Hurricane Helene has created devastating conditions for people in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. We grieve with the families who are mourning the loss of life. Our thoughts are with people who have been displaced because of the storm. As families and businesses are surveying the property damage—currently estimated to cost between $15 billion and $26 billion USD we walk with them with a vision of hope and rebuilding.
As many of you know, the Southeast region of the United States is a popular destination for American and Canadian Rotarians. Past District Governor Melisa Schrock, who resides in Florida, recently shared:
Our internet is down, and cell service is spotty. So, it’s hard to communicate! We are safe and cleaning up. We lost almost everything in our garage, but it pales compared to what others have failed. Every one of my neighbors in this development has suffered some loss. Two doors down, my best friend lost everything… and they have no flood insurance. I cry every time I drive in and out of the development, seeing all the loss.
Rotarians are People of Action motivated to assist in the short-term, mid-term, and long-term relief of communities impacted by natural disasters. For individuals and clubs who would like to make a difference, we would like to share these resources with you for consideration:
The Rotary Foundation:Canadian Rotarians or US Rotarians who would like to donate directly to The Rotary Foundation Disaster Relief Fund can make a tax- deductible donation by your country's tax agency by visiting here.
With October being Community Economic and Development Month, I thought I would share with you some ideas with a rewarding and meaningful impact.
Ten years ago the Rotary Club of Detroit initiated a project, and together with over a dozen clubs plus partners, support Launch Detroit with business education, mentors, networking, and supporting microloans. Talk about creating lasting change - to date they have helped over 97 people, mostly women, start up a business. I worked in this sector for a long stretch, and I found that the people who deliver these programs are resourceful and connected to their community - great Rotarian material.
This is called community economic development - or CED - and is not your typical business area. It is not just about the start-up, but also the helping ecosystem that is around the entrepreneur, the networks of organizations, and even the group of entrepreneurs working together themselves.
So, a bunch of questions if your club is interested in CED. One of the first steps is a scan or assessment:
What are the resources and contacts in your club area?
What are the success stories and gaps that can be filled with an opportunity?
Is there a project that provides the next CED springboard?
Can you buy goods and services from these startup entrepreneurs?
Can you feature a speaker or two related to local economic development that informs your actions?
You are invited to the 2024 D7090 Foundation Celebration with Awards & District Grant Qualification Seminar
Please join us and celebrate the amazing achievements from our 2023-24 Rotary “Create Hope in the World” Year!
Saturday November 16, 2024, 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM
at The Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 71 Fort Erie, 130 Garrison Rd., Fort Erie, Ontario
$30.00 CDN per person: includes luncheon of Beef on a Weck, Salads, Dessert, Tea, Coffee & Soda Pop (please inform us of any dietary needs upon registration)
PHOTO: Keynote Speaker: Natalija Vojno, Rotary Peace Fellow, Rotary Positive Peace Activator, and President of RESI (Rotary E-Club of Social Innovators), D7090
THREE EVENTS IN ONE DAY!
1.Our District Grant Seminar (in person, fun networking!)
2. Our Foundation Celebration: The 2023-24 District and Global Grants, Club Banners, Fundraising & Donors
3. District Awards: Club Citations, Lighthouse Awards, Governor's Trophy and the PDG Kevin Crosby Membership Award.
We hope to have two attend from each club!
For more information, please contact, PDG Lisa Bishop, Chair, District Foundation Committee: delhipeople@sympatico.ca
World Polio Day - October 24 - was established by Rotary International to commemorate the birth of Jonas Salk, who led the first team to develop a vaccine against poliomyelitis.
In the October "Rotary" magazine there is a fascinating article (pp. 22-24) by Dr. Peter L. Salk, Dr. Jonas Salk's son and president of the Jonas Salk Legacy Foundation. (If you have a digital subscription to the magazine, you can see the article HERE.)
Use of this inactivated poliovirus vaccine and subsequent widespread use of the oral poliovirus vaccine developed by Albert Sabin led to establishment of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in 1988.
Since then, GPEI has reduced polio worldwide by 99 percent.
Every year on October 24th, we observe World Polio Day to raise awareness of the importance of polio vaccination to protect every child from this devastating disease, and to celebrate the many parents, professionals and volunteers whose contributions make polio eradication achievable.
To ensure a polio-free future for everyone, efforts must continue to maintain high immunization coverage, implement high-quality surveillance to detect any presence of the virus, and prepare to respond in the event of an outbreak.
As a founding partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, Rotary has helped reduce polio cases by 99.9 percent since our first project to vaccinate children in the Philippines in 1979. Rotary members have contributed more than $2.1 billion, and countless volunteer hours, to protect nearly 3 billion children in 122 countries from this paralyzing disease.
Today, polio remains endemic only in Afghanistan and Pakistan. A case has just been detected in Gaza.
On Oct. 24, join experts from University of Alberta Faculty of Medicine and Rotary International who will provide a unique perspective on our mission to End Polio Now!
Nominations are now open for the District Governor for 2027-2028. We will be accepting nominations until November 24, 2025.
Who can apply? A member in good standing of a functioning club in the District who must have served as President of a club for a full term or a charter president for at least 6 months.
What is involved in being Governor? Providing leadership to both our District Council and Board of Directors. Organizing new clubs and helping to strengthen all clubs. Developing the leadership team at the District. Encouraging and supporting The Rotary Foundation by engaging all clubs to participate in programs and give financially. And so much more...
How does one apply? Seek support of their Rotary club. Complete the nomination form, HERE. (Clubs can only put forth one candidate in a given year.)
All applicants must submit a covering letter answering several questions, as well as a Rotary CV. More on this in the coming days.
After nominations close on November 24, there will be an interview process, planned for early December.
Please start thinking about who the best next Governor might be!
District Council meets every two months to discuss how best to serve District 7090 Rotary clubs.
The last meeting was Saturday, September 7 at Betty’s Restaurant in Chippawa, the location where the Niagara Falls Sunrise club holds its meetings.
During the meeting, chairs for finance, youth, governance, public image, membership, learning, and service projects report on how they are supporting clubs.
The council is comprised of members from many of your clubs. All club members are invited to attend a council meeting and hear firsthand the information and the debate that accompanies the reports. Your opinions matter and are welcome as part of the debate.
WHERE: Catholic Health Associate Regional Training Center, 44 Genesee St., Buffalo, NY 14203, USA
WHY: Learn how to make your “club experience” irresistible by attending the District 7090 Membership Summit.
Attendees will learn how to:
enhance the member experience to increase retention rates,
expand their reach to attract new members,
leverage the collective expertise of other Rotary clubs throughout the District, and
hear from non-Rotarians (young adults, entrepreneurs, and newly retired folks) about their interests and what would draw them to joining a Rotary Club, helping you build out your messaging and adapt your club's culture.
Attendees will be equipped with a Membership Action Plan to take back to their club and implement the strategies learned from the day.
Who Should Attend?
All Rotarians are responsible for building and strengthening their club! At a minimum, the President, President-Elect, Membership Chair, and Membership Committee Members are invited to attend.
Cost: $25 USD
Lunch: Learning sessions will conclude at noon.
Pizza, Water, and Soft Drinks will be available for lunch and fellowship from 12:30 pm to 1:30 p.m.
Your District Learning Committee has put a lot of consideration into providing all members with a learning opportunity that all will benefit from.
Please put the following into your calendar and bring to the attention of all your club Members.
Each of these sessions is or will be accessible to register on the Upcoming Events page of District 7090.
Webinars: Chair Joanne Serkeyn
October 15, 2024 – Engage your Interact Club – Youth Chair and Interact members
Nov 21, 2024 – Rotary 101 – Paul Gibel
Jan 23, 2024 – Foundation – Scholarship Program – Lezlie Murch
Feb 20, 2024 – Club Communication
March 20, 2024- Strategic Planning -Matt Smith
April 24, 2024 – Learning Centre
May 22, 2024 – Creating Service Projects
President Elect Learning Session (PELS)
Chair: Ralph Malcolm
The first online learning session starts on January 29th.; however, prior to this date all President Elects for the 2025-26 year are asked to complete the Learning Centers course Club President Basics (click here).
RLI Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) (In Progress)
Apart from the Rotary Magazine and social media, you may want to regularly check in on the latest announcements from Rotary International by clicking here.
Past issues are available by clicking on stories here or back issues in Google Books here.
There are fascinating regional magazinesyou can share with those you know who speak another language or want to hear from their country of origin. These may be a great source of project ideas and partnerships.
The Youth Exchange officers have a program on Friday and Saturday June 20 and 21 featuring interactive workshops. These are exciting opportunities to network with Rotarians and volunteers involved in the Rotary Youth Exchange program from around the world. You will learn alongside friends, exchange ideas, and make connections for future exchanges, while experiencing Calgary.
This program is open to all attendees who are interested in Rotary Youth Exchange.
How to register for Youth Event
If you plan to attend both the Rotary International Convention and the Youth Exchange Officers Preconvention, you can REGISTER ONLINE.
If you are attending the preconvention only, download the convention registration formand return it by fax or mail.
Note: you do not have to be registered at the main conference to attend this Youth Event.
Registration Update for Calgary Convention: To date there are 20000 people registered to attend this event. Don’t forget to get your accommodations booked today. Registration price goes up December 15.
Speaker at your club meeting: If you are looking for a speaker at your club meeting on what an International Convention is, please contact Gary and Sandi Chard.sandichard@gmail.com
Zone Event at the Conference
District 7090 is part of zone 28. You are invited to attend our zone event on Monday June 23 at the Calgary Zoo. Information coming soon at https://www.beyondborders2025.com/.
Have you ever heard the term “Rotary Action Group” or “RAG” for short? If you have not, you are not alone. Well, what is a “RAG”? Rotary Action Groups are independent, Rotary-affiliated groups made up of people from around the world who are experts in a particular field, such as economic development, peace, addiction prevention, the environment, or water, to name just a few.
Action groups offer their technical expertise and support to help clubs plan and implement projects to increase our impact, one of Rotary's strategic priorities. This support includes helping clubs find partners, funding, and other resources. Action groups can also help clubs and districts prepare grant applications, conduct community assessments, and develop plans to monitor and evaluate their projects.
“RAG”’s are akin to, or are, cause-based groups, and in Rotary there are many to choose from.
Our own DG David Alexander presented on behalf of the Environmental Sustainability RAG at the International Conference, and the WASH RAG has worked with some of our clubs on freshwater initiatives. And that is really the tip of the iceberg. If you have a passion for a certain cause, you are quite likely to find a Rotary Action Group that matches your passion.
Now D7090 has an Ambassador for the Rotary Action Group Against Slavery (RAGAS): Joanne Serkeyn, President of the Rotary Club of Lincoln.
The Canada to Scotland Rotary Curling tour has been providing an opportunity for International Rotary Fellowship since 1956.
Every other year teams have gone “across the pond” to curl for several weeks and deepen connections within Rotary.
The 2024 Canada to Scotland Curling team is eager for our trip this November 2-24. Our 18 team members from Rotary Clubs across Ontario will enjoy 13 games of curling against Scottish Rotarians.
We will enjoy the hospitality of Rotarians across their beautiful country and know it will be an experience of a lifetime.
District 7090 Rotarians – Jim Howden (Grimsby), John Vallee (Simcoe), Keith Jones (Norfolk Sunrise)
And immediately upon our return we will begin the planning to host the Scottish tour team in the fall of 2026.
We will provide their team with a geographically diverse experience in Ontario with excellent hosting, hospitality and three banquets.
If your Rotary Club is interested in having one of us speak to your membership upon our return or is interested in becoming part of the tour in the future please contact Team Captain, Donna Buchan, Rotary Club Guelph Trillium (dmbuchan@gmail.com or 519-222-1594)
Thank you for your interest in the Rotary International Fellowship of Curling.
Gift of Life, Inc, of Rotary District 7090 is one of GOLI’s 84 affiliated GOL programs spanning five continents. Our role is to provide the financial support needed to obtain the necessary equipment and materials needed for the surgery and for the pre and post operative procedures. Without our support, it would be difficult to establish pediatric cardiac centers in some countries and to provide surgical interventions in many other countries. Gift of Life is a true Rotary success story because the idea for it began with one Rotarian in Long Island. The goal for 2024 is to treat 5,000 children in just one year. Every day in the 80 plus countries where we work, there are 100 children waiting for surgery. Kids who will die without it.
The Amherst Rotary club held a Wine and Appetizer Party on June 21st to benefit District 7090’s Gift of Life Project. Ursula Plotnicki chaired the event which was held at Addy’s Fine Wine and Spirits. The two-hour event netted $3700 which was donated to the District’s GOL. Assisted by Fiona Barretto-DeSouza, the well-attended function was judged a huge success. Fiona has the honor of being the first “” – a new designation. In this role she will be reminding her club of GOL as an integral part of their work.
Can you and your club help us to meet this goal? We are asking each club in our district to do its best to build into their annual budget a donation to GOL.
Please contact Cathy Herman, Canadian Co-Chair at dhenry1@cogeco.ca or Pat Castiglia, U.S. Co-Chair at ptcas34@hotmail.com to arrange club visits.
PHOTO: Ursula Plotnicki receiving a certificate of appreciation from Pat Castiglia, Co-President of our Gift of Life program.
The Rotary Club of Ancaster AM's 3rd Annual Car Raffle Is Underway!
We are super excited for these draws, with a bonus 50/50 Cash draw happening, as well as a couple of incredible early bird prizes.
Our first Early Bird is happening October 17th: A 6 Hour VIP tour for 2 people behind the wheel of some incredible supercars (Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, and McLaren, to name a few).
Our second Early Bird is happening December 5th: a 75" Samsung 4K Smart TV with Surround sound technology system.
Our main prize, our Grand Prize of a 2024 Ford Mustang Premium Convertible, takes place on December 28th.
Funding raised from our raffle goes to support the Kemp Care Network’s Keaton's House - Children’s Hospice, a new pediatric hospice being built in Dundas, ON.
Ticket sales available as per licensing to residents of Ontario.
The Trick or Trot 5k on Saturday, October 26, is a fun race/walk event through the cemeteries of Batavia, NY. This is a costume event and will have a haunted section! Wear your favorite Halloween costume and come out for a fun time.
Check-in will be at 4:00 PM at DeWitt Recreational Park and the race will start at 5:15 PM. Top 3 male/female winners will be awarded, as well as best costume. This is a fun family-friendly event.
Follow our Facebook page for additional details and posts!
This is the fifth year of this fun event. Proceeds support the Batavia Rotary Club’s annual scholarships: three four-year scholarships awarded to local students.
The start/finish location at DeWitt Park is also the site of a couple of Batavia Rotary projects, a kayak launch and the city’s walking trail.
Both were supported with Rotary Foundation District Grants in the past.
Vote for your favorite chili… unlimited tasting! (Winner receives $300!)
Enjoy live music, a 50-50 draw, spectacular silent raffles, a Nepali craft sale, and sweet surprises.
We are raising funds for a Global Grant (with the Rotary Club of Kathmandu) to provide latrines for 250 families in the Ruby Valley of Nepal.
Some of our current projects include: Installing a Lending Library on the Kevin Guest House campus on Ellicott Street. Maintaining the Greenway Bike Path on Rotary Row at the foot of Porter Avenue. Rotarians gather to do cleanups. Providing a bench and bike fix-it station complete with tools for bikers needing to fix a flat or other minor repairs during their ride. Sponsoring on-going blood drives with Connect Life on the BNMC campus.
Financing scholarships of $1,000 given to a local high school senior to pursue further education.
And we are the sponsoring club for the UB Buffalo Rotaract Club.
The Rotary Club of Buffalo Sunrise members, past, present, and future enjoyed an evening featuring lots of conversation, many laughs, great food and a fine setting at the Saturn Club on Friday, September 20 as we celebrated our 30th club anniversary. After a warm welcome by President Timothy Priano, catching up and reminiscing were the order of the day.
Several Club Past Presidents were in attendance as were two distinguished Past District Governors: Nick Norton and Wally Ochterski.
Greg and his Rotarian friends, some partners of Rotarians, were on a fishing trip in Northern Ontario. That did not stop Greg from sharing what his Rotary life, as a charter club member, has meant to him, Jill, and the countless Youth Exchange students they have personally hosted. Also on the video were the first YE student from Finland hosted by the Nortons and our club and our most recent YE student from Brazil.
PHOTOS:
LEFT: President Timothy Priano
RIGHT (L to R): PDG Wally Ochterski, PDG Nick Norton
23 years ago, on August 16th, 2001, the Rotary Club of Dundas unveiled a sign in Centennial Park in Dundas to describe the history of the Desjardin Canal and the Turning Basin.
Over the years the sign, which was underneath the wooden arch at the entrance, had faded.
Now the two Rotary Clubs in Dundas – the original club and the Dundas Valley Sunrise Club founded in 2000, have joined together to provide the new signs.
The signs themselves were designed by Austin Strutt, curator at the Dundas Museum and Archives using considerable historical research, for which we thank him.
We welcome those of you here were present at the unveiling of the original sign – Ken Hall and John MacRae of the Rotary Club of Dundas and Clare Crozier from the Dundas Museum and Archives, and Russ Powers, who at the time was our local Councilor, but today is here as President of the Rotary Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise.
We’d also like to welcome our local Councilor, Alex Wilson, and our Rotary District Governor, David Alexander.
PHOTO (L to R): Russ Powers, David Alexander, David Carson, Alex Wilson, George Eastwood
We gathered at the Ontario Southcoast DreamDrive for an unforgettable weekend celebrating classic cars.
Drivers enjoyed scenic routes, delicious food, and lively entertainment as they cruised from Fort Erie to St. Thomas.
Our local community welcomed hundreds of participants at a fantastic pit stop provided by Jay Summers Service Centre, where everyone had the chance to admire the stunning vehicles, enjoy live performances, and savor tasty food.
We were thrilled to assist at the food venue and collect donations, which totaled over $2,000 for our community projects.
A special shout-out to owner Jay Summers, who provided the venue and generously provided a range of free prizes for lucky winners.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, and to Jay for helping to support our club!
PHOTO: Front - John Upshall, Penny Banks, Bob Perry, Alan Elliott; Back: – Lynn Spencer, Jay Summers
Dunnville was getting their Ducks in a row!
This summer has been incredibly busy for our local team, as our Ducks have proudly raised funds for numerous clubs across Ontario.
Preparing our Ducks for fundraising events requires many helping hands, and we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who showed up, time and time again, to lend their support.
Collaborating on these initiatives has not only strengthened our commitment to rotary but has also fostered lasting friendships as we work towards a common goal.
Your dedication truly makes a difference!
PHOTO: Front: Kristen Elliott, Pres. Brad Spencer; Back: John Upshall, Marjorie Ettinger, Ruth Swan Alan Elliott, Lynn Spencer
As is its style, things were rocking Saturday afternoon (September 28th) at Madigan’s Restaurant in Ellicottville. The Rotary Club of Ellicottville gathered at Madigan’s upstairs to hold their biggest fundraiser of the year, a Chili Cookoff! Approximately 150 attendees had fun at what has been reported to be one of the best fun events of the year in Ellicottville. Music and laughter filled the air.
The Club is delighted to report that it met its financial goal through a combination of over 40 baskets for the basket raffle, an incredible amount of 50/50 tickets sold by Darlene Allen and President John Weismantel, (half of which the winner returned to the Club), an amazing online auction with 24 online auction items and chili tasting sales, which almost every attendee participated in.
Anticipating six to ten entrants to the chili contest, we were blown away with 17 participants! Winners received first, second and third prizes based on the judges’ tasting, and one individual earned the unique, one-of-a-kind “People’s Choice” award crafted by artist and Rotarian Darlene Allen. Gratitude and congratulations go out to the outstanding team of Rotarians, spearheaded by Christiana Anderson.
PHOTO: Darlene Allen presenting the trophy at the Chili Cookoff
The Falconer Rotary Club will be participating in the first annual “Made in Falconer” celebration to be held in the Village on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 10:00 AM-2:00 PM. The event is being sponsored by Cattaraugus County Bank, Live CHQ and Choose CHQ and CHQ Chamber. The four-hour event showcases the wonderful things that are made in the Friendly Village of Falconer, New York. The Village, located in Southwestern New York is 1.1 sq miles and has a population of about 2200 people, but is the home of a number of world-renowned manufacturers all located within the Village limits.
There will be tours that will be run every 30 minutes and attendees will be able to travel by the new CHQ Transit Trolley that will be running a loop to each of the manufacturers. The companies that will be participating will be Dahlstrom Roll Form, Ellison Bronze, Falconer Printing, Fancher Chair Company, Inc., Hanson Sign Companies, and Stuart Tool & Die, Inc.
The Falconer Rotary Club will have an information tent for visitors located next to Falconer Printing whose President is long time Rotarian, past president, and foundation chair Jim Roach. It is an opportunity for the Club to greet visitors to the Village and celebrate our longtime relationship with the Falconer Community as we enter into our 85th anniversary celebration of our charter in January 2025.
Once again this fall, the Rotary Club of Fonthill is hosting a Luxury Purse Bingo. This has always been a great social event supporting our local community. The proceeds will go to support the Pathstone Mental Health clinic at the Meridian Community Centre, as well as to support Pelham Cares. In addition, we will be accepting donations of non-perishable items for Pelham Cares at the door.
Our event will be held in the Accursi Room at the Meridian Community Centre on Friday, November 8th, 2024. The doors will open at 6 p.m. and the games will start at 7 p.m. Light refreshments will be served and there is a cash bar. We run 10 games each with the opportunity to win a designer purse sponsored by local businesses and individuals. We then run an optional 11th game for a luxury gift basket with items donated by local businesses. Participants can choose to purchase 50/50 tickets.
We sell individual tickets for $45 per person. Table groupings are for a maximum of 8 people. There is still the opportunity to sponsor a purse for $250 which also provides you with one complimentary ticket.
On Sunday, October 6, 2024, the Greater Jamestown AM Rotary will host the annual Bill Briggs-Tim Grace Memorial Football Party at Ellicottville Brewing on Chautauqua in Bemus Point, NY.
The party starts at noon, with kick-off at 1:00pm.
It’s a fun opportunity to come together in memory of Bill and Tim and raise funds that are donated back to the community.
Tickets are $50 per person and provide you with food, drink, good company, and a chance to win up to $1,000 in cash prizes.
Your presence is not required to win.
We will also have our 50/50 raffle, door prizes, as well as a Chinese Auction.
Members of the Rotary Club of Greater Jamestown AM and the Rotary Club of Jamestown, NY have purchased Legacy Seats at the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts in support of the theater replacing all 1260+ seats in the magnificent old edifice in the center of town.
Each seat bears a plaque with the donor’s name and the Rotary emblem on the arm of the chair.
The Rotary Club of Hamburg welcomed vendors and neighbors to its first "Junk in the Trunk" flea market under sunny skies on Sept. 14, at the site of the Hub - Revive Wesleyan Church, 4999 McKinley Parkway, Hamburg.
The Rotarians were pleased with the response and enthusiasm from all who attended and promise that next year’s event will be even bigger and better.
The Rotary Club of Hamburg was established in 1942 as one cog of a global wheel of international clubs whose motto is Service Above Self. The Hamburg Club meets on two Tuesday evenings per month at Uncle Joe’s Diner. For more information about Rotary’s mission and activities please visit the website.
Photo 1: Rotarians Liz Angelbeck and Maria Guizzotti ready donuts and coffee for customers.
Photo 2: While vendors busily set up their stands, shoppers peruse the wares.
Hamburg Rotary kicks off the “Warm the Children” Program” with a generous donation.
The Rotary Club of Hamburg kicked off its 2024 “Warm the Children” Program with a volunteer appreciation breakfast on Sept. 21 at Michael’s Banquet Facility, but more than food was on the menu. Along with the presentation of a $10,000 check from West Herr Automotive Group, and honoring the 75-plus volunteer shoppers, “Warm the Children” Coordinator Liz Angelbeck also acknowledged two former editors of The Sun who were instrumental in the initiation and continuation of the program in Hamburg.
PHOTO (L to R): West Herr Automotive Group supports Warm the Children - On hand for the donation from West Herr to the Warm the Children Fund were (L to R): Rhonda Frederick, West Herr Director of Giving & Support, Liz Angelbeck, Jay Galligan, West Herr Vice President of Fixed Operations, Earl Knauss and Dan Meyer.
The kickoff event marks the start of Hamburg Rotary’s annual fall-winter campaign to raise funds to support the wide-scale purchase of brand-new warm winter clothing for the children of economically challenged families throughout the Southtowns. Last year, over 460 children were served, Angelbeck said. The program provides new coats, boots and warm winter clothing to eligible families selected through contacts at schools, churches and assisting agencies in the Southtowns who collaborate with Angelbeck. The coordinator schedules families to meet with a selected volunteer at the Hamburg Walmart, the program’s clothing partner. The Rotary Club of Hamburg welcomes donations of any amount. Those who wish to donate to the program may do so by mailing or dropping off a check payable to the WTC Fund at Evans Bank, 5999 South Park Avenue, Hamburg, NY 14075, or online by visiting the club’s website at www.hamburgrotaryclub.org/SitePage/warm-the-children
The Rotary Club of Hamilton is proud to announce that it will be taking over the stewardship of three beloved community initiatives: the CHML Children’s Fund, the Christmas Tree of Hope, and Operation Santa Claus.
These programs, which have collectively raised more than $6 million since 1976 to support children and families in need, will continue to serve the Hamilton community under Rotary’s leadership.
Since 1976, the CHML Children’s Fund and Christmas Tree of Hope have been vital sources of support for local charities, providing much-needed funds during the holiday season and beyond.
Operation Santa Claus has furthered this mission by collecting toys and donations to ensure that every child in Hamilton experiences the joy of the holiday season.
We are thrilled to announce that Corus, in partnership with the esteemed Rotary Club of Hamilton, will be joining forces to manage the key initiatives moving forward.
Beloved programs such as Operation Santa Claus Toy Truck and the Christmas Tree of Hope will continue to thrive, with robust media support from Corus Hamilton FM stations, including Y108, Energy 95.3, and Global News, ensuring broad outreach and impact.
At the regular morning meeting of the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM, guest speaker Jeff Mahoney shared his deepest insights into the "good, the bad and the ugly" of working in the newsroom of the “Hamilton Spectator” newspaper.
Jeff recently retired after 36 years at "The Spec" where he was renowned for his feature stories, primarily on human interest and community issues. Jeff spoke for 20 minutes straight, without notes, but we felt assured he was speaking truth, and from the heart.
Jeff was saddened by the gradual reduction in newspapers in Ontario - for example, the loss of our weekly community papers - and indicated the newsroom was reduced from about 150 to its present cohort of 15 reporters, editors, photographers, and others. Many members realized that the enormous presses in the Spectator flagship at Frid and Main West were now gone and in fact the building has been sold and the business relocated to an almost secret location on Pritchard Road.
A number of members, particularly John Mokrycke and Mark Ewer, have valued their friendship with Jeff over the years, but we are not sure of how long this might last due to advanced age on the part of all the parties!
Jeff values the contribution of Rotary to the community, and the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM values Jeff's contribution to public education and awareness over his many years as an outstanding reporter! “Thank you, Jeff” was the message the club wanted to convey to him!
On Sept 4, Lesia Mokrycke spoke about her “Urban Forest Lab” and “Monument Tree” projects. She provided an overview of her art and landscape architecture practice, discussing the origins of her inspiration, in art, architecture, and the environment.
She talked about how her practice of walking has informed her research, such as for the piece recently exhibited at the Lister Block building in Hamilton titled "Passage". This piece talked about memory, time, and history, detailing how interned Ukrainian-Canadian citizens had cleared roads during internment to build what became Canada’s National Park system.
Lesia talked about her interest in buried water in Hamilton and her research on Chedoke Creek, where she explained how a large linear park could be adapted in downtown Hamilton.
Her influences include performance artwork. Lesia showed how these experiments with space and movement inform her environmental artworks, such as Wind Machine, installed at the University of Pennsylvania in 2020.
Lesia talked about her exhibition Trees Talking, showing members how the living trees she brought into the exhibition space contrast with the tree photographs that are illuminated in lightboxes: a juxtaposition between media and living things.
Lastly, she talked about how her research into Hamilton’s oldest trees is informing her urban design. In this work, she creates uses the oldest trees in the city to create a network of linked urban parks (green spaces).
She almost did not have enough time for her excellent presentation because her proud father, member John Mokrycke, waxed eloquently about the educational and now work achievements of his oldest child, Lesia! One of our "Rotary rules" is the introduction cannot exceed the guest speaker's presentation in length! An appropriate fine will deal with this minor infraction!
The Hamilton AM Rotary club has accumulated a nice collection of tents, tables, fundraising supplies, and decorations over the years, used to host high quality, successful fundraising events over its 38 year history.
For the last two years, this growing collection of goods was stored at Tennier Sanitation, thanks to the generosity of member Darren Slemko. I am sure Darren didn't know what he was in for when he extended this generous offer but, as the say, "all good things must come to an end". Darren's warehouse space was needed for expansion of his growing business, so a move was necessary.
There was not big fight to secure additional space for about 400 square feet of goods. Mark Ewer, Past-President, took the initiative to research three local options and on September 20, a new home was secured for these items.
The club chose Public Storage on Hess Street North as a reasonable option for the new home for this ragtag collection of boxes and bins and more. On September 20, members Don Grennan, John Mokrycke, Mark Ewer, and his son Paul Ewer moved everything to the new location less than 5 kilometers away. We were a little surprised when Don showed up with a Mustang convertible for the move, but when he put the top down, we saw the wisdom for those taller decorations. John contributed his Volvo wagon, and Mark brought a borrowed truck, and in one trip the transfer was completed!
We may have not done the neatest job of storing all these items, but we were able to close the storage unit door when we were done. As they say, "the rest is history"! Thanks boys!
The Hamilton Community Rotaract Club’s Family Dinner: Building Connections Through Cultural Celebrations
We are excited to announce a new initiative designed to strengthen fellowship within our club and attract young, passionate individuals in Hamilton and surrounding areas: the Family Dinner.
This monthly event will showcase diverse cultures through food, music, and traditions, offering an enriching experience that reflects the values of fellowship, diversity, and service at the heart of Rotaract.
Through this initiative, we aim to create a stronger sense of community among current members while offering an inside look at the unique and welcoming atmosphere that potential new members can expect.
Italian Night: A Delicious Start to a New Tradition
The inaugural Family Dinner, taking place this Sunday, will celebrate Italian culture. Guests will enjoy a classic Italian menu, featuring dishes such as pasta and pizza, accompanied by traditional Italian music that will transport them straight to the streets of Italy. This immersive experience will provide a fun and informal setting where members can bond, share stories, and deepen their connections with one another.
Why Family Dinner?
The Family Dinner concept was developed to offer our members a space where they can learn about the world’s rich diversity while building friendships. By focusing on a different country or culture each month, we create opportunities for cultural exchange, storytelling, and a deeper understanding of global traditions. Each event fosters the core Rotaract values of service, fellowship, and personal growth.
The Winona Peach Festival represents our Club’s largest fundraiser annually. We had 109 volunteers, including Rotarians, family, friends, community partners & students, contributing over 580 volunteer hours. This is an excellent “hands-on” project with all Club Members participating.
Our Club sells thousands of Pierogis and Peach Crepes over the three-day weekend. Once again, we were blessed with excellent weather allowing us to have a sellout.
PHOTOS (courtesy of Rotarian Myra James):
Top - Friday crew led by Rotarians Doug McDonald & Myra James
Bottom: Sunday crew led by Rotarians Myra James & Tina Blatchford
The Rotary Club of Jamestown, New York celebrated Peace Day in Jamestown by rededicating a Peace Pole at the Samuel G. Love School.
On September 21, in recognition of the International Day of Peace, we read to every single student at the school the book “PEACE” by Wendy Halperin, in two forty-minute shifts.
Here a classroom of students surrounds Peace Pole chair Paulette Klein.
Participating in the dedication of the Peace Pole were: left to right: Melissa & David Troxell, Love School Principal Cynthia Johnson, Caitlin O’Reilly, Ruth Lundin and Club President Marion Beckerink.
Founders, funders, and Jamestown attraction executives were on hand to salute the completion of the reverse side of the WELCOME TO JAMESTOWN, NY sign at the Route 60 entrance to the City of Jamestown.
The Welcome to Jamestown sign, spearheaded by the Rotary Club of Jamestown, was dedicated in June 2023 and it soon became apparent that the reverse side needed special attention as well. Thanks to funding by the Gebbie Foundation, wonderful color photographs were taken of the Northwest Arena, the Robert H. Jackson Center, The Reg Lenna Center for the Arts, the Lucille Ball Little Theater of Jamestown, the Luci-Desi Museum, The Roger Tory Peterson Institute, the Riverwalk, the Chautauqua Belle, the Fenton History Center and the National Comedy Center and attractively arranged to form a mural on the back of the sign.
The photos arranged on the rear of the welcome sign feature huge lettering saying, “SEE YOU NEXT TIME” for all to see.
The temporary arbor vitae will be replaced soon with smaller shrubbery that will not block the photos.
Twenty-nine Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Jamestown, NY and friends from the Greater Jamestown AM Rotary Club attended a networking social event at the Southern Tier Brewing Company to engage and encourage our Jamestown Young Professional leaders to consider the benefits of Rotary. A great band played popular music, and a chicken dinner buffet was provided. Gift bags were given to each of the JYP attendees, including an invitation and a certificate for a free Rotary lunch, so that the young people can learn more about Rotary and the Club.
Lancaster-Depew Rotarians spend their Fall evenings on Thursday and Friday, or Saturday mornings, selling concessions to the crowds that attend Lancaster High and JV football games.
The club has used the concession business to fund annual college scholarships, for students in need, since 1945.
In the '70s the club erected our own building on the school district property, but during the pandemic they built us an enlarged facility so that they could take over our building for other purposes. Coordination is key. Past president Brian Williams has taken responsibility for leading our team for a number of years. During his tenure, the fundraiser has gained momentum and the items we sell have greatly expanded. Greater annual profits have led to larger and greater numbers of annual scholarships to Lancaster and Depew high school seniors.
The Rotary Club Pavilion was dedicated on September 24th, with about 30 people in attendance. Bob O’Connor, Rotary Club of Lockport president, introduced Mayor John Lombardi III, who spoke within the pavilion, in sight of the Adam Street Lift Bridge and mere feet from the Erie Canal’s waters.
“Everything you people touch turns to gold,” he said.
Other speakers included Dave Alexander, District 7090 governor, who was also presented with a check for $2,000 by our Foundation Chair, Shelley Asad Unocic.
“Thank you so much for this, it really makes a difference in the world, and we know we are winning the fight to end polio,” he said.
Alexander also noted that creating an active, walking space by developing the corridor was a benefit to the community.
Lockport Rotary members sold 92 “bricks” commemorating the names of their donors approaching the pavilion, as well as soliciting donations from small businesses, including Spalding Hardware. Elaine Farchione & Orleans Monument donated the bronze plaque at the corner of the structure. Restrooms are also on site.
$50.00 Tax receipt provided with your ticket purchase!
Join us for an elegant evening at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Rotary Club Fashion Show, set in the beautiful Royal Cambridge Ballroom.
The event will begin with a champagne welcome upon arrival, offering a perfect start to an evening of fashion and fine dining.
Event Highlights:
Fashion Show by Tango Boutique: Experience the latest trends and styles showcased by Tango Boutique.
Gourmet Dinner: Enjoy a delectable 3-course gourmet dinner, carefully crafted to delight your taste buds.
This event promises to be a night of style, sophistication, and enjoyment. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to support the community while indulging in an evening of fashion and culinary excellence.
Funds help support Nyanyas of Niagara, one of over 240 grandmother groups across Canada raising money for the Stephen Lewis Foundation's "Grandmothers to Grandmothers campaign". Since 2007, the Nyanyas of Niagara have assisted this Campaign in raising over 21 million dollars. Funds provide food, housing, school fees, grief counselling and more to grandmothers and their grandchildren in fifteen sub-Saharan African countries.
Exciting News from Area 1 – Norfolk County Rotary Clubs are joining together to Celebrate Community Service.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise (RCNS) and The Rotary Club of Simcoe (RCS) are honouring four outstanding community volunteers with Paul Harris Fellowships.
This honour is the highest recognition awarded by a Rotary Club and we are pleased to be working together to bring it to the local community.
When: Thursday October 24, 2024 @ 6pm
Where: The Lighthouse Festival Theatre in Port Dover.
Order Tickets at $25 each, contact details are given at the poster.
Congratulations to all our honourees! Come on out to the Lighthouse Theatre and celebrate the four outstanding volunteers with us!
On Tuesday evening, and after a great summer break, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise (RCNS) members, family, and friends, gathered at the Waterford Legion for social reconnection and to conduct some overdue business at hand. Details of the business conducted can be seen at the 'Read more ...' tab (below) along with a variety of supporting photos.
Of particular note, Past-President John Wallace proudly informed us that we had been awarded the 2023-2024 Rotary Citation by Past-President Gordon R McInally.
To earn the citation, a Rotary club need to set goals for more than half of the available RI goals and achieve them.
So, last year, we set ambitious goals, we met them, and we were recognized by the highest level for our achievement.
This award is a feather in the cap of our Sunriser Club and its leadership team; in particular, for our Past-President John Wallace. BZ John.
District Governor Dave Alexander attended a busy August 28th meeting with updates on what is happening at the District and new initiatives designed to help the individual Clubs and Committees better reach their communities at large. DG Dave was pleased to present Past President Annette with our 2023 - 2024 Rotary Citation from International President Gordon McInally recognizing the Club’s achievements over the year and following that up with the induction of new member Amy Layton and the presentation of a Paul Harris Fellow + 3 Pin to Ellen Wodchis. President Coral presented DG Dave with a cheque donating $1000 to the Polio Plus Campaign in his honour.
PHOTO (L to R): Past President Annette, DG Dave, President Coral
THE ROTARY CLUB OF SIMCOE is pleased to announce the awarding of two Jeff Scott Memorial Bursaries of $2000 to Sullivan ("Sully)) Shrubsole and Sidhi Ramakrishnan.
This award is in memory of Rotarian Jeff Scott and is supported by the Rotary Club of Simcoe, the Scott family, and many members of the public.
Sully has decided to attend the University of Guelph, enrolling in Kinesiology, leading to becoming a physiotherapist in the sports field.
Sidhi has chosen to attend McMaster University enrolling in the Life Sciences Gateway Program.
Both students are graduates of the Simcoe Composite School. We wish them every success in their chosen field of work.
PHOTOS:
LEFT: Sullivan (Sully) Shrubsole along with his parents Steve and Bridget Shrubsole and Awards Committee Chair Thor Olsen.
RIGHT: Sidhi Ramakrishnan along with her father Ramki Balakrishnan and two members of the Awards Committee, Robert Stevenson and Thor Olsen.
The Rotary Club of Welland held its 8th Annual Bocce Social on Monday September 23rd at Casa Dante.
Fifty-seven Rotarians, family, and friends came together to socialize and have fun.
We welcomed three teams from the Rotary Club of Grimsby, one team each from the Rotary Club of Fonthill, the Rotary Club of St. Catharines South, the YMCA of Niagara, and B&D CPAs.
Our President Paul Leon arranged to have two teams from his office join in.
We can’t forget our host, Casa Dante.
The tournament winners taking home the coveted trophy were new to Bocce! Team “4 Cola” consisted of David Colavecchia, Doris Colavecchia, Mike Colavecchia, and Anne Colavecchia.
PHOTO (L to R): Doris, Dave, Anne, Mike Colavecchia
The Rotary Club of Welland is pleased to congratulate the 2024 Rotary Gold Medallion recipients from the graduating classes of 5 Welland and 2 Port Colborne High Schools
The Rotary Club of Welland has offered some form of Rotary Bursary since 1950, with more regular recipients beginning in 1963 – 61 years ago! Two students from each of the seven secondary schools graduating classes in Welland and Port Colborne are selected by their peers and guidance office.
These students have been chosen by their peers and Guidance staff because they personify the motto of Rotary “Service Above Self” as well as following the Four Way Test: “Of all the things we think say or do: Is it the truth? Is it Fair to all concerned? Will it build Goodwill and Better Friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? They have made worthy contributions to the life of the school and the community at large and possess the qualities, abilities and interests that make them worthy representatives of their schools. At the same time, achieving academic success.
The Rotary Club of Welland, in recognition of their integrity, selflessness and worthy contribution to the life of your school with the unwavering commitment to the needs of others, provides a certificate, along with a Gold Medallion and small bursary, which were presented to the recipients as part of their graduating program. Each school also has a permanent plaque indicating the recipients over the years.
At its last meeting of September, President Janese Berkhouse of the Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club presented a check to representatives of the Westfield Academy and School STAR program.
This year's theme is: “Reading A to Zebra".
The staff explained that the donation goes to help buy books for every elementary student and helps to encourage children to read.
PHOTO (L to R): Janese Berkhouse, Hannah Bena, Daniele Stoughton and Stephanie Holt
The Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club once again is making plans for its annual fund raiser, "Gold Rush".
The event has been ongoing for well over 30 years and the proceeds help to support high school scholarships in four local school districts and other community service projects.
The top prize is $1000 and was donated by the South Ripley Solar Project.
Other prizes include cash, gifts and gift certificates.
The event will return to an in-person format on October 19th.
Rotary member and astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti dreamed of space travel since she was a kid. Now, she’s sharing the cosmic awe with her fellow earthlings
Throngs of tourists are overwhelming the world’s most popular destinations. Here’s how to rethink the way you travel — and an alternative bucket list to get you started.
The Rotary Club of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, a multiethnic club founded in 2002, rebuilt a bridge that collapsed during the war in the former Yugoslav republic
Hurricane Helene has created devastating conditions for people in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. We grieve with the families who are mourning the loss of life. Our thoughts are with people who have been displaced because of the storm. As families and businesses are surveying the property damage—currently estimated to cost between $15 billion and $26 billion USD we walk with them with a vision of hope and rebuilding.
You are invited to the 2024 D7090 Foundation Celebration with Awards & District Grant Qualification Seminar
World Polio Day - October 24 - was established by Rotary International to commemorate the birth of Jonas Salk, who led the first team to develop a vaccine against poliomyelitis.
Nominations are now open for the District Governor for 2027-2028. We will be accepting nominations until November 24, 2025.
District Council meets every two months to discuss how best to serve District 7090 Rotary clubs.
MEMBERSHIP SUMMIT
The Youth Exchange officers have a program on Friday and Saturday June 20 and 21 featuring interactive workshops. These are exciting opportunities to network with Rotarians and volunteers involved in the Rotary Youth Exchange program from around the world. You will learn alongside friends, exchange ideas, and make connections for future exchanges, while experiencing Calgary.
Have you ever heard the term “Rotary Action Group” or “RAG” for short? If you have not, you are not alone. Well, what is a “RAG”? Rotary Action Groups are independent, Rotary-affiliated groups made up of people from around the world who are experts in a particular field, such as economic development, peace, addiction prevention, the environment, or water, to name just a few.
The Canada to Scotland Rotary Curling tour has been providing an opportunity for International Rotary Fellowship since 1956. 
Gift of Life, Inc, of Rotary District 7090 is one of GOLI’s 84 affiliated GOL programs spanning five continents. Our role is to provide the financial support needed to obtain the necessary equipment and materials needed for the surgery and for the pre and post operative procedures. Without our support, it would be difficult to establish pediatric cardiac centers in some countries and to provide surgical interventions in many other countries. Gift of Life is a true Rotary success story because the idea for it began with one Rotarian in Long Island. The goal for 2024 is to treat 5,000 children in just one year. Every day in the 80 plus countries where we work, there are 100 children waiting for surgery. Kids who will die without it.
Online Raffle - October 24, 2024
The Rotary Club of Ancaster AM's 3rd Annual Car Raffle Is Underway!
In September, Project Chair Karl Hanley led the Ancaster AM Club on a successful 26th year of Autumn Stroll.
PHOTO: Chair Karl Hanley on the left with part of his team
The Trick or Trot 5k on Saturday, October 26, is a fun race/walk event through the cemeteries of Batavia, NY. This is a costume event and will have a haunted section! Wear your favorite Halloween costume and come out for a fun time.
BNMC 6th Annual Chili Cook-Off
The Rotary Club of Buffalo Sunrise members, past, present, and future enjoyed an evening featuring lots of conversation, many laughs, great food and a fine setting at the Saturn Club on Friday, September 20 as we celebrated our 30th club anniversary. After a warm welcome by President Timothy Priano, catching up and reminiscing were the order of the day.
Several Club Past Presidents were in attendance as were two distinguished Past District Governors: Nick Norton and Wally Ochterski.
23 years ago, on August 16th, 2001, the Rotary Club of Dundas unveiled a sign in Centennial Park in Dundas to describe the history of the Desjardin Canal and the Turning Basin.
We gathered at the Ontario Southcoast DreamDrive for an unforgettable weekend celebrating classic cars.
Dunnville was getting their Ducks in a row!
As is its style, things were rocking Saturday afternoon (September 28th) at Madigan’s Restaurant in Ellicottville. The Rotary Club of Ellicottville gathered at Madigan’s upstairs to hold their biggest fundraiser of the year, a Chili Cookoff! Approximately 150 attendees had fun at what has been reported to be one of the best fun events of the year in Ellicottville. Music and laughter filled the air.
Once again this fall, the Rotary Club of Fonthill is hosting a 
On Sunday, October 6, 2024, the Greater Jamestown AM Rotary will host the annual Bill Briggs-Tim Grace Memorial Football Party at Ellicottville Brewing on Chautauqua in Bemus Point, NY. 
Members of the Rotary Club of Greater Jamestown AM and the Rotary Club of Jamestown, NY have purchased Legacy Seats at the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts in support of the theater replacing all 1260+ seats in the magnificent old edifice in the center of town.
The Rotary Club of Hamburg welcomed vendors and neighbors to its first "Junk in the Trunk" flea market under sunny skies on Sept. 14, at the site of the Hub - Revive Wesleyan Church, 4999 McKinley Parkway, Hamburg.
Hamburg Rotary kicks off the “Warm the Children” Program” with a generous donation.
The Rotary Club of Hamilton is proud to announce that it will be taking over the stewardship of three beloved community initiatives: the CHML Children’s Fund, the Christmas Tree of Hope, and Operation Santa Claus.
Jeff Mahoney unmasked?
A "Tree"mendous Presentation by Lesia Mokrycke
The Hamilton AM Rotary club has accumulated a nice collection of tents, tables, fundraising supplies, and decorations over the years, used to host high quality, successful fundraising events over its 38 year history.
The Hamilton Community Rotaract Club’s Family Dinner: Building Connections Through Cultural Celebrations
The Winona Peach Festival represents our Club’s largest fundraiser annually. We had 109 volunteers, including Rotarians, family, friends, community partners & students, contributing over 580 volunteer hours. This is an excellent “hands-on” project with all Club Members participating.
21, in recognition of the International Day of Peace, we read to every single student at the school the book “
Participating in the dedication of the Peace Pole were: left to right: Melissa & David Troxell, Love School Principal Cynthia Johnson, Caitlin O’Reilly, Ruth Lundin and Club President Marion Beckerink.
Founders, funders, and Jamestown attraction executives were on hand to salute the completion of the reverse side of the WELCOME TO JAMESTOWN, NY sign at the Route 60 entrance to the City of Jamestown.
Twenty-nine Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Jamestown, NY and friends from the Greater Jamestown AM Rotary Club attended a networking social event at the Southern Tier Brewing Company to engage and encourage our Jamestown Young Professional leaders to consider the benefits of Rotary. A great band played popular music, and a chicken dinner buffet was provided. Gift bags were given to each of the JYP attendees, including an invitation and a certificate for a free Rotary lunch, so that the young people can learn more about Rotary and the Club.
Lancaster-Depew Rotarians spend their Fall evenings on Thursday and Friday, or Saturday mornings, selling concessions to the crowds that attend Lancaster High and JV football games.
Coco has arrived from Taiwan!
Members of the 
The Rotary Club Pavilion was dedicated on September 24th, with about 30 people in attendance. Bob O’Connor, Rotary Club of Lockport president, introduced Mayor John Lombardi III, who spoke within the pavilion, in sight of the Adam Street Lift Bridge and mere feet from the Erie Canal’s waters.
Niagara-on-the-Lake Rotary Club Fashion Show
Exciting News from Area 1 – Norfolk County Rotary Clubs are joining together to Celebrate Community Service.
On Tuesday evening, and after a great summer break, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise (RCNS) members, family, and friends, gathered at the Waterford Legion for social reconnection and to conduct some overdue business at hand. Details of the business conducted can be seen at the 'Read more ...' tab (below) along with a variety of supporting photos.
District Governor Dave Alexander attended a busy August 28th meeting with updates on what is happening at the District and new initiatives designed to help the individual Clubs and Committees better reach their communities at large. DG Dave was pleased to present Past President Annette with our 2023 - 2024 Rotary Citation from International President Gordon McInally recognizing the Club’s achievements over the year and following that up with the induction of new member Amy Layton and the presentation of a Paul Harris Fellow + 3 Pin to Ellen Wodchis. President Coral presented DG Dave with a cheque donating $1000 to the Polio Plus Campaign in his honour.
THE ROTARY CLUB OF SIMCOE is pleased to announce the awarding of two Jeff Scott Memorial Bursaries of $2000 to Sullivan ("Sully)) Shrubsole and Sidhi Ramakrishnan.
The Rotary Club of Welland held its 8th Annual Bocce Social on Monday September 23rd at Casa Dante.
The Rotary Club of Welland is pleased to congratulate the 2024 Rotary Gold Medallion recipients from the graduating classes of 5 Welland and 2 Port Colborne High Schools
At its last meeting of September, President Janese Berkhouse of the Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club presented a check to representatives of the Westfield Academy and School STAR program.
The Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club once again is making plans for its annual fund raiser, "Gold Rush".
On Wednesday, September 25th, we inducted 4 new members to our club – Patti Stephens, Lisa Kruger (not shown), Rev. Gary Gossel, Maura Blonski.
Our guest speaker for September 25th was Mrs. Debbie Dalessandro, Executive director of the West Seneca Food Pantry.
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