Anniversary Lunch April 3, 2008

A luncheon in recognition of the second anniversary of the formation of the Royal City Men's Club was held at the Trinity United Church commencing at 11:00 a.m. on the above date. Forty-two persons were in attendance. President Pawley called the meeting to order at 11:30 a.m. with a few observations on the brief history of the club. He mentioned the assistance of Norris Hoag and Murray Mathieson, members of the Guelph Wellington Men's Club, as being instrumental in getting those interested in a new club together and forming an interim executive committee. Also mentioned were the original members of the Executive Committee being Tom Beale, Ron Usborne, John Newstead, David Paterson and himself. The President then turned the meeting over to Vice-president Beale who recognized the efforts of Activities Committee Chair Ron Durst and Murray Mathieson in organizing the luncheon. Ron Durst then outlined the upcoming activities and explained an innovative procedure to be followed in the “get-to-know-you session that preceded the luncheon. This required the four to six persons at each table to briefly describe his background while a composite sketch of the proceedings was created. At the end of this session, Garry Clarke, President-elect of the Guelph Wellington Men's Club, judged the sketches on their content rather than artistic merit. The top three sketches were described in more detail by a RCMC member. The luncheon, catered by “What's in the Pantry”, was served at 12:10 p.m. The fare consisted of Shepherd's Pie with vegetables, followed by a selection of desert pies. Murray Mathieson called out the catering staff for well-deserved applause from those present. The guest speaker was Ron Asselstine who had a successful career as an NHL referee and who is now heading up the Guelph chapter of the Children's Wish Foundation of Canada. Ron outlined his early experiences in hockey and football and his entry into his career as a referee. He also indicated that over two million dollars has been raided in the community to satisfy 260 children wishes. The cost of administration of the Guelph chapter is less than five percent. Following his presentation Ron was questioned on the problems referees face in handling recalcitrant hockey players. Bruce Folkard thanked Mr. Asselstine and presented him with a small gift The anniversary celebrations were closed at 1:20 p.m.