What Are We In Power For?
By
Dennis Valdes

    I was talking to a PP during the Valentine's Day Party and we got to discussing the cost of running RCMA these days. He (of course it's a "he" since there are no women in the club!) noted that it was amazing that we could spend P65,000 on a Valentine's Day Party that was not even in the original club budget this year.

    Well, if I am overspending it is only because I am also very fortunate to have 20 new members to contribute to the budget surplus this year. As a result of our excellent membership drive, we are in a position to make this year a really fun year for all members. Thus, we have really stuck to our financial plan - you pay once and in return, we make RCMA the best deal you'll have for the year - no charge for any of our social events throughout (except for golf).

    And what an excellent V-Day Party it was! Many, many thanks to my one and only - Tessa - and to Eugene's one and only - Leni. You both are such an amazing team! Eugene, you are really earning your title of Best Club Service B Director Never to Have Attended a Meeting.

    It was a great party not only because of the fun and the food, but because we all learned about a program that RCMA should get more involved in - the GSE program or Group Study Exchange. Apparently, this is one of the more hotly contested programs in the District. Annually, many clubs try to earn the right to send a GSE Team abroad. And why not? Everything about the trip is free - from airfare to housing to food - all except for the shopping money of the team.

    Thus, hosting a GSE Team puts us into a good position to bid to send a GSE Team ourselves - but not until RY 2002-2003 - apparently all the slots are already filled for next year. So, PE Mon Mayuga, take note!

    Observant RCMA'ers are already asking why I have addressed Mon Mayuga as a PE rather than a PN. Well, this past Saturday, at the Rotary Academy, I learned that there is no such thing as a PN. Why? Well, Mon was ELECTED to his position, not nominated. A nomination implies that he still needs further confirmation. In his case, none is needed.

    So actually, there are two PE's at this time in the club - one for RY 2001-2002 and the other for the year after.

    Speaking of PE's,, this coming long weekend, PE Paul Chuatico will have his PETS - that is short for President Elect Training Seminar. That should be excellent as he prepares for his term, which is already around the corner in July.

    IPP Miguel Puyat and I will be joining PKC. Miguel is going on to bigger and better things in the District and I have been asked to be an Assistant Governor as well. Don't be too impressed with my title, I think my primary task is to ensure the Presidents submit their monthly reports. As for Miguel, he is clearly headed for the stratosphere of District 3830. Try not to be too amazed at how quickly he shoots for the stars.

    Enjoy your breakfast this morning.