The night was dark and cold on 11 July. The weatherman predicted more cold fronts to move in over our area. Endress+Hauser sponsored the night with a promise that it would teach our members something new on tuning fork level switches. Normally in July the turnout is not always to satisfaction, but not this time. Some 30 people endured the cold and attended the lecture. It is not always that we get a doctor and a specialist in his field to present to us. Indeed we learned something new with the SIL concept brought to us. This voting system is definitely something to consider. Thanks again to Endress for their support in training our members.
I honestly am not looking for an excuse to pick on the Johannesburg branch, but guys, you do not make it easy for me to avoid opportunities. I am referring to a Golf day held on 20 July 2002. Is there any branch out there that got an invite? I think the previous Secunda day posed a real threat to the competition - that is why they were afraid to ask for representation. The offer stands - if you need any assistance in organising a great event, contact us. I am sure the Piets will help. It is for a good cause.
I believe someone from the Vaal Triangle branch got a wake-up call and he phoned Tony. It is best that they take up the pen (e-mail) and write something for the Talkback Column. Is there anybody else out there? Guys, the talkback column is the right place to voice your concerns - and this applies not only to the committees, but also to all our members. This is the place where all your complaints will be dealt with in the open. Tackle those companies that do not support your membership with this institute, etc.
The Cape Town Branch is well and contesting. At first I thought that they are always late with their contribution for the journal. My discussion with Dervyn proved the opposite. He explained that by reporting only to selective branch committees he will not be questioned on the detail or the truth of his reports but if it was published it could be a story of another sort. Maybe we must publish some of his reports, to branches, in the journal to test the validity of some of them. They are definitely a dark horse in the contest for branch of the year. Another silent partner for them is the Durban Branch. They are very quiet but they are the ones who could catch everyone else with their pants down.
The Penmac Road Show is now something of the past. Our slideshow that included pictures of our previous events proved very successful and we signed up another 11 applicants on the day. They will soon become fully-fledged members of our branch.
Some talk that the Witbank sub branch is slipping was heard, and I have to set the record straight. It is true that they have lost some key members on their committee in a very short time as a result of work commitment. Unlike some other branches they were not too proud to ask for some assistance - which they were gladly afforded. The Best from the Best I must say. Their golf day is on the cards for 13 September and a few candidates have been considered to be co-opted as members of their committee until their AGM - proof that if you ask, you will receive.
What about other branches that are struggling - and are too proud to ask? Being teachable is a virtue through which many a skill is obtained in the field.
The next Secunda Branch meeting for September will be hosted in Kriel. The idea is to have a company that specialises in lightning protection to train us in the do's and don'ts not only at work but also at home. This is to help us protect our assets from adverse weather conditions - and maybe just at the right time. Detail on this will reach you soon.
Golf shirts available in all sizes in white and navy blue and golf caps in blue with the SAIMC logo are still available - advertise your institute and show that you are proud to be member - please order from Brian Edwards at Fax: 017 638 0639.
The Secunda Branch - Branch of the Year 2001
Piet van Rensburg,
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