Max Simon Retirement

The End of an Era?

A joint meeting of French groups (which took the form of a delicious Jacob’s Join) was held at FMH on 16 July to mark the retirement of Max Simon from his leadership of the French Conversation Group. Max has sometimes recalled how, typically in our U3A’s early days, one could find that mentioning an interest in a subject led to one being appointed as leader of a group with dizzying speed.

From those early beginnings, well over 15 years ago, Max has won the respect and affection of so many U3A members for his patience, humour and – yes – dedication, for that’s not too big a word when we’re talking about a group that meets weekly.

Past and present members enjoyed a buffet organized by Vera Assiak and helpers, which featured a special birthday cake made by Rose Milligan. Vivienne Bonnett, who will be taking over the Conversation Group, presented Max with a garden token and assured him that he will always be welcome on Thursday afternoons in Room 4. In responding, Max said that he had always enjoyed the various activities which had included studying novels both modern and classic, as well as memorable trips to France.

It is perhaps worth mentioning that, as Vivienne will be leading the group fortnightly, on the alternate Thursdays group members will be taking it in turns to introduce a French subject for discussion, a scheme which is not only a tribute to Max’s guidance but is so appropriate for our self-help organisation.

Jean English

Photos: Mike Milligan