May 8, 2012. Reported by Jack Petrie
A sunny day and a sunny prez, perfect combination. Hans said the
invocation; after that Tom on the keys and the rest of us...off-key, slightly,
got through O Canada. It was enthusiastic! Once again, a lovely lunch, aren’t
we lucky?... and our two guests were Jean Lawrie and our speaker, Dr. David Lai,
both of whom were introduced by Don O’Coffey who was looking particularly sharp
in an outfit that Calvin Klein would approve of. Pete Lawrie thanked Pablo,
Perry awarded some money to aid John Snively and Jacqueline, recognizing their
dedication to Guatemala, and Interact was mentioned for their good works.
Pete Lawrie (again!) was our last-minute fines master who had the
audacity to arrange for his wife Jean to not only win the draw, but to also grab
the white marble. An audit has been ordered. There was a $1.00 fine for
everyone ‘who is not John Snively’, Dallas and Jack for looking prosperous,
some anniversaries, etc.
Jim Force introduced our speaker, Dr. David Lai, who entertained and
informed us on the history of Victoria’s Chinatown. Dr. Lai is a Professor
Emeritus of Geography at UVIC, has written over 260 publications on the topic, and is a refreshingly down to earth, humble, and passionate purveyor of our
Chinese citizenry. Many laughs burst forth from the simple statements of his
own wonder (as a geographer), at being called a Historian, his surprise at
being awarded the Honorary Citizen, and, after that ceremony, coming out to find
he’d been also awarded a parking ticket. A lovely person who charmed and
informed.
Brian Lamb thanked our speaker and we were on our way.
No comments:
Post a Comment