During a recent trip to Norway I not only enjoyed traveling in a beautiful country, but also enjoyed the warm welcome local Rotarians extend to visiting members from other clubs.
I visited Nannestad Rotary Club and Klofta Rotary Club, both in the vicinity of the main entry point to Norway, Oslo Airport Gardermoen. Both clubs take their members mainly from the surrounding rural area.
Both clubs have evening meetings, but in stead of a full supper they only serve snacks and coffee. Visiting Rotarians are therefore advised to get a proper meal prior to the meeting. The agenda is more promising though, as they usually invite an external speaker or meet outside at some place of interest. This makes the gatherings really enjoyable.
I attended 7 meetings in all, and learned about items like the next generation of energy sources, the most modern hospital in Europe and how to take care of local history. I was also invited to a picnic by a nearby lake, where we brought our own food and drink. Most participants brought sausages to barbeque over hot coals, modern Viking fashion.
The pictures give an illustration of the life for Rotarians in Norway in general and Nannestad Rotary Club in particular. You will have to search in vain for pictures of banner exchange, as our stock of banners was depleted when I left Pattaya, and the host clubs unfortunately were in the same situation.
Jan Eggum.
