Membership
Secretary. Pat Swanson has become Manager Emeritus.
?
Executive Council Cost Savings -- as noted the previous
year the EC determined it would save $10,000 by reducing
visitations. This has been accomplished, although the face
to face communication with districts and clubs is
diminished.
Board of Governors Actions taken at the Interim meeting
in Savannah -- see page 3 this issue.
New Business -?
With the reinstatement of International Interim
meetings, the EC would determine future leadership
development sessions.
?
The Centennial Magazine will be of high quality, very
informative of the past 100 years, and will be in color. The
cost will be financed by replacing one regular printed issue,
and probably eliminating another printed issue the
following year.
?
Budget Review: the S/T indicated that he would prepare
a revised budget with copies available at the AGM on
Saturday.
?
Archive Reduction: S/T Emil indicated that Pat
Swanson would devote some time, as long as she is
available, to make a dent in reducing the archives.
Awards – The S/T noted that six Merit Awards were
approved and as per usual, no further disclosure is allowed
until they are presented. Other administrative awards are
not disclosed until the General Meeting where they will be
presented, and the significant individual awards will be
presented at the banquet.
Future Meetings -?
2012 Centennial Convention June 12-17- Chairman Rick
Wiggers presented a spirited slide show extolling the
Cincinnati area and the virtues of Porkopolis complete with
music and animations. The location will be the Netherland
Hilton Hotel at $131 per night with a convention
registration of $250.
?
2012 Interim – Jim Hyland indicated he had cut off
negotiations after the Savannah decisions. Details will be
available in the Fall GyroScope and on the website as soon
as possible.
?
2013 Convention – Ft. Lauderdale will host a cruise. The
destination will either be the western or eastern Caribbean.
The ship will be the Oasis of the Seas, relatively new and
HUGE! Still in the planning stage, details will be
forthcoming by the next meeting.
Comments for the Good of the Order -Convention Chairman John O'Regan officially welcomed
everyone to Halifax and commented on issues relating to the
convention.
On Thursday morning 60 attendees participated in the
Leadership Development Session. A summary of the ideas
will be posted on the Gyro website. A power-point
presentation on the structure of our organization completed
the session.
Due to enthusiastic responses by Convention delegates,
the Art Tour offered in the registration package was
repeated three times, so that 75 of the 120 of the delegates
who showed interest in art in the city could be
accommodated.
Accompanied by volunteers from the New Glasgow Gyro
Club, the tour led to the Anna Leonowens Galleries in the
Granville Mall, offering three separate student shows by
students who attend the Nova Scotia College of Art and
Design University. Next was a tour of Page and Strange
Gallery. The tours culminated at the Art Gallery of Nova
Scotia. Many delegates, particularly local Gyro friends also
attended the opening of the exhibition 'Friendship' of Dawn
MacNutt's sculpture at the Argyle Gallery.
Welcome Party – On Thursday evening the ballroom was
transformed into a Beach Party venue by the Windsor Club.
The mussels were plentiful, the lobsters were tasty and the
steaks were rare. The appearance of Jimbo the lobster and
his entourage of crustaceans at the “Ocean Commotion at
the Lobster Trap” put everyone in the party mood. The
Howard Strickland Band provided a variety of dance music.
The District VI Business meeting chaired by Governor
Bill MacKinnon was held on Friday morning. The agenda
included reports from the Secretary-Treasurer, the Governor
and the Club Presidents; the nomination of the District
Officers for 2011-2012 and discussion on the need for an
-17-
Halifax International Convention & District VI Report
increase in District dues.
At the Luncheon on Friday, International 3rd Vice
President Mike McNally installed the following District VI
Officers for 2011-2012: Governor Bill MacKinnon,
Lieutenant Governor Keith AuCoin, Secretary-Treasurer
Allan MacDonald and IPDG Jim White.
The Gyro Award of Merit was presented to New
Glasgow Gyro Ross MacIntosh.
Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo -- The theme of
this year's show was Salute to Heroes. The Tattoo
acknowledged Canadian Forces, RCMP, firefighters, police
services who take risks for the safety and protection of this
country. It was an experience that will remain as one of the
highlights of the convention.
- photo by Emil Baijot
presentation with comments from his research of 94 years
of International meeting minutes that supported the
conclusions reached in the Plan analysis.
?
President Harold then commented that his observations
over his time in Gyro indicated that the district officers
needed more time on the job. It takes time to learn the ropes
and then become effective leaders
Financial Review Report -- PDG Bob Barnaby's report
indicated that everything was basically correct and proper
and he was comfortable with the budget.
Awards were presented at the meeting:
?
Merit Awards -- six approved, announced only to the
respective Governors.
?
Club Expansion Awards -Large Clubs–Syracuse with
Medium Clubs– Painesville
Small Clubs – Youngstown
?
Club Bulletin Awards -Large Clubs – Al Gordon, Sherwood Pk
Medium Clubs – Derek Hay, Winnipeg
Small Clubs – Bob Capellini, Tampa
Governor Bulletin Award Governor Don Boyle, District VIII
Best Website Award - PDG Al Clark,
Stampede City
The following International Awards were
presented at the banquet –
Annual General Meeting -Following the roll call and District Reports, President
Harold expressed his appreciation to District VI for the
fantastic convention. A couple of key highlight items to
relate: the excellent Strategic/Action Plan/Analysis
presented by the S/T would be, at the request of the BOG,
posted on the website, and sent in PowerPoint format to
district officers, club officers and others. All Governors
would also receive a DVD copy to use when visiting clubs.
Harold continued, indicating changes that occurred during
the BOG meeting.
The S/T outlined a new budget that covers the changes
made in the BOG meeting with the caveat that minor
changes would be introduced as things were finalized. The
new budget reinstated the Interim costs and added in the
$10 dues increase.
President Harold then asked the S/T to present the
Strategic Plan presentation. The S/T concluded his
The Norman L. “Bud” Mitchell, Gyro
of the Year Award -PDG John O'Regan, Riverview
PDG Jim Sweet, New Glasgow
Hubbell Award -- PDG Roger Lindley,
Blacklake
George France Award –
PDG Jim White, Windsor.
Edward “Ed” Steinbacher Lifetime Achievement Award
PIP Emil Baijot, Jim France and PIP Ab Nightingale
Gyro Honor Key -- PIP Ken Klinck
Merit Award -- was presented to Garth Williams, Truro.
Nominations –
PDG Steve Anderson and IPIP Harold Bernard were
elected to serve as Directors of the Betterment Fund.
PIP Denis Moffatt was elected to serve on the Board of
Trustees for a 3 year term.
International Officers were nominated and elected as
follows:
President – Jim Hyland (Youngstown)
1st Vice President – Larry Duba (Fresno)
2nd Vice President – Mike McNally (Buffalo)
3rd Vice President – Lonnie Turner (GaspariIa)
Immediate Past President – Harold Bernard (Truro)
-18-
Halifax International Convention & District VI Report
President's Ball and the Installation of International
Officers -The President's Ball was held on Saturday evening. The
PIPs, Gyrettes, and Executive Council Members were
piped into the Ballroom by Piper Edward Coleman from
Kentville. Master of Ceremonies for the evening was IPIP
Ken Klinck.
The Installation of the 2011-2012 Executive Council
members was performed by IPIP Ken Klinck.
New International 3rd Vice President Lonnie Turner
made a very short speech on how pleased he and his
Gyrette Betty Lou were to have this opportunity to serve
our wonderful organization.
Out-going President Harold Bernard thanked the
Convention Hosts for organizing a great convention; and he
invited everyone to attend the 2012 Centennial Convention
in Cincinnati.
As tradition requires, the Sommelier's Cup was passed to
the new 3rd Vice President.
New President Jim Hyland requested that we all work in
harmony in our goal of increasing our membership.
It should also be mentioned that as is the custom there
were:
Dine Arounds -On Tuesday and Wednesday evenings the members of
the Executive Council arranged to dine with the current
District Executives. It is an arrangement that allows both
the Executive Council member and his Gyrette and the
District Officers and their Gyrettes to become better
acquainted.
And all the attendees owe a great deal of thanks for the
Hospitality Room -The Hospitality Room is the meeting place where longtime friendships are renewed and first-time friendships are
kindled. In this relaxing atmosphere the 3rd International
VP and his Gyrette provide refreshments to foster the free
exchange of ideas and serious discussions.
Thanks 3rd VP Mike and Cynthia McNally for providing
a variety of refreshments and super service.
-19-
Halifax International Convention & District VI Report
- photos by Larry Duba
-20-
Camosun Summer Picnic
The Camosun Gyro Club held its annual summer picnic on Sunday, July
31st at the Shawnigan Lake, BC summer home of Barry Phillips. Folks
began arriving around 1:00 PM to enjoy the scenery, friendship and
bucolic atmosphere.
Gyros Chris Stewart and Don Boult conducted the traditional bocce ball
tournament throughout the afternoon which always provides a good
many chuckles. This year Maury Van Vliet took home the trophy (yes,
in fact, we have a fine trophy!) by defeating ladies winner, Pam Adams.
Barry's family has taken on this project for several years and we always
enjoy it immensely. They all pitch in and prepare a great spread of food
from hot hors d'oeuvres to barbequed chicken, and burgers with all the
trimmings and tasty pastries for dessert.
Da Winnah!
The Phillips kids lend a hand carrying guests' coolers and chairs down
the hill from the road and back up again, and pass the snackies around.
It's a family effort!
Sea Doos, and ski boats put on a great side show on the sheltered
channel in front of the Phillips estate. Swimmers swim off the floating
platform. Sun worshippers gather on one of several decks; others stick
to the shady areas of the front yard and the sidelines of the bocce game
where they dispense generous volumes of gently lubricated advice.
Food comes on around 4:00 PM and by 5:30 most folks are on their way
home.
- submitted by Stew Murray
Some of the Boys
The Phillips Team!
Meal Time!
Bryan Appleton
Barrie, Jack B., Les
-21-
Van Vliets
Neta & Nettie
o
r
y
G
n
o
r
k
A
60th
ANNIVERSARY PARTY
and
INSTALLATION DINNER
63 Gyros and Gyrettes enjoyed each other's company as they came together
to celebrate 60 years of fun and friendship with the Akron Club. The evening
festivities included the Installation of Club Officers and new members. The
evening started with cocktails and appetizers, handshakes and hugs as we
welcomed home many of our returning snow-birds. Ron Bowman and Karen
Connell came all the way from their home in Florida to join in the celebration.
Our special Gyrettes, Carol Crain and Lola Vincent joined us for the
celebration. Terri Darcy became ill at the last moment and was unable to
attend. We hope she recovers quickly. It's always good to see such a great
turnout for this annual event that helps us kick off the summer party schedule.
Jim Hyland 1st VP Gyro International was the installing officer. Jim and
his wife Eileen are from Youngstown. Also on hand were our District
Governor, Chris Snyder and Linda: Chris was called on to install our new
members, and 2nd Lt. Governor Tom Meister and Sue, both couples are from
Canton. Additionally, Walt Boron and Sally Roush from Canton, Bill and Kim
Strubbe and Past District I Governor Dick Ward from Cincinnati, and Geoff
Pearce and Elaine Mettee from Youngstown were our special guests.
The slate of officers installed included some familiar names as both Pat
Rynd President and Larry Larson S/T agreed to another year of service. Al
Wangenheim joined the ranks and was installed as our Vice President. He's
now just one step away from the gavel. Additionally, we had the pleasure to
install two of our three new members, Jack Keogh and his wife Nancy,
sponsored by Job and Cathie Lippincott and Ted Curtis and his wife Carol,
sponsored by George and Marilyn Stevens. Chuck Maggio and his wife
Suellen had a prior engagement. They were sponsored by Dan and Jane
Figliola. The Club offers special thanks to Bill and Ruth Hunt and the many
other party planners that helped to make this a very memorable evening.
----We're on to the next 60 years------
Governor Chris Snyder installs two of three new
members: Jack & Nancy Keogh and Ted & Carol Curtis
President Pat welcomes Gyros & Gyrettes
International 1st VP Jim Hyland & Eileen
District I Governor Chris Snyder & Linda
Anniversary Party Chairman
Bill Hunt & Ruth
Jim Hyland installs Pat Rynd as President; Al Wangerheim as Vice-President; and Larry Larson as Secretary/Teasurer
-22-
Installation of Directors
Joel Walker & Dan Figliola
Toast to the next 60 years by
Akron Gyro Matt Battista
-23-
-24-
pm
-25-
“Why I Joined Gyro”
- excerpted from the 90th year edition of the Edmonton Gyrolog as submitted by Editor Fred Schulte
In 1919 I had returned to civilian life
after three years in the Canadian Army,
two of them in action with the infantry
on the western front in France. I had
formed a Damon and Pythias
friendship with a group of men, none
of the survivors of that group lived in
or near my home city of Edmonton.
Family members had moved away.
Discharged while still under 20 years
of age, I sought friends among my
school pals, who to me, having lived
with mature men, seemed callow
youth. I failed to strike a rapport with
older business men, I was lonely.
a prospective member and that I had
been accepted.
I asked questions regarding what
obligations I would have to shoulder,
none of which seemed too arduous.
They explained that each club had
autonomy, being bound to the
International by the bonds of
friendship. I thought that surely
amongst this seemingly happy crowd I
could find a group of intimate friends
which could replace the ones I had lost.
I joined. My hopes of friendship for the
past sixty three years, has far surpassed
my fondest expectations.
gave the Macbeth grace from
Shakespeare: "Let good digestion wait
on appetite, and health on both, Amen".
After lunch the Padre strode across the
room, eyes ablaze. Grabbing my lapels
he admonished me with these words:
"Smith! Never let me hear you say that
grace again, its agnostic. There is no
mention of the Deity. It was not given
to the glory of the Lord, merely to the
glory of a little superficial knowledge
of Stanley Noel Smith." How true, I
have never repeated that grace.
The forming of an active enthusiastic
Gyrette adjunct turned the club into a
My introduction to Gyro in 1928 was
family social group. To most members
by the Padre, Rev. Capt. K.C. Macleod. friendship between families became the
As he had also been my Padre during
norm. Sons of Gyros have formed
training in the army, he knew all my
another club, carrying on the tradition
past history and brought laughter when from generation to generation,
relating some of my escapades. I soon hopefully on ad infinitum. Bereaved
found the camaraderie which I desired. widows remained Gyrettes,
The spirit of youth had been retained
membership in the group helping them
Two business associates invited me to a by the members, decorum existed when to pass through the period of grief and
necessary, ebullience of fun and
sorrow.
Gyro luncheon. I noted the friendly
friendship dominated meetings.
mood amongst the members, with
Members kidded one another
As one ages, business acquaintances
banter and kidding. During the
unmercifully. Thin skinned ones soon
drop away, friendly neighbours move,
introduction of new members no
learned to take buffets of wit and
contemporaries die. One may be able
mention of business affiliation was
humour, in good fun as they were
to enjoy all the amenities available in
mentioned, name badges just carried
intended.
Gyro; a group of younger men,
the members name. The meeting was
however, remain who are your friends
brief and the talk given by a founding
One ribbing I have never lived down
willing to assist you when necessary.
member dwelt on the principles of
GYRO-the promulgation of friendship was delivered to me by the Padre. His The twilight years may be enhanced by
amongst individuals, provinces, states absence noted, the President asked me continued membership in this growing
to say the blessing. As I arose the Padre group of friends. The present drive to
and nations. I was impressed. After a
stepped into the room, stood still with increase membership is commendable.
second invitation my hosts informed
me that they had presented my name as his head bowed, until I had finished. I. Mighty oaks from little acorns grow.
A few years later, having established a
small business, I was invited to service
club luncheons. Emphasis placed on
the fact that membership; in such
would benefit me in business. That
approach lacked appeal; I being young
and idealistic, considered I could hew
my own way to success.
Stanley Smith was Manager of the Sample Shoe Store on Jasper Avenue for many years and served as President of
the club in 1943-44. He wrote magnificent letters to his club and his friends, he contributed his ideas and his
beliefs to the "letters to the editor" pages of our local newspaper and he shared his world view openly and joyfully.
He passed away at the age of 97 on September 30, 1996.
GYRO CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION
100 YEARS OF GYRO FRIENDSHIP ~ CINCINNATI ~ SUMMER 2012
-26-
John Stordeur trys a Highland Dance
at the Pavilion of Scotland
Gyros and Gyrettes enjoyed the energetic performances
at the Pavilion of Brazil
President Derek Hay and friends enjoyed
the variety of food from Scotland
Winnipeg’s Summer Activities
- submitted by Gervin Greasley
Variety is the spice of life, it has been said. On that note the Winnipeg Gyros and Gyrettes enjoyed a new outing
this past summer.
A group of 20 Gyros and friends took a VIP bus tour to three of the annual Folkarama cultural and entertainment
pavilions that are open for two weeks each summer. This year there were 46 pavilions representing 41 countries.
Our members enjoyed the evening at Brazil, especially the energetic performance and the coconut prawns with
mango sauce. Our President Derek Hay felt at home at the pavilion of Scotland were we were offered continuous
entertainment, a sample of haggis (for the brave), and a variety of that country's favourite beverage. John Stordeur
was so moved by the evening that he actually got up to try a highland dance. At the Caribbean pavilion, we were
treated to an excellent evening of steel drum music and limbo dancing. This is an event that should be repeated
next summer.
Unfortunately, the high water levels of the Red River lasted well into August and we missed our annual Cruise
and Steak Fry. We had some casual golfing days during the summer, giving Bill Johnston a chance to strengthen
his knee and once again challenge for the Club tournament cup in the fall.
At the time of writing, plans were underway for an afternoon at the Manitoba Hand Gun Club, the Founders
Night, the President's Christmas Luncheon, and attendance at the District VII convention in Bloomington,
Minnesota.
Congratulations to Derek Hay, editor of our publication, for earning the International Division II Bulletin Award.
Port Colborne Gyro Club Booms
The Port Gyros, only a few years ago, were
counting the days when they would be forced to
give up their charter after 81 years .
A new member, John Tuck, who took over the
duties of recruiting New Members, and the club's
membership is back to where we were when we
started those many years ago. His initiative was to
invite prospective members to our Founders' Night
Gala. We invited Mike McNally, now 2nd
International Vice President, to be our guest
speaker and as we say, the rest is History. We
followed up subsequent years with small club
financial help both from International and District
III to add even more members.
The pictures that follow are from our June party
where we installed 3 more new members along
with our new executive with incoming District III
Governor Eric Miller doing the duties.
Pictures by Joe Parry
Submitted by PDG Wayne Kozar
Heather Connolly President of
Gyrettes gives her report to
the assembled group
Incoming Gov. Eric Miller installing
new member Rick Cole with his
wife Fran standing with him
-27-
SAY HELLO TO OUR NEW MEMBERS
MAY
Akron -
Chuck Maggio
Jack Keogh
Ted Curtis
Canton Dan Hahn
San Jose William Peacock
Port Colborne- Richard Cole
Ed Maund
Jim McIntyre
Vancouver WA- Dan Hawthorne
Doug Banks
Wallace Joe Bauer
Dennis Morley
Bill Scudder
Winnipeg Gary Howes
Bob Drew
Doug Clark
Jim Ashdown
Bob Dines
JULY
JUNE
Blacklake -
Robert Gosney
Albernis -
Giles Wheatley
Camosun -
John Juricic
Burnaby -
Hans Spyker
Edmonton -
James Fleming
Rochester -
Indianapolis -
John Gabbert
John Thoman
Stephen Waite
Terrence Davin
Syracuse -
Walter A. Short
San Jose -
Steven Gossett
Preston Brunst
Victoria -
Doug Fulton
Vancouver WA- James Speidel
Wallace -
John Jordan
Ed Vang
The new Port Gyro Exec. introduced
to their fellow Gyros and Gyrettes
Outgoing Pres . PDG Wayne Kozar
presenting !st Lt Gov. Eric Miller
with thank-you gift
New President John Tuck being pinned by wife Darlene
-28-
Richard Kraima, Mike Bowman, Carl Arnett, and
Dave Godfrey enjoy the 19th hole!
Bud and Muriel Whitwam take
it easy after a good round of golf
Ken Kilcullen and Dave Godfrey trying for ringers
– You can take the lifejacket off now, Dave!
Prince George enjoys the outdoors
- submitted by Dan Du Gas
Claire, Bill, Colleen, Michelle, and Diane relax before dinner
Claire telling stories while Bill Golley,
Sean and Ken Kilcullen listen intently
Prince George Gyros and Gyrettes spend a lot of time outdoors
enjoying the beauty of the Central Interior of British Columbia when
they can. This was evident at the annual golf tournament where around
25 chased a ball around Aspen Grove. Then they were treated to a
fabulous barbecued steak dinner with all the trimmings at Elaine and
Gerry Kole's estate. Even the mosquitoes let us enjoy the evening. Ian
Hewlett won the coveted “Green Jacket” for the men and it was Gerry
Bowman taking home the “Hot Pink” ladies jacket. They will have to
wear them until next year's winners are crowned. The evening was
capped off with prizes for most and lots of stories about those missed
putts and long drives.
Claire Bonner and Lloyd Clay
The golf tournament is traditionally the
showing off their lucky flies!
last couples event before we break for the
summer. There is, however, one more event
for the guys; The Annual Fishing Trip! This
year the men headed to Finger Lake Resort
– south of Vanderhoof B.C. The resort
offers great cabins, a boat launch and some
great fishing for pan size trout & Kokanee.
Many tried their hand at fly-fishing and
trolling and were very successful. There was
lots of that garlic and butter fried trout for
everyone to sample. Great meals, lots of stories and great friends
sharing a weekend in the outdoors as we all bid farewell for the summer.
We are looking forward to getting together again in September.
FAREWELL TO OUR DEPARTED MEMBERS
MAY
Eugene Chipman
William Pennefather
Ernest Siegel
Kentville
Fraser-Delta
Edmonton
JUNE
Donald Taylor
Robert Whareham
John C. Johnston
William Foppe
-29-
Tampa
Vancouver WA
Victoria
Indianapolis
JULY
Dr. Leslie West
Bill Brackett
Charles Perriguey
Donald Baron
Glenn Stratton
John Horne
William Douglas
Jack Long
Bob Marschke
Painesville
Yakima
Blacklake
Regina
Oryg
Windsor
Calgary
Bellevue
Madison
Everyone Was a Winner in Halifax !
-30-
photos by
Andy Kirk
Windsor
New Glasgow and the Halifax International Convention
- submitted by Mike Goble
Due to illness, this GyroScope club editor was not
able to attend the Halifax Convention until the Banquet on
Saturday. Of the about 250 at dinner, I had the good
fortune to sit next to a couple from Ohio, Dorothy and
Buzz Kalinowski. Dorothy enjoyed very much the
convention with the Lobster dinner and the glorious
International Tattoo. She had never before seen anything
like that, with the marching bands, kilts, singing, stunts,
acts and acrobats from many countries.
Every Gyro club in District VI arranged some part
of the Convention.
Gyros at the Convention
by Gyro Jim Sweet
Twenty two Gyros and Gyrettes from the New
Glasgow club attended all or part of the International
Convention. They were noticed all around the waterfront
boardwalk, and on the downtown streets, eating meals,
enjoying an aperitif before the meal, shopping and
sightseeing. What a wonderful venue for a Convention !
The Marriot Hotel was great, but the fact that it is located on
the waterfront was magnificent. The Royal Nova Scotia
International Tattoo was a highlight of the Convention.
We had good seats and enjoyed every minute of it.
Most participated in, and had a good time
with, the dine-arounds. It is great to spend a few
hours with Gyros from other clubs in a spirit of
friendship. Lasting friends were made as we dined
together. At the Thursday night get-acquainted
Lobster party, most of us wore some form of beach
wear. A lot of fun and Gyro frolic !! The
President's Banquet was well organized and a good
meal. And, of course, we all enjoyed each of the
many Hospitality events which were held
throughout the Convention. Good venue, good
food, good drinks, good friends – how much more
can one expect from a Convention. Our club
members had a great time !!
Art Tours
by Gyrette Dawn MacNutt
Gyrettes at the Convention
by Gyrette Inez Sweet
We were privileged to be entertained at two
coffee parties. The International President’s wife,
Trudy, entertained us at a lovely party with very nice
food and a lot of conversation with people from all over
North America.
We were also entertained by our District
Governor's wife, Pat MacKinnon, who presented us
with a beautiful lunch of homemade goodies made by
her daughter. Pat also had a guest speaker from the
Museum of Immigration. She gave us a very
entertaining talk on the history of immigration into
Canada (Pier 21 Halifax, which is now a World
Heritage site, was a main entrance for them for many
years in the seagoing days). She had many funny
stories of War Brides and the reunions that they
recently had.
During the Convention a Silent Auction was
taking place. Valerie O'Regan brought together
beautiful homemade crafts and art work donated by
women and men of District VI. This brought in about
$3,500.
There were 120 participants registering interest in the
Art Tours. We were only able to fit 75 into the directed tours.
The number who actually participated was reduced by
mandatory lunch meetings for some on the Thursday tour,
while windy wet weather diminished the numbers on Saturday.
The tours were of Galleries within walking distance, the Anna
Leonowens Gallery, and Page and Strange Gallery on Granville
Mall, and the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia. The Art Gallery of
Nova Scotia's chief curator Sarah Fillmore took two of our
groups on a guided tour of the Hurtuboise exhibition. The Art
Gallery also features Art Sales and Rental (where Marianne's
work is shown), The Gallery shop and fine Folk Art Collection,
as well as several smaller exhibitions. There was a lot of
positive feedback regarding the self-directed tours, which
several registrants used to advantage. The generous assistance
of Gyrettes Marianne Fraser, BJ Stevenson and Margaret-Ellen
Disney added an extra measure of hospitality to tour
participants. Most of the New Glaswegians, and some others,
attended the opening of the 'Friendship' exhibition at Argyle
Fine Art, a body of work themed to the Conference.
A few days after the Convention, our club worked hard
to put on a very successful Chicken BBQ and sold
2200 dinners. Our steak Stag was also well attended.
-31-
Fort Lauderdale Gold Coast Gyro
Fort Lauderdale / Palm Beaches Lobster Fest
It was a beautiful day in May at Heritage Park in Plantation, FL when the Fort Lauderdale Gold Coast Gyro Club
got together with the Gyro Club of the Palm Beaches for our annual Lobster Fest. Members from both Clubs enjoyed cornon-the-cob, clams, mussels, sausage, hot dogs, boiled onions, potatoes, and, of course, lobster. Those that chose not to have
lobster feasted on steak on the grill. A huge thank-you goes to our cooks of the day, Art and Jeanne Athanas and Ron and
Carol Leininger. Special thanks to Brian Paterno for obtaining our lobsters and to Tom Evans for a pick-up truck load of
tables and chairs for the event.
-32-
FABULOUS FLOCKING FLORIDA SNOWBIRDS
YOU CAN ALMOST SEE THEM IN FORMATION WINGING SOUTH, (DRIVING AN OVER PACKED SUV) FROM
NORTHERN CLIMES. THEY ARE CANADIANS AND AMERICANS. SUDDENLY THE GROCERY AND DEPARTMENT
STORE PARKING LOTS SEEM FULLER AND IT BECOMES DIFFICULT TO FIND A PARKING SPOT WITH SHADE. THE
DOUBLE AND TRIPLE INTERSECTION LEFT TURN LANES ARE SO FULL IT'S NOT UNLIKELY YOU WILL MISS THE
LIGHT. YES IT'S HIGH SEASON IN FLORIDA.
MANY OF THOSE FEATHERED MIGRATORY FUN-SEEKERS CAN BE IDENTIFIED AS GYRO FRIENDS. THEY CAN BE
A CRAFTY AND STEALTHY BREED, HIDING FROM SIGHT AS THEY SETTLE INTO THEIR SOUTHERN AVARIES,
NEVER MAKING THEIR PRESENCE KNOWN.
GYRO D-X SENDS YOU GREETINGS AND A WARM GYRO WELCOME TO OUR SUNSHINE STATE. WE WOULD LIKE
TO SEE YOU WHEN YOU ARE HERE AND INCLUDE YOU ALL IN OUR MEN’S LUNCHEONS, DINNERS AND COUPLES
EVENTS. AFTER ALL, “BIRDS OF A FEATHER,” WELL, YOU GET IT.
MANY TIMES, AND AS RECENTLY AS THE HALIFAX CONVENTION, WE HEAR SOME OF OUR FEMALE
SNOWBIRDS SAY, “I TOLD THE OLD COOT TO CALL A LOCAL CLUB, BUT HE JUST PUTS IT OFF!” WELL, THAT IS
JUST SOOO WRONG!
THE D-X CLUBS OF TAMPA, GASPARILLA, SARASOTA, NAPLES, FT. LAUDERDALE, AND WEST PALM BEACHES
EXTEND TO YOU AN INVITATION TO ANY AND ALL OF OUR EVENTS. WE WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM YA'LL
WHEN YOU ARE HERE WARMING AND FLUFFING YOUR FEATHERS. PLEASE CALL ANY OF THE CLUBS TO GET THE
SCHEDULE ON DINNER PARTIES, GOLF, AND OTHER OUTINGS. SEE www.gyro.ws FOR CONTACT INFORMATION.
ASIDE FROM ENJOYING SOME WARM GYRO FELLOWSHIP, YOU MAY BE A CONTRIBUTOR TO OUR ONGOING
MEMBERSHIP EFFORTS BY BRINGING ONE OR TWO GUEST COUPLES TO A GATHERING. THEY MIGHT BE
VACATIONING NEIGHBORS OR “FULLTIMERS” AND/OR NON-GYRO FRIENDS THAT YOU HAVE MADE WHILE
WEARING SHORTS AND EXPOSING THOSE TERRIBLE WHITE LEGS OF YOURS. I MET A NEW GYRO FRIEND WHILE
IN HALIFAX THAT LIVES 3 MILES FROM ME HERE IN CAPE CORAL. HOW GREAT IS THAT?
“SHARE GYRO WITH A FRIEND.” GIVE US A CALL, BUT ONLY IF YOU WANT TO HAVE A GOOD TIME.
.
STEVE ANDERSON … D-X MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR … 239-673-9159
Chicago Gyro Club ~ 97!
The Chicago Gyro Club joined Gyro International on November 3, 1914. It was the second Gyro club to be
installed. Since the first club has disbanded, the Chicago Club in the oldest club in Gyro.
Early on after its formation, the Chicago Club expanded and had a large membership. Over the years its
membership included many prominent local people. Unfortunately the Club has not been able to encourage younger
men to join, and as a result after 96 years, the Club had dwindled down to six members. This year, two more
members, unable to be active due to age, were forced to resign.
Ninety-seven years after the Club joined Gyro International, there only four members left, all in their
eighties. One has been a member for 40 years, the others for 25 years, and two are Past Governors of District II.
-33-
DISTRICT II CONVENTION
- submitted by Arnie Crass / photos by Bob Fulton
On August 19-21, the Milwaukee Gyro Club hosted the
District II Convention at the Milwaukee Athletic Club. The Friday
welcome was an outing at the Irish Fest on the shores of Lake
Michigan. Authentic Irish music, food, dancing and I even heard
some Irish libations were available.
The business of Gyro District II was tended to on Saturday
morning. It began with a Past District Governors working breakfast
and was followed by the General District II meeting.
The Past District Governors recommended that the District
establish an ongoing membership committee structure for the District
and that all Clubs establish the same ongoing membership structure.
They would be responsible tor leading activities to grow membership,
retain members and do exit interviews on any Gyros leaving the club.
This was later adopted by the General meeting and a District
Chairman was appointed. He will develop plans to get all of the
clubs up to speed on membership and get clubs to select an ongoing
Club Chairman. All believed it was critical that this effort in
membership growth begin immediately and that it was a top priority.
The General Meeting reviewed finances and found them in
good order. The District is financially sound and operating in the
black. A balanced budget was presented for 2011-2012 year and
adopted by the delegates.
Karen & PDG Dennis Carlsen, Jane &
PDG Lou Gral, Iris & PDG George Weiland
Kate & Milwaukee President Dave Huskin,
Marlys & Bernie Saylor, Joan Fulton
Governor Dan Holz gave a very complete report on the
actions from the International Convention in Halifax in July. All of
the items adopted by the Board of Governors at the Convention were
explained to the delegates and were accepted by the delegates,
including the International dues increase. Dan also highlighted the
upcoming International Convention in Cincinnati in 2012 and the
Caribbean Cruise in May of 2013.
Visiting International Officer, 3rd Vice President Lonnie
Turner addressed the meeting and participated in the discussions in
the meeting. He talked us about membership, conventions, and
giving feedback to International on any item of concern.
The Gyro Database was briefly discussed explaining the need
to have up-to-date accurate information from all of the Club
Administrators. It was also discussed how this can be used as a very
effective communication tool both by e-mail and mailings.
Lolita Baker, Governor Neil Baker, Lonnie Turner
That evening at the Governors Installation banquet 3rd Vice
President Lonnie Turner installed Dan Holz as Immediate Past
District Governor, Neil Baker as Governor and Dave Langfitt as 1st
Lt. Governor//Secretary/Treasurer of District II. A very good
Convention was brought to a close with some very fine barbershop
singing entertainment.
Thanks to the Milwaukee Club and Convention Chairman
Jim Friedl for a very fine convention.
Linda & IPDG Dan Holz, Lonnie Turner
-34-
MEMBERSHIP
W. Michael McNally, 2nd VP ~ Membership Chairman
Not wanting or desiring to re-create
the wheel on membership article
writing, yours truly went to the internet
for some inspiration, ideas, tid-bits,
snippets, plagerizeable pieces etc., etc.
on membership. I'll drop this challenge
on each of you reading this; Google
“membership articles”. How many
membership article links does Google
pick up in .08 seconds??? About
415,000,000! Are you kidding me
right now! Panic set in. How was I
going to research 415,000,000 links
and write a GyroScope membership
article before my 115th birthday? Emil
was going to be mad at me again for
missing yet another GyroScope
deadline!
After coming to grips with the fact
that I would miss the deadline no
matter what I did and that Emil doesn't
bite too hard if I grovel, I started
looking at some of the membership
links. It came as no great surprise and
certainly not a revelation that every
club on this planet is facing the exact
same membership issues and
challenges that Gyro faces. How to
attract 'em, how to keep 'em.
415,000,000 articles saying the same
thing! I think it might be a stretch to
compare us to the Cloud Services
Measurement Consortium, SoulWise
Women Entrepreneurs, The American
Society for Microbiology or the
Australian Conservation Association
but we all share the challenges of
maintaining and increasing our
membership numbers.
I had to come to grips with the next
fact that there seems to be a genuine
lack of original ideas, thoughts or
inspiration on the topic. All the articles
are the same. So how is Gyro
different? How are we going to
differentiate ourselves from all of the
organizations in the world? Okay US
& Canada for now… And how are we
going to deal with our
membership issues if no one else is
having much luck finding the magic
bullet?
I had to come to grips with the
next fact that there seems to be a
genuine lack of original ideas,
thoughts or inspiration on the topic.
All the articles are the same. So how
is Gyro different? How are we going
to differentiate ourselves from all of
the organizations in the world? Okay
US & Canada for now… And how
are we going to deal with our
membership issues if no one else is
having much luck finding the magic
bullet?
I might suggest that it is our
mission statement and value
proposition that we go to help
develop your own answer to the
membership riddle. What is your own
personal response to the question,
“What is Gyro”? We all answer it
differently and uniquely because the
club means something different to
each of us. It's who we are as an
organization that sets us apart from
all other clubs. I may be going out on
a limb here but we are unique. Each
District is unique, each club is
unique, each Gyro is unique. A oneof-a-kind organization. Sure there are
copies out there but we're the
original, we are the real deal. We are
an international fraternity of
friendship. A club of friends for
friendship sake. 100 years old next
year on June 24, 2012! Be proud of
that fact. Be proud to be a part of that
fact.
So where am I going with this?
Directly to the topic of how do we
bring in new members and how do
we retain members. Invite a Friend to
Gyro! Remember “Back to Basics”?
How about the “Man in the Mirror”?
Each one of us is responsible for
bringing in new members and for
helping retain our membership by
being a good Gyro. Each of us has to
have our own answer to “What is
Gyro”? The “You're Among Friends”
brochure on the Gyro web site in the
Membership Tools section is a great
resource to help you with your
“elevator speech” the next time you're
asked “What is Gyro”? The
Prospective Member Kit is also a
great resource. Need a kit? Ask your
club President for one. If he doesn't
have it, ask your District Governor
for one. If he doesn't have it ask me!
[email protected] will do the
trick! And please let me know that
your club President and District
Governor did have the kits. I'll make
sure that they get a few!
Remember – Invite a Friend to Gyro!
Here are some membership tidbits from a few of the 416,000,000
Google hits. Try to guess which club
or organization put these out there on
the internet to help with their
membership issues!
1. What Are You Doing to Build Membership???
2. Assess Your Group
3. Communication
4. Doing More For Our Youth
5. Effective Leaderhip in Membership Activities
6. Forum For Membership Development
7. Does Your Group Reflect Your Community?
8. Keeping Our Youth
9. The Opinions of Kids Count
10. It's Not Your Last Good Idea
11. How To Write A Marketing Plan
12. Put Members First
13. Membership Mission
14. Make The Most Of Your Time
15. Forming An Effective Partnership
16. A Planning Guide to Membership Growth Dev.
17. Provide A Product
18. Recruitment Hints
19. Retention Efforts
20. Ideas to Revitalize Your Group
21. How do I rate as a Scouter
22. Seven Laws of Membership Satisfaction
23. Membership Strategy One
24. Membership Strategy Two
25. A Recipe for Success
26. Tips for Involving Youth in Scouting
27. Targeting Your Membership
28. Membership Committee Terms of Reference
29. Membership Development and Retention
- continued next page -
-35-
MEMBERSHIP
MEMBERSHIP
Recruiting Wheel
An Excellent Tool for Recommending New
Members
Concept: Some people are not comfortable
asking others to consider becoming a club
member, even if they wholeheartedly believe in
the benefits of membership and want to share
the experience with others. By using a
prospecting list, all club members can
participate in generating leads, but the actual
recruiting can be done by individuals who truly
enjoy asking others to become members. An
effective method for creating a list of potential
members is the Prospecting and Recruiting
Wheel.
Steps to Success:
1) Create Lists: At a regular club meeting,
distribute prospecting and recruiting wheels
and/or prospecting lists to each member (see
examples). For each category on the wheel,
have an experienced member ask the group
“Who is the one?” Example: Who is the one
relative in your family you feel would like to
make a contribution to improve the community?
Give club members a brief time to think about
their choices and fill out the prospecting list as
thoroughly as possible.
2) Collect Lists: When all categories on the
wheel are completed, collect the prospecting
lists and give to the Membership Chairman.
3) Assign Prospects: The Membership
Chairman will review the lists and assign
prospects to each designated recruiter. It is a
good idea to limit recruiters to approximately
five prospects each.
4) Tabulate Results: After recruiters have
contacted their prospects, results should be
tabulated into categories – people interested in
joining now, people interested in joining later
and those who are not interested in
membership. Names of those interested in
joining later or not at all should be filed for
future reference. (Remember to follow up with
those interested in joining at another time!)
5) Hold Orientation Meeting: Using the list
of interested individuals, an orientation
meeting
can be scheduled with the Membership
Chairman, recruiters and interested prospects.
During the meeting, acquaint potential
-36-
enthusiasm for joining the club. Keep the
meetings interesting, lively and informative. You
may want to plan a few orientation meetings so
as not to overwhelm prospects with a great
deal of information. It is also wise to respect
potential members' time, and limit the duration
of the meetings to about an hour.
6) Introduce New Members: After the
orientation meetings, introduce prospects to
your club and begin the involvement process. It
is especially important during the first meeting
that your club's atmosphere is welcoming and
inviting. You want to make sure that your
recruiting efforts aren't wasted by turning off
potential members during this last, critical step.
Properly inducting, orienting and involving
members will go a long way in keeping them
involved and interested in your club!
Invite a Friend to Gyro!
It’s Easy!
-37-
Victoria ~ A Significant Achievement !
90th Anniversary Dinner, June 27, 2011
-submitted by Don Taylor
Our club celebrated the achievement of a very significant
milestone. In an age where change is ever-present, where cycle
times are measured in nanoseconds, not days and months, ninety
years is indeed a very long time. Think of all the societal changes,
the strides in industry trade and commerce, and the shrinking of
the globe that has taken place over the past 9 decades since the
Gyro Club of Victoria was founded.
To help us celebrate 90 years of Victoria Gyro friendship and
fun, that we, and all those that have gone before us have benefited
from, we were joined by several local dignitaries including Mayor
Frank Leonard from the District of Saanich and Deputy Mayor
Chris Coleman from the City of Victoria. Mayor Chris Causton,
from the District of Oak Bay also sent greetings. Award winning
author, syndicated columnist, and TV and Radio personality, Dr.
Dave Hepburn, was our informative and very entertaining guest
speaker. Dr. Dave appears regularly on TV and Radio acting as
co-host of the popular national radio program, "Wisequacks",
heard weekly across Canada.
Jim Bramley received his 50-year pin, recognizing that Jim
and Hap have been members since 1961!
Each of our longest standing members also received special
acknowledgement and recognition
Rick Couch, Bob Alton, and a number of volunteers, did a
fabulous job of organizing several static displays representing
pictures and memorabilia extending all the way back to our club’s
founding in 1921.
Three members received special recognition as part of the
introduction of the Walter Parker Memorial Award. We even had a
special guest, a return appearance of one of the original Gyro
Founders - Ed Kagy! Finally, we were serenaded by new
member Jim Hume with his rendition of What a Wonderful World,
accompanied on piano by Derrick Mathews. This was an action
packed evening, and one worthy of the special status that this
event deserved
Victoria's 90th Anniversary Celebration Event
The first 3 Walter Parker Award Recipients: Rick Senkler,
Chris Randall, Bob Hewitt
George Barr, 62 years
Jim Bramley - 50 Year Pin
"Ed Kagy" Addresses
the Victoria Gyros
-38-
Chris & Judy Randall, 44 years
Bill & Marjorie Buchan, 40 years
Jim and Hap Bramley, 50 years
Stuart & Loralee Hagar, 46 years
Bill McColl being recognized by
President Don Taylor as the only
remaining Charter Member of Camosun
Sharon Walker lines up her winning putt for the prize.
What is the Betterment Fund?
Have you got a great idea to promote Gyro membership? Is your Club planning a membership drive or event for
which it would like to be paid? Has Gyro been good to and for you? Would you like to help “spread the word”?
Have you heard about the Betterment Fund? The Betterment Fund was established at the International Convention in
Moncton in 1994.
The Fund was originally envisioned as one that would bolster declining revenues in the face of declining
membership. It was anticipated that with a sufficient “war chest” dues increases would be delayed for many years,
currency exchange rates would be absorbed, funding for aggressive external expansion could be made available,
internal expansion could receive financial assistance, and major capital maintenance funds for the Headquarters
building could be provided. (These objectives were reviewed and amended in 1996.) A pledge program was instituted
with some degree of success.
At the International Interim in New Orleans in 1996, the Bylaws of Gyro International were amended to include
Chapter 11A which formally established the Betterment Fund, its’ Purpose, Administration, and Use.
The stated Purpose of the Betterment Fund is to perpetuate, promote, and expand the concept, membership,
welfare and influence of Gyro by using the moneys in the Fund for expenses not normally included in the Budget of
this Organization; to encourage membership in, and expansion of this Organization; and other such purposes as the
Board shall deem appropriate.
(This reminder of the Betterment Fund relates to the article on page 42)
-40-
Canton
AUGUST GOLF & DINNER PARTY
-41-
Betterment Fund Pledge Appeal
GYRO INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION, HALIFAX, NS - JULY 9, 2011
A $10 DUES INCREASE HAD JUST BEEN
UNANIMOUSLY PASSED BY THE BOARD OF
GOVERNORS. HOW COULD ANYONE ASK FOR
MORE FINANCIAL GOODWILL IN THE FBF HAD
ORIGINALLY BEEN CREATED WITH A MEMBER
PLEDGE CONTRIBUTION IN MIND.
MODERATLY SUCCESSFUL, BUT FAR SHORT
OF THE ANTICIPATED LEVEL, THE BF ONLY
GREW TO APPROXIMATLEY $20K.
THE NEW BF CHAIRMAN (YOURS TRULY)
ASKED HOW MANY WOULD AGREE THE BF IS
UNDER FUNDED AND UNDER UTILIZED. THE
FUND WAS ORIGINALLY ENVISIONED AS ONE
THAT WOULD BOLSTER DECLINING REVENUE
IN THE FACE OF DECLINING MEMBERSHIP. IT
WAS ANTICIPATED THAT WITH A SUFFICIENT
“WAR CHEST” ONE USE OF THE MONEY MIGHT
BE TO HOLD DUES INCREASES IN ABEYANCE
FOR MANY YEARS.
SO THEN, THIS REQUEST WAS MADE AS A
“WHAT IF QUESTION” BASED ON THE
AGREEMENT THAT MOST DISTRICTS AND
MOST CLUBS DO HAVE FUNDS AVAILABLE
THAT MIGHT BE DONATED TO THE BF. THE
PROPOSITION WAS FIRST DIRECTED TO THE
DISTRICT IV GOVERNOR, THE LARGEST
DISTRICT. HE WAS ASKED IF IT WAS POSSIBLE
TO FIND $500 IN HIS BUDGET THAT COULD BE
DONATED NOW AND ADDED AS A LINE ITEM
FOR AT LEAST THE FOLLOWING TWO YEARS.
THE GOVERNOR AGREED SUBJECT TO
CREATING GROWTH PROGRAMS TO WHICH
THE MONEY WOULD BE USED AS SUPPORT.
BF DOLLARS COULD BE USED FOR
DEVELOPMENT OF THOSE PROGRAMS.
DISTRICT X, THE SMALLEST DISTRICT ALSO
AGREED THAT IT COULD AND WOULD
CONTRIBUTE $500 TO THE BF. WHEN ASKED
THE SAME QUESTION, OTHER DISTRICT
GOVERNORS GAVE AFFIRMATION OF MAKING
SIMILAR DONATIONS. IF ALL DISTRICTS
DONATE $500 EACH, THE FUND WOULD
RECEIVE $5000. D-X's CHECK HAS BEEN
MAILED.
WOULD BE INCLINED TO PLEDGE AND
CONTRIBUTE $100 OF CONTRIBUTIONS TO
THE “BETTERMENT FUND” (BF)? THIS
REQUEST WAS A BIT DIFFERENT.
IF ALL 102 CLUBS PARTICIPATE, THE FUND
WOULD GROW BY ANOTHER $10,200
DOLLARS. ADDED TO DISTRICT
CONTRIBUTIONS THE FUND COULD GROW
$15,200 EACH YEAR FOR AT LEAST 3 YEARS,
AND PERHAPS ON A CONTINUING BASIS.
DISCUSSION WITH MIKE MCNALLY, 2nd
INT'L VP AND INT'L MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR,
RELATES TO DEVELOPING MEMBERSHIP
PROGRAMS AND TOOLS THAT INCLUDE
PUBLICATION OF AN INTERNATIONAL
MEMBERSHIP RECRUITING MANUAL/GUIDE
THAT WORKS AT THE DISTRICT AND CLUB
LEVEL, PERHAPS THE FORMATION OF AN
INT'L MEMBERSHIP TEAM WITH 2 MEMBERS
REPORTING TO, AND WORKING WITH MIKE
AND WITH DISTRICT LEADERSHIP,
TARGETING OTHER SOCIAL ORGANIZATIONS
FOR “OUTREACH EFFORTS”, AND MARKETING
TO THE BABY BOOMER DEMOGRAPHIC.
S/T EMIL BAIJOT’S POWER POINT
PRESENTATION INCLUDED A COMEDY
SLOGAN OF ”THE TIME TO GET ‘ER DONE.”
YOUR GYRO BROTHERHOOD NEEDS YOUR
ACTION.
GOVERNORS, PLEASE CONSULT WITH
YOUR E.C., PRESIDENTS WITH YOUR
DIRECTORS, AND THEN WITH A POSITIVE
CONSENSUS ASK YOUR TREASURER TO
MAKE OUT A CHECK FOR EITHER $500 OR
$100 AND MAIL IT TO GYRO INTERNATIONAL.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION
AND YOUR PARTICIPATION. WE WILL KEEP
YOU INFORMED OF THE FUNDS STATUS AND
THE INITIATION OF PROGRAMS AND POLICIES
AS THEY EVOLVE. WE ALSO ARE LOOKING
FOR YOUR IMPROVEMENT SUGGESTIONS
THAT APPLY TO POLICY AND USE OF THE BF.
STEVE ANDERSON
GYRO CLUB OF NAPLES
BETTERMENT FUND CHAIRMAN
1305 SW 15th Terrace, Cape Coral FL 33991
239-673-9189
THE SAME QUESTION WAS THEN PUT TO
SOME OF THE CLUB PRESIDENTS IN
ATTENDANCE, BUT IN A LOWER AMOUNT OF
$100. CLUBS WITH BOTH LARGE AND SMALL
MEMBERSHIP ROSTERS AGREED THEY
-42-
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October 14-16, 2011 ............................................................... District IX Convention
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