As we near the end of the year I wish everyone well for the holiday season.
I hope our American friends have had a great Thanksgiving in spending time with family and friends as well as celebrating the season with your fellow Rotarians.
My heart is filled with gratitude for the effort Rotarians and clubs have made to help those amongst us who are less fortunate. I find that this time of the year - the early transition to the New Year - is filled with promise, reflection, and determination.
I hope that you will take a few moments for yourself to think through your Rotary journey.
I also hope you will work with your Rotary teammates to reach out to one or two of your fellow Rotarians who are not attending meetings and finding out about their intentions in the New Year.
Hear them. Accommodate them.
I hope your bonds are strengthened and that they renew their commitment to our work.
Rotary believes good health care is everyone’s right.
Yet 400 million people in the world can’t afford or don’t have access to basic health care.
Disease results in misery, pain, and poverty for millions of people worldwide.
That’s why treating and preventing disease is so important to us.
We lead efforts both large and small.
We set up temporary clinics, blood donation centers, and training facilities in underserved communities struggling with outbreaks and health care access.
We design and build infrastructure that allows doctors, patients, and governments to work together.
Our members combat diseases like malaria, HIV/AIDS, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and polio.
Prevention is important, which is why we also focus on health education and bringing people routine hearing, vision, and dental care.
Time is Running out for Special Pricing for Calgary
Hurry! The discounted registration rate for the2025 Annual Rotary Convention in Calgaryends on December 15th. We thank all the Rotarians who have already registered.
We have heard from many thinking about joining the convention. To save your registration fees book now and if you must cancel your registration a $50 processing fee applies to each registrant who cancels on a registration. Requests to cancel registrants or Rotary-ticketed events must be received in writing by 30 April 2025. Registrants who cancel after the deadline will not receive a refund.
The convention is open to all Rotarians, new members, partners, and friends. Consider bringing your family - there's plenty for them to enjoy, including special pricing for the House of Friendship.
For those traveling by air, consider the convenient Hamilton, Ontario airport. WestJet offers a daily 6:00 a.m. flight to Calgary. The Hamilton airport is known for its ease of use.
While the train does not go directly to Calgary, you could take a train to Edmonton and make your way to the convention.
A group is embarking on an RV road trip to Calgary that you could join in as well.
If you need accommodation, book soon as hotel rooms are going fast. Alternatively, you may be able to stay with a local Rotarian.
We hope you'll join us in Calgary next June for this exciting event. Act now to secure the best rates before the special pricing ends.
As November concludes and December begins, I want to reflect on the past month and share my aspirations for the final stretch of the calendar year. As we approach the halfway mark, I am filled with pride, gratitude, and optimism for the continued vibrancy of Rotaract within our district and beyond.
November, dedicated to the Rotary Foundation, highlighted the cornerstone of Rotary’s global impact. Across Canada, Rotary and Rotaract clubs championed fundraisers and awareness campaigns to support the Foundation’s vital initiatives. These efforts exemplify our shared commitment to creating meaningful and lasting change in our communities and the world at large.
One highlight of my November was leading a seminar with the Rotaract Club of Lagos Metropolitan, Nigeria. With the invaluable support of PDG Lisa Bishop, our district’s Rotary Foundation Chair, we explored the Foundation’s impactful contributions to addressing global challenges. This exchange reaffirmed the power of international collaboration and mutual learning.
Meanwhile, in the United States, the University of Buffalo Rotaract Club organized a Donut Fundraiser, directing all profits to victims of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Their efforts not only provided crucial aid to those affected by climate change but also demonstrated how Rotaractors can mobilize resources creatively to make a difference.
These initiatives underscored the strength of collaboration and highlighted Rotaract’s integral role in advancing Rotary’s mission.
“Rotary Auction Niagara” is back, bringing together six Rotary clubs across the Niagara region for a joint fundraising effort that promises to make a substantial impact in local communities. Scheduled to launch online on November 27th at 8:00 AM, the online event will offer unique auction items, services, and experiences to bidders while raising vital funds to support local charities and initiatives.
The Rotary Clubs of Fonthill, Niagara Falls, Niagara Falls Sunrise, St. Catharines, St. Catharines South, and Welland are proud to collaborate on this annual event. Together, these clubs leverage their combined networks and community spirit to make a difference in the lives of thousands of Niagara residents. This auction unites the six clubs around their shared mission of "Service Above Self" and underscores their collective commitment to building a brighter, more resilient community.
Funds raised from the Rotary Auction Niagara will be distributed across these initiatives, enabling each club to continue its support for these critical services and extend its reach into even more community-driven projects.
The Rotary Auction Niagara is a testament to the power of collaboration. We are grateful for the ongoing support of local businesses and individuals who donate items and bid generously, helping us strengthen our collective ability to make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors.
Participants can expect a wide range of items to bid on, from gift certificates to unique experiences, travel packages, and exclusive products from local businesses. Bidding opens on Wednesday, November 27th at 8 a.m. and closes on Saturday, December 7th at 9 p.m., with all proceeds going directly to support the charitable initiatives led by these six Rotary clubs.
For more information about Rotary Auction Niagara, or to view the auction catalog and register to bid, visit www.RotaryAuctionNiagara.com
Join Us for the 35th Annual Akron-Newstead Rotary Christmas Auction
The Rotary Club of Akron-Newstead invites you to our major fundraising event of the holiday season: the 35th Annual Akron-Newstead Rotary Christmas Auction!
Mark your calendars for Friday, December 6th, 2024, at 6pm at the American Legion, 9 Eckerson, Akron, NY.
Enjoy live music, delicious food, and a cash bar while participating in our Basket Raffle.
Funds raised from this event will support our annual Holiday Outreach program, providing groceries and gifts to those less fortunate in our community.
Last year, with the help of our community partners, Rotarians, and local businesses, we raised over $15,000 to assist families in the Akron-Newstead area.
Join us for an evening of festive fun and community spirit!
November 19 was a night of celebration as Rotarians, their families and friends of Rotary gathered at the Brantford Golf and Country Club to honour the contribution Brantford Sunrise has made to Rotary, the Rotary Foundation, and the community over it's 31-year history.
Five individuals, Heather Harrow, Kim Neziol, Bill Brown, Dev Lall, and Loretta Madison, each received a Paul Harris Fellowship for their outstanding contribution to Rotary and the work it does in the community.
Rotarian Blaine Field became the newest member of the Paul Harris Society.
Sunrise Past President Phil Race received recognition as a Major Donor to the Rotary Foundation.
PHOTO (L to R): Bill Brown, Loretta Madison, Kim Neziol, Heather Harrow, Dev Lall
Rotarians from the Buffalo and BNMC Clubs recently spent an evening with Koko, the Rotary Exchange Student hosted by the Buffalo Club.
Kokone Nakakoshi, from the city of Nanao in the Ishikawa prefecture of Japan, is the middle child with two brothers.
Her favorite subject is math, and she wants to study nursing at university.
Nancy Sanders (Buffalo Club) and Patti Johnson (BNMC) took her to the Remington Tavern (N. Tonawanda - Nancy's treat!) then to an art opening at the Carnegie Art Center for the opening of the exhibit “Second Spring: Paintings by Sarah Field Sonnenberg and Anna Rubino.”
She is currently staying with Greg and Jill Norton. If YOU would like the experience of hosting a Rotary Exchange Student in your home for a few months (January - March) please contact John Bradley at johnb@alcotthr.comor 716-479-0387.
You’ll find Koko to be a positive, engaging and cheerful 18-year-old, who enjoys anime and K-pop! And French-fries.
(One requirement: you need to live in the city limits - Buffalo - since she is attending school at City Honors.)
PHOTO (L to R): Nancy Sanders (Buffalo), Patti Johnson (BNMC), Koko Nakakoshi
December will find Buffalo Sunrise Rotarians both engaged in learning and having fun.
First off, there will be TRF and BSRC Foundation presentations explaining the importance of regular giving and where our fundraisers and donations will have the greatest impact.
The presenters are Ben Kerman, Melanie Rushforth and TRF chair Angela Hintz.
Club members will also welcome DG Dave Alexander and our Assistant Governor Brandon Blatz inspiring us about “The Magic of Rotary” at our following meeting in December.
Next up: To kick off the holiday festivities we will enjoy a morning holiday gathering and an always fun white elephant gift exchange.
Early in January, Sunrisers will join Area 10 clubs including the Rotary Club of Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus, Buffalo Club, Kenmore Club, and others for a Happy New Year Holiday Party. As always, our goal is to welcome our fellow Rotarians, community partners, and those curious about Rotary!
Dundas Valley Sunrise held its annual “Socks and Skivvies” drive, and over the course of 10 days collected $7000 worth of new socks, underwear, gloves, scarves, toques, and children’s clothing.
In all, 20 bags, each worth around $350, were distributed to a variety of organizations that will distribute to the needy.
Club member Nancy Baker organized and coordinated the collection, and President Russ Powers arranged the collection bins from the City of Hamilton. And supplied the pizza!
Thank you to the Hamilton Jewish Family Services for letting the club use its facility to sort and pack the clothing.
The not-for-profit organization empowers adults living with mental illness through housing, employment, and social recreation. On November 7th, President Brad Spencer presents Rotary Member Dr. Bob Perry with the Double Blue Saphire Paul Harris Award.
PHOTOS: (1) Rotary President, Brad Spencer, Cookie Coordinator Kim Plante, the Honorable Mayor Shelly Ann Bentley, True Experience Executive Director Rhonda Geyer, Heather Delange, Penny Banks, Lynn Spencer, Jen Robertson, and Alzheimer’s Society Rep., Judy Fowlie
(2) Dr. Bob Perry receives his Paul Harris Double Blue Saphire pin from President Brad Spencer
The Rotary Clubs of Fonthill and Welland jointly hosted their 2nd annual Rotary Golf Tournament on September 13, 2024.
One hundred and twenty golfers and volunteers from both Clubs took part, including D7090 Governor David Alexander and PDG Scott Marcin. Unique to this event, all 18 holes had a contest and prize, along with two hole-in-one contests. After golf, everyone sat down for a Korean dinner at the Pelham Hills Golf Club, participated in a 50/50 draw and took a chance bidding on silent auction items.
The net proceeds, more than $16,000, are being donated to Youth Resources Niagara, a nonprofit, multi-faceted agency consisting of three supportive homes that are complemented by a variety of community-based programs. Every year Youth Resources Niagara provides services for over 160 youths in our community who are homeless, have been placed in FACS care or come into contact with the legal system. The Cheque presentation was made on November 21, 2024.
Danielle Hordenchuk, Executive Director of Youth Resources Niagara stated “I would like to once again extend our sincere gratitude for the generous support of the Rotary Clubs of Welland and Fonthill. The funds raised through this initiative will significantly contribute to our ongoing efforts to support at-risk youth in the Niagara region. Fundraising events like this enable us to offer our youth programs that go beyond the basic necessities covered by our standard funding. Specifically, the proceeds from this fundraiser will allow us to enhance our existing recreational activities, including, but not limited to, improvements to our basketball court, the purchase of physical fitness equipment, and the expansion of general programming. While these objectives may seem modest, they represent opportunities for youth who otherwise may not have access to such activities.”
PHOTO (L to R): Fonthill Rotarian Hugh Graham, Danielle Hordenchuk, Executive Director of Youth Resources Niagara, Welland Rotarian Tim Proctor, Fonthill Rotarian Mike Taylor
Thank you to all of you who came out and volunteered your time on a Friday night. The extended registration table ran smoothly as each player was greeted and upsold on our extras. The food team did an outstanding job keeping the tables replenished. The pre-set-up team were organized and ready to go even earlier this year. The bingo team of Mike T and Mike H ran a smooth set of 11 games. Paul S was well spoken and organized as our MC for the evening, keeping track of time and schedule. Purse models were so good that they could easily find work on a professional runway. Our spotters were on top of the winners and got them to the front quickly. The ongoing clean up crew kept the tables looking tidy. Sales of 50/50, extra games and luxury games were a huge success and add immensely to our bottom line. And lastly to all who stayed after the party was over to clean up and pack away our supplies, hopefully to be used again next year.
A very special thank you goes to sisters-in-crime Ann and Annie.
They are the glue that make this evening go so seamlessly. Endless hours were spent tracking sales, organizing tables and setting up.
And yes, we are really good at overthinking scenarios, but it all works out!
This year, December 3rd is "Giving Tuesday": a global generosity movement unleashing the power of radical generosity.
This Giving Tuesday, transform generosity into action!
A new website has been launched www.tfmasg.com, which highlights the critical connection between malnutrition and polio eradication.
The site emphasizes how addressing malnutrition can significantly bolster global efforts to eliminate polio: a goal shared by every Rotarian.
Just $10 a month can provide 20 therapeutic meals to a child suffering from severe malnutrition - a child on the brink of life and death.
Join our global campaign to fight malnutrition and save thousands of starving children in Pakistan. Together, we can bring hope, health, and life to those who need it most.
Donate today and make a difference: www.tfmasg.combecause every meal you provide is a step closer to saving a child’s life.
- Najeeb Syed
(To donate directly to Rotary International on Giving Tuesday: CLICK HERE)
The Rotary District 7090 Lighthouse Awards reward clubs which have completed the qualifications for the Rotary Citation, and demonstrated that their club or members have completed at least 5 of the 25 achievements listed HERE.
Sherry Miller, president 2023-2024 (way in the back!) accepted the award for the Grand Island Club.
Also, Rotarian Jerry Barlow visited Huth Road Elementary School’s Early Act Club. He shared his experiences as an army medic during the Vietnam War. He recounted the challenges and sacrifices of serving in a war zone, providing the students with a deeper understanding of the dedication required of armed service members. His presentation encouraged the young club members to value service, leadership, and compassion: core principles of both Rotary and Early Act.
The Rotary Club of Grand Island honored 6 legacy members during a special reception at the Grand Island Library.
Rotary District 7090 Gov. David Alexander of the Rotary Club of Welland, Ontario, J. Scott Broda, Area Governor of the Club of Fort Erie, and Tommy Gerbasi of Lewiston-NOTL Club joined with club members in recognizing the years of distinction of these Rotarians:
Jerry Barlow, John Harbison, Mike Heigel, Skip Mazenhaur, Aktar Mirza, and Angelo Palamuso.
These Rotarians exemplify the Rotary motto of "Service Above Self".
During the tenure of these distinguished Rotarians, they had some remarkable accomplishments for Grand Island and the World.
Interact Clubs Band Together to Collect Food for Neighbors Foundation
The Grand Island High School and Middle School Interact Clubs teamed up to promote giving this Thanksgiving by organizing a fundraising and food drive contest for the Neighbors Foundation.
Students competed for the chance to win a shopping spree at Tops to purchase food for the cause.
Class winners were announced on Friday, November 22nd, and a check for $500 was presented by the Rotary Club to support the initiative.
Rotary Stands with Zonta to Recognize "No to Violence Against Women"
On Monday night, November 18th, the Grand Island Town Board proclaimed the period from November 25th - December 10 in honor of "Zonta Says No to Violence Against Women".
Sherry Miller was there to show that Rotary stands with them and everything this campaign stands for.
“Oranging the Island” begins at Grand Island Town Hall. If you have seen the orange ribbons on trees around town hall these are in recognition of the fight to uncover and help those subject to violence.
If you would like ribbons from the Zonta club, please get in touch with Heidi by emailing grandislandzonta@gmail.com.
PHOTO (L to R): Councilmembers. Christian Bahleda, Tom Digati; Kelly Gast, Family Justice Center; Zonta President, Heidi Travagline; Supervisor, Peter Marston; Zonta Members: Stacy Khreis, Wendi Delaney Wilson; Councilmember, Daniel Kilmer
Many of our Grimsby Rotary Club members attended an event to raise the “End Polio Now” flag at the Grimsby Town Hall.
PHOTO (L to R): Roger Bradley, Azam Foda, Andy Daniels, George Wagenaar, Mayor Jeff Jordan, Gerry Vandermolen, Jeanette Murphy, Town Councillor Jennifer Korstanje. Sandra Zulauf, Bill Hughes, Elaine Hughes (Red Coat), Joan Whitson, and Lauren Tonogai
The Hamburg Sunrise Rotary recently presented plaques at several Veterans Posts honoring one veteran and the widow of another veteran for their service to our country.
The Club has been doing this for over 20 years.
Club members David Powers and Michael Reilly are pictured, presenting the plaque in honor of Chuck Harrison.
We also presented a $1,000.00 scholarship to a veteran attending Hilbert College in Hamburg, NY who is pursuing a degree. Pictured with the recipient are Club members Michael Reilly, Cathy Rybczynski, Jim Eisman, President Sue Harrington, Roger Jackson and Dave Powers.
At the Wednesday, November 6 meeting of the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM, members had the exciting opportunity to hear from Simon Winterson, the visionary behind Hamilton Prop House. This unique café and bar offers a creative haven where members can immerse themselves in a world of imagination, surrounded by over 20 stunning Cinemini film sets, including a fully recreated train car that transports you to another era.
At the Prop House, members are encouraged to explore and interact with the eclectic assortment of props and set pieces. They have the freedom to take any items within the house and unleash their creativity to craft their own Cinemini films. Simon dreams of this space becoming a ‘third place’—a welcoming environment beyond home and work, where people can gather, collaborate, and share their passions. Join us for an inspiring discussion about this innovative community hub!
On Wednesday, November 20, Hamilton AM Rotary members received a presentation from Valerie, a Peer Navigator from the Positive Health Network.
This organization serves Hamilton, Halton, Haldimand, Norfolk and Brant. She has been with The Network since 2018, first on the Board of Directors and then joining their staff last year.
The Positive Health Network was formerly known as The AIDS Network. The name was changed in June of this year after extensive consultations with stakeholders.
Each year, on 1 December, the world commemorates World AIDS Day. People around the world unite to show support for people living with HIV and to remember those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses.
Each World AIDS Day focuses on a specific theme, which this year will be “Take the rights path”.
This year’s theme joins a growing list of challenges that World AIDS Day has alerted people to globally.
Founded in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever international day for global health.
Every year, United Nations agencies, governments and civil society join together to campaign around specific themes related to HIV.
The Rotary Club of Hamilton Stoney Creek members were honoured by The Stoney Creek Chamber of Commerce with this year’s Outstanding Community Achievement Award.
The award was presented at their annual Gala which also celebrated the Chamber’s 75th Anniversary.
When members of the Jamestown Club worked at the Jamestown UCAN City Mission recently, they had the opportunity to see the fruits of their labor... and the implementation of a joint donation of a new dishwasher to the Mission, provided by the Greater Jamestown AM Rotary Club and the Rotary Club of Jamestown.
The dishwasher made light work of cleanup by finishing a washing cycle in just 90 seconds after residents bussed the dishes and utensils used during dinner!
The two local Rotary Clubs joined forces to underwrite the cost for the new dishwasher.
Members of the Rotary Club of Jamestown, NY and the Greater Jamestown AM Rotary Club joined forces and purchased a row of 28 seats at the Reg Lenna Center for the Arts, a 501(C)(3) nonprofit in Jamestown, to support the theater’s replacement of seats.
The seats include a small plaque on the arm of the seat with the donor’s name and in this case will also include the Rotary Emblem.
Seven members of the Rotary Club of Jamestown prepared and served dinner to residents at the UCAN City Mission recently. They prepared spaghetti and meatballs, a tossed salad, bread and dessert, for men 18 years or older seeking temporary shelter at the local facility. It is a 30-day emergency stay facility that can accommodate up to 29 men. UCAN offers a bed, a shower, and two meals a day (breakfast and dinner).
The UCAN City Mission(United Christian Advocacy Network) is located at 7 West First Street in Jamestown, NY. The organization is witnessing transformation in the lives of people by providing shelter, hope, and renewal. It is an Emergency Rescue Mission seeking to serve “the least, the last, and the left behind.” It provides: 1) a safe place to live; 2) life skills training; 3) health care and hygiene; 4) local church connection and discipleship; 5) accountability; 6) a road to recovery. It is a Gospel Rescue Mission organization led by a Board of Directors and is also a part of the Citygate Network (formerly the Association of Gospel Rescue Missions.)
If you would like more information, you can contact UCAN 24/7 by calling 716-488-7480.
Rotarians Diana Meckley left, and Tory Irgang, right prepare meatballs and pasta to serve to residents at the UCAN City Mission.
PHOTO: Rotarians Diana Meckley left, and Tory Irgang, right prepare meatballs and pasta to serve to residents at the UCAN City Mission.
The Bi-National Lewiston/NOTL Rotary received a prestigious Lighthouse Award from Rotary District 7090 on November 16,2024, recognizing it as one of the outstanding Rotary Clubs in the region.
What makes this little Club worthy of this honor? You need only to visit the Club to feel the "Magic of Rotary" in the communities that straddle the Niagara River that are served by the Club.
The Club embraces the community on both sides of the Niagara River and celebrates the long history of collaboration across the border, acknowledging and enjoying the diversity that makes the Club interesting and stimulating.
The friendliness and camaraderie that prevails at all the events at which the Club participates. the promotion of high ethical standards, and the recognition of the value of ALL useful work make this little Rotary Club unique and FUN!
On November 16, members of our club attended the Foundation Celebration 2024 with Foundation District Seminar.
Our club members were attending to help the club qualify for the use of District Grants and to participate in the District Celebrations of achievements of our District clubs.
It was a great day for our Club, having received from past Governor Scott Marcin the Rick Sterne Governor's Trophy for Rotary Club engagement and impact (it was a complete surprise).
The club also received the Lighthouse Award and an award for our contribution to the End Polio Now campaign.
I would like to congratulate all the club members for helping to achieve our club goals.
Meredith Marino, Development Director of the Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre, visited our club on November 12th to receive a cheque from Lincoln Rotary for the money raised by donation from our Bike the Benchlands event held in August. The final numbers are in and a cheque for $12,340 was presented by club President Joanne to Meredith.
Thank you goes out to all our sponsors, participants, donors, and volunteers that made this fundraiser a great success.
This beloved tradition has raised more than $1,500,000 for local and international charitable projects since it began.
Each year, over 300 hard-working volunteers and our community partners come together to showcase beautiful historic and contemporary homes decorated for the holidays.
Our Holiday House Tour is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit.
$1 of each ticket sold is donated to Land Care Niagara for tree planting to offset the carbon footprint of this fundraiser.
"Service above Self" - it is what we stand for - and it is what we like to recognize in those in Norfolk County who are so important to their community.
So it was that both local clubs, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise (RCNS) and the Rotary Club of Simcoe (RCS), gathered together on 24 October at the Lighthouse Theatre to recognize four such selfless citizens in our midst.
Following a social gathering supported by an excellent buffet, the 125 attendees proceeded to the theatre to enjoy the proceedings. Master of Ceremonies, Rotarian Keith Jones noted the presence of many local Community and Rotary leaders and then provided the Rotary International context for its Foundation work and the Paul Harris Fellowship recognition. Four representative community leaders were then introduced and so-recognized by District 7090 Governor David Alexander;
- on behalf of the RCS, George Araujo introduced Ron Cripps;
- on behalf of the RCNS, Ross Gowan introduced Virginia Lucas;
- on behalf of the RCS, Andy Elkin introduced Hadley Jackson; and
- on behalf of the RCNS, Fr Augustine introduced Deacon Gerard Van Schyndel.
Details of each of our four honourees may be found at the 'Read more ...' below.
The 2024 Simcoe and District Chamber of Commerce, Awards Gala was held on Thursday November 7 at the Delhi German Home.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise (RCNS), along with a representation of its membership, was in attendance to witness:
- the winner of the Toyotetsu Canada Inc. TTCA Business Achievement Award in Retail or Service is Ryerse Garden Gallery.
Congratulations to our own David Rusling, shown in the middle with Catherine Korecki Adams (President of Chamber) and Bob Walsh from Toyotetsu; and
- the winner of the Good Redden Klosler LLP Outstanding Community Service Award is the Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure.
Congratulations to Sunriser Gail Catherwood shown in the middle with Laura Zorad (Good Redden) and Catherine Korecki Adams (President of Chamber).
Rotarians from the Simcoe and District area want to add their own congratulations to all of the category nominees & winners; what a wonderful community we live in.
St. Catharines Lakeshore Helps Construct Indigenous Teaching Strawberry Planter
Willowbankis Canada's premier Heritage Conservation School.
The Strawberry planter was built by Willowbank to help educate students on sustainable farming practices, foster respect and understanding of Indigenous culture; and to strengthen community ties and support for local food production within the historical context of Willowbank.
Based on articles available on the Internet: “Often referred to as the heart berry because of its shape, the wild or natural strawberry is an important food and medicine in many indigenous cultures in North America as well as teaching forgiveness and peace.”
The Club donated $500.00 to Willowbank for materials to construct its Indigenous Teaching Strawberry Planter. Our own President-elect Bryan Pett was part of the crew that built the planter.
The Rotary Club of Waterdown awarded Paul Harris pins to five outstanding individuals.
What do a retired non-profit sector professional, a trailer manufacturer, a local mom and community activist, a health care provider, and a funeral director have in common?
These five people from different walks of life, honoured at the Rotary Club of Waterdown’s Paul Harris Awards ceremony at West Avenue Cider House this week, all make our community a better place.
PHOTO (L to R): Joseph Vandenhurk, Amber Kosubovich, Donna Czukar, Jennifer Valeri and Rick Ludwig were presented with Paul Harris Awards on Tuesday evening.
Handing out Halloween treats at our club’s pavilion at the Chautauqua Safety Village
and the next day serving refreshments at the Westfield Fire Department’s Halloween costume contest.
Then a few days later 6 teams of 2 went out into the night to collect election results for the Board of Elections!!! (Dan Smith holding the “blue pouches ”.)
And then we were awarded the District’s Lighthouse Award! (Mike Harrington holding the award)
The Williamsville Rotary Club celebrated its 100th Anniversary with a fundraising Gala in September, dedicated to supporting the Kevin Guest House campaign. We successfully raised $11,000 through ticket sales.
The evening was filled with joy and a sense of community spirit, as attendees gathered to celebrate this significant milestone. The venue was beautifully decorated, with elegant centerpieces and a photo display capturing the club's rich history and achievements over the years. Guests enjoyed a sumptuous dinner, followed by an inspiring speech from the club president, Richard Wojtowicz and Rotary District 7090 Governor Dave Alexander, highlighting the impact Rotary has had on both local and global communities.
Live music added to the festive atmosphere, encouraging guests to dance and mingle. A silent auction featured an array of wonderful items generously donated by local businesses and individuals, further contributing to the fundraising efforts. The success of the event not only demonstrated the generosity and enthusiasm of the Williamsville community but also reinforced the club's 2024 commitment to the “Magic of Rotary”.
As the night drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of gratitude and anticipation for the future. The funds raised will play a crucial role in supporting the Kevin Guest House initiative, providing a "home away from home" for families traveling for medical care, and furthering the club's mission to make a meaningful difference in people's lives.
The Milestone celebration not only highlighted the Rotary Club’s legacy but also set the stage for continued community engagement and charitable efforts in the future.
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
As we near the end of the year I wish everyone well for the holiday season.
Rotary believes good health care is everyone’s right.
As November concludes and December begins, I want to reflect on the past month and share my aspirations for the final stretch of the calendar year. As we approach the halfway mark, I am filled with pride, gratitude, and optimism for the continued vibrancy of Rotaract within our district and beyond. 
“Rotary Auction Niagara” is back, bringing together six Rotary clubs across the Niagara region for a joint fundraising effort that promises to make a substantial impact in local communities. Scheduled to launch online on November 27th at 8:00 AM, the online event will offer unique auction items, services, and experiences to bidders while raising vital funds to support local charities and initiatives.
Join Us for the 35th Annual Akron-Newstead Rotary Christmas Auction
Here in Albion, we are hosting a Chicken and Biscuit Dinner on December 14th.
The Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus Rotary Club will host a get-together with Area 10 Clubs:
November 19 was a night of celebration as Rotarians, their families and friends of Rotary gathered at the Brantford Golf and Country Club to honour the contribution Brantford Sunrise has made to Rotary, the Rotary Foundation, and the community over it's 31-year history.
On Thursday, November 7th, the Rotary Club of Buffalo volunteered at 
December will find Buffalo Sunrise Rotarians both engaged in learning and having fun.
Another Success!
Supporting community through SMILES
The Rotary Clubs of Fonthill and Welland jointly hosted their 2nd annual Rotary Golf Tournament on September 13, 2024.
Another successful Purse Bingo is a wrap!
This year, December 3rd is "
The Rotary District 7090 Lighthouse Awards reward clubs which have completed the qualifications for the Rotary Citation, and demonstrated that their club or members have completed at least 5 of the 25 achievements listed 
Also, Rotarian Jerry Barlow visited Huth Road Elementary School’s Early Act Club. He shared his experiences as an army medic during the Vietnam War. He recounted the challenges and sacrifices of serving in a war zone, providing the students with a deeper understanding of the dedication required of armed service members. His presentation encouraged the young club members to value service, leadership, and compassion: core principles of both Rotary and Early Act.
The Rotary Club of Grand Island honored 6 legacy members during a special reception at the Grand Island Library.
Interact Clubs Band Together to Collect Food for Neighbors Foundation
Rotary Stands with Zonta to Recognize "No to Violence Against Women"
The Grimsby Rotary Club hosted its 3rd Annual "Grimsby Glows" on November 1, 2024.
October 24 was World Polio Day!
Come join us to celebrate the magic of the holiday season!
Three Rotary Clubs Socialize, Support Wine Business
The Hamburg Sunrise Rotary recently presented plaques at several Veterans Posts honoring one veteran and the widow of another veteran for their service to our country.
We also presented a $1,000.00 scholarship to a veteran attending Hilbert College in Hamburg, NY who is pursuing a degree. Pictured with the recipient are Club members Michael Reilly, Cathy Rybczynski, Jim Eisman, President Sue Harrington, Roger Jackson and Dave Powers.
The Hamburg Sunrise Rotary Club will be hosting their annual Holiday Gathering:
Exploring the Unique Hamilton Prop House
On Wednesday, November 20, Hamilton AM Rotary members received a presentation from Valerie, a Peer Navigator from the Positive Health Network.
The Rotary Club of Hamilton Stoney Creek members were honoured by The Stoney Creek Chamber of Commerce with this year’s Outstanding Community Achievement Award.
When members of the Jamestown Club worked at the Jamestown UCAN City Mission recently, they had the opportunity to see the fruits of their labor...
Members of the Rotary Club of Jamestown, NY and the Greater Jamestown AM Rotary Club joined forces and purchased a row of 28 seats at the 
Seven members of the Rotary Club of Jamestown prepared and served dinner to residents at the UCAN City Mission recently. They prepared spaghetti and meatballs, a tossed salad, bread and dessert, for men 18 years or older seeking temporary shelter at the local facility. It is a 30-day emergency stay facility that can accommodate up to 29 men. UCAN offers a bed, a shower, and two meals a day (breakfast and dinner).
Each year the Lancaster-Depew Rotary Club places vintage Christmas decorations around the village.
Hey! We Won an Award! 
On November 16, members of our club attended the Foundation Celebration 2024 with Foundation District Seminar.
Meredith Marino, Development Director of the 
NOTL Rotary Club has had a busy November.
The Rotary Club of Niagara on the Lake will present its 25th Anniversary “
- the winner of the Toyotetsu Canada Inc. TTCA Business Achievement Award in Retail or Service is Ryerse Garden Gallery.
- the winner of the Good Redden Klosler LLP Outstanding Community Service Award is the Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure.
Join us on the weekend of December 7 & 8th for our annual Holiday House Tour!
St. Catharines Lakeshore Helps Construct Indigenous Teaching Strawberry Planter
The Rotary Club of Waterdown awarded Paul Harris pins to five outstanding individuals.
Handing out Halloween treats at our club’s pavilion at the Chautauqua Safety Village
Then a few days later 6 teams of 2 went out into the night to collect election results for the Board of Elections!!! (Dan Smith holding the “blue pouches ”.) 
And then we were awarded the District’s Lighthouse Award! (Mike Harrington holding the award)
The Williamsville Rotary Club celebrated its 100th Anniversary with a fundraising Gala in September, dedicated to supporting the Kevin Guest House campaign. We successfully raised $11,000 through ticket sales.
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