98th Annual Rural Urban Night Leonard Hawkins 2024-02-24 05:00:00Z 0

Eunice learns to curl

Our youth exchange student Eunice learns to curl. Rotarian Diane O'Shea invited her son, Jamie, to teach Eunice how to curl. Enjoy the photos that follow...
 
      
Eunice learns to curl 2024-02-13 05:00:00Z 0
Our club supports 2024 CNOY Walk 2024-02-13 05:00:00Z 0

Visioning Exercise- Strategic Planning

Posted on Jan 15, 2024
Our club was the first in District 6330 to participate in the Strategic Planning-Visioning Session on January 15th. Fourteen club members volunteered to participate in our club's Visioning initiative.
Enthusiastic group of members who were very engaged in the process which was led by the District Visioning Team ( Nurdan Tokoz (London-Hyde Park), Dawn Kennedy (Mildmay), PDG Mike Chaffee (Flint) and DG Sonja Glass (Meaford)).
An excellent exchange of ideas, we collectively agreed on our Master Plan, and determined our Action Plan outlining three/four goals, who will lead each goal, and the timeline for follow-up.
President Mark Oliver has some homework over the next 2 or 3 days and several members have a role to play in reaching the creation of our action plan over the next 4-6 weeks. In the pictures that follow, Pres. Mark addresses our members and introduces the Visioning Team, and he thanks the team for the well organized training session.
 
     
Visioning Exercise- Strategic Planning 2024-01-15 05:00:00Z 0

RI Theme for 2024-2025

On January 8th, 2024, Rotary International President-elect Stephanie Urchick announced that the 2024-25 presidential theme is The Magic of Rotary and called on members to recognize and amplify the organization’s power to save lives.

“Don’t misunderstand me – we are not going to end polio or bring peace to the world by waving a wand and saying some funny words,” Urchick told incoming district governors at the Rotary International Assembly on 8 January. “It’s up to you. You create the magic with every project completed, every dollar donated, and every new member.”

 
RI Theme for 2024-2025 2024-01-08 05:00:00Z 0

News from Will Kennedy

Our outbound exchange student, William Kennedy, is spending a year in Korea. His host club sponsors a school in Laos and William went with his host club to volunteer at the school. While in Laos, William tried eating fried grubs. Well done, William!
 
Watch the video of William eating fried grubs - click here (links to Rotary Facebook Page -  you don't need Facebook to see the video, just click on the 'X' to remove the login to Facebook)
 
 
Fresh grubs waiting in the bowl: (Screenshot from short video.)
 
 
School children in Laos singing "Baby Shark". (Screenshot from short video.)
 
News from Will Kennedy 2023-12-05 05:00:00Z 0

RC Grand Bend 100 containers celebration

Since 2014, our club has provided the Grand Bend club with volunteers and financial support. The first pictures show the RC St. Marys contingent including spouses and friends.
There were 100 guests attending the 100th container celebration at Hessenland. How appropriate!
 
 
 
Brian Hall, Chair Global Literacy Project sent us a recap of the evening:
Dear Linda,
While many of you were part of the 100 in attendance last Wednesday at Hessenland for our 100 container blast there were many who were unable to attend. I wanted to share some pictures and information delivered at this very special event organized by Morag Watt.
 
Speakers included Peter & Dini Twynstra who spoke about the inception of the project, Rotarian Morag Watt, who shared some of the lessons learned by seeing loadings and unloadings and Brian Hall who recognized the support provided by our many partners & volunteers. In addition, Peter's granddaughter, Shelby Mackenzie, recounted her experience spending time in South African schools. St. Mary's Rotary President Charlie Hammond spoke about how the school they still support in Uganda grew from 30 children to 450 after the container of school furniture arrived in 2014. Their Club has supported the creation of a "Skilling" Institute to teach the school graduates real world skills to improve their ability to access meaningful jobs.
 
One of the biggest surprises came in an email received from our contact in Sierra Leone , Stephanie Dobrowolski, a Canadian and friend of the daughter of Goderich Rotarian Dr. Bruce Thomasson.
 
In March of 2017 The Goderich Rotary Club, assisted by Grand Bend Rotarians, loaded 2- 40’ sea containers with books, school furniture and supplies which went to a Rising Academies School in Freetown Liberia. With our 100th Container Celebration on the horizon we asked Stephanie to reflect on the donation and her update is below. We are thrilled to have been a small part of the success Rising Academies has experienced, but more importantly to see the smiles on the faces of these learners who now have a chance to improve the lives of their families and their country.
 
“When the Rotary Club decided to offer their generous support, Rising Academies was still early days and only a couple years on from the Ebola crisis that closed our very first school. In early 2018, we were a network of 8 schools in Sierra Leone and 5 government partnership schools in Liberia, with about 4,000 students. Today, Rising is a network of over 930 schools serving over 250,000 students across Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ghana and Rwanda. We have over 700 staff members and have trained over 13,500 teachers, including over 3,000 just last August. It is through the support of organizations like the Rotary Club at very key junctures in our journey that we have managed to weather the challenges of the past decade and continue to grow our network of schools. In Sierra Leone, our students just achieved some of the highest marks in the country on the government exams, with 100% of our students passing the grade 6 and grade 9 exams (shown in the final picture). Achieving these results requires good quality teaching and learning materials, and the Rotary Club helped set Rising Academies on a path to higher quality education. More than 6 years on from your donation, on behalf of the Rising Academies team I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Rotary Club for choosing to support our schools, and ultimately reach the lives of thousands of students and teachers. Congratulations on your 100th container shipment and once again, a very sincere thanks!” Stephanie Dobrowolski  https://www.risingacademies.com/
 
These turn out to be some of the ” seeds” which sprout when we do little things to support literacy.
 
Thank you to Morag, John Smits for his AV talents and the Global Literacy Committee members who helped make the evening a huge success. We are all looking forward to Container 101!
 
Yours in Service,
Brian Hall
Chair, Global Literacy Project
Rotary Club of Grand Bend
 
 
RC Grand Bend 100 containers celebration 2023-12-05 05:00:00Z 0

Keeping DG Sonja busy

After visiting many community projects of the Rotary Club of St. Marys, DG Sonja Glass was kept very busy during her official visit. Besides her official presentation to the club, DG Sonja presented President Charlie Hammond with three club awards.
 
 
DG Sonja Glass and Pres Charlie Hammond present a Paul Harris recognition to a non-Rotarian. The club chose to recognize Sheila Greason posthumously for the tremendous contribution she made to our community. Her good friend, Sienna Kainz accepted the award on behalf of Sheila's family.
Our 2nd Paul Harris recognition goes to Rotarian Ron McDonald for reaching the next Paul Harris level, a multiple PH+2 pin, resulting from his donations through the Every Rotarian Every Year.
Our 3rd Paul Harris recognition goes to President Charlie Hammond who was recognized by the club for his many hours of  tireless service as Club President since July 1st, 2022.
DG Sonja announced one more special recognition being awarded to Rotarian Gary Cumming.
"I am pleased to take this opportunity to honour Gary Cumming who has generously contributed to the Rotary Foundation, and in so doing has achieved Major Donor status. Because of his dedication to our Foundation, we honour Gary with Major Donor level 1 recognition. Your gift inspires others to give, not just of their gift but of their time and of their talent! In recognition of your investment in The Rotary Foundation's wonderful projects and programs, I present this crystal and Major Donor pin on behalf of The Foundation's Trustees." 
DG Sonja also presided over the Presidential Changeover from Charlie Hammond to Mark Oliver as well as the installation of Club Officers and Directors.
           
Keeping DG Sonja busy 2023-11-20 05:00:00Z 0

DG Sonja Glass visits RC St. Marys

DG Sonja Glass visits The Rotary Club of St. Marys on November 13th, 2023. Her husband, Dave, also participated in her presentation. They are both members of the Rotary Club of Meaford.
  
 
 
RI Theme for 2023-2024                                 
    

RI President, Gordon McInally

                                                   ______________________________

District Theme: Plant A Seed           

District Conference: June 21-23, 2024  Owen Sound

District Golf Tournament: Cobble Beach Golf Links : June 20th, 2024

         
DG Sonja Glass visits RC St. Marys 2023-11-13 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary vs Polio

Rotary vs. Polio: A Timeline
Rotary is an international community that brings together leaders who step up to take on the world’s toughest challenges, locally and globally.
The eradication of polio is one of our longest standing and most significant efforts.
Along with our partners, we have helped immunize more than 2.5 billion children against polio in 122 countries.
We have reduced polio cases by 99.9 percent worldwide and we won't stop until we end the disease for good.
 
Finishing the Fight  
Together with our partners, governments, community leaders, health workers, and volunteers, we must stay vigilant.
Until we eradicate the disease, we must continue to immunize every single child against polio.
 
To eradicate polio for good, we need your support!
Together, we end polio.
 
                                   Donate to End Polio | End Polio          
Rotary vs Polio 2023-10-24 04:00:00Z 0
Past Pres John McGarry makes private donation 2023-10-09 04:00:00Z 0

Dragon boat racing is a passion of 16 yr old athlete 

 
What an engaging young woman! Alexandra Stephens, daughter of Rotarian Lucie Stephens and Sandy Stephens, gave a very impressive presentation about her experience participating in the 2023 World Dragon boat Races in Thailand. This young athlete brought home 7 medals, 4 gold, 2 silver and 1 bronze.  Canadian boats won all he categories. This was an experience of a lifetime. Well done and congratulations to Alexandra and her teammates!
 
      
 
Rotarian Pierre Chateauvert thanked Alexandra for sharing her experience with us.
Dragon boat racing is a passion of 16 yr old athlete 2023-09-25 04:00:00Z 0

Our 2023-2024 District Grant project in action

   
 
The Rotary Club of St. Marys are sponsoring the weekly Saturday introductory and advanced classes of ESL for Ukrainians for the next six months. Our club provided dictionaries, grammar and speech booklets to assist with their learning the English language.
Rotarian Andrew Middleton who  is with ESL teacher, Tetiana Pipus, showing three of the dictionaries that have been made available to the 33 Ukrainian families. The second picture shows students participating in the advanced ESL class. The youngest members of the class were not very talkative but it was great having Bobby and David in attendance.
Our 2023-2024 District Grant project in action Linda Schuyler 2023-09-19 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of St. Marys welcomes exchange student from Taiwan 

Youth Exchange Officer, Mark Oliver, met our inbound exchange student from Taiwan at the Toronto airport. Her name is Ching-En Li. Her adopted English name is Eunice.
She is currently living with Walter and Teresa Pearce who are the parents of former exchange student to Croatia, Angie Pearce.
Rotarians please include Eunice in your family outings. Let's make her as welcome as possible.
 
 
 
Rotary Club of St. Marys welcomes exchange student from Taiwan 2023-09-19 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of St. Marys presents cheque to the local library

 
On Friday, September 1, 2023, members of the Rotary Club of St. Marys Literacy Committee presented a cheque to the St. Marys Public Library to cover the costs for books donated to the library in honour of our guest speakers for the coming year. The books selected for the children’s library reflect Rotary’s 7 areas of focus.
Pictured around Rotary's Open Book statue that was gifted to the library when the Rotary Club of St. Marys designed and installed the Rotary Reading Garden in 2005:
(L-R) back row-Sarah Andrews, CEO St. Marys Public Library, and Rotarian Linda Schuyler; front row (L-R) Kate Long, Cataloguing and Acquisitions Clerk at the Library, and Rotarian Diane O’Shea.
Rotary Club of St. Marys presents cheque to the local library Linda Schuyler 2023-09-02 04:00:00Z 0
Tribute to Gordon Lightfoot 2023-08-31 04:00:00Z 0

Calling all St. Marys based students from DCVI and St. Michael's

 
Calling all St. Marys-based students from DCVI and St. Michael’s!
 
The Rotary Club of St. Marys is currently accepting applications from candidates who would like to go on Rotary Youth Exchange in August 2024. (A year from now.) Candidates must be between 15.5 and 18.5 years of age by August 2024. The deadline for applying is September 1st, 2023.
 
Youth Exchange has been one of the cornerstone programs of Rotary International for more than 60 years. The Rotary Club of St. Marys has been involved in Youth Exchange for over 50 years. To date, St. Marys has sent and hosted more than 125 young people! The goal of Rotary Youth Exchange is to strengthen world peace, one exchange at a time.
 
Benefits of Rotary Youth Exchange:
 
- Enjoy the experience of a lifetime while living and studying abroad.
- Become fluent in another language.
- Learn another culture.
- Make life-long friends from around the world.
- Choose from over 45 countries that participate in Rotary Youth Exchange.
- You will receive extensive training and preparation before you leave.
- Rotary Youth Exchange is the most-affordable exchange program.
 
Are you ready to challenge yourself? For more information, send us a message or reply to this post. Our Youth Exchange Officer will be happy to answer any questions you have. Remember, the application deadline is September 1st, 2023.
 
Contact the Rotary Club of St. Marys to apply for this wonderful opportunity.            http://www.facebook.com/rotarystmarys
 
 
Check out this link for more information.             https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pbTJ3z4B4Iw
 
Calling all St. Marys based students from DCVI and St. Michael's 2023-08-13 04:00:00Z 0

Will Kennedy off to Korea for one year Rotary exchange

 
St Marys Rotary Exchange Student William Kennedy 2023-24 has arrived safely in South Korea and was met by his host family.
If you are interested in being a host family for exchange student coming to St Marys, please message us for further details.
 
https://www.facebook.com/rotarystmarys
 
 
Will Kennedy off to Korea for one year Rotary exchange 2023-08-13 04:00:00Z 0
Thanks to Lorne Eedy for his video of the Rotary fireworks 2023-07-16 04:00:00Z 0

We will miss Janice Mitchell!

 We will miss you! Goodbye!
 
On Monday, June 19th, Janice Mitchell served the last dinner to our club. After 15 1/2 years of service to our club, Janice decided that it is time to cut back and take it easier and maybe even take a long vacation. We will miss her delicious, nutritious meals and her friendly smile and conversations. Her work ethics mirror those encouraged by Rotary and to recognize her service to our club and to the community, the Rotary Club of St. Marys presented Janice with a Paul Harris Fellow certificate of recognition. Janice joins a small group of non-Rotarians in our community who have achieved this recognition level. Pictured below is Janice Mitchell and club President, Charlie Hammond.
 
 
We will miss Janice Mitchell! 2023-06-20 04:00:00Z 0

Rural Urban 2023

Rural Urban 2023!
This event would not have been possible without the incredible support of our corporate sponsors, event coordinators, venue operator, food caterer, volunteers, and over 400 guests.
Besides great food and fellowship, we were entertained by author, playwright, and public speaker, Dan Needles who kept us laughing. 
 
                                               
Rural Urban 2023 Linda Schuyler 2023-04-30 04:00:00Z 0
Brews and Food Fest - June 18th, 2023 Peter McAsh 2023-04-11 04:00:00Z 0
36th Annual Rotary Scramble Golf Day- June 1st, 2023 Pierre Chateauvert 2023-04-11 04:00:00Z 0
Canadian Celtic Choir 2023-03-15 04:00:00Z 0
2023 Rotary Rural Urban Night -SOLD OUT 2023-01-12 05:00:00Z 0
2022 Rotary New Year Fireworks 2022-12-31 05:00:00Z 0

UPDATE - Keep them coming

Update October 7th - With Aug and October bags collected, our community has now diverted 10,539 outer milk bags from our land fill site.
 
A BIG THANK YOU FROM THE ROTARY CLUB OF ST. MARYS!
 
More bags! Seven large bags of outside milk bags were picked up from McDonalds Your Independent Grocer on August 19th. These bags will not be going to landfill but will be made into sleeping mats. Keep the bags coming.
 
                            
 
Outer milk bags picked up from the McDonald's Your Independent Grocer on August 19th, 2022, and on October 14th, 2022.                                              
UPDATE - Keep them coming 2022-10-14 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary celebrates Basic Education and Literacy

Since 2013, the Rotary Club of St. Marys has been donating books to the St. Marys Public Library in honour of their guest speakers. To date, almost 430 books have been donated to the library. On September 20, 2022, members of our Literacy Committee presented Library Acquisitions and Cataloguing Officer, Kate Long, with a cheque to cover the cost of the books purchased for this program.
 
Pictured around Rotary's Open Book statue that was gifted to the library when the Rotary Club of St. Marys designed and installed the Rotary Reading Garden in 2005.
Standing: Pierre Chateauvert (L) and Diane O' Shea
Seated:  Linda Schuyler (L) and Kate Long
 
Rotary celebrates Basic Education and Literacy Linda Schuyler 2022-09-27 04:00:00Z 0

RCSM presents cheque to CBHFM

 
On Saturday, June 18th, Incoming President Charlie Hammond presented Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum President, Jeremy Diamond with a $15000 cheque as a partial payment towards our pledge to CBHFM.
 
RCSM presents cheque to CBHFM Linda Schuyler 2022-06-29 04:00:00Z 0

2022 World Immunization Week

When @Rotary formed PolioPlus in 1985 to #EndPolio, polio paralyzed 1000+ children every single day in 125 polio-endemic countries. Because #VaccinesWork, just 2 countries remain wild polio-endemic. Afghanistan has reported 1 case and Pakistan has reported zero cases so far this year.
 
#COVID19 reminds us that disease outbreaks anywhere can be a threat everywhere. That's why @Rotary#End Polio is more committed than ever to ending the threat of polio for every child.
2022 World Immunization Week Linda Schuyler 2022-04-25 04:00:00Z 0

Canadian Jennifer Jones is incoming RI President

 
Image result for Rotarian Jennifer Jones. Size: 136 x 204. Source: www.dailyherald.com

Rotary International President-elect Jennifer Jones wants members to imagine the possibilities in the change they can make to transform the world.

Jones, a member of the Rotary Club of Windsor-Roseland, Ontario, Canada, revealed the 2022-23 presidential theme, Imagine Rotary, as she urged people to dream big and harness their connections and the power of Rotary to turn those dreams into reality.

 
Canadian Jennifer Jones is incoming RI President 2022-01-25 05:00:00Z 0

2022-2023 RI Theme - Imagine

RI PRESIDENT-ELECT SETS THEME FOR 2022-2023

 
 
RI President-elect Jennifer Jones imagines a Rotary where members act to make their dreams become reality and they make the most of their club experiences. She urges members to engage more with each other and use these connections to build partnerships that change the world.  Speaking to District Governors-elect at this year's Governor's Training Assembly, RI PE Jones announced that the 2022-2023 Rotary International Annual Theme is Imagine Rotary!
2022-2023 RI Theme - Imagine 2022-01-25 05:00:00Z 0

Strong As Stone recipients

On November 1st, 2021, Andrea Macko, Events Coordinator, Town of St. Marys brought greetings and congratulations from the Mayor and Town Council. The Rotary Club of St. Marys was presented with the 'Strong As Stone' award for all that we do for the community.
 
 
 
Andrea Macko announces that the Rotary Club of St. Marys has received 
the 'Strong As Stone' award.
 
 
Three Board members accept the 'Strong As Stone' award on behalf of the Rotary Club of St. Marys.
Pictured in the forefront (L-R) Rotarian Ron Aitken, Club President John McGarry and Rotarian Doug Goudy.
Strong As Stone recipients 2021-11-08 05:00:00Z 0
Congratulations Rotary! 2021-11-01 04:00:00Z 0

Tree planting at Meadowridge Park

Rotarian Ron Aitken, organizer of the Rotary Club of St. Marys' environmental project advises that DCVI students helped plant 400 trees at the Meadowridge Park (Meadowvale & Southvale area). Our club purchased a variety of trees from the Upper Thames River Conservation Authority (UTRCA). Thanks to the Town of St. Marys and UTRCA for working with the Rotary Club. There will be more trees to be planted in spring 2022.
 
We are very thankful that the DCVI students helped with the planting of the trees.!
 
          
 
 
 
Tree planting at Meadowridge Park 2021-10-30 04:00:00Z 0

World Polio Day

World Polio Day: Theme 2021
The theme of this year is” One Day. One Focus: Ending Polio – delivering on our promise of a polio-free world”. It is a promise of a polio-free world for current and future generations.
 
World Polio Day is observed on October 24 every year to raise awareness for polio vaccination and eradication of polio. The World Polio Day was established by Rotary International over a decade ago to commemorate the birth of Jonas Salk who led the first team to develop a vaccine against poliomyelitis.
 
The last stronghold of poliovirus is in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Several critical challenges stand in the way of achieving eradication, including the global pandemic.
As per WHO use of the poliovirus vaccine and subsequent widespread use of the oral poliovirus, developed by Albert Sabin, led to the establishment of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) in 1988. As of 2013, GPEI had reduced polio worldwide by 99%.
 
World Polio Day 2021-10-24 04:00:00Z 0

Presidential Citation 2020-2021

 
 
 
Look who won the Presidential Citation in 2020 - 2021!
 
District Passport
Global Passport   
Festival City (Stratford)
Flushing
Grand Bend
Greater Flint Sunrise
London Hyde Park
Meaford
Sarnia
St. Marys
St. Thomas
Stratford
 
Congratulations to all your Clubs!
 
 
Presidential Citation 2020-2021 2021-10-24 04:00:00Z 0
Thank you to sponsors, retailers and supporters 2021-10-18 04:00:00Z 0

Sponsor Spotlight - 5

 
The Rotary Club of St. Marys in consultation with the Town of St. Marys is proud to introduce a newly designed tote bag to help promote the town's new slogan "Strong as Stone". The totes feature scenic views depicting the beauty of St. Marys and they will become a keepsake memory for tourists and residents.
 
In addition to individual sponsor spotlight posts on Facebook, our website will also acknowledge four sponsors each week for their continued support of the Rotary Club of St. Marys events and projects.
 
Thank you to our sponsors!
 
Sponsor Spotlight - 5 Linda Schuyler 2021-09-25 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary celebrates Basic Education and Literacy

Since 2013, the Rotary Club of St. Marys has been donating books to the St. Marys Public Library in honour of their guest speakers. To date, almost 400 books have been donated to the library. On
September 10, 2021, members of our Literacy Committee presented Library CEO, Sarah Andrews, with a cheque to cover the cost of the books purchased for this program. Pictured in the Rotary Reading Garden at the library are Literacy Committee Chair, Linda Schuyler (seated L), Library CEO, Sarah Andrews
(seated R), and standing are Rotarians Ron Aitken (L) and Pierre Chateauvert (R).
 
 
 
 
 
INTRODUCTION TO BASIC EDUCATION AND LITERACY
Basic education and literacy is one of Rotary’s seven areas of focus.
We know that basic education and literacy are essential for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development, and promoting peace. Consider these facts:
 
 1. If all women completed primary education, there would be 66% fewer maternal deaths.
 2. A child born to a mother who can read is 50% more likely to survive past the age of five.
 3. If all students in low-income countries left school with basic reading skills, 171 million people could be lifted out of poverty, which would be equivalent to a 12% cut in world poverty.
 
 
Rotary celebrates Basic Education and Literacy Linda Schuyler 2021-09-19 04:00:00Z 0

Sponsor Spotlight - 4

 
The Rotary Club of St. Marys in consultation with the Town of St. Marys is proud to introduce a newly designed tote bag to help promote the town's new slogan "Strong as Stone". The totes feature scenic views depicting the beauty of St. Marys and they will become a keepsake memory for tourists and residents.
 
In addition to individual sponsor spotlight posts on Facebook, our website will also acknowledge four sponsors each week for their continued support of the Rotary Club of St. Marys events and projects.
 
Thank you to our sponsors!
 
Sponsor Spotlight - 4 Linda Schuyler 2021-09-18 04:00:00Z 0

Sponsor Spotlight - 3

 
The Rotary Club of St. Marys in consultation with the Town of St. Marys is proud to introduce a newly designed tote bag to help promote the town's new slogan "Strong as Stone". The totes feature scenic views depicting the beauty of St. Marys and they will become a keepsake memory for tourists and residents.
 
In addition to individual sponsor spotlight posts on Facebook, our website will also acknowledge four sponsors each week for their continued support of the Rotary Club of St. Marys events and projects.
 
Thank you to our sponsors!
 
Sponsor Spotlight - 3 Linda Schuyler 2021-09-11 04:00:00Z 0

Sponsor Spotlight - 1

 
The Rotary Club of St. Marys in consultation with the Town of St. Marys is proud to introduce a newly designed tote bag to help promote the town's new slogan "Strong as Stone". The totes feature scenic views depicting the beauty of St. Marys and they will become a keepsake memory for tourists and residents.
 
In addition to individual sponsor spotlight posts on Facebook, our website will also acknowledge four sponsors each week for their continued support of the Rotary Club of St. Marys events and projects.
 
Thank you to our sponsors!
 
Sponsor Spotlight - 1 Linda Schuyler 2021-08-28 04:00:00Z 0

Sponsor Spotlight - 2

 
The Rotary Club of St. Marys in consultation with the Town of St. Marys is proud to introduce a newly designed tote bag to help promote the town's new slogan "Strong as Stone". The totes feature scenic views depicting the beauty of St. Marys and they will become a keepsake memory for tourists and residents.
 
In addition to individual sponsor spotlight posts on Facebook, our website will also acknowledge four sponsors each week for their continued support of the Rotary Club of St. Marys events and projects.
 
Thank you to our sponsors!
 
Sponsor Spotlight - 2 Linda Schuyler 2021-08-04 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club launches new Keepsake Tote Campaign

Posted by Colleen Burghardt
 
Rotary Club launches new St. Marys Keepsake Tote Campaign
The Rotary Club of St. Marys has teamed up with local sponsors to release a freshly designed reusable tote bag featuring scenic imagery of the town that’s Strong as Stone! Available now at select retailers, the Rotary Club’s new Keepsake Tote is sure to be the ideal replacement for everyone’s shopping needs.
A collaborative effort
In cooperation with the Town of St. Marys, Rotarians coordinated the design to include a collage of unique local photos as well as the town’s new slogan. In support of the Rotary Club’s fundraising efforts, many local businesses helped finance the project. Their company logos proudly frame the design and serve to remind everyone of our town’s resilient and enduring character.
 
Perfect for many purposes
The totes will become a great keepsake memory for visitors to St. Marys and also make a perfect gift or promotional item for those who appreciate beauty and function. The polyfabric bags hold up to 30 lbs, are durable and consist of 10% recycled material.
How to get yours
Look for the Keepsake Tote poster in store windows to identify the local businesses who are selling the totes. Buyers can also shop online by visiting www.rotarystmarys.ca to purchase the bags in quantities of 5 for $25. Rotarian Len Hawkins will arrange pickup of online orders.
 
Support St. Marys
The Rotary Club of St. Marys is always seeking ways to better serve our community. It’s been more than ten years since the Rotary Club introduced its last tote bag fundraiser, so it decided, what better time to breathe new life into a community cause? As we turn the corner on COVID-19, let’s focus on the shared beauty, strength and distinction of our town. Please patronize valued sponsors and watch for Rotary Club thank-you ads featuring these dedicated businesses.
 
Help spread the news
If you’re online, participate in the social media coverage by liking and sharing Rotary Club of St. Marys posts.
 
 
 
Rotary Club launches new Keepsake Tote Campaign Colleen Burghardt 2021-06-18 04:00:00Z 0
Keepsake Totes Linda Schuyler 2021-06-17 04:00:00Z 0

Local Rotarians volunteer at COVID vaccination clinics

 
                                                      
 
Members of the Rotary Club of St. Marys volunteer at the COVID vaccination clinics at the St. Marys Pyramid Centre and the Rotary Complex in Stratford. Pictured above are 3 of our members, L to R, Pres Andrew Middleton, Pierre Chateauvert and Ron Aitken who are ready to volunteer at Stratford location on June 8th.
Local Rotarians volunteer at COVID vaccination clinics 2021-06-10 04:00:00Z 0

Greetings from Marcela Salgado- YE Chile

Her first host family- John & Terry Pook  
 
Marcela's second host family - Dave & June Cunningham-
Unfortunately, there are no photos available.
 
 
Third host family -Mark & Janet Oliver
 
As former YE students, host families and Rotarians prepare for the RYE50 anniversary online celebrations, we receive emails and videos from former exchange students. Enjoy Marcela's video about her year on exchange in 
St. Marys.
 
Click on the Video Link on the left side of our website to view Marcela's message to the
Rotary Club of St. Marys.
Greetings from Marcela Salgado- YE Chile 2021-05-19 04:00:00Z 0

Celebrate 50th Anniversary of Youth Exchange Program

 
 
On June 5, we are celebrating D6330 RYE5050 years of Rotary Youth Exchange in District 6330! This celebration is also a reunion from across the years and the planet: an opportunity for D6330 RYE alumni, Rotarians, and host families to reconnect and catch up. The event will start with a plenary session, celebrating all that we have accomplished through the Rotary Youth Exchange Program in the past 50 years. Afterward, attendees will have a chance to break into small groups to visit with Rotarians from their host or sponsor club, other inbounds or outbounds from their year, and host families! Are you a D6330 RYE alumna or alumnus? A Rotarian who is/has been involved in the program? A host family member? 
 
https://clubrunner.blob.core.windows.net/00000001070/Images/youth.jpg
 
 
Celebrate 50th Anniversary of Youth Exchange Program 2021-04-26 04:00:00Z 0

David Knoppert- RC London Hyde Park

COMMIT TO NICARAGUA
 
Rotarians,
On Monday,  March 22nd we will have David Knoppert as our guest speaker.   David is a retired Neonatal Pharmacist from London, Ontario. In 2014 David joined the Rotary Club of London Hyde Park. In 2017 – 2018 he was Club President and currently serves as Club Secretary and Chair of the Golf Committee. In January 2017 David took his first trip with the group COMMIT to Nicaragua. He is on the COMMIT Executive and is an avid fund raiser, having hit over 6,500 golf balls in 12 hours in 2019 and currently is riding across Canada to raise awareness and funds for the people of Nicaragua.
 
David has asked that we share the COMMIT Winter newsletter with you to read before his talk on March 22nd.  
 
 
 
David Knoppert- RC London Hyde Park 2021-03-07 05:00:00Z 0

March 22 - World Water Day

World Water Day that began in 1993 has become an annual UN observance day that highlights the importance of freshwater. The theme of each March 22nd focuses on topics relevant to clean water, sanitation and hygiene. In 2021, the focus is 'valuing water'. What does water mean to people, what is its true value and how we can better protect this vital resource?
 
“At least 3,000 children die each day from diarrheal diseases caused by unsafe water, a grim reminder for Rotary members who make providing clean water and sanitation an organizational priority. While very few people die of thirst, millions die from preventable waterborne diseases, providing the impetus for our members to provide toilets and latrines and other clean water initiatives in underdeveloped countries. Members also teach these communities to maintain new infrastructure, and organize educational projects to promote hand-washing and other good hygiene habits.
Though 22 March is recognized as World Water Day, our commitment to these causes is ongoing.” By Adam Ross 
March 22 - World Water Day 2021-03-06 05:00:00Z 0
Celebrate World Rotary Day- Rotary's 116th Birthday 2021-02-23 05:00:00Z 0
February is Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution Month 2021-01-31 05:00:00Z 0
Rotary Fireworks Display on New Year's Eve 2021-01-12 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of St Marys plans Fireworks on New Year's Eve

On Monday, December 14th a meeting was held at St. Marys Townhall to discuss the possibility of having fireworks on New Years Eve.  The idea was proposed by Rotarian Homer Rath to Town Events Coordinator Andrea Macko-Hodgins and K & H Fireworks.  More details will be announced shortly.  Pictured above at top is Victor Arbor - K&H, Andrea Macko-Hodgins, Rotarian Homer Rath, Rotarian Len Hawkins, Rotary President Andrew Middleton and Rick Beauchamp- K&H.  The project has been approved by the St. Marys Rotary Club.
(photo by Rotarian G. Cumming)
Rotary Club of St Marys plans Fireworks on New Year's Eve 2020-12-20 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary joins CBHFM 17th Annual Holiday Silent Auction

Making a list! Checking it twice! 
This year the Rotary Club of St. Marys partnered with the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum for their annual Holiday Silent Auction. Check out the bidding site -
 
 
The 17th annual Holiday Silent Auction is live. Bid today on the 120 sport & non-sport items!
Items of the day:
Jason Bay bobblehead
Hyun-Jin Ryu signed baseball
Tony Fernandez signed bat
 
 
 
        
 
 
Rotary joins CBHFM 17th Annual Holiday Silent Auction 2020-11-19 05:00:00Z 0

District 6330 Polio Video

 
 
The District Polio committee planned a noon zoom meeting for Saturday October 24th during World Polio Day, however with so much actviity happening at different times we decided to give you a recorded Polio message featuring 2 Polio survivors and our District Polio Chair sharing her experience of giving vaccine to the children.
 
Watch for Michael O'Shea in this video along with a cameo appearance by our member Diane O'Shea.
 
Here is the link for the District 6330 Polio video
 
District 6330 Polio Video 2020-10-26 04:00:00Z 0

World Polio Day October 24th, 2020

Every year on October 24th, World Polio Day represents a global opportunity to rally around the fight to eradicate the disease forever.
This year's theme is "A win against polio is a win for global health".
 
World Polio Day October 24th, 2020 2020-10-26 04:00:00Z 0
Oct 24th World Polio Day 2020-10-13 04:00:00Z 0
2020 Rotary Rural Urban Dinner cancelled 2020-10-01 04:00:00Z 0
Celebrating a Polio-free Africa 2020-08-25 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of St. Marys helps community during COVID-19

Rotary during Covid-19
 
Where is the Rotary Club of St. Marys during the pandemic?  Rotary is alive and doing what Rotary does “Serving the Community.”
A big first for us was meeting virtually on Monday, March 30th via Zoom.  Regular club and committee meetings have occurred since.  It hasn’t been easy. Having over twenty members on screen is a challenge but it works.  
            First of all, let us assure you that all of the financial commitments of our club will be honored for the coming year despite the fact that our major fundraisers have been cancelled or postponed. 
            We have made a substantial donation to a sister club Rotary District 6330 Passport Club under Rotarian Lynne Ternosky who was able to obtain Canadian made face shields to be distributed to compromised nursing homes in Perth County.
            We have reached out to health services, educators and the town of St. Marys asking how we could help.  These efforts are ongoing.
            Since the community dinners were cancelled, we have been testing a plan with the help of St. Marys & Area Community Living to deliver meals to those in need.  We have partnered with local businesses to deliver meals twice weekly to over 30 residents.  A work party led and organized by Rotarian Andrew Middleton distributes the meals in an acceptable and socially responsible manner.  Along with the meals, face masks made by President Lucie Stephens are also distributed.   A big thanks to the Sunset Diner, Gordy’s, Janice Mitchell, Joe’s Restaurant, Jennie’s and McDonald’s Independent for responding to the call.  Rest assured, whatever efforts being made now, and in the future are being conducted safely for the public and our members.
            In addition, a $5000 donation has been presented to the Salvation Army to assist with the food bank and additional contributions they make to the community.
            The Rotary Club of St. Marys will continue to monitor our service to the community based on the principles of Rotary.  Thank you to all of our supporters. For more information on what the Rotary Club of St. Marys is doing, please visit our Facebook page or Instagram feed @rotarystmarys.  Stay healthy and safe.
Rotary Club of St. Marys helps community during COVID-19 Linda Schuyler 2020-04-14 04:00:00Z 0

The status of our Exchange Students during COVID-19 outbreak

  

The global COVID-19 pandemic is a rapidly evolving situation. Rotary Youth Exchange students are currently posted throughout the world. The Rotary Club of St. Marys would like to update you on the status of our exchange students. For privacy reasons, we have chosen not to personally identify these students.

Our outbound student in Bolivia has decided to stay put in Bolivia. She reached this decision in collaboration with her parents here in St. Marys as well as with Rotary Youth Exchange officials here in Canada and in Bolivia. Her decision is supported by her current host family in Bolivia who are willing to host her for as long as necessary.

Our inbound student from France has decided to stay put here in St. Marys. She reached this decision in collaboration with her parents in France as well as with Rotary Youth Exchange officials here in Canada and in France. Her decision is supported by her host families here in St. Marys who are willing to host her for as long as necessary.

We have one local student preparing to leave for Sweden sometime this summer. She will continue to prepare for her exchange while monitoring this evolving situation. Our club has been assigned a future inbound student from Sweden who is scheduled to arrive in late-August. Until we hear otherwise we will continue to prepare for his arrival. We are currently working to find a first host family and secure school placement.

The well-being of all exchange students, their families and their host families at this time is our top concern. Countries around the world are making independent decisions about how best to contain the spread of this virus. For our exchange students caught up in this emergency, there is no “one-size-fits-all” solution. We will deal with this on a case-by-case basis and continue to monitor events as they unfold. Rest assured, they are safe, supported and not forgotten.

The Rotary Club of St. Marys is grateful to everyone who has reached out to us expressing concern about the well-being of our students. The Rotary Club of St. Marys is especially grateful to the host families here and in Bolivia who are looking after our students. Their generosity is applauded and appreciated at this difficult time.

Mark Oliver                                 Lucie Stephens
Youth Exchange Officer             Club President 2019-2020
The status of our Exchange Students during COVID-19 outbreak Mark Oliver 2020-03-21 04:00:00Z 0

World Understanding and Peace Day

The Rotary Club of Chicago ‑ Club No. 1 ‑ was organized on February 23, 1905, by Paul P. Harris and three Chicago businessmen. To Paul Harris belongs the credit for originating the "Rotary idea”. The first meetings were held alternately at different members' places of business.

From a small nucleus of nineteen loyal members in 1905, Rotary has grown to over 1,200,000 members worldwide,

Today marks the 115th birthday of Rotary. For more than a century we have invested our time in improving communities and creating lasting connections. We come to Rotary to do good for others; but over time, we all realize the good that Rotary does for each of us. Happy Birthday today and many more years of friendship and service in Rotary.

No photo description available.
World Understanding and Peace Day 2020-02-23 05:00:00Z 0

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Rotary work together to eradicate Polio

 
We are very proud of Rotary's relationship with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation as we work together to eradicate Polio.
 
 
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Rotary commit up to $450 million to eradicate polio.
 by Today News Africa  January 22, 2020
Partnership will infuse an additional US$450 million into global polio eradication effort.
 
Photo of Bill & Melinda Gates in Paris last April. Frederic Stevens | Getty Images
 
Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Rotary work together to eradicate Polio Andrew Middleton 2020-02-05 05:00:00Z 0
2020 Rural Urban Night 2020-01-06 05:00:00Z 0

Rest in Peace Dear Friend - Ray Bennett

Ray Bennett
https://wgyoungfuneralhome.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Bennett_Ray-website.jpg
 
Raymond Elgin Bennett, age 85, of St. Marys, passed away peacefully at the Stratford General Hospital on November 21, 2019. Born in East Wawanash Township, son of the late Carl and Alberta Bennett.
 
Ray owned and operated Ray Bennett Men’s Wear in St. Marys for 52 years until his retirement in 2010. He spent many years volunteering in his community. He served on St. Marys Council, was a member of the Rotary Club of St. Marys where he was involved with the International Youth Exchange and was a Paul Harris Fellow. Ray has also been a board member of the Parkview Foundation for many years.
 
Beloved husband for 60 years of Jo (Easson). Loving father of Dawn Bennett (Matthew Certosimo), Denise Drinkwalter (Paul) and Dwight Bennett (Mary Lou Burtwistle). Grandfather of Meredith and Francesca Certosimo, Alexandra Lebold (Jonathan), Cassaundra and Connor Drinkwalter, Wesley, Alta and Evan Bennett and great grandfather of Jedsen Lebold. Brother of Iona Walker, Glen Bennett (Cathy), Dolly Somers, Carman Bennett (Cindy). Also survived by many nieces and nephews and their families.
 
Predeceased by his siblings Roy Bennett (Margaret), Clifford Bennett (Agnes), Mabel Templeton (Fred) and brothers-in-law Allen Walker and Ron Somers.
 
At Ray’s request, his body has been donated to the University of Western Ontario, Department of Anatomy. A private service will be held for immediate family only. The family will host a Celebration of Ray’s Life which will be announced at a later date, in the summer of 2020. As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the Rotary Club of St. Marys, Stratford General Hospital or St. Marys Memorial Hospital through the W.G. Young Funeral Home, 430 Huron Street, Stratford. 519.271.7411 www.wgyoungfuneralhome.com
 
Rest in Peace Dear Friend - Ray Bennett 2019-11-22 05:00:00Z 0
World Polio Day - October 24th 2019-10-24 04:00:00Z 0

Certification of the Eradication of wild poliovirus type 3

Posted on Oct 24, 2019
Rotary.org
 
Today, on World Polio Day, Rotary and its Global Polio Eradication Initiative partners announced that wild poliovirus type 3 (WPV3) has been eradicated worldwide. WPV3 is only the third infectious human disease-causing pathogen to be eradicated in history, following smallpox and wild poliovirus type 2. This achievement means that two of the three wild polio strains have now been wiped out, an important marker of progress against the disease.

The announcement comes on the heels of recent news that Nigeria has gone three years without a case of wild poliovirus, which means that the entire African region could be certified wild poliovirus-free in sometime in 2020.

“The eradication of wild poliovirus type three is a critical step in Rotary’s fight to eradicate polio,” said Michael K. McGovern, Chair of Rotary’s International PolioPlus Committee. “Even as we’re addressing major challenges in Pakistan and Afghanistan, we continue to make historic progress that shows us that eradication is possible. Today is World Polio Day—a time to reflect on our efforts, how far we’ve come, and the work that still needs to be done to fulfill our promise of a polio-free world. It’s important that we remain optimistic and harness the momentum of this good news as we tackle the remaining challenges in the global effort to end polio.”

Anyone can help Rotary and its partners continue to make progress against polio. Donate to End Polio Now and view Rotary’s World Polio Day program, which will be available starting at 12 PM CDT/6 PM CEST.

CC: RI Board of Directors, TRF Board of Trustees, International PolioPlus Committee, District Governors, Club Presidents, 2019-20 EPN Countdown to History Campaign Committee, Polio Eradication Advocacy Task Force for the US, PolioPlus National Advocacy Advisors, National PolioPlus Committee Chairs, Regional Leaders, End Polio Now Zone Coordinators.
 
Certification of the Eradication of wild poliovirus type 3 2019-10-24 04:00:00Z 0

2019 Rotary Heritage Days Fireworks

What a fabulous display of fireworks!
A few pictures that captured the evening-
with thanks to Scott Stroud, Andrea Macko and Rotarian President Lucie Stephens
 
Ever wonder what fireworks look like before going off? Photo by Andrea Macko
 
Fireworks over the Thames - photo by Andrea Macko
 
  
Fireworks-  2 photos by Scott Stroud
 
Please click on the link below to see the video of the grand finale- President Lucie Stephens as videographer
 
 
2019 Rotary Heritage Days Fireworks 2019-07-15 04:00:00Z 0

2019 Rotary Club of St. Marys club photo

 
The Rotary Club of St. Marys club photo with inbound exchange student from Taiwan, Simon Lu is returning home in July 2019 and outbound exchange student, Ava Bettger who is headed to Bolivia in August 2019.
 
 
 
 
2019 Rotary Club of St. Marys club photo 2019-07-14 04:00:00Z 0

Big Thank you to the Community!!

Posted by Mark Oliver on Jun 18, 2019
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ROTARY CLUB OF ST. MARYS THANKS THE COMMUNITY
FOR SUPPORTING THE CRAFT BEER & FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL
 
 
 
The Rotary Club of St. Marys would like to thank
everyone who attended our Craft Beer & Food Truck Festival.
Special thanks to our vendors, volunteers and 
to the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum.
Hopefully well see you again next year. Cheers!
 
Mark Oliver on behalf of
Rotary Club of St. Marys
                                                                                     
 
Big Thank you to the Community!! Mark Oliver 2019-06-18 04:00:00Z 0

St. Marys Equal Access Food Market

Dear friends!
 
We are thrilled to invite you to the Grand Opening of the St. Marys NOURISH Equal Access Food Market on Thursday, June 20th. Thanks to your incredible generosity, we are working to address food insecurity in St. Marys.
 
Ryan Erb, Executive Director United Way Perth-Huron, Debra Swan, Executive Director of the Local Community Food Centre, John McGarry, United Way St. Marys Community Committee Chair and other committee members and NOURISH Market volunteers will lead a short presentation at about 3pm.
 
We hope you can attend! No RSVP is required.
 
St. Marys Equal Access Food Market 2019-06-17 04:00:00Z 0

President's Message for June 2019

Posted by Claire Sherwin
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Dear Lucie,
 
As you begin your year as President, you are about to discover the honor and privilege of captaining the good ship Rotary St. Marys.
 
You will find that, on shore, your District leadership is strong; that the women and men who devote their time to the programs and projects in 6330 are talented, dedicated and able to fully support you in plotting your course.
 
You will also find that the membership of our club will make your year as President seem to be effortless, for our club is a ship that runs on sails with the wind in our favor. Your crew, like that which I was privileged to work with, will make certain that the ship stays on course.  You may stand at the helm but no captain ever truly ran her vessel; the stalwarts in charge of things below decks are the ones who keep the thing afloat.  Chief engineers like Charlie, Bursars like Heather and Doug, cruise directors like Pierre, communications officers like Gary and recruiters like Bruce will keep you charted in the right direction.
 
Of course, the crew of your ship is much larger and includes all those who keep the boilers functioning and well-oiled; old hands like Linda, Len, Stan and Ron know just what it takes, and how to get it done.  The same holds true for those who stoke the fires, whether it’s Homer at the Mess or Janice in the Galley.
 
The rest of the hands deserve accolades as well and there isn’t room to mention every sailor who contributes advice, time and talent in making our ship the class of the fleet.  There’s not a single person on board who doesn’t make a contribution; And you know already that there’s a large cast of new recruits at the ready and some old salts just waiting for re-assignment.
 
Enjoy your year!  And I know you won’t rest on the laurels left by all of those who have preceded you as Captain. Times change and our club, like Rotary itself, must change with them.  Weigh anchor and cast off. Let the crew guide you but stay steady at the wheel and you will be sure to enjoy the ports of call along the way.
 
President Claire (ret.)
 
President's Message for June 2019 Claire Sherwin 2019-06-11 04:00:00Z 0

Returning Exchange Students reported back to our club

This Spring we were pleased to hear from our returning exchange students about their year away in a foreign country learning about their customs and culture. We always look forward to hearing about their exchange. We usually send one student on exchange and accept one incoming student. While interviewing the students, the committee decided that it would be a shame to deny three of the four applicants an opportunity to experience living in another country other than North America. The membership agreed and we sponsored the four candidates: Abigail Luytens to France; Samantha Berry to Colombia; Morgan Askew to Taiwan; Kevin Oliver to Denmark. 
Abigail Luytens presents Pres Claire with banner from her host club in France.
 
Lucie Stephens thanks Kevin Oliver for his presentation on his year in Denmark.
Morgan Askew presents Pres Claire with a banner from her host club in Taiwan.
 
Samantha Berry thoroughly enjoyed her year of exchange in Colombia. Unfortunately, my copy of the photo was damaged.
Welcome back to each and everyone of you!
 
 
 
 
Returning Exchange Students reported back to our club 2019-06-07 04:00:00Z 0
33rd Annual Scramble Golf Tournament Edward Parkinson 2019-05-16 04:00:00Z 0

2019 Crocuses at Cadzow Park

This has been a challenging Spring for our purple crocuses this year. Lots of blooms in the lower part of the waterfall but the lack of sunshine and cold weather did not allow them to come into full bloom. Unfortunately the upper portion of the waterfall never blossomed. In fact, the ground appears to be very compacted, I'm not sure we will see blossoms again in the upper portion. Charlie, Gary and I have taken pictures at different times during last week.
April 8th, 2019 -photo by Linda Schuyler
April 8th, 2019 - photo by Linda Schuyler
2019 Crocuses at Cadzow Park 2019-04-17 04:00:00Z 0

Paul Harris Fellow Presentations

Linda Schuyler presides as Doug Goudy presents Mark Oliver with his first Paul Harris Fellow and
Ray Bennett receives a PH +3 pin and Pierre Chateauvert receives a PH +1 pin
 
On April 15, 2019 Rotary Foundation chair, Doug Goudy, assisted Linda Schuyler with the presentation of Paul Harris recognition pins to Ray Bennett, Pierre Chateauvert and Mark Oliver. Linda Schuyler shared her Foundation points to award Mark Oliver with his first Paul Harris Fellow and by transferring 250 points to Ray Bennett and Pierre Chateauvert who already participate in the 'Every Rotarian Every Year' program were elevated to the next Paul Harris levels and received multiple Paul Harris pins. 
 
 
Paul Harris Fellow Presentations 2019-04-16 04:00:00Z 0
2019 Rotary Craft Beer and Food Truck Festival Mark Oliver 2019-04-14 04:00:00Z 0

Our Membership is Growing

We were delighted to have AG Dianne Yundt induct our newest members, Diane O'Shea and AJ Ravichandran who were sponsored by Linda Schuyler. Diane's classification is Educator-Home Economics and AJ's is Retail Banking.
 
Our Membership is Growing 2019-04-14 04:00:00Z 0

RI Theme for April 2019 -Maternal and Child Health

 
To view the video, please click on the link below:
 
             https://youtu.be/6CqI1LhKiVI
 

Maternal and child care is one of Rotary's six areas of focus. Rotary makes health care available to vulnerable mothers and children so they can live longer and grow stronger. This video shows how Rotary provides education, immunizations, birth kits, mobile health clinics and new mother training to help prevent and protect themselves and their children from disease.

RI Theme for April 2019 -Maternal and Child Health 2019-04-06 04:00:00Z 0

President's Message for April 2019

 
Spring
 
I saw the first robin the other day. Baseball is on TV again.  We just celebrated another Rural/Urban dinner, an event timed to coincide with the arrival of warmer weather, just before the farmers hit the fields to begin another planting season. Despite the “April Fools” joke of a snow storm last weekend, I am convinced that it must be Spring!
 
As Spring arrives and the lawns start to green, we feel invigorated and renewed; it seems like the year begins again.
 
New members renew Rotary clubs just like the passing of the seasons renews our faith that flowers will bloom again.  The original four men who began the organization in 1905 witnessed its growth to over 2,000 members in only 20 years.  Could they have possibly ever imagined that today there would be 34,282 clubs with a membership over 1.2 million?
 
As we look forward to Spring, we celebrate the new members of our club and new Rotarians throughout the world; they bring new ideas and challenge established ways, fostering change while honoring the value of established practice. 
 
Rotary, like the seasons, is always in change and it’s our new members, the women and men who understand the value of Service Above Self, who will continue to drive Rotary forward and ensure that it remains relevant even as the seasons, and the years, pass.
 
We look forward to your contributions in the years to come.
 
Claire
April 2019
President's Message for April 2019 Claire Sherwin 2019-04-06 04:00:00Z 0

New Members & New Paul Harris recipients

New Members and New Paul Harris Recipients

The Rotary Club of St. Marys hosted the Area 3 meeting in conjunction with their regular meeting. President Claire Sherwin sponsored 3 new members, Peter Quigley, Toni McLean and Christina Silveira with DG Jim Schlatman presiding over the inductions. The Club presented Daryl McClure with a Paul Harris and Linda Schuyler shared her Paul Harris points to award Lucie Stephens and Heather Ellis with their first Paul Harris recognitions. Each Area 3 president gave a summary of what their club has been doing. In DG Jim’s words ‘What an active Area. Truly people of action.’ AG Dianne Yundt gave news from the District and chaired the Area 3 part. A memorable and enjoyable evening. A few photos follow:

 

 

New Members & New Paul Harris recipients 2019-03-24 04:00:00Z 0

RI Theme for March - Water and Sanitation

In Rotary, the RI Theme for March is Water and Sanitation. 
(Look closely - Is that Stan Malcolm in this photo?) -Rotary Club of Stratford's Aquabox Project
 
Aquaboxes are a project unique to the Rotary Club of Stratford, which tries to keep a supply of them on hand to ship to disaster zones around the world. The Aquabox unit contains multiple self disinfecting silver impregnated ceramic cartridges (Filters). These filters are attached inside a receiving container into which the contaminated water is introduced.
The filter system is designed to trap and kill harmful bacteria >99.99999% ( E.coli, Coliform, Faecal Coliform), >99.95 % protozoan cysts (Giardia, Cryptosporidium) and filter particulates as small as 0.3 MICRONS (99.9%) The ceramic cartridges are cleanable and reusable.
This top container, with the filters, is attached to the lid of the receiving container which is equipped with a tap for dispensing the now potable water. The connection is designed to prevent any introduction of other contaminants into the lower container. (As required by the World Health Organization’s guidelines).
The system is capable of providing potable water for a family of 5 for up to one year. It is light, portable and easy to use until other sources of potable water are available.
The distributors of the Aqabox system, to the recipient’s families, are qualified personnel who instruct in the proper assembly and use at the site of the disaster.
 
For information on the Water & Sanitation Rotarian Action Group, please click on Read More...
RI Theme for March - Water and Sanitation 2019-02-28 05:00:00Z 0

President's Corner- March 2019

 
Legacy
 
On 23 February,114 years ago, Paul P. Harris, Gustavus Loehr, Silvester Schiele, and Hiram E. Shorey gathered in Loehr’s office for what would become known as the first Rotary club meeting. The four men, a Lawyer, a Mining Engineer, a Coal Dealer and a Merchant Tailor (the “Original Four”), were in different businesses, but they recognized that their experience provided the organization with a unique perspective. I’m certain that they enjoyed the camaraderie of meeting together but, more importantly, they shared a desire to do good in the world.
 
The Original Four agreed to meet again, two weeks later, in one of the other’s offices, and to “rotate” their future meetings from office to office. Rotary was born!
 
Over the next two years, the fledgling organization grew in membership, focussed its efforts, and decided to undertake a community service project - rallying forces around the effort to construct public toilets in Chicago. In truth, it wasn’t entirely a philanthropic project; some have speculated that the idea of providing “comfort stations” in the downtown business core was intended to keep shoppers there longer and increase sales. But, nevertheless, the undertaking established the Rotary Club of Chicago as the first service club and the newly constructed toilets became a source of civic pride. It’s safe to say that none of the original four members, nor any of those who would join the club over the next few years, thought that they were leaving a legacy.  They were wrong.
President's Corner- March 2019 2019-02-28 05:00:00Z 0
Annual All-You-Can-Eat Spaghetti Dinner 2019-02-28 05:00:00Z 0

Global Literacy project in St. Marys

 
 
LFPS 'Me to We' donates to Rotary's Global Literacy Project
On Tuesday morning, the Little Falls Public School ‘Me to We’ group presented their collection of excess school bags and school supplies to the Rotary Club of St. Marys for the Global Literacy Project. Accepting the donation with great thanks were Rotarians Ron Aitken and Linda Schuyler. Pictured with Little Falls students is teacher Robin Rutherford. The Rotary Club’s Global Literacy Project originated when Rotarians from the Grand Bend club, led by Peter Twynstra, visited rural schools in the Mpumalanga Province in northeastern South Africa. This school was staffed with enthusiastic teachers and full of eager “learners”, as the students are called there. The problem was that teaching aides, like blackboards, computers, and even desks and chairs, were not to be found. The group was taken by surprise with the lack of basic supplies that we take for granted here. Not long after the group’s return home, one of the participants was horrified to see perfectly good desks being thrown into a dumpster behind a school which had recently closed in the area. She implored Peter to find a way to get these supplies over to the
South African school that they had visited. This is how ‘Literacy Project’ came to be. After much negotiation and organization, the first container of surplus school supplies, including about 20,000 books, was loaded in the spring of 2009 and shipped to the very school in South Africa where the tour had visited. Needless to say, the teachers and learners were overjoyed with all of the bounty. The books, especially, created opportunities for reading that hadn’t existed previously. Over the past decade, the Global Literacy project has grown considerably, with a total of 83 containers shipped for the benefit of children in schools in South Africa, Haiti and Guyana. The Rotary Club of St. Marys is thankful for the help of the ‘Me to We’ group at Little Falls Public School and the ‘Global Voices” group at DCVI with this project. If you have excess school supplies that you would like to donate, collection boxes will be present at Vet Purchasing, Meridian Credit Union, St. Marys Public Library, YMCA, DCVI and Little Falls until February 28th so to accommodate the next shipment which is in March.
Global Literacy project in St. Marys 2019-02-21 05:00:00Z 0

Public Image and Social Media Webinars

This year, the district introduced Public Image and Social Media Committee webinars: opportunities for you and your club to learn more about public image. The dates of upcoming webinars, as well as the link to register for them, are below, and you can find recordings of past webinars a little further down.

 

Questions, comments, or concerns? Contact Kirk Langford, District 6330 Public Image and Social Media Chair

 

Upcoming Webinars:

  • Wednesday, February 20, 7:00 pm: Using Facebook Pages
  • Wednesday, March 13, 7:00 pm: Increasing Your Club's Curb Appeal
  • Wednesday, March 27, 7:00 pm: To Instagram or not to Instagram?
  • Wednesday, April 24, 7:00 pm: Hashtags, sharing, and commenting... oh my!
  • Wednesday, May 22, 7:00 pm: Using images and videos from The Rotary Foundation and Rotary International

Register for these upcoming webinars here!

 

Past Webinar Recordings:

 

Public Image and Social Media Webinars 2019-02-09 05:00:00Z 0

Ray Bennett honoured by Rotary Club of St. Marys

 
We acknowledge the excellent article written about the tribute paid to Rotarian Ray Bennett in the February 7th, 2019 issue of the St. Marys Independent. The article follows:
 
Ray Bennett honoured by Rotary Club
On Monday’s meeting of the Rotary Club of St. Marys, Bob Stephens gave an eloquent and fitting tribute to Ray Bennett in recognition of his three decades of service towards the realization and continued operation of the Parkview West and Parkview East developments, which include sixty-nine life lease residential dwellings for seniors.
Excerpts of Stephens’ tribute are as follows: “Dedicated and committed volunteers are ‘the coin of the realm’ for service clubs, and little can be accomplished without them. And the fact that this club successfully completes the number of important projects each year that we do is a testament to the quality of the volunteers. We Rotarians have been meeting weekly in this room for thirty years. How this room and this building became our permanent home is part of a much bigger story about how a small number of Rotarians in a small town, without capital of their own, set out to resolve what they considered to be at the time the community’s greatest need: the absence of housing for seniors.
Ray Bennett honoured by Rotary Club of St. Marys 2019-02-09 05:00:00Z 0

President's Corner- February 2019

Posted by Claire Sherwin

 

 

 

 

 

 

the 4 way test

 

Here is a story that every Rotarian should know

 

In 1932 the USA was in the midst of The Great Depression. Herbert J. Taylor was a Rotarian in Chicago and had been a Rotary member since the early 20's. He was also the president of a nearly bankrupt company which sold cookware door-to-door.

 

Sales were poor and he believed that his employees were in need of an ethical yardstick.

He wrote down four simple questions and took them to four of his managers: a Roman Catholic, a Christian Scientist, an Orthodox Jew and a Presbyterian to make certain that nothing in them conflicted with their religious or moral beliefs.

 

Once they were approved, Mr. Taylor sent each of his employees the four questions on his list:

1.   Is It The Truth?

2.   Is it Fair to all Concerned?

3.   Will it build Goodwill and Better Friendships?

4.   Will it be Beneficial to All Concerned?

 

Soon after his staff began to apply the questions he had asked them, his business began to turn around and it became profitable.

President's Corner- February 2019 Claire Sherwin 2019-02-05 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary celebrates 114 years in service-Feb 23, 2019

Posted on Feb 01, 2019
 
On February 23, 2019 Rotary will celebrate 114 years in service to others.
It all began with these gentlemen…
 
      
 
                The first 4 Rotarians -
(Gustavus Loehr (L), Silvester Schiele, Hiram
Shorey and Paul Harris, circa 1905-1912.
 
"The Rotary Way Works! But Rotary has no patent on it, for it is but the Golden Rule in action. Any person, any nation, can apply it by displacing negative hatred and fear with goodwill based upon understanding. Peace among nations is not impossible of attainment; they can find peace if they will," Paul P. Harris, January 1946.
 
 
Rotary celebrates 114 years in service-Feb 23, 2019 Linda Schuyler 2019-02-01 05:00:00Z 0

SOLD OUT -2019 Rural Urban Event

SOLD OUT EVENT!!
 
SAVE THE DATE: THURSDAY, APRIL 4, 2019
Tickets can be purchased online with
Visa, MasterCard or American Express
 
Click on "Upcoming Events"
(upper left on our website)
 
https://rotarystmarys.ca/event/2019-rotary-rural-urban
 
 
SOLD OUT -2019 Rural Urban Event 2019-01-20 05:00:00Z 0

Save the Date: Thursday, April 4, 2019-Rural Urban

Posted by Leonard Hawkins on Jan 01, 2019
  Thursday, April 4th, 2019!        
 
The Rotary Club of St. Marys will hold their annual Rural Urban event on Thursday,
April 4th, 2019 at the Pyramid Centre.
 
Entertainment for the evening will be Glen Foster, "That Canadian Guy". Glen has been one of the top comedians in Canada for over thirty years. He has a unique blend of clever, observational humour with a uniquely Canadian slant.
 
Save the Date: Thursday, April 4, 2019-Rural Urban Leonard Hawkins 2019-01-01 05:00:00Z 0

January 27th - Family Literacy Day

Posted on Jan 01, 2019
 

 

Family Literacy Day is a national awareness initiative created in 1999 by ABC Life Literacy Canada and is held annually on January 27th to raise awareness about reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family.      

 

Family literacy refers to the many ways families develop and use literacy skills, from enjoying a storybook together at bedtime and during the day, to playing board and word games, singing, writing to a relative, making grocery lists, following a recipe and surfing the internet for fun and interesting sites.

 

ABC Life Literacy Canada is encouraging Canadian families to have at least 15 minutes of fun every day with your child, your grandchild or a young relative in a literacy-related activity. Practicing literacy every day has tremendous benefits for children and parents or older relative. It establishes a culture of learning, an exchange of ideas, enriches family relationships and bolsters confidence and independent thinking.

 

(source: ABC Life Literacy Canada)  


http://abclifeliteracy.ca

January 27th - Family Literacy Day 2019-01-01 05:00:00Z 0

What Will Your Legacy Be?

As we look back on 2018 and reflect upon the lives of lost ones and of our successes over the past year, we will ultimately look forward to 2019.
I recently read a small book about the celebration of your dreams. May we all reflect on "What will your legacy be?"
 
"I hope my achievements in life shall be
these... that I fought for what was right
and fair, that I took risks for things
that mattered, that I helped those in need, 
that I left the earth a better place
because of what I did and who I was."
- author unknown
What Will Your Legacy Be? 2018-12-30 05:00:00Z 0

January is Vocation Service Month

 
During January, Rotarians are encouraged to focus on this important avenue of Rotary service. Discussions on vocational service can lead to projects that not only develop the ethical consciousness and vocational skills of Rotarians but also the talents within their communities. Vocational Service Month is an opportunity to begin year-long vocational service activities, ranging from Rotary discussions to awards to community projects. 
January is Vocation Service Month 2018-12-29 05:00:00Z 0

Our memories -Highlights of 2018 

Our Memories - Highlights of 2018
 
Three new members joined our club: Ed Parkinson, Kyle Burnside and Peter Quigley along with returning Andrew Middleton. It was with great sadness that we lost long time Rotarian, PDG Maurice Oliver.
Here's some photos to help you recall happier times for our club in 2018. 
 
                
 
       
 
   
Our memories -Highlights of 2018 2018-12-29 05:00:00Z 0

2018 Rotary Christmas Party

Thank you Andrew Middleton for organizing this year's wonderful Christmas Party that drew a crowd of 51 people.  Good food! Good friends! Good golly Molly. It was swell. Entertainment this year was led by Heather Ellis who not only challenged us with the Four-Way Test (so many things to think about) while we played Rotary Bingo and she provided positive reinforcement of key words in Rotary: Truth, Fair, etc. Thank you Heather for your efforts in putting this game together for us. We were having such fun there wasn't a chance of anyone falling asleep after dinner. Well done! Here's a few photos from the party. (The rest can be found in the photo album.)
 
    
 
 
  
2018 Rotary Christmas Party Lin 2018-12-04 05:00:00Z 0

Selfies, Shares & Social Media

 
Here's an opportunity to learn more about selfies, shares and social media from our Sarnia Rotaract Club.
What a great idea!
 
 
Selfies, Shares & Social Media 2018-12-02 05:00:00Z 0
December is Disease Prevention & Treatment Month 2018-12-02 05:00:00Z 0

President's Corner-December 2018

Posted by Claire Sherwin on Dec 02, 2018
 
In 1916, Rotary founder Paul Harris shared his thoughts about the organization in an article titled “The Future of Rotary,” published in The Rotarian. Addressing the Rotary world, Harris concluded the short piece with wishes for the new year: “I wish you all of the prosperity which your good deeds merit.... May all things you ought have be yours. May your charities rank among your necessary expenditures. May you not fall into the popular error of thinking that happiness is to be found in outdoing your neighbors. May it always be yours to look beneath the veneer of life to the solid substance which lies beneath. May you be builders, not mere climbers. May you be able to appraise life’s blessings at their real worth. May you be free to act in accordance with the dictates of your own conscience and good judgment. May you not be slaves to meaningless customs, social or otherwise. May you shun the groove followers. May you have vision to discern the right and health, strength and will to do it. That is to say, I wish you a Happy New Year.”
 
From our family to you and yours, Best Wishes for a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year!
 
Claire A. Sherwin
Club President
 
 
President's Corner-December 2018 Claire Sherwin 2018-12-02 05:00:00Z 0

Using Your Paul Harris Points

           Using Your Paul Harris Points: 

Page Download Files

Paul Harris Points Presentation Notes

Foundation Points Fact Sheet

History of The Paul Harris Recognition

 

The Paul Harris Fellow recognition is a prestigious acknowledgement that the owner of this pin cares about making the community and world a better place. Rotarians who earn this pin through their donations can also acknowledge others for their contributions. This acknowledgement is done through the use of the Paul Harris points earned by Rotarians who donate to The Rotary Foundation. Here are the ins and outs of using your points.

 

Every dollar that a Rotarian donates to the Foundation puts her or him a dollar closer to the coveted Paul Harris Recognition. Every dollar also earns the donor one Paul Harris Point which may be used to recognize family members, friends and community leaders who have also worked to make the world a better place.

 

Please take a look at the files on this page to see how you can participate and can utilize your Paul Harris Points.

 (Source: November 2018 District Newsletter)

Using Your Paul Harris Points 2018-11-20 05:00:00Z 0
RI Theme for November- Rotary Foundation 2018-11-19 05:00:00Z 0

2018 Remembrance and Veterans Dinner

Posted by Gary Cumming
 

Rotary Remembrance and Veterans Dinner

 

 

On Monday, November 5, 2018, the Rotary Club of St. Marys held the Annual Remembrance and Veterans Dinner.  The speaker of the evening was distinguished Western University Professor Jonathan F. Vance who teaches military history, Canadian history and social memory.  He is the author of many books and articles and spoke on the importance of Canadians during the First World War. Pictured L to R: is Centenarian Private William Elgie, Canadian Fusiliers, Canadian Army; Richard Anderson , two tours in Afghanistan with Royal Canadian Air Force, St. Marys Fire Chief; Captain Tom Jenkins, Royal Canadian Signal Corps, Canadian Army, President St. Marys Royal Canadian Legion; Private George Hayes, Black Watch Regiment, Canadian Army Peacekeeping - Cypress; Professor Jonathan Vance; Seaman George Hales, Canadian Merchant Navy; Cpl. Percy Smith, Engineer Corps, British Army; Jim Scott, Royal Canadian Navy Volunteer Reserve; Peter Bushfield, Past President St. Marys Royal Canadian Legion. Photo by Charlie Hammond

2018 Remembrance and Veterans Dinner Gary Cumming 2018-11-06 05:00:00Z 0

WE HAVE MAIL and PHOTOS from Jessica

 

Hello, 

As today is Sunday, I decided I can give you a quick update for our Rotary Club on what I have done so far in the two weeks that I have been here. So, upon my arrival here at the airport I met my YEO as well as part of my family. My family consists of my mother Michaela, father Josef and my two younger sisters Maja and Petra. After the airport arrival, we went to the hospital to visit Petra who had just had teeth surgery. Once home I got a tour and we had supper. I started school and I must say I have gotten lost at least 3 different times and I have had to quick random students to help me find my school. The school and the school system are both very different here. I have 6-8 classes a day each being 45 minutes and start at 7:00 am or 7:55 am. I must say I am very good in English class. 

 

I have also started going to Czech Lessons in Prague twice a week with other Rotary students in my club as well as my district (FUN FACT: there is only one district in  Czech and Slovakia together, meaning our district has about 85 students) I am in the Prague international rotary club along with two other girls. One from the states and the other being from Mexico. I go to my first rotary meeting tomorrow as my host clubs meetings are the same time and night as our club's!

 

Last weekend it was a celebration of 100 years of the republic so we went to our town's square for a celebration! My host family has also taken my to Prague a few times and we have visited some of the main tourist spots like the Charles bridge, St. Nicholas Church, old town square, and the astronomical Clock. We plan to go to the castle, museum and zoo before Christmas! 

 

I also plan to start curling here soon as well as pick up some activities through the week! Everyone here is very nice and welcoming! Also, I only have one host family for the year because I am so far from my rotary club, but they are all so nice and caring it is okay with me! My host mom and me even went shopping for ski clothes for their arrival ski trip in February! 

 

Everything is going well here, I would to thank you all for this opportunity once again as the experience so far is great! 

 

Jessica Lawson

Nov 4/18

 

   

 

WE HAVE MAIL and PHOTOS from Jessica Linda Schuyler 2018-11-04 04:00:00Z 0

RI Theme for October-Economic & Community Development

Nearly 800 million people live on less than $1.90 a day. Rotary members are passionate about providing sustainable solutions to poverty.

Our members and our foundation work to strengthen local entrepreneurs and community leaders, particularly women, in impoverished communities.

We provide training and access to well-paying jobs and financial management institutions.

 

How Rotary makes help happen

We create opportunities to help individuals and communities thrive financially and socially.

 

 

Microloans

Entrepreneurs use microloans to become street vendors, rickshaw drivers, weavers, and tailors.

RI Theme for October-Economic & Community Development 2018-09-28 04:00:00Z 0

2019 RI Convention in Hamburg Germany

 
 
 
Drop anchor in Hamburg
Situated on the Elbe River, Hamburg, Germany, is the third-largest port in Europe, a thriving hub of global trade. The city will host the 2019 Rotary International Convention 1-5 June. Local Rotarians are hard at work planning activities that will help you capture the moment. In the September issue of The Rotarian, you will learn more about what you can expect during your visit to Germany's gateway to the world. Register by 15 December to take advantage of the early registration discount.
 
2019 RI Convention in Hamburg Germany 2018-09-28 04:00:00Z 0

DG Jim Schlatman visits and new member inducted

What an exciting meeting we had on Monday, September 17th! We were happy to welcome AG Dianne Yundt and DG Jim Schlatman. Jim spoke about being an inspiration to others and what an inspiration he was indeed! I think we all walked away feeling energized and wanting to make a real difference in our community and internationally. This in itself would have been a full evening, but we enjoyed the company of our newest exchange student, Simon from Taiwan and we were thrilled to induct our newest member Kyle Burnside to our Rotary family!!
 

 

 

AG Dianne Yundt (L), Heather Ellis, President Claire Sherwin, 

 

DG Jim Schlatman (C), Doug Goudy, Lucie Stephens and 

back

row

centre Bruce Radford and Pierre Chateauvert (R).

 

 

 

Lucie Stephens thanked DG Jim for talking with us this evening and

 

presented him with a booklet about the book titled "Be Kind" that
we donated to the St. Marys Public Library in his honour.

 

 

President Claire sponsored our newest member, Kyle Burnside (2nd from R) 

 

who was inducted this evening - Membership Chair Bruce Radford

 

presided

over the ceremony with President Claire and DG Jim assisting.

 

 

 

Our newest exchange student from Taiwan, Simon (Hsin-Yang) Lu.

 

 

DG Jim Schlatman visits and new member inducted 2018-09-28 04:00:00Z 0

September 2018 at a glance

 
 
President Claire Sherwin presents cheque to Scott Crawford,
Director of Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame which represents
our 2nd installment towards our $100,000 pledge.
 
    
 
President Claire Sherwin presents cheque to Mayor Al Strathdee which 
represents our 2nd installment of our $100,000 pledge towards the 
revitalization of the Cadzow Park, specifically the Rotary Splash Pad.
 
 
 
September 2018 at a glance 2018-09-28 04:00:00Z 0
People of Action 2018-09-28 04:00:00Z 0

President's Corner-October 2018

Posted by Claire Sherwin
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President’s Corner-October 2018:

 

We’re challenged by the RI President this year to “Be The Inspiration”.

 

Thinking back to my first year in Rotary, when I was the “young guy” in the club, makes me recall some truly great Rotarians who inspired me: Clark Ready was a “stickler” for protocol and meetings ran according to Robert’s Rules, never a motion out of order. Bill Davis was conscious of rules too, but more concerned with proper manners; you never brought a beer bottle to the table in those days. Crosby Kirkpatrick was a great story teller and always ready to talk about the news of the day. Herb Sparling, being hard of hearing, had a habit of waiting until a presenter started to talk and then, almost always, would bellow “Speak UP!  I can’t hear a damn word you’re saying” from the back of the room.  Most often he was right. I’d be seriously remiss too if I didn’t mention Adrian Elderhorst; His recollection of the liberation of Holland from Germany by the Canadian Forces always made me choke with pride.

 

The Rotary Four Way Test is an inspirational creed. It’s a test of “the things we think, say or do”.

Keeping this in mind. like those that have gone before us, we are all building our legacy in Rotary and inspiring others, in thoughts, words and deeds.

 

President Claire

September 23, 2018

 

President's Corner-October 2018 Claire Sherwin 2018-09-28 04:00:00Z 0

Polio Update

 
 
World Polio Day will be recognized on October 24th.  One day. One Focus. Ending Polio.
 - Our 6th annual World Polio Day event will take place at the College of Physicians in Philadelphia and aim to bring together more than 100,000 viewers around the world.
   Click on link   www.endpolio.org  to watch the livestream of the 2018 event. 
 
   Get inspired! Watch last year's World Polio Day livestream:  https://youtu.be/yV5aTNqi2J0
 
Polio this week as of 25 September 2018
·         Two cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) are reported from Niger, linked to an ongoing cVDPV2 outbreak in neighbouring Nigeria. 
·         Featured on www.polioeradication.org: Coffee with Polio Experts – Head of WHO Chad Dr Jean-Bosco Ndihokubwayo speaks about the ongoing efforts to reach every child with polio vaccine across Chad.
·         Summary of newly-reported viruses this week: Afghanistan – two new wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) positive environmental samples; Pakistan – five new WPV1-positive environmental samples; Nigeria – three cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) and two cVDPV2-positive environmental samples; Niger – two cVDPV2 cases; Horn of Africa (Somalia) – three cVDPV3 cases and one cVDPV3 positive environmental sample; and, Papua New Guinea – two new cVDPV1 cases.
 
Wild poliovirus type 1:
 
Total cases Year to date in 2018
 
               Globally WPV 18
                    - In endemic countries – 18
                    - in non-endemic countries – 0
 
·      Total cases Year in 2017
 
Globally WPV 22
                    - In endemic countries – 22
                    - in non-endemic countries – 0
Polio Update 2018-09-24 04:00:00Z 0
2018 Wine & Cheese Tasting Lucie Stephens 2018-09-18 04:00:00Z 0

President's Corner- September 2018

Posted by Claire Sherwin on Sep 03, 2018

Our Rotary theme this year is “Be The Inspiration”.  Rotarians all over the world already fulfill the challenge set out by RI President Barry but, as we begin a new year in Rotary, it’s good to be reminded that we serve as examples both in our local community and around the world.

 

If I had the opportunity to pick a Rotary theme, mine would be “Experience the Joy in Rotary”.

 

Rotary is filled with opportunities to do just that; the camaraderie in weekly meetings, the feeling of achievement in accomplishing local projects, the pride in being part of global projects like ending Polio should allow us all to walk tall and hold our heads high.

 

Attending the recent International Conference in Toronto reinforced the joy of Rotary for me.  President Barry pointed out that this large group of delegates from all over the world gave each of this the opportunity to call a stranger from a foreign country by name and consider them a friend.  In particular, I met people from the African continent, from Sweden, from India and one notable rascal from Australia who genuinely made my day and reinforced the pride I feel in “wearing the wheel”.

 

This past weekend, I was invited by two of past exchange students for a weekend of wine tasting in Prince Edward County.  It was great to see both of them again and to learn what they were doing, how their schooling was going, and what they hoped to do in the future.  Several of their friends came along as well and getting to know them renewed my faith in the future.

 

I find joy in almost everything Rotary and encourage you to do the same as we continue our good work, whether in funding a new splash pad, teaching children about the importance of trees, or supporting a global organization that does so much good in the world.

 

President Claire

President's Corner- September 2018 Claire Sherwin 2018-09-03 04:00:00Z 0

International Literacy Day-September 8th

 

 

TORONTO, August 30, 2018 /COMMUNITYWIRE/ - UNESCO has proclaimed that September 8th, 2018 is International Literacy Day (ILD). This year’s theme is Literacy and Skills Development. Skills, in this context refers to the knowledge and competencies required for employment, careers, and livelihoods; particularly technical and vocational skills, along with transferable skills and digital skills.

International Literacy Day is a global event which was created to bring awareness to the fact that literacy is a matter of dignity and a human right.

ILD is a global event which was created to bring awareness to the fact that literacy is a matter of dignity
International Literacy Day-September 8th 2018-09-03 04:00:00Z 0

Let's Explore Sparling Bush- 

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Rotarians Ron Aitken, Grant Barton, Pierre Chateauvert, Doug Fread and Linda Schuyler participated in a joint literacy activity with the Library's Summer Reading Program at Sparling Bush on Aug 10th. We were pleasantly surprised to see AG Dianne Yundt participating in our "Let's Explore Sparling Bush". We had 21 children aged 5-12, a number of parents and grandparents and several Rotarians who joined us in our exploration of the Bush. Ron gave an excellent introduction to the benefits of trees. He led a walk through the bush, identifying different types of trees and vegetation and pointed out locations of hard to see Cooper's hawk nest, a tree with hundreds of woodpecker holes and invasive plants. Ron asked questions of the students. The one that I liked the best - "what do trees and people have in common" - the children gave some amazing answers. The children enjoyed bark or leaf rubbing led by Christina Donati (Library Summer Reading Program). To mark the occasion, the Rotarians had purchased a red oak tree for the children to plant. The children helped return the dirt to the hole by the shovel and later with their hands. A booklet which included pictures of trees, their bark, nuts, fruit, and leaves that can be found in Sparling Bush. There were pictures and info about birds and animals that also live in the woods. We also included pictures of bird and animal nests, garter snake skin that had been shed and woodpecker holes in trees giving evidence that creatures are in the woods. To conclude the booklet, there are pictures and info about the red oak that we planted with the children.

We were blessed with great weather and an excellent group of well-behaved children. I think everyone had a great time.

          

 

 

 

 

Let's Explore Sparling Bush- 2018-09-03 04:00:00Z 0

Building Our Future Together

 

Building our Future Together!  

Have you considered taking your talent and skills and utilizing them in a role beyond your Club?  We are looking for Rotarians who are interested in future roles at the District Level or beyond.  What about chairing a District Committee, being part of the AG team, Support Membership, promoting our Rotary Foundation or being a Champion for the Eradication of Polio? We want you!

 

During this year we would like to hold some informal information sessions around the District to help answer your questions, assist you with your future plans and help us plan for the future Leadership in our District.

 

Please contact PDG Diane Chantler at dianechantler@hotmail.com to express your area of interest and your Club name.  We will contact you as we schedule our information sessions.

 

Let’s build our future Together!

 

Building Our Future Together 2018-09-03 04:00:00Z 0

The Theme for September is Basic Education and Literacy

 
 
 
In Rotary, the theme for the month of September is Basic Education and Literacy, one of the six areas of focus.
 
How can we take action?
-Participate in a world community project to provide teacher training and needed classroom supplies. A few of our members already help load containers heading to South Africa with unwanted school room supplies from schools that have been closed in our area. We welcome more of our members to help with this worthy "Global Literacy Project" which is an ongoing project of the Rotary Club of Grand Bend. On Aug 25th I had the privilege of helping them load container #79. I have already signed up for container #80 to be held on Sept 7th in London. It's probably too late to sign up for this one but please consider helping in Exeter when they load another container in October.  Please join me in helping the Grand Bend club with this wonderful project. Not only do you have a great feeling of satisfaction knowing that these items will not be littering the dump but that children who have nothing will now have desks, chairs, blackboards, etc. You also have the opportunity to meet many wonderful Rotarians from our area. 
 

More than 775 million people over the age of 15 are illiterate.

That’s 17 percent of the world’s adult population. 

Our goal is to strengthen the capacity of communities to support basic education and literacy, reduce gender disparity in education, and increase adult literacy. We support education for all children and literacy for children and adults.

 

How Rotary makes help happen

We take action to empower educators to inspire learning at all ages. 

 

Adult literacy

Rotary members fight adult illiteracy by working with local advocates to offer community literacy programs. 

 

Teacher training

We share our knowledge and experience with educators and other professionals who work with vulnerable populations.

 

Mentoring students

Rotary club pairs students with celebrity and CEO mentors for success.

 

 
The Theme for September is Basic Education and Literacy 2018-09-03 04:00:00Z 0

Who is Hsin Yang Lu

 

Our next exchange student, Hsin Yang Lu (English name is Simon) turned 17 in March 2018 and he is from Taiwan. He likes movies, reading books and exercising. He was on the swimming team and likes to play table tennis and badminton. He has studied English since Junior High School and he wants to teach others Mandarin and English.

This exchange is important to him as he wants to be a diplomat and understand the cultures of every country. He wants to be more independent and learn more languages.

He is eager to share the culture of Taiwan and his personal stories with us and looks forward to sharing his Rotary exchange experience with his family and friends when he returns to Taiwan.

Simon will be joining our club in August, date not yet confirmed.

Who is Hsin Yang Lu Linda Schuyler 2018-07-30 04:00:00Z 0
Something new coming in September Linda Schuyler 2018-07-30 04:00:00Z 0

New Passport Club

Message from DG Jim Schlatman:
 

Hello District 6330! 

As we all know, Rotary must continuously evolve so that we may continue to attract new members, retain current ones, and come together to do good in the world.

With this in mind, I am excited to announce the formation of the Provisional District 6330 Passport Club! Passport Clubs are a new format of Rotary Club where members meet only a few times a year, instead conducting club business electronically. In lieu of weekly meetings, members are encouraged to engage in humanitarian service in whatever capacity works best for them! The founding principle is simple: make Rotary fit your life!

This is an exciting opportunity for former Rotarians who are ready to return, Rotaractors, Alumni, and anyone else who does not find that a traditional club fits their life.

 

For more information, and to stay tuned to what this new, provisional club is up to- visit the website and follow them on Facebook at the links below.

www.facebook.com/rotary6330passport

www.6330passport.org

District Governor Jim

 

 

New Passport Club 2018-07-26 04:00:00Z 0

2017-2018 Service Above Self Award

 

At a regular meeting on July 23rd Rotarian Doug Fread  made a presentation of "Service Above Self Award" to Rotarian Len Hawkins (pictured on right). This award is presented by the club to a member who has exemplified the spirit of Rotary in thought and action and service. This is the fourth such award presented by the club. Congratulations Len from your fellow members.

2017-2018 Service Above Self Award 2018-07-26 04:00:00Z 0

Presidential Changeover

Meet our newest Club President Claire Sherwin with club executive.
Shown at left: Pierre Chateauvert, Past President Ron Aitken, Lucie Stephens, Bruce Radford, Heather Ellis, President Claire Sherwin,
and Doug Goudy.
 
 
 
AG Dianne Yundt with Pres Claire Sherwin and Past Pres Ron Aitken
 
 
Ron Aitken performs his final act as Club President by pinning Claire Sherwin with his new Club President pin.
THANK YOU RON FOR A WONDERFUL YEAR!
Presidential Changeover 2018-06-18 04:00:00Z 0

Club members with outbound exchange student Jessica

With help from Rotarian Heather Ellis, photographer and Rotarian Mark Oliver was able to photoshop himself into the photograph. Although not the club's official photo as several members were unable to attend, it's the next best thing for our outbound exchange student, Jessica Lawson, to take with her to the Czech Republic when she leaves for a one-year exchange in August 2018.
Club members with outbound exchange student Jessica Mark Oliver 2018-06-15 04:00:00Z 0
New Signage at Sparling Bush entrances 2018-06-14 04:00:00Z 0

2018 Sparling Bush Rejuvenation

 
 
Pres Ron Aitken has worked hard to organize the rejuvenation of Rotary sponsored Sparling Bush. With the help of club members, town employees, friends of Rotary, Upper Thames Conservation
Authority and students from the local public schools, we planted approximately 150 native trees. Please also look at the photo album on the left side of our website.
 
 
 
 
There was also a component for Literacy activities. Pres Ron prepared an article for the District Literacy website. Please click on read more...
 
 
2018 Sparling Bush Rejuvenation Ronald Aitken 2018-06-11 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary Splash Pad Under Construction 2018-06-11 04:00:00Z 0

RI Theme for the Month of June-Rotary Fellowships

Benefits of Rotary Fellowships:
  • Enable Rotarians to make lasting friendships outside their own club, district or country
  • Contribute to the advancement of Rotary's public image and identity
  • Serve as an incentive for joining Rotary and for continuing as a member

Examples of Rotary Fellowships available to Rotarians, Rotary partners and Rotaractors...

  

 

June is designated as Rotary Fellowship Month. Rotary Fellowships are international, independently organized groups of Rotarians, Rotary partners, and Rotaractors who share a common recreational interest or vocation. This month is recognition of the opportunity to have fun, make new friends around the world and enhance the experience of Rotary that belonging to a Rotary Fellowship enables.

Rotary Fellowships began informally in 1928 when a group of Rotarians with an interest in Esperanto joined together. In 1947, Rotarians organized a group of boating enthusiasts, which became the Yachting Fellowship. This joining together to share common interests and activities gained attention and operated over the years under various names as World Fellowship Activities; International Vocational Contact Groups; Rotary Recreational and Vocational Fellowships; and finally Rotary Fellowships.

Fellowship activities vary widely. Some groups come together around hobbies or special interests. Others are based on common vocations. Some Fellowships are purely social while others use their fellowship for service projects. Each Fellowship must maintain a membership base representing at least 3 Countries. Each Fellowship elects at least 3 Officers to oversee the group’s operations. Fellowships are expected to facilitate communication amongst their members and to maintain regular communication with Rotary International.

There are currently over 61 Rotary Fellowships. To find more information go to:

www.rotary.org/fellowships

 

RI Theme for the Month of June-Rotary Fellowships 2018-06-10 04:00:00Z 0

32nd Annual Rotary Golf Tournament

 
Winners of the Putting Contest: Team members: Mike Wraith, Jim O'Toole, Ken Telfer and Gerry Teahen were presented with their prize by Rotarian Doug Goudy.
 
Rotarians Doug Goudy (far left) and Pierre Chateauvert (far right) pose with
2018 Rotary Golf Tournament Winners: Paul Noad, Matthew Awad, and Brent Costigan. Absent from the photo was Pete Morrison.  The Noad team from London finished at 10-under along with the team of Stewart Grant, Chris Connolly, Clive Slade and Ian Boyd, The Noad team won the tie-breaker based on retrogression.
 
ROTARY GOLF TOURNAMENT
 2018 CONTESTS AND  HOLE PRIZE WINNERS
Putting Contest -   McDonald’s Independent – 4 X 18 holes + cart (The Fox GC)
-Two teams were tied, Cement Plant team and Teahen team -55pts.  Tied teams used a coin toss to determine the prize winner which was the Teahen team.
Men’s Longest drive on # 6 – Meridian Credit Union - $40 gift card (Jackson’s Pharmacy) – Peter Morrison
Closest to pin on # 9 – St. Marys Buick GMC – $40 gift card (Jackson’s Pharmacy) – Josh Dowling
Ladies longest drive on #13 - O’Grady’s Clothing & Accessories - $40 gift card (Jackson’s Pharmacy) – Charlene Quinlan
Closest to pin on # 14 – St. Marys Ford – $40 gift card (Jackson’s Pharmacy) – Brian Hughes
Most Honest Golfers -   Little Falls Car and Pet Wash – 4 X $40 car wash cards – Ellis team – Heather Ellis, Brenda Elliott, Deb Soeder, Amie Shackleton
Team Grant and Team Noad were tied for low score – 62.  Retrogression was used to break the tie.
Runner-Up Low score– Ulch Transport– 4 X 18 holes of golf + cart (St. Marys GCC) –Team Grant – Stew Grant, Chris Connelly, Clive Slade, Ian Boyd
Low score -  JMRD – National Bank - Wealth Management – 4 X 18 holes + cart (Mitchell Golf CC) + 8 btls. Wine (4 white, 4 red) – Team Noad – Paul Noad, Brent Costigard, Gene Chiaraud, Matt Awad
 
 
32nd Annual Rotary Golf Tournament 2018-06-08 04:00:00Z 0

RI Theme for May - Youth Service

 
Rotary Youth Exchange builds peace one young person at a time.
Students learn a new language, discover another culture, and truly become global citizens. Exchanges for students 15 to 19 years old are sponsored by Rotary clubs in more than 100 countries.

What are the benefits?
Exchange students unlock their true potential to:
·         Develop lifelong leadership skills
·         Learn a new language and culture
·         Build lasting friendships with young people from around the world
·         Become a global citizen

How long do exchanges last?
Long-term exchanges last a full academic year, and students attend local schools and live with multiple host families.
Short-term exchanges last from several days to three months and are often structured as camps, tours, or homestays that take place when school is not in session.

What are the costs?
Room and board are provided, as well as any school fees. Each program varies, but students are usually responsible for:
·         Round-trip airfare
·         Travel insurance
·         Travel documents (such as passports and visas)
·         Spending money and any additional travel or tours
 
RI Theme for May - Youth Service 2018-05-08 04:00:00Z 0
ROTARY CLUB OF ST. MARYS THANKS YOU 2018-04-28 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary Club of St. Marys 32nd Annual Golf Tournament 2018-04-13 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary's Theme for April -Maternal and Child Health

Rotary makes high-quality health care available to vulnerable mothers and children so they can live longer and grow stronger.

We expand access to quality care, so mothers and children everywhere can have the same opportunities for a healthy future. An estimated 5.9 million children under the age of five die each year because of malnutrition, inadequate health care, and poor sanitation — all of which can be prevented.

 

 

How Rotary makes help happen

Rotary provides education, immunizations, birth kits, and mobile health clinics. Women are taught how to prevent mother-to-infant HIV transmission, how to breast-feed, and how to protect themselves and their children from disease.

 

·         

Healing scars of war

In the mountains of Poland, 26 children traumatized by violence get a chance to be kids again at Rotary camp where psychologists mix escape and therapy.

·         

 

Sustainable programs

Rotary programs improve women’s access to skilled health personnel: doctors, nurses, midwives, or community health care workers.

·         

 

Clean births

Rotary members distribute clean birth kits and train health workers in safe delivery of babies.

 

Rotary's Theme for April -Maternal and Child Health 2018-04-04 04:00:00Z 0

Polio Update- March 20, 2018

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While we are in the middle of the endgame strategy to end polio, wild polio virus cases are still occurring in the border area between Afghanistan and Pakistan. We pass along weekly updates from the Global Polio Eradication Initiative on this site,
Polio this week as of 20 March 2018
 
 
HeadlinesSummary of newly-reported viruses this week: Afghanistan: Two new cases of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) have been confirmed this week, one occurring in Kunar province, and one in Kandahar province. These cases were advance notification last week. Pakistan: One new WPV1 positive environmental sample has been reported in Sindh province. Democratic Republic of the Congo: One new case of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) reported, from Haut Lomami province. Somalia: An advance notification of one new cVDPV2 positive environmental sample has been received, from Banadir province.
 
Afghanistan:    Two new cases of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) were confirmed this week. One case occurred in Gaziabad district, Kunar province, with onset of paralysis on 14 February, and the other case occurred in Shawalikot district, Kandahar province, with onset of paralysis on 19 February.
This will raise the total number of officially reported WPV1 cases in Afghanistan in 2018 to five.
Supplementary immunization days were recently completed, with vaccinators aiming to vaccinate children across 34 provinces using bivalent oral polio vaccine (bOPV).
 
Pakistan:  No new cases of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) were reported in the past week.
   The total number of officially reported WPV1 cases in Pakistan in 2017 remains eight. There are no cases reported in 2018.
   The most recent case (by date of onset) was reported in Zhob district, Balochistan province, with onset on 15 November 2017.

Nigeria:   No new cases of wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) were reported in the past week.
   The total number of WPV1 cases for 2016 is four and no cases have been reported in 2017 or 2018.
   The most recent case (by date of onset) was reported in Monguno Local Government Area, Borno, with onset on 21 August 2016.
Polio Update- March 20, 2018 2018-04-04 04:00:00Z 0

2018 Rural Urban -Auction Items

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 Rotary's Rural Urban Auction Items For You To Consider:
 

Rotary's Rural Urban Auction on April 14th offers a bird's eye view of St. Marys. Guests can bid on a scenic flight over the St. Marys area, emanating from and returning to Stratford Airport. The approximately 45 minute flight will be for two people, sometime in the warmer months on a date mutually convenient to the successful bidder and the host.

The flight is donated and hosted by Dr. Ellis Scott, who is retired and lives in St. Marys. Rotary is indebted to Dr. Scott for his cooperation and generosity.


Rotary Club of St. Marys

Published by Linda Schuyler ·

Rural Urban - Auction item for you to consider:
1) An afternoon/evening of Culinary and Entertaining Adventure- welcome to the home of Paul and Laurie Smith - this item includes a party of 2-8 to a meal of multiple courses, a walk in the park and a possible moonlight swim. Please come to relax, unwind and let yourself be taken to another time and place. The property is centrally located in RR1 Rannoch. Booking agreed upon by both parties.

 

 

Rotary Club of St. Marys

Published by Linda Schuyler ·

Rural Urban- another auction item for you to consider:
2) Old-fashioned Crop Tour and more...
Travel through parts of Perth, Huron, Grey, and Bruce Counties in luxury vehicle with chauffeur and guide (courtesy of St. Marys Ford. Stops will include points of interest (farms, brewery, winery, business ventures, scenic towns and countryside). This will be a 6-8 hour tour. Flexible date. Suggestions and requests are welcome. Refreshments and BBQ Steak Dinner included. Plan for this outing with your friends. Fun and fellowship for 4-6 people.

 

 

Rotary Club of St. Marys

Published by Linda Schuyler

Rural Urban Auction Items for you to consider:
3) Homemade pies donated by Janice Mitchell.
4) Cherry Blanket Chest constructed by Rotarian Doug Fread.
5) Dinner for two at Little Reds plus Bell Tower Tour donated
by Town of St. Marys Mayor Al Strathdee.
6) Tour and dinner for 4 at Wilhelm residence donated by Perth
Mayor Bob Wilhelm.
7) Plus many more live and silent auction items.

 

 

Rotary Club of St. Marys

Published by Linda Schuyler ·

Hot Off The Press... Rural Urban Auction Item for your consideration:
John Nater, MP for Perth-Wellington has offered 2 hours of his labour to assist in the spring

clean up, yard work or stone picking. Let’s put him to work folks!

 

 

 

2018 Rural Urban -Auction Items 2018-03-14 04:00:00Z 0

2018 RI Convention in Toronto 

 
 
Find inspiration around every corner at the 2018 Rotary Convention. Register by March 31, 2018 to take advantage of the early-registration discount. Join us June 23-27, 2018 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Toronto, Ontario.
 
Please use this address to register for the Toronto Convention-  http://www.riconvention.org/en/toronto/register
 
 
______________________________________________
 
 
We were delighted to have PDG Will Pugh (District 7080) as our guest speaker on March 5th. His enthusiasm for RI Conventions was infectious. He believes that by attending Rotarians will understand and appreciate the difference that each of us make in the world through Rotary.
 
 
 
 
 
2018 RI Convention in Toronto 2018-03-06 05:00:00Z 0
Polio Update 2018-03-06 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary's Theme for March - Water and Sanitation

Posted on Mar 05, 2018
 

In the Rotary world, we acknowledge a different theme for each month of the year. March happens to be 'Water and Sanitation' which is one of Rotary's 6 areas of focus. In addition, March 22nd is recognized as World Water Day. 

 

From Rotary International: (A 2016 story that deserves to be told again.)

"Clean water and sanitation is a human right. When people, especially children, have access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, they lead healthier and more successful lives." For the rest of the story, click on the link below:

 

https://www.rotary.org/en/our-causes/providing-clean-water

   

 

     

The first photo depicts Rotarians joining the fight to clean up the western basin of Lake Erie, the source of drinking water for millions of people.

The second photo - Rotary's target challenge to develop sustainable water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH), and education projects is being piloted in 5 countries: Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, India and Kenya.

The third photo - Rotary has partnered with the U.S. Agency for International Development to implement sustainable, long-term projects to improve water supply, sanitation, and hygiene in the Dominican Republic, Ghana, and the Philippines.

Rotary's Theme for March - Water and Sanitation 2018-03-05 05:00:00Z 0

Why I Joined Rotary and Why I Stay

Member Testimonial:
In 2015, we challenged our members to provide us with a testimonial outlining why they joined Rotary or the circumstances around their joining Rotary, why they stay and perhaps provide an 'aha' moment when they knew they were a committed Rotarian. We've had new members join since then and after giving them a couple years to take in what Rotary has to offer, here's the most recent testimonials that we have received.
 
______________________________________
 
Why I Joined Rotary:
I moved to St. Marys in 2009 and didn't know very many people. My out of town business was in the process of closing and I started making local real estate investments. It was important to me to make a contribution to this community. I noticed that Rotary was making St. Marys a better place to live. Mark Oliver introduced me to the club, and he showed me that Rotary supports more programs and initiatives than I imagined, including sponsoring exchange students. But Rotary has another part to play: the organization is active throughout the world, has made and continues to make life changing contributions to humanity.
 
The organization attracted me by it's visibility but the bonus is that it is a very social club. Dinner meetings are held every week with lots of time for interaction with others. The club encourages members to plan and become involved in local projects. The combination of friendship and participation in worthwhile community events keeps people coming back. For this reason most Rotarians tend to hang around. I plan to stay.
 
Bruce Radford
___________________________________
 
Why I joined Rotary:
 

I moved to St. Marys in 1991 to be with my husband, in the early years I was busy working and raising the children.  When they were older and didn’t need me as much I looked for something to fill my time.  While I enjoyed playing sports and still enjoy golf and paying darts, I felt it was time to give back. 

I started by joining the Army, Navy and Airforce as a Ladies Auxiliary and was secretary/treasurer for a number of years.  I then joined Habitat for Humanity and became very involved with Habitat, was the Board Treasurer and the Chair of the Restore for six years.  When Stratford-Perth joined forces with London I left as I could not make it to London for Board Meetings and they no longer needed me for the Restore.

After a little break in Volunteering I again looked for a new organization that I believed in.  I first tried to be part of the Stratford Boys and Girls Club but sadly the club did not make it in Stratford.

In September 2015 I started work at Veterinary Purchasing where we are very committed to sponsoring community projects.  Len Hawkins had been my neighbour for a number of years and was in picking up a donation to the silent auction and while in conversation with him convinced me that I would be a great addition to Rotary.

I read up on the many projects and committees that Rotary had and did indeed think that I would enjoy being part of that organization.  I joined in April 2016 and almost immediately joined the Literacy committee.  I enjoy coming up with project ideas that helps promote literacy in the community and hope to continue to be part of this committee.  In July 2017 I assumed the role of Treasure, this has allowed me to really see all aspects of Rotary and what we endeavor to do as a group.

I continue to enjoy the weekly comradery and have made many new friends in my short time as a Rotarian.   I hope to continue to be part of Rotary and all the great contributions to the community the make.

Rotarian Heather Ellis

 
 
 
 
Why I Joined Rotary and Why I Stay 2018-02-13 05:00:00Z 0
2018 District Conference in Grand Bend 2018-02-13 05:00:00Z 0

Rural Urban Event

Posted by Leonard Hawkins on Jan 29, 2018
SAVE THE DATE: SATURDAY, APRIL 14TH, 2018.
It's going to be a fun evening!
Contact organizer Len Hawkins for more info - len.hawkins@rogers.com
or Club President Ron Aitken - raitken506@rogers.com
 

Tickets can now be purchased online

with Visa, MasterCard or American Express.

 

http://rotarystmarys.ca/event/2018-rural-urban/

 
 
 
Rural Urban Event Leonard Hawkins 2018-01-29 05:00:00Z 0
Local club supports the Stratford Perth Hospice 2018-01-08 05:00:00Z 0

From the Desk of DG Martin Ward


January is Vocational Service Month

Vocational service is the very essence of Rotary. It is what sets Rotary apart from other service organizations. The concept of vocational service is rooted in the second point of the Object of Rotary which calls on Rotarians to encourage and foster high ethical standards in business and professions, the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations, and the dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society. Put these ideals into action by using your professional skills to serve your community, practicing your profession with integrity, and guiding others in their professional  development. If you do any of these things, you are performing vocational service.

 

District Conference 2018

Registration is now open for District Conference 2018 - May 4-5, 2018 - with a theme of "Embracing Change". Follow this link to the Grand Bend club website for details and a link to the registration page.

From the Desk of DG Martin Ward 2018-01-06 05:00:00Z 0

January 27th - Family Literacy Day

Posted on Jan 01, 2018
 

 

Family Literacy Day is a national awareness initiative created in 1999 by ABC Life Literacy Canada and is held annually on January 27th to raise awareness about reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family.      

 

Family literacy refers to the many ways families develop and use literacy skills, from enjoying a storybook together at bedtime and during the day, to playing board and word games, singing, writing to a relative, making grocery lists, following a recipe and surfing the internet for fun and interesting sites.

 

ABC Life Literacy Canada is encouraging Canadian families to have at least 15 minutes of fun every day with your child, your grandchild or a young relative in a literacy-related activity. Practicing literacy every day has tremendous benefits for children and parents or older relative. It establishes a culture of learning, an exchange of ideas, enriches family relationships and bolsters confidence and independent thinking.

 

(source: ABC Life Literacy Canada)  


http://abclifeliteracy.ca

January 27th - Family Literacy Day 2018-01-01 05:00:00Z 0

Unicef and WHO thank Rotary 

THANK YOU ROTARY
UNICEF and the World Health Organization have produced a nearly-four-minute video thanking Rotary and its members for protecting the world’s children against polio for more than 30 years.
 
Please click on the link below to watch the thank you video.
 
 
Every dollar you have donated and every drop of vaccine you have helped administer have brought us one step closer to a polio-free world. This video is a powerful reminder of the positive impact Rotarians have made around the world.
Unicef and WHO thank Rotary 2017-11-25 05:00:00Z 0
Rotary and Gates Foundation-10 yr anniversary video 2017-11-25 05:00:00Z 0

November guest speakers

November Guest Speakers
November 6, 2017 - Veterans Dinner - Past President Stan Malcolm - separate article follows
November 13, 2017 - Returning Exchange Student - Laura Vink who spent a year in Germany
November 20, 2017 - New Member Classification Talk - John McGarry - "Life is gonna be good!"
November 27, 2017 - New Member Classification Talk - Stew Grant 
November guest speakers 2017-11-25 05:00:00Z 0

We Have Mail!

 
Outbound Exchange Student Abigail Luyten provided a group photo of the Rotary Exchange Students gathered in France.
 
 

New post on 300 Days in Denmark -

https://300daysindenmarkblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/08/cropped-icon.png?w=32
 
http://1.gravatar.com/avatar/1253f119e8e9d4c3f36efc35a886d8ff?s=50&d=identicon&r=G

I’m Back.

It's been a while since my last post, I think over a month to be honest.  A lot of stuff has been going on so I've been busy a lot!
Since my last post I've travelled to Western Europe when I visited Amsterdam with my school, I celebrated my 3 month anniversary since coming to Denmark, I changed classes in school, and I moved to my second host family.
Going to Amsterdam was phenomenal.  As you may know, I love large cities. My favourite place on earth is Manhattan; so, finally getting travelling outside of rural Denmark was fantastic.  Amsterdam was unlike any city I've been to before.  I was struck by just how quiet the city was at night.  I'd walk along the canals in the cool autumn air and could just quietly listen to the city.  Three months ago I was still in North America, never travelled to Europe, and now I'm sitting on a bench by the Canal enjoying one of Europes finest cities.

New York is a City to Dream in, but Perhaps Amsterdam is a City I Could Live in.

While I love Manhattan in all aspects, I find myself living Amsterdam in a different way.  Sure, there isn't a constant 24/7 hustle and bustle, but perhaps that's a good thing.  Seeing the sights in Amsterdam, the canals, the leaning houses, and the Dutch culture, it was amazing.  Oh, and I had the opportunity to see an old friend from Canada on Canadian thanksgiving.  Suffice to say, I had a great time.  I think Amsterdam is my #2 city of choice to live in.
Three months is a long time to be away from home.  No parents, no home, no Canadian comfort food (well, I brought maple syrup with me, but that's besides the point) and no familiarity.  This exchange was a leap before you look kind of affair.  It's been fantastic for me in more ways than one.  For instance, prior to leaving Canada, I was defined by certain characteristics.  Maybe I was that "smart guy", or the "cocky guy", but since coming to a country where I'm unable to express either of those things through language I've been forced to adapt and try to flesh out other parts of who I am.  It's been good for me to expand upon different parts of my character.
Today is my 100th day in Denmark.  300 days of Denmark only has 200 days left...  Chronophobia is the persistent and irrational fear of the passing of time.  I can definitely relate to that fear.  Sometimes I lay awake at night and think about all the people I meet here, the things I do, and the places I go— it's all temporary.  Sure, the memories will exist for the rest of my life, but in all honesty nothing has given me more profound sadness than remembering my old life.  I don't miss home, I miss the memories.  And perhaps someday I'll miss the memories of my Scandinavian home.  That thought constantly runs through my head, and the fact that I can't do anything to stop the passing of time really messes with me.  All I can do is try to ensure that I don't waste any time.
This year is approximately 5.26% of my life.  But if I play my cards right the memories will account for a much higher percentage.
 
Denmark at night - photo taken by Kevin Oliver, Outbound Exchange Student from St. Marys
 
 
 
 
 
We Have Mail! 2017-11-25 05:00:00Z 0

December is Disease Treatment and Prevention Month

 

Our health is everything. Yet 400 million people in the world can’t afford or don’t have access to basic health care. We believe good health care is everyone’s right.

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.

How Rotary makes help happen

Disease does not prevent itself. We educate and equip communities to stop the spread of life-threatening diseases. Rotary members have hundreds of health projects underway around the world at any given time. 

                             

 

 

December is Disease Treatment and Prevention Month 2017-11-25 05:00:00Z 0

Veterans Dinner - We Will Not Forget!

Posted on Nov 06, 2017
 
                
WE WILL NOT FORGET!

On Nov 6th, we welcomed 7 veterans and 7 guests to our special Veterans Dinner which continues to be our favourite event. For over thirty years the Rotary Club of St. Marys has entertained the Veterans of St. Marys and area observing Remembrance. A special thank you to Rotarian Ray Bennett for his efforts in organizing this honoured event since its beginning. This year Rotarian Grant Barton and his committee took over the reins from Rotarian Ray. 

After a dinner of turkey and trimmings our Past President Stan Malcolm gave a presentation about his trip to the Canadian Vimy Memorial and the 100 year anniversary ceremonies held on April 9, 2017. We were reminded that 60,000 Canadians were killed during the Great War of 1914-1918. The Canadian National Vimy Memorial bears the names of 11,168 missing Canadians, killed in action in France but whose remains have not been found or identified. Stan also brought several Great War artifacts including uniforms, a gas mask and a copy of the iconic "Wait for Me" photo to name a few for us to view. We thank Stan for sharing his very personal story which included the story of his father's survival and the hardships his father faced during and after the war. His PowerPoint Presentation will be posted on our website. 

The last post was played by Tom Osgerby and later in the program Frank St. Germaine played some old war time songs and encouraged everyone to sing along.

The Rotary Club of St. Marys has donated 12 books in honour of our local veterans on the occasion of our annual dinner which we hold in their honour on the Monday evening prior to Remembrance Day. This year we decided to recognize all veterans from St. Marys and surrounding area as a group which would include veterans who are unable to attend the dinner. A bookplate which honours our veterans has been placed in each book and a sample bookplate, a list of the books donated along with group picture of these books were made available to the veterans in attendance. Please click "Read more" for additional information on the books selected...

 

Veterans Dinner - We Will Not Forget! 2017-11-06 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary thanks all who helped at 2017 Wine & Cheese event

Posted by Pierre Chateauvert on Oct 30, 2017
Rotary Gives Thanks to All Who Helped at the 2017 Wine & Cheese Event
Letter to the Editor sent by Event Chair, Pierre Chateauvert- 
Oct. 30, 2017
 
Dear Editor,
 
The Rotary Club of St. Marys held its 6th Annual Wine and Cheese Tasting at the Pyramid Centre on Oct. 28, 2017, from 7 to 11 p.m.  Rotary thanks these local cheese makers and vendors for their generous contributions:  Shepherd’s Gourmet Dairy with their selection of feta cheeses; C’est Bon Cheese, George Taylor’s excellent goat cheese; Stone Town Artisan Cheese - Swiss cheeses made by the Weber Family.  Towne and Country Cheese Shoppe donated the blue cheese and provided the gruyere and a 4 yr. old cheddar.  As well, McDonald’s Independent generously donated cheese and fruit trays, and baguette.   Special thanks to Steam Whistle beer, Vineland Estates Winery and Maelstrom Winery for their participation, to Nelda Oliver for taking pictures, to Randy Barber of RVS Exhibitional Draperies and Rotarian Lucie Stephens for transforming our venue.
 
For the first time, we welcomed local artists for a show and sale.  They did not disappoint as their work was unique and beautiful.  Thank you to the artists:  Lisa Gerber/Plancke, Rene Knight, Peter Rice, Cameron Porteous, and Bonnie Richardson.
 
 These downtown merchants helped with ticket sales:  Carpe Vinum, St. Marys Wines, M and M Variety, Hubbard Pharmacy and Towne and Country Cheese Shoppe.
 
Many others donated items for our silent auction and we thank you. 
 
Wonderful entertainment was provided by local musicians:  The Stonetown Minstrels (Mary Starnaman and Marci Bremner), Stephanie Martin and Kim Anderka.  Thank you!
 
Finally, a huge thank you goes out to everyone who attended and made the evening a success.  All proceeds go back to our community through the many projects that our club sponsors.
 
Yours in Rotary,
 
Pierre Chateauvert, Chair, Rotary Wine and Cheese Committee
Doug Fread, Doug Goudy, Lucie Stephens, Bruce Radford
 
 
Rotary thanks all who helped at 2017 Wine & Cheese event Pierre Chateauvert 2017-10-30 04:00:00Z 0

Polio Update

 
YEAR TO DATE 2017
 
Jan 1 - Sept 21, 2017
 
10 WPV 49 cVDPV
 
YEAR TO DATE 2016
 
Jan 1 - Sept 21, 2016
 
24 WPV  3 cVPDV
 
Please click on "Read More" for the rest of the story.....
Polio Update 2017-09-21 04:00:00Z 0

RI Theme for September-Literacy and Education

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Sep 16, 2017
 
INTRODUCTION TO BASIC EDUCATION AND LITERACY
Basic education and literacy is one of Rotary’s six areas of focus.
We know that basic education and literacy are essential for reducing poverty, improving health, encouraging community and economic development, and promoting peace. Consider these facts:
 
 1. If all women completed primary education, there would be 66% fewer maternal deaths.
 2. A child born to a mother who can read is 50% more likely to survive past the age of five.
 3. If all students in low-income countries left school with basic reading skills, 171 million people could be lifted out of poverty, which would be equivalent to a 12% cut in world poverty.
 
The world is making good progress in this area. According to a 2014 United Nations Millennium Development Goals progress report, literacy rates among adults and youths are on the rise and the gender gap in literacy is narrowing. But pressing global needs remain:
 
 4. 58 million children worldwide are out of school.
 5. Even after four years of primary schooling, as many as 250 million children cannot read and write.
 6. 781 million adults are illiterate.
 
                     
On Sept 23rd, The Rotary Club of St. Marys presented a cheque for $600 towards the club's book donations in recognition of their guest speaker program. Pictured : on the left, Literacy Committee Chair, Linda Schuyler, Library CEO Matthew Corbett, President Ron Aitken, Library Collections Officer, Kate Long.
 
RI Theme for September-Literacy and Education Linda Schuyler 2017-09-16 04:00:00Z 0
Featured Canada 150 PPP-S. Algra and J. Unich Linda Schuyler 2017-09-16 04:00:00Z 0
Featured Canada 150 Video-Ashleigh Trainor Linda Schuyler 2017-09-16 04:00:00Z 0

Budding videographer- Kevin Oliver

Posted by Linda Schuyler
At the end of August, I learned about a video project undertaken by outbound exchange student, Kevin Oliver. With his permission, I am sharing his YouTube video "Ontario by Drone" along with the story behind it. 
 

Making a Cinematic Video about Canada

Posted on August 25, 2017 by 300daysindenmark

 

"For weeks now, I have sat upon several gigabytes of raw footage, unseen to the world except to the mechanical eyes of my hard drive.  Well, today that changes.  Today I finally finished my cinematic video about my hometown.  I’ve posted a link below if you’d like to check it out.  I think this will be my first blog post that isn’t about Denmark.  But, I wanted to share the process that lead to the release of this video; from the perspective of an amateur, not only in video editing, but in life as well.

So this project began months ago, before I ever even packed my bags for Denmark.  This began out of a desire to capture the essence of my hometown so I could show the people of Denmark what Canada is like.  However, as with many things in life, desire is easier than delivery.

To make an amateur video like this, I had to first actually capture footage to work with.  So in the few weeks I had left In Canada, I travelled around my local area to capture footage.  Being an Amateur, I had a terrible filming ratio of about 30:1.  This means for every 30 seconds of footage I recorded, I would only actually use 1 second for my final film.  The actual filming process involved me driving myself around with my Drone, DSLR Camera + Microphone, and GoPro.  Once I had several hours of footage, I decided it was time to begin editing.

Now, the editing process is very different than the shooting process.  It involves being finicky, precise, and most importantly, caffeinated.  I currently use Premiere Pro to edit my videos, and I’ve barely scratched the surface of what that program is capable of.  I’m excited to learn even more with Premiere.

Anyways, I have made several videos like these in the past, however, some part of me has ensured they never see the light of day.  Let me explain; when it comes to creativity, I seldom release it into the world.  Be it writing, art, or even videos like these, I never release them.  If one thinks about it, there are so many reasons not to be a “creative”.  What if I release it an nobody see’s it? What if people do see it, but they don’t like it?  The list goes on.  As a result, I’ve never released anything into the world prior to this project – We’ll see how that goes.

Perhaps I’m looking at this wrong.  Perhaps I’m doing it for the wrong reasons.  Who knows.  But I want to continue.

More posts about Denmark later.  I promise"

To view his video which he will use to tell his host club about his home town and country, please click on the link below:

http://youtu.be/vRnAGVub118

 

 

 
Budding videographer- Kevin Oliver Linda Schuyler 2017-09-12 04:00:00Z 0

Budding videographer for The Blast e-Bulletin

Posted by Linda Schuyler
At the end of August, I learned about a video project undertaken by outbound exchange student, Kevin Oliver. With his permission, I am sharing his YouTube video "Ontario by Drone" along with the story behind it. 
 

Making a Cinematic Video about Canada

Posted on August 25, 2017 by 300daysindenmark

 

"For weeks now, I have sat upon several gigabytes of raw footage, unseen to the world except to the mechanical eyes of my hard drive.  Well, today that changes.  Today I finally finished my cinematic video about my hometown.  I’ve posted a link below if you’d like to check it out.  I think this will be my first blog post that isn’t about Denmark.  But, I wanted to share the process that lead to the release of this video; from the perspective of an amateur, not only in video editing, but in life as well.

So this project began months ago, before I ever even packed my bags for Denmark.  This began out of a desire to capture the essence of my hometown so I could show the people of Denmark what Canada is like.  However, as with many things in life, desire is easier than delivery.

To make an amateur video like this, I had to first actually capture footage to work with.  So in the few weeks I had left In Canada, I travelled around my local area to capture footage.  Being an Amateur, I had a terrible filming ratio of about 30:1.  This means for every 30 seconds of footage I recorded, I would only actually use 1 second for my final film.  The actual filming process involved me driving myself around with my Drone, DSLR Camera + Microphone, and GoPro.  Once I had several hours of footage, I decided it was time to begin editing.

Now, the editing process is very different than the shooting process.  It involves being finicky, precise, and most importantly, caffeinated.  I currently use Premiere Pro to edit my videos, and I’ve barely scratched the surface of what that program is capable of.  I’m excited to learn even more with Premiere.

Anyways, I have made several videos like these in the past, however, some part of me has ensured they never see the light of day.  Let me explain; when it comes to creativity, I seldom release it into the world.  Be it writing, art, or even videos like these, I never release them.  If one thinks about it, there are so many reasons not to be a “creative”.  What if I release it an nobody see’s it? What if people do see it, but they don’t like it?  The list goes on.  As a result, I’ve never released anything into the world prior to this project – We’ll see how that goes.

Perhaps I’m looking at this wrong.  Perhaps I’m doing it for the wrong reasons.  Who knows.  But I want to continue.

More posts about Denmark later.  I promise"

To view his video which he will use to tell his host club about his home town and country, please click on the link below:

http://youtu.be/vRnAGVub118

 

 

 

 

 

 

Budding videographer for The Blast e-Bulletin Linda Schuyler 2017-09-12 04:00:00Z 0

Meet our newest members

Posted by Linda Schuyler
 
It's time to learn more about our two newest members since they won't be giving their classification talks until later this fall.
 
Meet John McGarry:
 
                                                    
 
  • Born in Montreal
  • Married to wife, Mary who is a retired Mental Health Nurse
  • 2 sons and 3 stepchildren, son and 2 daughters
  • 7 granddaughters
  • Semi retired - Retired Judge
  • Practising Mediator and Arbitrator
  • They have lived in St. Marys for 4 years.
  • Has many hobbies.
 
Meet Stewart Grant:
 
                                                    
 
  • Grew up on a dairy farm north of St. Marys
  • Married to his wife, Laurie (daughter of Rotarian Gary Cumming)
  • They returned to St. Marys in 2004 to start a family
  • They have a son and a daughter
  • Stewart is an avid golfer who also enjoys hockey, curling and running.
 
To learn the rest of their stories, you will have to wait for their classification talks or better yet, introduce yourself and share your story with them.
 
 
 
Meet our newest members Linda Schuyler 2017-09-12 04:00:00Z 0

2017-18 Rotary Club Officers

 
Assistant Governor Dianne Yundt conducted the swearing in of new 2017-18 officers at our June 26 meeting at the home of Stan & Catherine Malcolm.  This years banner by Rotary President Risley, Making a Difference was received by new club president Ron as well as president pin.  Past President Stan was given a custom made cane compliments of Rotarian Doug Fread. Rotarian Stan and Catherine provided dinner helped by Rotarian Len.  Past president Stan thanked all who made his year a success.  President Ron vowed continued success for our club. Thank you to Nelda Oliver for the many photos at this event and many others. 
 
2017-18 Officers
 
President
President Elect
TBD
Past President
Stan Malcolm
Secretary
Treasurer
Heather Ellis
Assistant Treasurer
Bruce Radford
Foundation Chair
Doug Goudy
Membership
Public Relations 
Administration
Youth Exchange Counsellor
Youth Exchange Officer
Program Committee Chair  
Doug Goudy
Leave a Legacy Foundation
Golf Committee Chair
Sergeant-at-Arms (Prime)
Sergeant-at-Arms (Shared)
Literacy Committee Chair
Web & Social Media
Executive Secretary
 
2017-18 Rotary Club Officers Gary Cumming 2017-06-25 04:00:00Z 0

2017 Rotary Convention

2017 Rotary Convention offers five days of inspiring speakers, exciting events, and opportunities to connect with club members from around the world  

Rotary’s biggest get-together of the year is underway. More than 33,000 members from 174 countries have gathered in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, to renew friendships, find inspiration, and celebrate The Rotary Foundation’s 100 years of Doing Good in the World.

2017 Rotary Convention Rotary 2017-06-21 04:00:00Z 0

Presidential Peace Conference

Presidential Peace Conference highlights the many Rotary programs that are helping to build a more peaceful world.

 

By Arnold R. Grahl Photographs by Monika Lozinska  

For more than a decade, the Rotary Peace Centers have been developing leaders in peace and conflict prevention and resolution. But that program isn’t Rotary’s only contribution to a more peaceful world. Every time Rotary members provide clean water and sanitation, support basic education, grow local economies, or stop the spread of infectious diseases, they’re building peace.

Presidential Peace Conference Rotary 2017-06-21 04:00:00Z 0

Niko's Farewell

Back Row – Outbound Exchange Students
Kevin Oliver, Morgan Askew, Abigail Luyten, Samantha Berry
 
Third Row
Mark Oliver, Ray Bennett, Grant Barton, Lucie Stephens, Gary Cumming, Dave Cunningham, Bruce Radford, Charlie Hammond, Ron McDonald, Stew Grant
 
Second Row
Doug Frread, John Uren, Claire Sherwin, Lynn Hainer, John Harlton, Homer Rath, Gerry Teahen, Bob Stephens, John McGary
 
Front Row Seated
Maurice Oliver, Dick McPherson, Ron Aiken, Nikolas Carrizo, Stan Malcolm, Heather Ellis, Doug Goudy

 

Farewell to Nikolas Cuello Carrizo of Chile

 
 
Niko presented an emotional and grateful speech to approximately thirty-seven members and guests at Rotary Parkview that was preceded by a group photo outside and above the hall.  He thanked his host parents Sandy &  Lucie Stephens, Gerald & Deb Weersink and Brent & Terry Shackleton.  He also praised our club counselor Rotarian Lucie and Youth Exchange officer Rotarian Mark for exceptional support for the year.  Niko spoke in front of a slide of his family and showed a slide presentation of his year in review.  Niko and President Stan exchanged Club banners and Rotarian Ray presented Niko the Canadian flag.  Rotarian Mark gave Niko some gifts including a Canada 150 mug and historical slate from our townhall.  The host families spoke on their impression of their hosting Niko all with excellent reports.  Some questions were asked one of which was, what were his plans.  He plans to go to medical school.  We are all happy to have Niko as part of our Rotary life.
 
Photos by Nelda Oliver 
Niko's Farewell Gary Cumming 2017-06-20 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of St.Marys 2017 Golf Tournament

Winners of the 32nd Annual Rotary Club of St.Marys Golf Tournament held on June 8th at the St.Marys G&CC.  Left to right are Darryl Thompson, Jaden Ropp, Jeff Stewart, Rotarian Len Hawkins and Jeff Richardson.  The Club thanks the 65 golfers and the tournament sponsors who made the event a successful fundraiser.

 

Photos by Nelda Oliv

Rotary Club of St.Marys 2017 Golf Tournament Gary Cumming 2017-06-19 04:00:00Z 0

Gates Foundation

Rotary and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announce $450 million commitment to end polio

ATLANTA, Ga. (June 12, 2017) – Today in Atlanta Rotary President John Germ and Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, announced a commitment of up to $450 million to support the eradication of polio.

To an audience of nearly 40,000 Rotary members attending the humanitarian organization’s annual convention, Rotary and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation renewed their longstanding support for ending polio – a paralyzing, life-altering scourge on the verge of becoming the second human disease ever to be eliminated. Rotary committed to raise $50 million per year over the next three years, with every dollar to be matched with two additional dollars from the Gates Foundation. This expanded agreement will translate into $450 million for polio eradication activities, including immunization and surveillance over the next three years. This critical funding helps ensure countries around the world remain polio-free and that polio is ended in the remaining three endemic countries: Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan.

Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and RI President John Germ announce new pledges toward the polio eradication effort at the Rotary Convention in Atlanta. 

Gates Foundation Rotary News 2017-06-18 04:00:00Z 0

Putting the Mayor to work.

Rotarian Grant won two hours of Mayor Al Strathdee's time at the Rural-Urban silent auction and decided to put him to work helping to mulch the Reading Garden and the St.Marys Library.  On Friday June 16th, 2017at 10 a.m. the Mayor joined Rotarians Doug Fread, Grant Barton and Gary Cumming to apply some mulch to certain areas of the garden.  Many thanks go out to Rotarian Grant for his organization and donation and thanks also to Mayor Al for being a good sport and a good worker.
Putting the Mayor to work. Gary Cumming 2017-06-18 04:00:00Z 0
R.I. President Germ Welcome Speech Rotary 2017-06-12 04:00:00Z 0
Tomorrow's Leaders Gary Cumming 2017-06-12 04:00:00Z 0

New Rotary Foundation Centennial Bell
 

Special bell cast to ring in The Rotary Foundation’s next century

Posted on 

The Rotary Foundation Centennial Bell. Photo by Danilo Di Nucci

By Francesco Bruno, Communications Specialist, RI Staff

While we still need to use our fantasy to search for that hidden gateway that can launch us into the future, finding one that takes you back in history is at our reach if you happen to be at the right place, at the right time. Upon entering the large wooden door of the Marinelli Foundry in the hilltop city of Agnone, Italy, it took only a few seconds to feel like I was stepping back in time. The  scene I witnessed was one my ancestors could have observed a thousand years ago.

Four silent workers formed a circle inside a knee-high hole,  stomping the ground with their feet and a stick attached to a 10 inch round wooden base. Their motion caused finer dust to lift into the air.

It was mid-March, and while the air outside was being cooled down by the winds that swept through the snow-capped mountains, the heat inside the foundry was rising fast as the day of the casting of The Rotary Foundation Centennial Bell was approaching.

The Marinelli family has been making bells for about a thousand years and today they still do it the traditional way, by hand and fire.

The word bell derives from the ancient God of Fire known as Baal, which means “Lord or Master.” In every age and country, the bell is a universal symbol and an instrument used to communicate, notify, alarm, summon, mark the time, and call to action. For about a century, it has been used by Rotary Clubs to mark the opening of meetings and to symbolize order and discipline.

The world-famous Marinelli foundry, the only one that was granted the use of the Pontifical seal, is owned by Armando and Pasquale Marinelli, two brothers who also happen to be Rotarians. Their passion and love for Rotary has brought them to create and donate a 110 pound ornamental bell to help celebrate the Rotary Foundation Centennial. The large and shiny bronze bell resembles the one they gifted in 2005 for the Rotary International Centennial, and which is currently kept on display at Rotary’s headquarters in Evanston. This new bell, however, is embellished with a selection of images, logos, and words which tell the story of the Rotary Foundation over the past 100 years.

Thanks to all the Italian Rotary Clubs and Districts this symbolic bell was shipped overseas. It arrived right on time to take center stage at the opening ceremony of the 2017 Rotary International Convention in Atlanta to ring in the next century of doing good in the world.

 
New Rotary Foundation Centennial Bell  Francesco Bruno 2017-06-12 04:00:00Z 0

John McGarry - Induction

On Monday May 29th John McGarry became our newest member.  Rotarian Daryl McClure conducted the induction explaining the story of Rotary and 
our mission.  Acting Rotarian Doug Goudy presented Rotarian John a certificate of membership and sponsoring member Rotarian Bob Stephens presented the Rotary pin.  The membership present welcomed Rotarian John into the club with handshakes,
John McGarry - Induction Gary Cumming 2017-06-02 04:00:00Z 0

We've Got Mail -  Rotarian Andrew Middleton - Nigeria

 
 

Fellow Rotarians

It has now been one month since I arrived in Ibadan. Overall the experience so far has been very positive although it is difficult to be away from the family. Yesterday the daughter of one of our very good friends got married in St. Marys and I was sad that I could not be there with them. Working overseas has many benefits, but it also has its sacrifices.

For those of you who do not know, I took a sabbatical year from my position as Professor at Conestoga College and I am working at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA). IITA is an Internationally renowned agricultural research centre with its headquarters based in Ibadan Nigeria. IITA was initially the idea of the Ford and Rockefeller Foundations and the institute celebrates its 50th anniversary in July.

Our family Middleton-Mohr has a long connection to Nigeria and IITA. My wife was born in Lagos and boasts (quite rightly although she was yet unborn in her mother’s stomach) to have been present at the Nigeria Independence celebrations on the 1st October 1960. I first came to Nigeria at Christmas in 1984 with my then girlfriend Trixie (now my wife of 31 years) to visit her parents who worked and lived in Nigeria for over 30 years. I visited for the next couple of years and in 1987 came to work at IITA as Manager of the Hotel and Catering Services. Trixie and I had 3 children while at IIITA and their firsts years were spent here in Ibadan.

I left IITA in 1997 and came to St. Marys to oversee the opening and manage the first couple of years at the Stone Willow Inn.

Early in December I was contacted by IITA who were struggling to find a manger for their hospitality and travel services. I proposed the idea of a sabbatical year to help them, everything worked out and now I am here for a year.

I manage as team of 185 national staff, we have hotel rooms, conference facilities, bars and restaurants in different locations, all the sporting facilities, book all the travel for the Institutes staff, a staff canteen serving 1500 people every lunchtime, a community store and guest houses in different locations.  The job is challenging but there is never a dull moment.

Each month I will share with you a couple of the experiences that are shaping my stay here and provide an insight why I took up this challenge when I had finally been able to carve out a very enjoyable and successful life in the beautiful town of St Marys.

Before leaving many of you may have read about the security problems in North Eastern Nigeria and the famine. One of the ways of tackling the situation is to help the local agricultural industry in those regions to increase their productivity. IITA has been working with the farmers in Borno State delivery seed and expertise in their quest to improve agricultural production. Former President said in his speech last week in Maiduguri “I consider any productive farmer a humanitarian, no matter what he or she makes. This is essentially why the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture will forever remain of one the greatest holder of the world. This is an organization whose only concern is to deploy so much resources into identifying ways by which food can be grown in higher quality and quantity to feed the world, to make the farmer grow in productivity in order to create more jobs. Agriculture remains the highest employer on earth and the IITA plays a pivotal role in sustaining this”.

On a much smaller scale. One of my employees had taken a couple of days off to go and look after his sick daughter. The supervisor was not sure what was going on so I asked him what was going on. He said that his 10-year-old daughter had not been able to walk well for a while and the school had called and told him to take her home. He was desperately looking for some money so we could take her to a traditional healer. I told him I would not be part of that but I would pay for her to visit our clinic on site. A clinical visit, an x-ray, a diagnosis, treatment and medication and his daughter is walking fine. I am not sure what would have happened without her going to the clinic, but she is now able to walk, attending school and the smile on her face was well worth the small cost.

There are so many ways to help people here but there is only so much you can do. While writing this letter 2 your men came to see me looking for work, both of them had graduated for University but were willing to do any job that is available. Youth unemployment is one of the biggest challenges facing the developing world. Unemployment is not just a question of money but it also leaves those affected feeling unworthy and lost with a sense of little hope for the future. IITA has many strategies trying to address the situation and I write about those next month.

I wish all of you a happy summer, I am sure you realize what a privilege it is to live in such a beautiful town like St Marys. I am returning for my son’s wedding in early July and may see some of you then.

Tomorrow, Monday 29th May is public holiday here in Nigeria, Democracy Day and I will raise a glass and toast my good friend from Rotary.

 
Andrew Middleton
We've Got Mail - Rotarian Andrew Middleton - Nigeria Andrew Middleton 2017-05-29 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Fellowship is the theme for the month of June

Benefits of Rotary Fellowships:
  • Enable Rotarians to make lasting friendships outside their own club, district or country
  • Contribute to the advancement of Rotary's public image and identity
  • Serve as an incentive for joining Rotary and for continuing as a member

Examples of Rotary Fellowships available to Rotarians, Rotary partners and Rotaractors...

  

The following was originally posted in the June 2016 issue of The Bridge District newsletter.

 

June is designated as Rotary Fellowship Month. Rotary Fellowships are international, independently organized groups of Rotarians, Rotary partners, and Rotaractors who share a common recreational interest or vocation. This month is recognition of the opportunity to have fun, make new friends around the world and enhance the experience of Rotary that belonging to a Rotary Fellowship enables.

Rotary Fellowships began informally in 1928 when a group of Rotarians with an interest in Esperanto joined together. In 1947, Rotarians organized a group of boating enthusiasts, which became the Yachting Fellowship. This joining together to share common interests and activities gained attention and operated over the years under various names as World Fellowship Activities; International Vocational Contact Groups; Rotary Recreational and Vocational Fellowships; and finally Rotary Fellowships.

Fellowship activities vary widely. Some groups come together around hobbies or special interests. Others are based on common vocations. Some Fellowships are purely social while others use their fellowship for service projects. Each Fellowship must maintain a membership base representing at least 3 Countries. Each Fellowship elects at least 3 Officers to oversee the group’s operations. Fellowships are expected to facilitate communication amongst their members and to maintain regular communication with Rotary International.

There are currently over 61 Rotary Fellowships. To find more information go to:

www.rotary.org/fellowships

 

“Fellowship is wonderful; it illuminates life’s pathway, spreads good cheer, and is worth high

price.” -Rotary Founder Paul Harris

Rotary Fellowship is the theme for the month of June 2017-05-29 04:00:00Z 0
Share Your Passion For Rotary 2017-05-29 04:00:00Z 0

Our club received 2 awards at the District Conference

Posted by Linda Schuyler on May 27, 2017
 
   This Rotary year we saw changes to the criteria for earning the Literacy Award. Gone with the Zone Award
   and new challenges were presented with some mandatory criteria. Our club completed 22 Literacy activities
   by the end of January 2017 and we were recognized with the Gold Literacy Award.
 
 
  
 
  The Club Bulletin is based upon the judgment of a Bulletin Selection Committee. Although my work with The Blast e-Bulletin was
  recognized at the District Conference and was presented with the second place award, it was a collaborative effort with Charlie's
  work as we create two different bulletins for our membership's enjoyment.
Our club received 2 awards at the District Conference Linda Schuyler 2017-05-27 04:00:00Z 0
Featured Canada 150 Video - Wesley Campbell Linda Schuyler 2017-05-25 04:00:00Z 0
Featured Canada 150 PPP - Julia Cameron Linda Schuyler 2017-05-25 04:00:00Z 0
Featured Canada 150 PPP- Emmy Jeffery Linda Schuyler 2017-05-25 04:00:00Z 0
Featured Canada 150 Video - Jacob Boyd Linda Schuyler 2017-05-25 04:00:00Z 0

Guest Speaker - Jane Voll - The Bank of Canada

On Monday, May 15,2017 the Rotary Club of St.Marys was joined by several guests to hear Jane Voll speak to us about the duties of the Bank of Canada.  Above Rotarian Chris Nesbit  thanks Jane with our customary book donation on her behalf to the St.Marys Library.
Guest Speaker - Jane Voll - The Bank of Canada Gary Cumming 2017-05-15 04:00:00Z 0

Angelica Pearce spends her exchange in Croatia

 
ROTARY EXCHANGE STUDENT’S LETTER HOME: Year in Croatia has been filled with learning
 
 

Dear Editor:
It’s been 218 days since I’ve left for my Rotary Youth Exchange in Croatia. In that time, I have travelled to the countries of Slovenia, Austria, Germany, the Czech Republic and Switzerland. I have also visited
many places within Croatia, switched host families, met relatives who I thought I would never meet, and made friends from all over the world. In addition to this, I have improved my Croatian immensely
since I arrived here. I currently have 90 more days until I get on a plane and return to Canada. In that time, I will be going to Dubrovnik over spring break, going on the Euro tour for 16 days right after I finish
school at the end of April, and then right after that I’m going to Brač for a district conference.

During the Euro tour I will be traveling with the Austrian, Bosnian and Croatian inbound Rotary Exchange students to the countries of Austria, France, Italy, Croatia and the City-State of Monaca. After all of my trips,
I’m hoping to spend my last month with friends, relaxing and swimming.

During my time in Croatia I have learned a lot about the country. One thing that sticks out is that there are a LOT of grocery stores. I pass around 15 on my way to school every day.
 
Another thing people should know about Croatia is that people take their coffee very seriously here. Every Saturday morning most people dress up and go out for coffee for about two hours.

Croatia also has some really good food that I’m going to miss when I leave — like fritule, kebab (not exclusive to Croatia), and mlinci.

I have enjoyed my time in Croatia, had some good times and some bad, but I have also learned a lot. I am both excited yet sad that my exchange is soon to be over. I have had the time of my life here and
hope that if anyone has the opportunity to go on exchange that they do because it is a great experience.

Angelica Pearce
(Editor’s note: If you are
interested in learning more
about Rotary Youth Exchange
or in hosting a Rotary
Youth Exchange student
please contact Mark Oliver
at mark_oliver@mac.com.)

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANGELICA PEARCE
Pictured at top is Knin Fort, one of Angelica Pearce’s favourite places in Croatia. And below,
Pearce, left, is shown with two other Rotary Exchange students from the US, Teanna Fults
(middle) and Olivia Le Blanc (right) in Salzburg.

 

Angelica Pearce spends her exchange in Croatia 2017-05-07 04:00:00Z 0

We have mail from former YE student -Emily McCutcheon

Youth Exchange Officer, Mark Oliver, received an email from Emily McCutcheon recently asking that he pass along her utmost thanks and appreciation to the Rotary Club of St. Marys.
 
Her message follows:
 

Good evening Mark,

 

I would like to ask you a favour, as a Rebound Exchange student, to pass on my utmost thanks and appreciation to the St. Marys Rotary Club.  

 

From August 1999 to August 2000 I had the honour of representing the St. Marys Rotary Club on exchange in Belgium.  The experience changed my life forever.  I made friends from all over the world,

I gained a family, and it fundamentally changed the way I look at the world, and the definition of family.

 

My second host family became family to me.  Life had its struggles while I was living their with them as the family dealt with alcoholism, mental health issues and cancer.  Despite that we had

a ton of laughs, found joy in the small things in life, and ate a lot of chocolate :)

 

My host mom and sister have since visited me in Canada a couple of times, and I have returned a few times as well.  Their family grew with the addition of more grandchildren, only one

grandson when I lived there, he was only a few months old, and I remember the laughter and fun we had together.  My visits to them were less frequent as time went on.  I was there

visiting again when my host brother had their fourth child, I got to hold my two day old nephew 10 years ago, and I was so blessed to be a part of their ever growing family.

 

I recently returned to Belgium to visit and reconnect with my second host family and introduce them to my youngest son and my spouse.  It had been 10 years since I had last

visited them.  Our lives had all change; more children, weddings, divorces, new partners, and new homes.  As soon as the trip was booked I couldn't wait to get there, to see them all

and introduce them to part of my family, my heart raced every time I thought about it.  As soon as the train started to reach Belgium I started to feel nostalgic, the home I knew had

not changed.  I was disoriented as we got off the train as they had built a brand new train station, and it looked nothing like the one I had known.  As we tried to ensure we had all of

our belongings with us from the train, I began to search the platform for my host mom.  It seemed like forever, and then I saw her.  My host mom, running towards me from the other

end of the platform, calling my name and tears streaming down her face.  I raced towards her, in tears as well, and we fell into each others arms.  We hugged so long I'm sure everyone else

thought they were forgotten about.  But I was home.  In the short time we were there my son developed strong relationships with my host family's young ones, he was very sad to end our trip

and not have them around any more.  I felt like it was just yesterday I had been living there, my picture is in my host moms house along with all of her children and grandchildren.

 

I want to truly thank the Rotary Club for their continued support of the Exchange program.  The duration of the exchange itself may only last a year, but the benefits, and relationships that come

out of that last a lifetime.  It makes the world a small place, it makes strangers into family, it creates a second home for people, a second family, bonds that last forever.  I cannot thank you enough for

the experience you gave me so many years ago.  It changed my life.

 

Yours truly,

 

Emily McCutcheon

 


"Always do what you are afraid to do." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

 

We have mail from former YE student -Emily McCutcheon 2017-05-07 04:00:00Z 0
Featured Canada 150 video-Grand Trunk Trail- Jake Pfaff 2017-05-07 04:00:00Z 0
Laura Vink visits Germany on her exchange 2017-04-25 04:00:00Z 0
Featured Canada150 PPP by Rosie & Jennifer 2017-04-20 04:00:00Z 0

Another successful Rural Urban event- our 91st dinner

Congratulations to Chair Len Hawkins and his committee for another successful Rural Urban event. The story is best told with pictures.
Master of Ceremonies - Len Hawkins
 
 Past President Ron Aitken presents final payment for our PRC pledge to Deputy Mayor Jim Craigmile
 
 
Our guest speaker, Dr. Gord Surgeoner
 
Guests at the 2017 Rural Urban event
 
Another successful Rural Urban event- our 91st dinner 2017-04-13 04:00:00Z 0

We braved the elements to load Container #67

 
The Rotary Club of Grand Bend's Global Literacy Project had help loading container #67 destined for South Africa. Our inbound exchange student Niko Cuello Carrizo along with outbound students Morgan Askew, Samantha Berry and Abby Luyten where joined by our club Rotarians John Uren, Mark Oliver and Linda Schuyler despite the cold windy weather and intermittent snow squalls. Our crew along with approx 20 other club Rotarians and friends accomplished the task.
For more information on this project, please click on "Read More"...
 
 

inets, coat racks, 50 computers, overhead projectors or VCRs, 60 children’s work tables and stacking chairs, sports equipment for volleyball, soccer and baseball, medical supplies, 5 wheelchairs, 60 crutches, 1000 crocheted mats made from milk bags and 20,000 textbooks, reading and reference books. Sometimes dried soup mix is included.

Here's some pictures of our adventures....

  

We braved the elements to load Container #67 2017-04-13 04:00:00Z 0

Another special auction item for Rural Urban

Special Auction item for the 91st Rotary Club of St. Marys
Rural Urban Event
 
 
Your hosts: Katherine and Stan Malcolm
 
The President's Gala Dinner in 2017
 
Katherine and Stan Malcolm are pleased to host an
All Inclusive Dinner for Four in their home.
A multi course meal generated in house will be enhanced
before, during, and following,
by appropriate refreshments, reasonable company,
a pleasant view, and a friendly dog.
 
Date: TBA as convenient to guests and hosts.
Location: 512 Emily Street, St. Marys, Ontario
Known locally as "The Last Resort".
 
The Rotary Club of St. Marys will confirm
the name of the successful bidder
to President Stan,
who will proceed with arrangements.
 
SUPPORTING ROTARY IS SUPPORTING YOUR COMMUNITY. 
Another special auction item for Rural Urban 2017-03-28 04:00:00Z 0
Auction Items -Rotary Rural Urban event 2017-03-28 04:00:00Z 0
Festival City Club hosts Spaghetti Dinner 2017-03-28 04:00:00Z 0

We Wage Peace

The RI Theme for the month of February is Peace and Conflict Prevention and Resolution.
 

Conflict and violence displace millions of people each year. Half of those killed in conflict are children, and 90 percent are civilians. 

We refuse to accept conflict as a way of life. Rotary projects provide training that fosters understanding and provides communities with the skills to resolve conflicts.

How Rotary makes help happen

Through our service projects, peace fellowships, and scholarships, our members are taking action to address the underlying causes of conflict, including poverty, inequality, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources.

REBUILD:  We help refugees integrate and find jobs.
TRAINING: We help leaders learn how to prevent and mediate conflict.
IN ACTION: Rotary supports peacebuilding in communities and regions affected by conflict.
 

Rotary makes amazing things happen, like:

Improving quality of life -

Rotary members founded the People for People Foundation, which has helped 10,000 families afford food, clothing, rent, utilities, medications, and other necessities.

Raising awareness of bullying -

Rotaract clubs in the Philippines conduct antibullying campaigns in schools to teach children how to handle conflict peacefully from an early age.

Protecting domestic violence survivors and their families.

The U.S. state of Louisiana has the fourth highest incidence of death caused by domestic violence. Local Rotary members met this issue by helping a shelter provide food, clothing, legal advocacy, and counseling to over 500 women in one year.

We Wage Peace 2017-02-05 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary celebrates 112 years in service-Feb 23, 2017

Posted on Feb 01, 2017
 
On February 23, 2017 Rotary will celebrate 112 years in service to others.
It all began with these gentlemen…
 
      
 
                The first 4 Rotarians -
(Gustavus Loehr (L), Silvester Schiele, Hiram
Shorey and Paul Harris, circa 1905-1912.
 
"The Rotary Way Works! But Rotary has no patent on it, for it is but the Golden Rule in action. Any person, any nation, can apply it by displacing negative hatred and fear with goodwill based upon understanding. Peace among nations is not impossible of attainment; they can find peace if they will," Paul P. Harris, January 1946.
 
 
Rotary celebrates 112 years in service-Feb 23, 2017 Linda Schuyler 2017-02-01 05:00:00Z 0

2017-2018 R I Presidential Theme

 

 

Theme logo 2017-18 EN

In 2017-18, we’ll answer the question “What is Rotary?” with RI President-elect Ian H.S. Riseley’s theme, Rotary: Making a Difference. “Whether we’re building a new playground or a new school, improving medical care or sanitation, training conflict mediators or midwives, we know that the work we do will change people’s lives — in ways large and small — for the better.”

2017-2018 R I Presidential Theme 2017-01-30 05:00:00Z 0

Gord Surgeoner will speak at 2017 Rural Urban

 
 
The Rotary Club of St. Marys presents Gord Surgeoner as keynote speaker at their 2017 Rural Urban event on April 8, 2017. 
His topic:  Agriculture Beyond Food and Feed plus information on some new technologies in the pipeline.
 
Gord Surgeoner, Ont, PhD 
 
When: April 8, 2017
Where: Pyramid Recreation Centre, St. Marys
Time:   Social   5:30 pm
            Dinner   6:30 pm
 
Bio follows:
 
Dedicated leader is perhaps the best way to describe Gord Surgeoner.  During his 30-year career, he has worked tirelessly to promote initiatives and champion causes that he believes are important to the well-being of the agri-food industry.
 
After completing his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in 1971 at the University of Guelph, Dr. Surgeoner went on to obtain a Master’s degree in Economic Entomology in 1973, also from Guelph and a Ph.D. in Forest Entomology in 1976 from Michigan State University.  Gord became an esteemed professor at the University of Guelph in Environmental Biology and Plant Agriculture, where he remained on faculty until his retirement in 2004.
 
Seconded from the University of Guelph in 1999, Gord became the President of Ontario Agri-Food Technologies, a non-profit organization consisting of members from farm associations, universities/colleges, industry and regional governments.  The organization focuses on ensuring that Ontario producers have access to the latest technologies to compete globally and to develop new market opportunities, many of which are beyond food. 
 
In September, 2005 Dr. Surgeoner was invested with the Order of Ontario.  This distinguished award recognizes Dr. Surgeoner's significant contribution to Ontario's agri-food sector.  
 
In addition, Gord has received the 1989 Distinguished Teaching Award from the Ontario Agricultural College Alumni Association, the 1994 T.R. Hilliard Award for Notable Contribution to Agricultural Extension in the Province of Ontario, the 2002 Award for Contribution to Advancing the Benefits of Biotech for Canadians, the 2007 University of Guelph Alumnus of Honour Award, the 2011 Life Sciences Ontario Community Service Award, and is a recipient of the Queen’s Golden (2002) and Diamond Jubilee (2012) Awards.  Most recently, Gord was inducted into the Ontario Agricultural Hall of Fame in June, 2014, received the 2014 University of Guelph MBA Leadership Recognition in Agribusiness and Food Award, was inducted into the Wellington County Agricultural Hall of Fame in September 2014, received the Canadian Renewable Fuels Association Award for Outstanding Dedication to the Advancement of Renewable Fuels in Canada in December 2014 and received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Guelph Chamber of Commerce in 2015.
 
Gord is a strong advocate for Canadian agriculture, the Canadian regulatory system and the opportunities Canada has in a global marketplace.  
 
Effective September 2014, Gord retired as President of Ontario Agri-Food Technologies, but continues to advocate on behalf of Canadian agriculture as an Associate with OAFT and through various Board positions.  Gord is currently semi-retired and working with agriculture producers and food processors on sustainability initiatives. 
 
Gord Surgeoner will speak at 2017 Rural Urban 2017-01-20 05:00:00Z 0
Canada 150- Faith Brinke - video 2016-12-31 05:00:00Z 0

Give the Gift of Rotary

Give the gift of Rotary
 
   
For 100 years, The Rotary Foundation has been supporting Rotarians' work to create sustainable solutions to our world's most pressing needs. But there is still much to do, and we need your help.
 
Rotary gives in countless ways, focusing our service efforts in six areas: promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, saving mothers and children, supporting education, and growing local economies. We're also working hard to end polio once and for all.
Give the gift of Rotary today and be a part of the positive change Rotarians are making in your community and around the world. Every gift makes a difference.

What your gift supports:
 
$10 Mosquito bed net
Bed nets provide a safe, peaceful night's rest in countries like Uganda, where malaria is a major health concern.

$15 Polio vaccines
Polio is still a crippling threat to children in Afghanistan, Nigeria, and Pakistan. A gift of just $15 can protect children for life.

$26.50 Books
Share your love of reading by paying for books to start libraries in classrooms and community centers around the world.

$50 Water filter
In rural Guatemala, deadly waterborne diseases are common. Personal water filters fill the need for clean water.

$85 Business classes
In the United States, business classes teach low-income entrepreneurs the skills they need to be successful.

$100 Sewing machine
With a sewing machine, a microloan, and some training from Rotary, entrepreneurs can turn their sewing skills into a thriving business.

$500 Anti-bullying campaign
No child should live in fear of being bullied. Your gift helps communities create a safe and positive atmosphere where children can thrive.

$1,000 Midwife vocational training
In remote areas, midwives provide vital prenatal care. Mothers who receive care during pregnancy are more likely to have safe births and to seek medical care for their children.

$2,650 Irrigation system
In areas where food security is a concern, irrigation systems give farmers a reliable and efficient water source so they can grow crops and provide food for the community.

Contact the Rotary Club of St. Marys if you are interested in making a donation to support our local and international projects.
Your gift supports projects like those described here but may not purchase the specific items listed.
 
 
Give the Gift of Rotary 2016-12-20 05:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary - Mark Oliver

Posted by Mark Oliver
 

Mark Oliver:

 

Why I Joined Rotary...

I grew up as a “Rotary brat”! My father was very involved with Rotary and so was my mother. I was a Rotary Youth Exchange student when I was 17 years old. I guess it was only logical that when the time was “right” that I would eventually join Rotary. The time was “right” in 2014 when my father sponsored me as a new member. (Homer Rath asked me, “What took you so long?”)  

 

I am in awe of all the good that Rotary International does in the world.  I enjoy the social fellowship of our Club. I have the deepest respect for all of the projects the Rotary Club of St. Marys has completed over its 90+ year history.  I look forward to helping our Club celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2025.

 

Rotary means something different to every Rotarian. To me, right now, Rotary means Rotary Youth Exchange. It has been my privilege over the past 2+ years to work alongside some truly amazing youth, some very generous host families and some very dedicated Rotarians in this worthy program. As the Youth Exchange Officer for this Club I look forward to promoting this program that our Club has been involved with continually since 1972.

 

-          Mark Oliver

 

 

Why I joined and stay in Rotary - Mark Oliver Mark Oliver 2016-10-23 04:00:00Z 0

END POLIO NOW!

World Polio Day: October 24, 2016

 

As volunteers and advocates, Rotary members play a crucial role in the fight to end polio. Our partners in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative will come together in Atlanta for World Polio Day.

 

On 24 October, World Polio Day, Rotary will bring together partners from the Global Polio Eradication Initiative for an update on our fight to end polio. As host and moderator of the event, our organization plays a key role in amplifying one of the most important public health concerns in modern history.

When we first took it up as an organizational cause over three decades ago, polio affected 350,000 children every year, mostly in lower-income countries where poor sanitation and limited access to clean water facilitate the spread of the virus.

Our collaboration with the World Health Organization, UNICEF, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, local health workers, and national governments has helped reduce the number of cases to just 74 last year. When the final case is behind us, polio will be only the second disease, after smallpox, ever to have been completely wiped out.

This year's event, the fourth to be live-streamed and the first to be held at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, is our opportunity to put the fight to end polio in the public eye.

·    

END POLIO NOW! 2016-10-20 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of St. Marys donates to the library

 
 

On September 22, 2016, Rotarian Linda Schuyler, Literacy Chair presented a $600 cheque to St. Marys Public Library CEO, Shannan Sword and Kate Long Library Collections Officer to purchase e-Books, audio books and DVDs for the Rotary Club of St. Marys 'Thank You Program' in honour of their guest speakers.

In the last 4 years, our club has donated 122 books/DVDs to the St. Marys Public Library.

Rotary Club of St. Marys donates to the library Linda Schuyler 2016-10-08 04:00:00Z 0

All Aboard

 

All Aboard St. Marys, formerly known as Save Via, hosted a parade on Friday which included a BBQ and other events as well. The event will bring attention to, and support the need for, passenger rail service in our area. For more information email Save Via founder Chris West at chriswest@kwic.com

The Rotary Club of St. Marys helped with the BBQ. Pictured below are Rotarians Gary Cumming (L), Stan Malcolm (Club President) and Len Hawkins.

 
All Aboard 2016-10-08 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary and ShelterBox in Haiti

 

Rotary and ShelterBox on the ground in Haiti

Even as parts of Haiti were still recovering from a catastrophic 2010 earthquake, Hurricane Matthew tore through the impoverished island country Tuesday, leaving hundreds dead and many more homeless.

The Category 4 storm has affected an estimated 330,000 people in Haiti, including 6,400 who have been moved to temporary shelters. Extensive damage to main bridges and other transportation networks have left some areas cut off and vulnerable. Torrential rains have resulted in flooding and landslides. And contaminated water supplies threaten to lead to a surge in cholera cases and other waterborne illnesses.

A ShelterBox response team of volunteers from Canada, England, New Zealand, and the United States traveled to Port-au-Prince, Haiti's capital, Friday to assess the damage and decide how best to help people. ShelterBox, an independent charity, is Rotary's project partner for disaster relief.

ShelterBox has limited supplies available in Haiti and is working with the Dutch navy to bring more from nearby storage sites. The charity is also exploring a partnership with ACTED, a French nongovernmental aid agency, which ShelterBox has worked with in the past.

"We are exploring every option to get aid to Haiti as quickly as possible," says Chris Warham, chief executive of ShelterBox. "Working in partnership could give us more flexibility and capacity to reach isolated communities in the country."

With wind speeds reaching 155 miles per hour, Hurricane Matthew is considered the worst storm to make landfall in Haiti in more than 50 years.

Rotary and ShelterBox in Haiti 2016-10-08 04:00:00Z 0

Linda Schuyler meets incoming RI President, Ian Riseley

  
Linda Schuyler (C) with Julia and Incoming RI President Ian Riseley from Australia.
 
Linda represented our club at the gathering hosted by the Downtown London club on September 26, 2016. There were approx 120 Rotarians from the various London clubs and other clubs from the District in attendance. Mr. Riseley had been in Toronto organizing the International Convention for 2018. It was refreshing to hear his sense of humour throughout his speech.
Linda Schuyler meets incoming RI President, Ian Riseley 2016-10-08 04:00:00Z 0

October - Economic & Community Development Month

Rotary supports investment in people to create measurable and enduring economic improvements in their lives and communities.

Rotary’s Goals:
*Strengthening  the development of local entrepreneurs and community leaders, particularly women, in impoverished communities
*Developing opportunities for decent and productive work, with a focus on women and  youth
*Building the capacity of local organizations and community networks to support economic development
*Supporting studies related to economic and community development


 

October - Economic & Community Development Month Linda Schuyler 2016-10-08 04:00:00Z 0
Wine & Cheese Tasting Pierre Chateauvert 2016-10-04 04:00:00Z 0

Charity Navigator upgrades Rotary Foundation's rating

Posted on Sep 11, 2016

Charity Navigator upgrades Rotary Foundation’s rating

The Rotary Foundation has received the highest possible score from Charity Navigator, an independent evaluator of charities in the U.S.

In the most recent ratings, released on 1 September, The Rotary Foundation earned the maximum 100 points for both financial health and accountability and transparency.

The ratings reflect how efficiently Charity Navigator believes the Foundation will use donations, how well it has sustained programs and services, and its level of commitment to good governance and openness.

In the previous rating, the Foundation had received 97 points.

Charity Navigator upgrades Rotary Foundation's rating 2016-09-11 04:00:00Z 0

Polio Watch-September 2016

 
Polio Watch (Sept 2016)
by Polio Eradication Co-Chair Joan Fisher

Polio eradication has endured an unfortunate setback in Nigeria. Two confirmed cases of type 1 of the virus came to
light in July. Prior to this detection, there had been no new cases of polio in Nigeria since July 24, 2014.

While these cases are isolated to the state of Borno, they are linked to a strain of the virus last detected in Borno in
2011. This demonstrates the insidiousness of the polio virus that can go undetected for 5 years and then paralyze two
innocent children.
 
Borno has been victim of civil unrest in recent years, suggesting pockets of children may not have
been vaccinated. Local gaps in surveillance to identify the disease may also have existed, allowing the virus to
continue circulating. To combat this latest outbreak, Nigeria’s government has stepped up immunization through
five, large scale vaccination campaigns taking place from August to November and strengthening surveillance across
Borno and at-risk communities.
 
To reduce the risk of the spread of the virus, immunization campaigns are also being
launched in the surrounding countries of Cameroon, Chad, Niger and the Central African Republic.
 
Globally, as of July 13, 2016, 21 new cases of polio have been identified. There are 13 cases in Pakistan, 6 cases in
Afghanistan and 2 in Nigeria. At the same time last year there were 36 cases. Fundraising is one of the key ways to
combat the spread of this disease. Rotarians are encouraged to sponsor Past District Governor Tanya Wolff as she
participates in her 5th marathon, The Scotiabank Toronto Marathon, on Sunday, October 15th to “End Polio Now”.
 
Rotarian donors receive a tax receipt and their Paul Harris Fellow points.
 
Contact Tanya at: pdgtanya@gmail.com.         
 
     
Polio Watch-September 2016 2016-09-05 04:00:00Z 0

International Literacy Day - September 8th

 
 
International Literacy Day
 
The United Nations' (UN) International Literacy Day annually falls on September 8 to raise people's awareness of and concern for literacy issues in the world.
 
 
Reading the Past, Writing the Future
http://www.unesco.org/new/fileadmin/MULTIMEDIA/HQ/ERI/icons/quotes-L.png;pvc3ecf34125d1d84aThe world has changed since 1966 – but our determination to provide every woman and man with the skills, capacities and opportunities to become everything they wish, in dignity and respect, remains as firm as ever. Literacy is a foundation to build a more sustainable future for all.http://www.unesco.org/new/fileadmin/MULTIMEDIA/HQ/ERI/icons/quotes-R.png                                                                                                         UNESCO Director-General    
 
This year marks the 50th anniversary of International Literacy Day and UNESCO is celebrating it under the banner “Reading the Past, Writing the Future”. International Literacy Day 2016 celebrates and honours the past five decades of national and international engagement, efforts and progress made to increase literacy rates around the world. It also addresses current challenges and looks to innovative solutions to further boost literacy in the future.
Fifty years ago, UNESCO officially proclaimed 8 September International Literacy Day to actively mobilize the international community and to promote literacy as an instrument to empower individuals, communities and societies.
Now International Literacy Day is celebrated worldwide, bringing together governments, multi- and bilateral organizations, NGOs, private sectors, communities, teachers, learners and experts in the field. On this day also International Literacy Prizes are awarded to people with outstanding solutions that can drive literacy towards achieving the 2030 Education Agenda. This year the focus is on innovation.
This is the first year of implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In this context the vision of literacy is aligned with lifelong learning opportunities with special focus on youth and adults. Literacy is a part of Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all”. The target is that by 2030 all youth and a substantial proportion of adults, both men and women, achieve literacy and numeracy (SDG Target 4.6).
The International Literacy Day will be celebrated all around the world. The main global celebration of the day will take place at UNESCO Headquarters, Paris in the form of a two-day conference on 8 - 9 September, the highlight of which will be the awarding of the Literacy Prizes. At the same time the Global Alliance for Literacy (GAL) will be launched, a new and ambitious initiative to make all major stakeholders pull together to promote literacy as a foundation for lifelong learning.
 
 
 
International Literacy Day - September 8th 2016-09-04 04:00:00Z 0

RI Pres Elect Ian Riseley District Events

Posted on Sep 02, 2016
 

 

  

   RIPE Ian Riseley Events

 

RI President Elect Ian Riseley from the Rotary Club of Sandringham, Victoria, Australia, will be visiting our District from September 24th-26th, 2016. He will be joined by his partner Juliet who is also a Rotarian and PDG.

Rotary Club of London Meeting:

On Monday, September 26th, 2016 he will be the keynote speaker at the Rotary Club of London. The meeting will take place at the London Convention. Tickets are only $25 and you should be there by 11:45. Please contact Jim Belton jimbelton@rogers.com to confirm your attendance.

Area 2 and District 6330 Clubs Meeting- Rotary Foundation Centennial Year:

On Monday, September 26, 2016 he will be joining Rotarians in Mildmay as part of the Area 2 meeting. All Clubs are welcome to attend. The meeting will begin at 5:30 at the Mildmay Community Centre. Tickets which include dinner are only $25.00. Please contact AG Tim Mancell tmancell@wightman.ca with the number of people that will be attending from your Club. Mr. Riseley will be joined by Carolyn Ferguson our Senior Gifts Officer for the Rotary Foundation.

Please mark your calendars for these events. Mr. Riseley is a fantastic speaker and you don’t want to miss out on this great opportunity. Let’s give him a big District 6330 welcome and show him all the great Rotarians we have “Serving Humanity.”

RI Pres Elect Ian Riseley District Events 2016-09-02 04:00:00Z 0

DG Diane Chantler visits our club

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Aug 09, 2016
  
 
                                  
                                  2016 - 2017 District Governor Diane & Bill Chantler
 
Our pictures will tell the story. First of all, we must thank President Stan and his wife, Kathryn for being such wonderful hosts for the evening. What a beautiful setting!
 
     
 
 
Group photo taken by Bill Chantler
 
The following pictures were taken by Nelda Oliver
 
DG Diane talks about the year ahead.
Remember the 3 F's ...
Fun, Fellowship, Friendship
 
 
  
AG Dianne Yundt (L) with Pres Stan Malcolm and 
DG Diane Chantler
     
 
        
 
 
 
                                                       
 
 
DG Diane Chantler visits our club Linda Schuyler 2016-08-09 04:00:00Z 0
August is Membership Month 2016-08-09 04:00:00Z 0

Local Rotary Club donates to Hospital 'Someone I Know' Campaign

Posted on Jul 15, 2016
 
 
 
Representing a combination of member donations along with proceeds from the 2016 Rural Urban event, the Rotary Club of St. Marys presented a cheque for $5,800 to the St. Marys Memorial Hospital Foundation 'Someone I Know' Campaign. Our club supports worthwhile community projects and our hospital is important to all citizens of our area. We wish the foundation success in reaching their goal.
 
Back row from left: Rotarians Gary Cumming, Doug Fread, Pierre Chateauvert, Len Hawkins and Homer Rath, Hospital Foundation representatives John McIntosh (chair) and Krista Linklater (fundraising coordinator).
 
Front row from left: Hospital Foundation Fundraising Committee chair Pat Craigmile, Rotarians Linda Schuyler, Doug Goudy and Heather Ellis and Hospital Foundation member Joanne Lounds.
Local Rotary Club donates to Hospital 'Someone I Know' Campaign 2016-07-15 04:00:00Z 0

Fort McMurray Fire Relief Fund Update

Posted on Jul 13, 2016
 

FORT McMURRAY FIRE RELIEF FUND UPDATE

A sincere thank you to the many Rotary clubs, organizations and individuals who have contributed to our district foundation’s Fort McMurray Fire Relief Fund.   Through your generosity we have received over $725,000 to date.

 

It will be some time before the funds will be disbursed.  As we have previously noted, this fund is meant for the long term rebuilding needs in the community.  In order to provide advice on those needs, the Rotary District 5370 Charitable Foundation is establishing an allocation advisory committee.  The committee will consist of two representatives from each of the two Fort McMurray Rotary clubs as well as two representatives from Wood Buffalo Regional Municipality (which includes Fort McMurray).  It will be chaired by DGE Frank Reitz, who is also a Fort McMurray resident.

 

The terms of reference for the allocation committee contain the following criteria:

Suggested Criteria for Inclusion in Disbursement Guidelines

1. Capital needs should be given priority over operating needs.

2. The degree that the disbursement meets immediate community needs or long term

community needs should be considered.

3. The project being funded needs to be defined and specific.

4. Priority should be given to projects that would rebuild or restore property loss due to

direct damage from the fire or would assist an indirect loss attributed to the fire.

5. The project must be in the geographic area affected by the fire.

6. Sustainabilty of the project is important.

7. Priority should be given to projects for children, youth and seniors.

 

We will be posting updates on this site regarding disbursement of funds, once that process has started.  In the meantime, additional donations are needed and welcome.

Donations may be from individuals or corporations. 

 

Rotary clubs may wish to facilitate this process by collecting donations, and then forwarding either the individual cheques or a cheque drawn on the club’s account for the total amount, along with a list of the donors and their addresses and postal codes.

 

Please make cheques payable to:  "Rotary District 5370 Charitable Foundation" and forward to: 

 

Rotary District 5370 Charitable Foundation

c/o Rotary District 5370 Office

16030 – 104 Ave.. NW

Edmonton AB    T5P 0S3

 

Please annotate cheques “Fort McMurray Fire Relief Fund”

 

If you wish to make a donation using a charge card, you may do so using ATB Cares.  ATB matches donations with an additional 15%.  Here’s the link:

 

https://atbcares.com/bcart/add/cause/124-889886024RR0001

 

All donations made through ATB cares flow through to the Rotary District 5370 Charitable Foundation's Fort McMurray Fire Relief Fund. Many thanks!

 

Julius Buski, President

 

 

Fort McMurray Fire Relief Fund Update 2016-07-13 04:00:00Z 0

Presidential Changeover

Posted on Jul 04, 2016
 
Meet President Stan Malcolm and the new executive for the Rotary Club of St. Marys....
 
Back row: Gary Cumming (L), Ron Aitken, Charlie Hammond
Front row: Past President Doug Goudy (L), President Stan Malcolm, Lucie Stephens, Pierre Chateauvert
Missing: Daryl McClure
Presidential Changeover 2016-07-04 04:00:00Z 0

RI President John Germ

 

When John Germ unveiled the 2016-17 presidential theme, Rotary Serving Humanity, he said “I believe everyone recognizes the opportunity to serve Rotary for what it truly is: not a small opportunity, but a great one; an opportunity of a lifetime to change the world for the better, forever through Rotary’s service to humanity". He further added that Rotary members around the globe are serving humanity by providing clean water to underdeveloped communities, promoting peace in conflict areas, and strengthening communities through basic education and literacy. But none more important than our work to eradicate polio worldwide.

See the RI website for more news!                  

RI President John Germ 2016-07-02 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Scoreboard at CBHF

A note from President Doug Goudy...
The Rotary Club of St. Marys would like to thank Dale Robinson, Forman Electric, Rotary International District 6330 and the Rotarians who donated time, materials and equipment that allowed us to erect the Rotary Field Scoreboard in time for the Induction Ceremonies at the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. This represents a donation of $10,000 and brings the Rotary Club of St. Marys total donation over the years to $260,000 to the CBHFM. Rotary has been a long supporter of this national project to honour Canadian Baseball Greats. We see the project as laid out by the planning committee of the CBHFM as a major boost for tourism and growth in the Town of St. Marys. This scoreboard will allow tournaments with games on Rotary Field to better serve the fans who come to watch the games.
 
                           
 
 
From out of all of this hard work...
 
 
      
 
             
 
resulted in this completed installation of the electronic scoreboard...
 
Don't forget to check out the 'Rotary Scoreboard' photo album for more pictures and captions!
 
It was no small feat for the Rotary construction team to finish installing the scoreboard in time for the 2016 CBHF Induction Weekend. Although there were a number of Rotarians involved in this project from grant writing to photography, it is with deep gratitude, especially with the number of challenges we faced that we thank Pres Doug Goudy, Doug Fread, Charlie Hammond, Pierre Chateauvert and Stan Malcolm.  You are all brave men!
 
 
 
Rotary Scoreboard at CBHF 2016-06-30 04:00:00Z 0

Farewell to Joep

 
 
Joep Heddes (The Netherlands) pictured with outbound exchange
student Angelica Pearce (L) who is off to Chile in August and
inbound exchange student Keely Iles from Australia who will
stay with our club until December. Claire Sherwin (District Youth
Exchange Officer) is shown behind Joep and Keely.
 
 
 
   Pres Doug and Joep exchange banners
 
Joep gave an excellent presentation about his adventures over the past year. You are a great representative of your host club, your community and your country. Thanks for the memories Joep.
Farewell to Joep 2016-06-30 04:00:00Z 0

Our members

It isn't often that clubs have a member with service in Rotary for more than 50 years. In the past we have had two Rotarians who have been members for more than 60 years:
             - Herb Sparling celebrated > 63 years with our club (now deceased)
             - Frank Ball celebrated 60 years with our club when he resigned on December 30, 1999 (now deceased)         
             - PDG Maurice Oliver celebrated 50 years with our club on June 20, 2016
             - John  Rouble celebrated 56 years with various clubs on June 30, 2016
 
I never had the pleasure to know Herb but I have enjoyed working with Frank, John and Maurice over the years. Many times I have heard them and even some of our older Rotarians question the value of what they have to offer. I answer "Friendship" and "your wisdom from life".
I remind the chairs of our various committees to look for ways to include our aging Rotarians with some fun yet meaningful tasks with our projects or events, such as helping with our putting contest at the golf tournament or acting as greeter at some of our events. I am happy to say that we have done just that.
 
This month I have only received one testimonial from our eldest Rotarian in our club. His story follows in the next article.
 
Our members Linda Schuyler 2016-06-30 04:00:00Z 0

New social media committee

 As chair of the social media and website committee, I am pleased to announce that the following Rotarians have joined me as administrators on the Rotary Club of St. Marys FaceBook page:
  •        Gary Cumming
  •        Lynn Hainer
  •        Lucie Stephens
At the Total Team Training seminar, I learned that we should have 4 people as administrators on our FaceBook page. All three of these Rotarians have lots of experience with FaceBook.
 
I invite each of you to check out and 'like' our club's FaceBook page.
 
  https://www.facebook.com/Rotary-Club-of-St-Marys-205804042908902/
 
As well, Gary also serves in the role of 'Editor' for our website which allows him to write and post stories and pictures and update information on our website. I will continue to serve as the club's website administrator and the monthly e-Bulletin editor. If you have any topics which you would like covered, please contact us.
 
Linda Schuyler
Chair, Social Media and Website Committee
New social media committee Linda Schuyler 2016-06-30 04:00:00Z 0

We have pictures from our outbound exchange students

Here are some pictures from our outbound exchange students. Analee and Brett are home now and Billy will return in July.
 
                       Welcome Home!
 
 
 
    
 
Analee Leavitt with friends and a little monkey.
 
   
Billy Strathdee at The Canals of Amsterdam.
 
 
 Billy Strathdee connected with Jakob Allmer while on exchange.
 
 
 
 
 Billy Strathdee at the John Lennon Wall in Prague.
 
 
Brett Dill with new friends.
 
 
Brett Dill cooling off at the waterfalls.
We have pictures from our outbound exchange students 2016-06-30 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary BBQ at CBHF Induction Weekend-Celebrity Game 2016-06-30 04:00:00Z 0
Rotary 30th Annual Scramble Golf Tournament 2016-06-30 04:00:00Z 0
2016 District Conference Pictures 2016-06-20 04:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary- John Rouble

story thumbnail
 
Why I joined and why I stay in Rotary – John Rouble 
 
 ‘Star of Courage Medal’ pictured
 
I was first proposed for Rotary membership in Dryden, Ontario in 1962 by Colin Proudfoot, owner of a large department store. In those days Rotary was quite exclusive and adhered to the classification protocol. The local high school principal, Gordon Wood, represented the “Education Portfolio”. When Mr. Wood heard of the rejection, he recommended me to the club as “Additional Active-Vocational Education” which fit quite well into my position as Head of the Guidance Department and I was accepted. In those days candidates were accepted or declined by a membership vote, using a black or white sphere placed in a box, a single black ball declined membership. This procedure was also used by the Haliburton Club until 1990.
 
We left Dryden in 1966 as I was appointed Vice-President in Prescott, where I was classified as ‘Education Administration-Secondary’. Prescott was a great club with many pranksters. To illustrate we hosted a District Conference and the breakfast orange juice at the buffet was spiked, and that certainly softened the stiff collars.
 
One of our members was the curator at Fort Wellington. He thought we should commemorate the Fenian Raid of 1837 with an attack on our sister club in Ogdensburg, N.Y. and fire a cannon down the main street. Agreement was unanimous. We loaded a small brass ceremonial cannon in a Station Wagon and told our plans to U.S. Customs who went along with our gag. Prior to lunch we made our presence known by a discharge and roused our hosts much to the delight of both Rotary Clubs.
 
To Haliburton as Principal of the County Secondary School and immediately was looking forward to joining  the Rotary Club. Haliburton was a great club and a great experience. They were very supportive of the school and the athletic programs, especially football and hockey. And I had no problems with classification. We had a teachers’ hockey team while I was there and for several years we held a benefit game played between the teachers and the Rotary Club that filled the arena resulting in an excellent contribution to Minor Hockey.
 
The ‘aha’ moment and one of the most significant things in my life was enabled as a result of a Rotary program that taught members of the club how to resuscitate individuals by using mouth to mouth. About one week later our 14 year old son and I were privileged to save the lives of two people whose snow machine plunged through the ice in the Drag River.  At -25C at 10:30 pm, I pulled the woman from the hole and she was gagging and I performed mouth to mouth successfully.  I then fetched the man who was face down in the water and with my son’s help pulled the man to safe ice and started resuscitation and was successful as he vomited water and started breathing. The police arrived and using our snow machine we brought both up to the house and waiting ambulance.
 
The Rotary program was instrumental in saving their lives. Chris and I were awarded bravery medals by the Commissioner of the OPP and I was awarded the Star of Courage, Canada’s second highest bravery medal citation by Governor General Jules Leger.
 
I was appointed Superintendent of Schools in Haldimand County. A position I did not like as I was removed from students and for other reasons.
 
I spent my final 13 years in Yellowknife as the ||Principal of the Territorial High School for 9 years and was appointed by acclamation as the President of the Northwest Territories Teachers Association for two 2 year terms. I was a member of the Yellowknife Rotary Club during this tenure and the President of the Rotary Club for 2 years.
 
I retired in 1992, left Yellowknife and moved to St. Marys and was accepted by the Rotary Club of
St. Marys where I have been a member for the past 24 years. I have been a Rotarian for over 50 years.
 
There are several reasons why I have enjoyed being a Rotarian. I have enjoyed the enthusiasm and fellowship of Rotarians all over the world. I have taken advantage of visitation privileges by attending club meetings as I traveled and never cease to be amazed by their hospitality. I have worked on projects with the Wailuku Club in Maui and was especially pleased with their elementary school reading program. For several years I have been involved and it puts me back in the classroom teaching. I often focus on the isolation of Island life and compare it to life in Canada’s Arctic and the students find it fascinating.
 
Sincere thanks for the honorary membership in the Rotary Club of St. Marys that permits me to attend your meetings and participate in your activities.
John Rouble
Why I joined and stay in Rotary- John Rouble 2016-06-07 04:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary- Ray Bennett

Posted by Ray Bennett
 
Why I joined and why I stay in Rotary – Ray bennett
I arrived in St. Marys as a relative youngster, not yet having reached my 24th birthday, and being the new owner of the oldest of four St. Marys Menswear Businesses. The A. H. Loft Mens Clothing Shop founded in 1878 was a successful, quality, full line of finer quality men’s and boy’s clothing  serving the town and surrounding rural countryside.
 
As a young newcomer to the St. Marys business scene and in some awe of the shakers and movers of the St. Marys business world, including Mr. Fred Loft, my business pre-owner and a Rotary Club Charter Member. He had invited me as a new business owner to come to Rotary and speak to his club at a regular Rotary meeting. Mr Loft invited me as a guest to a couple of meetings of the 2nd oldest service club in St. Marys. (The McConnell Club, a local group of ladies had created this club at the early part of WW1 to knit mittens and scarves for the servicemen overseas and to this day act in different ways, here in St. Marys, doing social work in our community.) Still in my early years of operating my own retail business, I realized my time was required with my business.  I thanked Mr. Loft for encouraging me to join the Rotary Club of St. Marys but due to time constraints, I declined. I liked the many varied programs that Rotary does locally, Canada-wide and internationally and suggested that if and when I felt I would be able to join a service club, Rotary would be my first and only choice.
 
Some ten or fifteen years later, I was approached by a merchant neighbour, Mr. Ronald Sage, my next store druggist neighbour, to join the Rotary Club of St. Marys. I decided this was a better time and thankfully agreed to accept his offer.
 
There are several reasons why I continue to enjoy Rotary with the main reason being the International Youth Exchange which I believe may be among the best services that Rotary International sponsors that contributes to world peace and understanding.
 
In my early years as a club member, I remember that our meetings were held in different restaurants year by year.
 
In 1988, our club was instrumental in the creation of the Parkview West Seniors Living Complex. This building along with 42 suites for senior owners also has a large meeting hall for seniors recreation activities. And our club, as creators of this building, by paying a reasonable annual stipend, is one of the only clubs that I know of that can boast of a permanent meeting room with all of the facilities that a service club would require.
 
I am also, on a lighter note, a strong believer that the camaraderie of the club members would keep any member for some time well into the future….
 
Ray Bennett
Why I joined and stay in Rotary- Ray Bennett Ray Bennett 2016-06-07 04:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Ron McDonald

Posted by Ron McDonald
 
Why I joined and why I stay in Rotary – Ron McDonald
St. Marys is the first small community that I have lived in and I was struck by the familiarity everyone seemed to have with each other. It was new to me.  So when Linda Schuyler came into ValuMart and asked if I would come out to Rotary as a guest and then to join the local club, I felt it would be a great way to meet people by becoming more involved in everyday activities.
 
After I joined Rotary, I found it to be much more than I expected and that the experience benefitted me much more than I think I benefitted the club. I found out what Rotary was all about and I enjoy being part of it. I met a lot of strangers who took an interest in me and later became friends. I became involved for the first time with a group of people who are committed to making the world a better place, a new and refreshing view of things for the sceptic I once was.
 
But most of all the largest benefit I gained from Rotary is how it has changed me. I have become more aware of the world and community around me and more sensitive to the hardships of others.
 
Ron McDonald
 
Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Ron McDonald Ron McDonald 2016-06-07 04:00:00Z 0
Share Your Passion For Rotary 2016-06-05 04:00:00Z 0

Polio Update- Dr Rebecca Martin

 
Polio Update at the Rotary International Convention in Seoul Korea:
Dr Rebecca Martin, Centre for Disease Control and Prevention provides a 25 minute update on polio. To date there have been 16 cases of polio between Afghanistan (5) and Pakistan (11) in 2016.
 
  • Thanks to the efforts of Rotarians there has been a dramatic increase in government accountability.
  • Recruitment of women as volunteers to give the polio vaccine in their own communities has resulted in higher numbers of children receiving the vaccine.
  • Between 17 April 2016 and 1 May 2016, the world marked a historic milestone with 155 countries and territories switching from trivalent to bivalent oral polio vaccine in a globally synchronized manner. This switch brings the world one big step closer to eradicating polio. This will eliminate the rare risk of vaccine-associated paralytic polio and circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus.
  • The advancement made in treating polio can be used to help eliminate other diseases such as measles.
Challenges:
  • Keeping workers safe and engaged
  • Addressing fears, misconceptions in appropriate ways
  • Insecurity requires strong skills in keeping all workers safe
 
 
Polio Update- Dr Rebecca Martin 2016-06-05 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Fellowship is the theme for the month of June

Benefits of Rotary Fellowships:
  • Enable Rotarians to make lasting friendships outside their own club, district or country
  • Contribute to the advancement of Rotary's public image and identity
  • Serve as an incentive for joining Rotary and for continuing as a member

Examples of Rotary Fellowships available to Rotarians, Rotary partners and Rotaractors...

  

The following was originally posted in the June 2016 issue of The Bridge District newsletter.

 

June is designated as Rotary Fellowship Month. Rotary Fellowships are international, independently organized groups of Rotarians, Rotary partners, and Rotaractors who share a common recreational interest or vocation. This month is recognition of the opportunity to have fun, make new friends around the world and enhance the experience of Rotary that belonging to a Rotary Fellowship enables.

Rotary Fellowships began informally in 1928 when a group of Rotarians with an interest in Esperanto joined together. In 1947, Rotarians organized a group of boating enthusiasts, which became the Yachting Fellowship. This joining together to share common interests and activities gained attention and operated over the years under various names as World Fellowship Activities; International Vocational Contact Groups; Rotary Recreational and Vocational Fellowships; and finally Rotary Fellowships.

Fellowship activities vary widely. Some groups come together around hobbies or special interests. Others are based on common vocations. Some Fellowships are purely social while others use their fellowship for service projects. Each Fellowship must maintain a membership base representing at least 3 Countries. Each Fellowship elects at least 3 Officers to oversee the group’s operations. Fellowships are expected to facilitate communication amongst their members and to maintain regular communication with Rotary International.

There are currently over 61 Rotary Fellowships. To find more information go to:

www.rotary.org/fellowships

 

“Fellowship is wonderful; it illuminates life’s pathway, spreads good cheer, and is worth high

price.” -Rotary Founder Paul Harris

Rotary Fellowship is the theme for the month of June 2016-06-02 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Fellowship is the theme for the month of June

Benefits of Rotary Fellowships:
  • Enable Rotarians to make lasting friendships outside their own club, district or country
  • Contribute to the advancement of Rotary's public image and identity
  • Serve as an incentive for joining Rotary and for continuing as a member

Examples of Rotary Fellowships available to Rotarians, Rotary partners and Rotaractors...

  

The following was originally posted in the June 2016 issue of The Bridge District newsletter.

 

June is designated as Rotary Fellowship Month. Rotary Fellowships are international, independently organized groups of Rotarians, Rotary partners, and Rotaractors who share a common recreational interest or vocation. This month is recognition of the opportunity to have fun, make new friends around the world and enhance the experience of Rotary that belonging to a Rotary Fellowship enables.

Rotary Fellowships began informally in 1928 when a group of Rotarians with an interest in Esperanto joined together. In 1947, Rotarians organized a group of boating enthusiasts, which became the Yachting Fellowship. This joining together to share common interests and activities gained attention and operated over the years under various names as World Fellowship Activities; International Vocational Contact Groups; Rotary Recreational and Vocational Fellowships; and finally Rotary Fellowships.

Fellowship activities vary widely. Some groups come together around hobbies or special interests. Others are based on common vocations. Some Fellowships are purely social while others use their fellowship for service projects. Each Fellowship must maintain a membership base representing at least 3 Countries. Each Fellowship elects at least 3 Officers to oversee the group’s operations. Fellowships are expected to facilitate communication amongst their members and to maintain regular communication with Rotary International.

There are currently over 61 Rotary Fellowships. To find more information go to:

www.rotary.org/fellowships

 

“Fellowship is wonderful; it illuminates life’s pathway, spreads good cheer, and is worth high

price.” -Rotary Founder Paul Harris

Rotary Fellowship is the theme for the month of June 2016-06-02 04:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Homer Rath

Posted by Homer Rath
 
My Rotary Story – Homer Rath:
 
I joined Rotary in 1984, after being invited, by the T.D. branch manager, Grant Berry.
 
At the time, we had recently moved to St. Marys from Arva, after purchasing the local florist shop. This was the result of a career change for me. After working for a Canadian manufacturing plant for twenty some years and achieving Assistant Plant Mgr, we were bought out by an American company and the factory closed with every one terminated.
 
By joining Rotary, I felt it would help me to get to know the community and be involved in it. I remember my first few meetings, held at the Golden Pond restaurant. Men Only! There was so much cigar smoke you could hardly see. One thing I will always remember was Rev Ross Crosby saying that the seat next to him was reserved for "someone Special". I apologized and went to look for another seat and he said, “No! No! You're that someone special”.
 
I approach Rotary as a place to have fun with people you like, while helping to do good things for others. Our vibrant club doesn't disappoint.
 
Who knows, maybe someday, I will be able to give my 2 hour presentation describing my pet fossil.
 
Homer
 
Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Homer Rath Homer Rath 2016-05-16 04:00:00Z 0
Participants -Seminar for Tomorrow's Leaders 2016-05-16 04:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Dick MacPherson

Posted by Dick MacPherson
 

My Rotary Story – Dick MacPherson:

It was sometime in 1979, following a Town Council meeting, that fellow councillor George Ball invited me to a Rotary meeting. “To be honest” said George “we are looking for new members and especially younger members.” I explained that with two retail stores, Town Council, two council committees and my love of baseball, my time was well committed. “Rotary is looking for busy people” he said, “they make the best members; but I promise you that will be understood and you will not be pressured. Rotary International is a successful service organization and you will be proud to be a member. Through your membership alone, you will be making a valuable contribution. Your participation at our weekly meetings will both educate you regarding the objectives of Rotary and will provide you the type of fellowship you will enjoy.”

I took him up on it and it has been a joy! The membership fees were small. Most of the meetings were interesting and I have friends from Rotary that I would not likely have known.

I have been sorry to see some members leave after a few months or even years. Some had joined- I suspect – hoping for new business clients, but the most common reason given for leaving has been
“I couldn’t give it the time needed to make it meaningful.”

In the April 2016 issue of Rotarian magazine, Rotary International President K.R. Ravindran tells of a man arriving in Kolkata, India to see Mother Theresa. He was directed to the back of the building where he found her cleaning toilets. Mother Theresa assuming he was there to help handed him the tools saying she would be back. He finished the toilets before handing her the airline tickets he had come to deliver. The gentleman told that story many times and referred to the experience as being transforming in that he had put his hands to Mother Theresa’s work.

I thought that was the sense in which George Ball had been right. A very small number of Rotarians have had hands on experience in national or international Rotary projects yet the small contributions we make are part of the work of an effective organization.

I wish many of those who felt insignificant had stayed with us. We would be stronger for it.

Dick MacPherson

Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Dick MacPherson Dick MacPherson 2016-05-09 04:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Lucie Stephens

Posted by Lucie Stephens
LUCIE STEPHENS:
 

Why I joined Rotary

I am often asked why I chose to join Rotary.  The puzzled looks clearly show what is on their mind: “but your hair isn’t grey and you’re not retired.”  My answer is simple, Rotary once gave me a life-changing opportunity and I feel I have a social responsibility to give back and to pay it forward whenever I can.  

When I was seventeen, my Rotary district selected me to represent them and to be an ambassador for my country as a Rotary International Exchange Student.  This opportunity was a defining moment in my life.  I was exposed to a new culture, to a new language, and I got to live with families who were very different from my own.  This experience taught me compassion for others, to never judge a book by its cover and that anything is possible, if we work hard, and follow our path.

Finding Rotary again in my adult years has been a blessing to me.  I now get to meet like-minded individuals and to make a difference in the lives of others.  We all have a role to play in leaving this world a better place.  Our journey is but a fleeting moment in the grand scheme of things, but if every one of us did just a little bit every day, we could ease the journey for those who follow behind us.  Our legacy would be a great one.

One person can absolutely make a different, but a group can change the world.

Lucie Stephens

Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Lucie Stephens Lucie Stephens 2016-04-26 04:00:00Z 0

The month of May celebrates Youth Services

 
In celebration of Youth Services, here are some recent photos of our Inbound/Outbound Exchange Students. Do you recognize these inbound/outbound exchange students?
 
Joep Heddes (The Netherlands) Laura Vink and Angelica (both 2016-2017 outbound students) 
and Keely Iles (Australia) with Kevin Oliver (participant in '2016 Seminar for Tomorrow's Leaders)
enjoy the 2016 90th Rural Urban Event in St. Marys.
 
 
Analee Leavitt and her new friends. 
 
  
Billy Strathdee and his friend in Athens.
 
Brett Dill out diving and enjoying the water. 
 
 
The month of May celebrates Youth Services Linda Schuyler 2016-04-26 04:00:00Z 0

Successful 90th Rural Urban

 
Oh what a party! Well done and congratulations to Len Hawkins and his committee. A big thank you to Janice Mitchell, our caterer, our volunteers and our sponsors - Ulch Transport, Vet Purchasing, Waghorn Stephens & Sipos. Thanks to Rotarian Ray Bennett for showing up with his Rural Urban suit. We enjoyed seeing it again. The live auction brought very active bidding when it came to Janice Mitchell's 8 homemade pies. Who would have thought we could receive bids of $40 per pie which turned out to be the steal of the evening let alone $100 each and then the last two pies brought in $130 each. Our District Governor, Nancy Ottwell, was delighted to be the lucky bidder at $130. We are certainly appreciative of the spirit of our audience who grasped the idea that this fun was all in the name of charity. The community will benefit from their generosity. We used to talk about the cinnamon buns that went for $65 per dozen. Now the pies will be the talk of the town.
 
Doug Fread, Chair of the Awards Committee announced two winners of the 'Service Above Self' award: Linda Schuyler and PDG Maurice Oliver, pictured below receiving their plaques from Ray Bennett:
 
 
 
 
 
Our keynote speaker Tim MacDonald was very interesting as he told the story of finding the Erebus, one of Sir John Franklin's lost ships.
 
  
The refitted trawler used to find the Erebus, one of Sir John Franklin's lost ships.
 
                                         
Tim MacDonald and Rotarian David Cunningham
 
Perhaps you might be interested in seeing two pieces of Arctic porcelain depicting the Franklin ships from a Rotarian's collection.
 
 
   
 
Successful 90th Rural Urban Linda Schuyler 2016-04-26 04:00:00Z 0

History of 'Seminar for Tomorrow's Leaders'

 
Purpose : The Seminar For Tomorrow’s Leaders is a youth service program Rotary international District 6330, with clubs in Michigan and Ontario. The Seminar combines lectures and discussions on career knowledge, international understanding, service opportunities, small group leadership and team development experiences and exercises. The program's been designed only for students who already shown leadership interests and skills. The effectiveness of the program depends upon the commitment of every student participant to be fully involved in every minute of the planned activities. Sharing of leadership experience and ideas with other student leaders, under the guidance of university student counselors is a vital part of the dynamic of this program. The Seminar will provide a very full program. There will be morning, afternoon, and evening sessions, with very limited free time.
 
History: The Seminar For Tomorrow's Leaders was begun in 1961 by Past District Governor, the late Herb J. Farrow, a London East Rotarian, who observed a similar program and recognized its potential value for student leaders in the District. His idea was enthusiastically supported by a recommendation from Lapeer Rotarian, Frank White. Thus the District 6330 program is older than most Rotary Youth Leadership Award (RYLA) programs now held throughout the world. The Seminar became coeducational, and moved from church camps to college campuses in 1981. Facilities at the University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario, Canada, and campuses in Michigan, USA, have been used since 1981.
 
Criteria for selection of participants: Each Rotary club may establish a youth committee, assign responsibility to an existing committee or director. The club then determines the number of participants it will sponsor. At this point, the club works with secondary school principals and counselors to choose the student leaders who will attend the Seminar. It should be emphasized that the choice of genuine leaders from schools is critical to the success of the program. Wherever possible, clubs are encouraged to send equal members of young men and young women. Schools would be well advised to recommend students are in the next‐to‐last secondary school year (Grade 11). In this way the outcomes of their leadership experience can be of significant benefit to the school and its programs in the following year.
History of 'Seminar for Tomorrow's Leaders' 2016-04-26 04:00:00Z 0
2016 District Conference Video Invitation 2016-04-08 04:00:00Z 0

Crocuses at Cadzow Park

Posted by Linda Schuyler
 
Our purple crocus waterfall has had challenges this year. The warm weather in February brought some early blooms as shown in the following pictures taken in early March 2016 by Rotarian Ron Aitken. Since then we have had several frosty mornings and even two snow storms which have delayed further blooming. I hope that you have taken a look at the crocuses. I visited Cadzow Park on Monday and noticed there are hundreds of blossoms at the top of the waterfall waiting for warmer weather to coax them into full bloom. Don't be discouraged! Remember in another four years there will be a spectacular display of colour.
 
  
 
March 10, 2016 - Ron Aitken            
 
March 10, 2016 - Ron Aitken                                               
 
Here are two more pictures of our crocus waterfall.
 
  
 
March 30, 2016 - Pres Doug Goudy  
 
Early April 2016 - Claire Sherwin
 
Crocuses at Cadzow Park Linda Schuyler 2016-04-06 04:00:00Z 0

Polio Update as of March 30, 2016 - 9 cases

 
Polio this week as of 30 March 2016
 
  • There are two weeks to go until the globally synchronized switch from the trivalent to bivalent oral polio vaccine. Learn more about the switch through this series of videos.
     
      
    Wild poliovirus type 1 and Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus cases

     
Total cases
Year-to-date 2016
Year-to-date 2015
Total in 2015
WPV
 cVDPV
 WPV
 cVDPV
 WPV
 cVDPV
Globally
9
3
21
1
74
32
- in endemic countries
9
0
21
1
74
 3
- in non-endemic countries
0
3
0
0
0
 29

 
- See more at: http://www.polioeradication.org/Dataandmonitoring/Poliothisweek.aspx#sthash.iFnBgFhf.dpuf
Polio Update as of March 30, 2016 - 9 cases 2016-04-06 04:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary- Kessley Jennings

Posted by Kessley Jennings on Apr 06, 2016
 

Why I joined Rotary-

During a winter visit to ValuMart in St. Marys, I met Bill Vine who was selling Christmas draw tickets. I asked him how he got to do this and his answer was that he was a Rotarian. How does one become a member? My real estate broker was the then president so I was sponsored by (Ron Morrison). The rest is history!

From becoming a member I saw that there were areas to which I could contribute to the Rotary and thus the community.

Since joining, I took notes, attendance and became the secretary as the current secretary Linda McSweeney was moving to a different city.. I was recruited to be the new secretary, followed by training and the learning of each members' names.

So why did I join the Rotary -was to do some community service in the community that my family adopted as our new home!

 

Kessley Jennings

Why I joined and stay in Rotary- Kessley Jennings Kessley Jennings 2016-04-06 04:00:00Z 0

Area of Focus- Maternal and Child Health

Posted on Apr 06, 2016
(Adaptation from District Newsletter dated April 2016 )
In the Rotary world, the month of April is dedicated to Maternal and Child Health. It is our goal to improve the lives of mothers and their children by reducing the mortality rate for children under the age of five, reducing the maternal mortality rate, improving access to essential medical services and trained health care providers and supporting studies related to maternal and child health.
 
According to the World Health Organization, pregnancy and childbirth are the leading causes of death and disability for women in developing countries. Every day mothers risk their lives giving birth and 80% of maternal deaths could be prevented with access to reproductive health services and trained health care workers. millions of children die each year from treatable and preventable causes. At least 7 million children under the age of five die each year due to malnutrition, poor health care and inadequate sanitation. To help reduce the rate, we can provide immunizations and antibiotics to babies, improve access to essential medical services and support trained health care providers for mothers and their children. We can provide birthing kits. We can support vocational training teams of medical professionals specializing in obstetrics to train community health care workers in prenatal care. Our projects will help to ensure sustainability by empowering local communities in developing countries to take ownership of their health care training programs. What a wonderful way to "Be a gift to the World"!
 
Here is a link to a short video -     https://vimeo.com/33690570
 
 
 
Area of Focus- Maternal and Child Health Linda Schuyler 2016-04-06 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary's Theme for the Month of March is Water & Sanitation

Posted by Linda Schuyler
 
In the Rotary world, we acknowledge a different theme for each month of the year. March happens to be 'Water and Sanitation' which is one of Rotary's 6 areas of focus. In addition, March 22nd is recognized as World Water Day. I have posted two pages from the 'Rotary's Areas of Focus' publication which introduces the third area of focus 'Water and Sanitation'. It may be difficult to read the fine print in the following two articles so please refer to our website (www.rotarystmarys.ca) and look for downloadable file on the right side of our home page titled 'Rotary's 6 Areas of Focus'.
Rotary's Theme for the Month of March is Water & Sanitation Linda Schuyler 2016-02-27 05:00:00Z 0
Area of Focus - Water Quality & Improved Access to Water 2016-02-27 05:00:00Z 0

Polio Update as of February 24, 2016

 
Polio this week as of 24 February 2016
 
  • GPEI have published six new videos on ‘Securing a Polio Free World’ covering topics including the polio vaccines, circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses and the upcoming ‘Switch’. The videos are available in both English and French.
  • There are eight weeks to go until the globally synchronized switch from the trivalent to bivalent oral polio vaccine, an important milestone in achieving a polio-free world. Read more about the reasons behind the switch here. Read more ongoing preparation for the switch here.
     
     
      
    Wild poliovirus type 1 and Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus cases
Total cases
Year-to-date 2016
Year-to-date 2015
Total in 2015
WPV
 cVDPV
 WPV
 cVDPV
 WPV
 cVDPV
Globally
2
2
10
0
74
31
- in endemic countries
2
0
10
0
74
 3
- in non-endemic countries
0
2
0
0
0
 28
 
 
Case breakdown by country
 
Countries
Year-to-date 2016
Year-to-date 2015
Total in 2015
Onset of paralysis of  most  recent case
WPV
cVDPV 
WPV 
cVDPV
 WPV
cVDPV 
 WPV
 cVDPV
Afghanistan
0
0
1
0
20
0
20-Dec-15
NA
Pakistan 
2
0
9
0
54
2
22-Jan-16
09-Feb-15
Guinea
0
0
0
0
0
7
NA
14-Dect-15
Lao PDR
 0
2
0
0
0
7
NA
11-Jan-16
Madagascar
0
0
0
0
0
10
NA
22-Aug-15
Myanmar
0
0
0
0
0
2
NA
05-Oct-15
Nigeria
0
0
0
0
0
1
NA
16-May-15
Ukraine
0
0
0
0
0
2
NA
07-Jul-15

NA: onset of paralysis in most recent case is prior to 2015. Figures exclude non-AFP sources. Madagascar, Ukraine and Lao PDR cVDPV1, all others cVDPV2. cVDPV definition: see document "Reporting and classification of vaccine-derived polioviruses" at http://www.polioeradication.org/Portals/0/Document/Resources/VDPV_ReportingClassification.pdf. Implementation as of 15 August 2015.
- See more at: http://www.polioeradication.org/Dataandmonitoring/Poliothisweek.aspx#sthash.X7vOVRBF.dpuf
Polio Update as of February 24, 2016 2016-02-27 05:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary-PDG Maurice Oliver

Posted by Maurice Oliver on Feb 27, 2016
 
Maurice Oliver’s Rotary Story:
Rotary is one of the most trusted organizations in the world. Membership in Rotary opens many doors and magnifies the possibilities of making a difference.
 
After leaving the RCAF, I married Betty Bushfield and opened a photography business in St. Marys. I was asked to join the Lion’s Club and although I went to a few meetings, I decided it was not for me. Later Dr. Bill Davis asked me to photograph his Carnival Glass collection and then invited me to come to several Rotary meetings which led me to join on June 20, 1966.
 
Soon after Rotarian Herb Sparling asked me to join his Crippled Children Committee and I became involved in Easter Seals as a local director and then as National Director in Toronto. As a side note – PDG Scott Whaley (member of our club) was responsible for bringing Easter Seals to Canada. While serving as Chairman for 6 years for Woodeden (the Easter Seal Camp at Komoka), I was inspired to have a tree house built so the children could have the experience of outdoor sleeping overlooking the valley and Thames River below. The treehouse is still very much in use and appreciated. It is good to still be in contact with many of the children who we (Rotary Club of St. Marys) helped and who attended Easter Seal Camps around Ontario. E.G. - Missy Little, Laura Elliott, Jesse Davidson, Sherry Campbell and Susie Mathias who is now on the Board of the Mouth & Foot Painters.
 
Betty and I attended our first International Convention in Mexico City where I saw what Rotary was all about and became a true Rotary believer. Over the years I have been to 20 or more Conventions world-wide. Rotarians Bill & Betty Hanly, Gord & Helen Gregory went to some conventions with us.
 
One of the proud endeavours was when Rotarian Oliver Gaffny from Stratford and I went around this District promoting the new District Youth Exchange Program. Bellabeth Porter was the first student that our club sent abroad. Paul Bedford and my son, Stephen, were the next to go. Stephen went to South Africa. It pleases me that my son, Mark, has joined Rotary and is doing an excellent job as Youth Exchange Officer for St. Marys. Mark had the experience of being chosen to go on exchange to Australia.
 
In my 50 years in Rotary, I have only missed attending a few District Conferences where there is much to be learned. In 1974, I was chosen to take a Group Study Exchange Team to South Africa for 6 weeks. Great Experience!
 
In 1979, I was asked to run for District Governor for 1981-1982 and was the last elected District Governor. After that, DGs were appointed by a committee.
 
In 1980, I married Nelda Mossip and since then we have attended most of the Zone Institutes for DGs and other Rotary leaders where we have met many of the International Presidents.
 
During my year as DG, another DG from the Dominican Republic requested my help for a young mother and her baby who needed heart surgery. The Rotary Club of St. Marys stepped in and did everything to bring baby Indera and her mother Evangelista to St. Marys to have heart surgery in London. Indera survived the surgery but died shortly afterwards. Our towns people were heartbroken as well as our family as the two of them had stayed in our home.
 
In my 38 years of perfect attendance, attending clubs around the country and other parts of the world has enriched my Rotary knowledge with world understanding and peace. Through Rotary we have met many good friends from around the world.
 
Being a Rotarian has blessed not only me but my family, my business, and my town and beyond. Thank you.
 
At 85 years of age, I look forward to continuing serving Rotary…only in a smaller capacity.
 
ROTARY – Learn to give, not to take.
               Learn to serve, not to rule.
 
Maurice
Why I joined and stay in Rotary-PDG Maurice Oliver Maurice Oliver 2016-02-27 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary celebrates 111 years in service-Feb 23, 2016

 
On February 23, 2016 Rotary will celebrate 111 years in service to others.
It all began with these gentlemen…
 
      
 
                The first 4 Rotarians -
(Gustavus Loehr (L), Silvester Schiele, Hiram
Shorey and Paul Harris, circa 1905-1912.
 
"The Rotary Way Works! But Rotary has no patent on it, for it is but the Golden Rule in action. Any person, any nation, can apply it by displacing negative hatred and fear with goodwill based upon understanding. Peace among nations is not impossible of attainment; they can find peace if they will," Paul P. Harris, January 1946.
 
 
Rotary celebrates 111 years in service-Feb 23, 2016 Linda Schuyler 2016-02-02 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary History

History
 
“Whatever Rotary may mean to us, to the world it will be known by the results it achieves.”—Paul P. Harris
 
Our 1.2 million-member organization started with the vision of one man—Paul P. Harris. The Chicago attorney formed one of the world’s first service organizations, the Rotary Club of Chicago, on 23 February 1905 as a place where professionals with diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas and form meaningful, lifelong friendships. Rotary’s name came from the group’s early practice of rotating meetings among the offices of each member.
 
 
Our ongoing commitment:
Rotarians have not only been present for major events in history—we’ve been a part of them. From the beginning, three key traits have remained strong throughout Rotary:
 
We’re truly international. Only 16 years after being founded, Rotary had clubs on six continents. Today we’re working together from around the globe both digitally and in-person to solve some of our world’s most challenging problems.
 
We persevere in tough times. During WWII, Rotary clubs in Germany, Austria, Italy, Spain, and Japan were forced to disband. Despite the risks, many continued to meet informally and following the war’s end, Rotary members joined together to rebuild their clubs and their countries.
 
Our commitment to service is ongoing. We began our fight against polio in 1979 with a project to immunize 6 million children in the Philippines. By 2012, only three countries remain polio-endemic—down from 125 in 1988. (website: Rotary History)
 
At the 2016 International Assembly, Dr. Hamid Jafari, outgoing Director of Global Polio Eradication Initiative provided updates about polio eradication. Since August 2014, only Afghanistan and Pakistan remain as polio endemic countries. Africa has been polio free for over 1 year. In 2015, Nigeria was removed from the polio endemic countries and the country is working hard to keep the country polio free. We mark 5 years without a case of wild polio virus in India and 2 years since the last case in Syria.
Rotary History Linda Schuyler 2016-02-02 05:00:00Z 0

How Rotarians Wage Peace

story thumbnail
 
How Rotarians Wage Peace
by James Thomas, Promoting Peace District Co-Ordinator
 
Rotarians have long been active in efforts to encourage and promote peace. The fourth ‘Object of Rotary’ is to advance” international understanding, goodwill and peace”. In 1942, prior to the creation the United Nations, Rotarians from 21 nations organized a conference to delve lop ideas for advancing education, science, and culture across nations. This meeting was the foundation of what is now UNESCO. Rotarians were involved in the creation of the United Nations at the founding meeting in 1945 and continue to serve in an advisory capacity to the UN.
 
More recently, Rotary developed Peace Fellowships in concert with nine universities world-wide and more than 1,000 graduates are now in the field working on peace. Three examples of their efforts are:
 
Path Heang who worked as a child in rice fields of a Khmer Rouge camp and attended the peace program at the University of Queensland in 2002-2004 is now a Chief of Field Offices for the UN in Cambodia working in some of Cambodia’s poorest areas on issues affecting children and women.
 
Maria Effendi attended the University of Bradford in 2006-2008 and co-founded the Department of Peace and Conflict Management at National Defence University in Islamabad Pakistan. She teaches peace building in the Master program.
 
Timothy Kariuki (Chula, January 2009) is in South Sudan serving as state adviser for conflict mitigation and stabilization initiative.
 
These Fellowships for Masters Degrees and Certificates are available to eligible candidates in our District. If your club knows of a potential candidate, please identify them to your Assistant Governor and we can follow up with them.
 
Individual Rotarians can take an active role in promoting peace by speaking out on those things that divide us and joining efforts locally that promote peace such as conflict resolution training for youth. Rotarians can also join the Rotary Action Group for Peace (www.rotarianactiongroupforpeace.org). This Rotary Action Group provides resources for projects in conflict resolution, mediation techniques and much more. Important projects are identified that may inspire you and need help such as prevention of youth violence in the upcoming February’s elections in Uganda. Youth are often both the instigators and target of violence in the aftermath of elections and this project works to prevent violence.
 
When you ask your self – What can I do about peace? The answer is get involved. Join the Rotary Action Group for Peace, be active in promoting peace related programs in your community, sponsor a Peace Fellow, and speak out for peace, goodwill, and international understanding.
How Rotarians Wage Peace Linda Schuyler 2016-02-02 05:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Ron Aitken

Posted by Ronald Aitken on Jan 24, 2016
Ron Aitken:
 
I was aware of the Rotary Club of St. Marys for several years before I became a member. Rotarian Grant Barton invited me to a couple of meetings and also allowed me to act as a Friend of Rotary for the Dragon Boat races held on the Thames River. At that time I felt as if I was too busy with work and family. (I also didn’t really feel as if I fit the social strata that I imagined Rotary members to be. This turned out to be a totally erroneous assumption)
 
 When I retired in June 2010, I knew that I needed a social component to my life as outside of work I had always gravitated towards solitude. Adrian Elderhorst who was my neighbour began inviting me to meetings. After attending a couple of meetings, I decided to join the Club to give me the social exposure that I sought. During these “trial” visits, I also discovered that I quite liked the Club members and had common interests with many of them.
 
After joining, I discovered that the Club was involved in local community and international involvement to a greater extent than I had imagined. There was also a very explicit expectation that membership carried an obligation to participate in these activities. This was perfect for me because I always felt that if I was going to be a part of something, I was going to engage fully.
I am particularly enthused by our Youth Exchange Program and the many ways we support our local youth whether it is sponsoring youth sports clubs, providing leadership training or supporting educational programs in schools. We also have a working relationship with the Upper Thames Conservation Authority and this allows us to put some focus on the environment and the natural habitat in
St. Marys.
 
There have been a number of “ah ha” moments: the completion of our Rotary Trout Creek Park, a beautiful addition to our community, contributing money to third world countries, notably Haiti, through another local group. But the brightest spark came during my second year when I was invited to interview regional students who had applied for our exchange program. It was a revelation how bright, articulate and involved in their communities these students were. I continue to be amazed with the talents and abilities our local outgoing students, and incoming students exhibit.
 
Ron Aitken
 
Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Ron Aitken Ronald Aitken 2016-01-24 05:00:00Z 0

2016-2017 Presidential Theme-

 
2016-17: Rotary Serving Humanity
 
 
 
RI President-elect John F. Germ chose Rotary Serving Humanity as his theme for 2016-17. Noting Rotary’s unique ability to bring together committed professionals to achieve remarkable goals, Germ believes that “now is the time to capitalize on our success: as we complete the eradication of polio, and catapult Rotary forward to be an even greater force for good in the world.”
2016-2017 Presidential Theme- 2016-01-24 05:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary-John Uren

Posted by John Uren
John Uren:
 
I joined the Rotary Club of St. Marys in 1993, and was sponsored by Rotarian Bob Stephens, who had been our family lawyer for some time.
 
Prior to joining Rotary, I had been a member and past president of the Optimist Club of Kintore. Our family farm is located in the North West corner of Oxford County, and our 2 sons Jason and Jeffrey attended public school at Wildwood Park and A J Baker in Kintore. Since the Optimist Club holds itself out to be the “Friend of Youth” I thought that I should support local youth activities in Kintore.
However, since we live close to the Perth / Middlesex boundry, our sons would attend high school in St. Marys, and since our family’s attention was shifting more in that direction, I was interested in the opportunity to join Rotary here. I was impressed with the concept of Classification, and was proud to have “Insurance Advisor” on my Rotary badge.
 
There was a certain protocol in Rotary, and senior members such as John Mountain, Clark Ready and Maurice Oliver made sure that the meetings were conducted correctly, and with dignity, while still having fun and getting business done.
 
Parkview West was a big item on the agenda at that time, and I was amazed at the commitment and dedication that was shown by members such as Ray Bennett and Bob Stephens, and that so much could be accomplished by our Club. As time went on, I learned of a great many other initiatives which had been undertaken by Rotary in St. Marys and the surrounding area. I also grew to appreciate the role of Rotary throughout the world, and the impact of projects like Polio Plus, Rotary Youth Exchange, and so many more.
 
During this time, I took an area position with TD Evergreen, which would take me to meet advisors and clients in offices from Windsor to Muskoka. I was always impressed by the way my Rotary pin would be recognized in all centres, and that it was an instant bond with others, and a great conversation starter.
 
Over the years, I have been fortunate enough to feel that I have contributed, in my own small way, to Rotary, both locally and internationally, including being Club President in 1995 / 96, a task for which I felt totally inadequate in the beginning, but which gave me a great feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction by the end of my term, mostly due to the generous support and encouragement offered by the membership. Meetings have always been filled with good food and good fellowship.
 
I have always felt welcomed and accepted as part of the group, and have been proud to be a part of what Rotary stands for, and I am pleased to have my plaque with the Rotary Four Way Test hanging on my wall today.
John Uren
Why I joined and stay in Rotary-John Uren John Uren 2016-01-22 05:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Len Hawkins

Posted by Len Hawkins
Len Hawkins:
 
We moved back to St. Marys in 1993 after living in other parts of Ontario, including on a farm locally, for about 30 years. Even though Janice and I grew up in the area we had really lost contact with a lot of people and businesses. Bob Stephens introduced me to Rotary and I found it was a great way to become acquainted with the local business people and get involved in the community. After a few meetings I was "hooked" with the idea of working with a group of people that had a common cause of making the world a better place to live for the future. 
 
There is a place for anyone in Rotary - all you need to do is find your passion for "giving back" to your community. Personally I enjoy working on fund raising projects with groups of people with a similar interest. There is always a lot of creativity, fun and satisfaction at the end of the event which means that while improving people’s lives we can do it with a smile.
 
In summary, we are only here for a little while - so it’s good to try and make things a little better on the way through.
 
Len
 
Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Len Hawkins Len Hawkins 2016-01-22 05:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Dave Cunningham

Posted by David Cunningham
David Cunningham:
 
In 1992 I was asked and subsequently sponsored by Rotarian John  Hensel to join Rotary, this was after I had attended a meeting and had given the Rotarians a tour of the new Dana plant that had just been built in St. Marys.
I was impressed with the mix of professional and business people that formed the Club at that time, the business attire and the formal approach to conducting a meeting.
 
The International scope of Rotary, the local projects and the level of acknowledgement that; Rotary was a Club with status in the community were all factors in my decision.
 
Why do I stay in Rotary:
  • The innovative fundraising ideas and the level of participation within the club.
  • The ongoing effort to eradicate Polio and all the activities that support the program.
  • The projects that Rotary supports and funds throughout the World.
  • The comradery and good natured fun that we have at our meetings.
  • The quality of speakers we have at our weekly meetings.
 
 
David Cunningham
 
Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Dave Cunningham David Cunningham 2016-01-22 05:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Gerry Teahen

Posted by Gerry Teahen
Gerry Teahen:
 
In the late 60`s I was asked to join the Kinsmen Club; a very active young men`s club in
St. Marys. It was an opportunity for me to get to know more people and a chance to serve the community. I belonged to Kinsmen until 1976 when I went into municipal politics. I served in municipal politics for fifteen years, six years as a councillor and nine years as mayor.
 
In 1987 our daughter, Donna came home from school and expressed an interest in being an exchange student. The literature was informative and after much excitement she applied and was accepted.  She was in Finland for one year and it was a life changing event for her.  She had grown over the year into a beautiful young lady. It was amazing.
 
In 1992 when I retired from municipal life I was approached by my good friend Ray Bennett and he asked me to consider joining Rotary. Ray explained to me the workings of the club and the projects that Rotary had completed locally and world-wide.  After discussion with my wife Roberta and reflecting on the unique experience Donna had in Finland as an exchange student, I joined Rotary.  I have been a member of Rotary for 22 years. In that time I have served on a number of committees and twice as President 1996 -1997 and 2011 – 2012. 
 
Why I stay.
 
  • Work with great people
  • An opportunity to improve our community
  • The exchange program is amazing
  • An opportunity to meet great people from other clubs
  • Worthwhile projects that provide an opportunity for hands on work for the community.
 
My ‘aha’ moment:
My first of many aha moments was in 2005 when our club took on the project of constructing a Rotary Reading Garden at the library. The project marked the                               
 
  • 100th Anniversary of the St Marys Carnegie Public Library 1905 – 2005
     
  • 100th Anniversary of Rotary International 1905 -2005
     
  • 80th Anniversary of the Rotary Club of St Marys
 
I had the privilege to chair the project for the club. Through the efforts and generosity of the community: Rotary club members provided labour for the project, donations came from individuals and several business, the selling of benches, and a donation of $5,000 from the District 6330 which enabled the club to raise the complete cost of the project which was $64,000.  On May 1, 2005 we turned the garden over to the Library.   
 
Gerry Teahen
Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Gerry Teahen Gerry Teahen 2016-01-22 05:00:00Z 0

Rural Urban 90th Celebration

Posted by Len Hawkins on Jan 20, 2016
 
 
 
Rotary Club of St. Marys
                           
 Rural Urban 90th Celebration
 
Tim MacDonald Presentation on Franklin Expedition
 
 
                April 9th – Pyramid Recreation Centre
            Social 5:30 – Dinner 6:30
          Tickets $30 – Available From Any Rotarian or
              M & M Variety
 
 
   
Rural Urban 90th Celebration Len Hawkins 2016-01-20 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary condemns deadly attack

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Jan 15, 2016
 
Rotary condemns deadly attack on polio
security personnel in Pakistan
 
Rotary members and our partners in the fight to eradicate polio offer our heartfelt condolences and express a deep sadness in the wake of a horrific bomb attack in Quetta, Pakistan, that took the lives of at least 15 security personnel on 13 January.
This tragic attack outside a polio immunization center is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by Rotary, our partners in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, and the brave women and men on the front lines of our effort to protect all children from the paralyzing effects of polio. While the bombing will be investigated, one thing is clear: The security personnel who were killed died because their job was to protect teams of polio immunizers. We applaud the government's commitment to continue the vaccination campaign throughout Pakistan, which is one of only two countries where the poliovirus is still endemic.
Today we pause to honor the sacrifice made by the heroic police officers killed. Yet our 30-year commitment to end polio remains steadfast. Even as we absorb the horror of this bombing, we are redoubling our efforts to educate families and build confidence in the safety of polio vaccines, and to engage community and religious leaders to support our campaign.
We are closer than ever to achieving a polio-free world. Vast improvements have been seen in Pakistan, with more than 80 percent fewer cases in the country than in 2014. In order to stop polio in Pakistan in 2016, we must ensure the safety of vaccinators to reach every child.
And today, our release of $35 million in grants for polio eradication signals our determination to finish the job to which thousands of courageous individuals have committed themselves, and to never forget the sacrifices made by those who lost their lives in this effort.
Rotary News
13-Jan-2016
 
Rotary condemns deadly attack Linda Schuyler 2016-01-15 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary Inter-Country Teacher Exchange -RITE

Posted on Dec 29, 2015
Something to think about...........
 
 
RITE (Rotary Inter-country Teacher Exchange)
 
 
 
RITE is a cultural exchange of teachers between participating countries.  For approximately one month, the participants teach their language to students that have a need and/or desire to learn the teacher's language.  In return, the teacher learns about the people, the language and the culture of the host country.  The overall purpose is to promote international goodwill and understanding.
 
 
Rotary Inter-Country Teacher Exchange -RITE 2015-12-29 05:00:00Z 0

January 27th - Family Literacy Day

 

 

Family Literacy Day is a national awareness initiative created in 1999 by ABC Life Literacy Canada and is held annually on January 27th to raise awareness about reading and engaging in other literacy-related activities as a family.      

 

Family literacy refers to the many ways families develop and use literacy skills, from enjoying a storybook together at bedtime and during the day, to playing board and word games, singing, writing to a relative, making grocery lists, following a recipe and surfing the internet for fun and interesting sites.

 

ABC Life Literacy Canada is encouraging Canadian families to have at least 15 minutes of fun every day with your child, your grandchild or a young relative in a literacy-related activity. Practicing literacy every day has tremendous benefits for children and parents or older relative. It establishes a culture of learning, an exchange of ideas, enriches family relationships and bolsters confidence and independent thinking.

 

(source: ABC Life Literacy Canada)  


http://abclifeliteracy.ca

January 27th - Family Literacy Day 2015-12-28 05:00:00Z 0

The 4 Way Test reinforces Vocational Service Month

Posted on Dec 28, 2015
 
 
 
 
From the earliest days of the organization, Rotarians were concerned with promoting high ethical standards in their professional lives. One of the world's most widely printed and quoted statements of business ethics is The 4-Way Test, which was created in 1932 by Rotarian Herbert J. Taylor (who later served as RI president) when he was asked to take charge of a company that was facing bankruptcy. This 24-word test for employees to follow in their business and professional lives became the guide for sales, production, advertising, and all relations with dealers and customers, and the survival of the company is credited to this simple philosophy. Adopted by Rotary in 1943, The 4-Way Test has been translated into more than a hundred languages and published in thousands of ways. It asks the following four questions:
 
"Of the things we think, say or do:
  1. Is it the TRUTH?
  2. Is it FAIR to all concerned?
  3. Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
  4. Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?"
The 4 Way Test reinforces Vocational Service Month 2015-12-28 05:00:00Z 0

Bringing in the New Year!

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Dec 28, 2015
 

It's hard to believe that another year is almost behind us.  As we celebrate the new year in our own special way, let's resolve to be the best person that we can be. Kind and helpful to all. And as Rotarians we will remember our motto "Service above Self".

 

I am so proud of our club...we enjoy each other's company and we work together to bring so many benefits to our community.  The residents of St. Marys and area have been very supportive of our activities over the years and I was reminded of this again as I handed out our 5th Annual Calendar of Historic St. Marys. Thanks to everyone.

 

Good health to all and may you enjoy a happy and prosperous new year. Cheers!

 

Bringing in the New Year! Linda Schuyler 2015-12-28 05:00:00Z 0

Meet Keely Iles - our newest incoming exchange student

Posted by Mark Oliver on Dec 28, 2015
​A BIG WELCOME TO
 
Keely Iles - Incoming Youth Exchange Student from Australia 
 
 

Keely Louise Iles is her name and she arrives on January 16th.  She just celebrated her 15th birthday on December 19th. She is from the town of Mudgee (pop. 15,000) in New South Wales, Australia. (Four hours from Sydney) She is the youngest of three children in a family of five. Her interests include music, art, ancient history, agriculture, makeup artistry and human anatomy.  At school she competes on the spelling bee team, cross country running team and netball team.  She also serves as a kindergarten mentor.

 

Her first host family is Nicole and Steve Malcho. (Nicole is a former Rotary exchange student from St. Marys who went to Australia.) Keely's second host family is Greg & Ellen Bettger and her last host family is Rod & Bonnie Betteridge.

 

 

Janet & I will be hosting a welcoming party for her at our home on Saturday, January 23rd.  All Rotarians are welcome to attend.

 

 

Regards,

 

Mark Oliver

YEO - Rotary Club of St. Marys

Meet Keely Iles - our newest incoming exchange student Mark Oliver 2015-12-28 05:00:00Z 0
Think about giving to what you really care about 2015-12-22 05:00:00Z 0

Analee in Thailand

Class trip

We went to the rice fields to swim in mud and learn about the process of making rice, and then to a temple and market. It’s times like these I feel like I never want to leave Thailand at all!! I’m so lucky to have these amazing friends. 
 
 
Khao San Road//Rattanakosin
My parents were kind enough to take me to Khao San Road, one of the most famous tourist spots in Thailand. It’s So busy and crowded but so much fun, though it’s honestly known for its bars, clubs, and cheap accommodations, there’s so much more to the crowded place than its fame. The people are nice, the food is amazing, and you meet so many new people!!
 
Please click on 'Read More' for her continued story and more pictures!
Analee in Thailand Linda Schuyler 2015-12-09 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of St Marys Annual Christmas Party

Great fun was had by all. The evening was full of surprises when the club presented Rotarian Len Hawkins with a double Paul Harris recognition for his outstanding and continued service to our club and community for many years. The club also recognized immediate Past President Marion Creery with a Paul Harris recognition for her service as club President for 2014-2015. A few pictures follow:
 

Len Hawkins (L), Bob Stephens and President Doug Goudy
 
Ron Aitken (L), President Doug Goudy and Marion Creery
 
Janet Oliver (L), Sandy Stephens, YE Counsellor Lucie Stephens,
YE Officer and YE student Joep Heddes from The Netherlands.
 
 
Rotary Club of St Marys Annual Christmas Party Linda Schuyler 2015-12-07 05:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary-member testimonial

 
Why I Joined Rotary - Pierre Chateauvert
 
After working in the Middle East for two years, my wife and I returned to St. Marys to retire for good.  I knew that I would need more to occupy my time and as it happened, a best friend had just joined Rotary.  After some thought, I felt that Rotary would be a good fit for me too as the club was very active in the community and in the world. These were things that appealed to me about Rotary.  Little did I know how vast the Rotary world is!  If you have an interest, chances are that Rotary has a spot for you.
 
Rotary has an amazing three part leadership program that really opened my eyes to the world of Rotary.  Every new member need to make the effort to take part in this program as I feel it was a key factor in keeping me in Rotary.  There is so much to be involved in.  However, if your focus is not the world, there is plenty to do in our own community.  And Rotarians help each other, not only individually, but as clubs.  Requests for help come from other clubs all the time and I am always awed by the response.
 
My ‘aha’ moment is probably a number of moments.  When we are fund raising or working on a project, many times people I know or complete strangers will say that Rotary does good work in the community or the world with its projects.  It’s a good feeling to know that you are contributing to a better world.
 
Pierre Chateauvert
Why I joined and stay in Rotary-member testimonial 2015-12-04 05:00:00Z 0

Rotary Foundation turns 100 in 2016-2017

 

Get ready to celebrate The Rotary Foundation centennial

Posted 

on Nov 18, 2015

 

(from Rotary Training Talk - November 2015)

The Rotary Foundation turns 100 in 2016-17! The centennial year officially kicks off at this year’s Rotary Convention in Seoul. Districts are encouraged to start thinking now about how they’ll incorporate the centennial celebration into district training and events.

Governors-elect will receive details on centennial initiatives at the International Assembly. In January, the following centennial resources will be available online:

  • Logo and usage guidelines

  • Historical PowerPoint and video

  • Resources for social media

  • Celebration and fundraising ideas

  • Flier promoting the centennial book

  • Sample press release

  • Centennial PowerPoint template and letterhead

Rotary Foundation turns 100 in 2016-2017 2015-12-02 05:00:00Z 0

We have pictures from our outbound exchange students

 
Billy Strathdee:
         
 
Billy is greeted by his host family
 
                                                
      
       Billy with host father and siblings in France.
 
 
 
Analee Leavitt:
 
     
 Analee rode elephants. 
 
 
              
 
  Analee plays Badminton with host parents.
 
 
 
 
 
 
We have pictures from our outbound exchange students 2015-11-01 04:00:00Z 0

Polio Update as of October 24th

Posted on Oct 28, 2015
 
Polio eradication this week:   
  • World Polio Day on 24 October is an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come in the last year and to pay tribute to the countless healthcare workers, volunteers, families, traditional and religious leaders, governments, donors, civil society organizations and partners who work tirelessly to protect children against polio. Join Rotary International and UNICEF for a live streamed global update on 23 October and for updates throughout the week from the partners of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative follow @Vaccines on Twitter.
  • The Independent Monitoring Board met in London in October to assess progress towards polio eradication and to make recommendations for the coming months. The report is expected to be published in the next few weeks.
     
    Wild poliovirus type 1 and Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus cases
Total cases
Year-to-date 2015
Year-to-date 2014
Total in 2014 
WPV
 cVDPV
 WPV
 cVDPV
 WPV
 cVDPV
Globally
51
14
246
37
359
56
- in endemic countries
51
1
227
37
340
 52
- in non-endemic countries
0
13
19
 0
19
 4
  
Polio Update as of October 24th Linda Schuyler 2015-10-28 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Calendars Do Get Around with our Christmas Draw

 
Thanks to Lorne Eedy for this picture - one of Rotary's Calendars hanging in Brighton Lake, Ontario:
 
Rotarians, please remember to pick up your block of tickets for our Christmas Draw to win groceries, gas or
​dinner voucher at the Westover Inn. Once again, we are setting up a table at McDonald's Independent Grocer to sell tickets for the raffle and to hand out our free St. Marys Calendars. Don't forget to sign up for a time slot that's best for you. The calendars create a great opportunity to tell the community about our club and old pictures of St. Marys showcased in the calendars. And of course, this will lead you to ask for their support with our community projects by buying our tickets for the six prizes offered in our draw. The calendar committee has done a terrific job in selling advertizing space in the calendar. 
 
Rotary Calendars Do Get Around with our Christmas Draw 2015-10-27 04:00:00Z 0

Analee Sent an update on her exchange through local paper

Posted on Oct 27, 2015
 

Lavished with flowers...and lots of photos!

It’s hard to believe it all started a year ago when my parents and I attended an information session about Rotary Youth Exchange.What followed was almost a year of applying, being accepted, then preparing for my one year of Rotary Exchange in Bangkok, Thailand. Finally, the day came on Aug. 8 that I was to leave. My flight was at 2 a.m., and after saying goodbye to my (emotional) parents and getting through security, I was officially on my way to Bangkok, Thailand for 11 months on Rotary Exchange!

I was lucky enough that I was travelling with two other girls, also headed to Thailand on exchange, and though we were all very excited it didn’t take us long to fall asleep on the first 15-hour fl ight. We had a three-hour layover in Hong Kong where we slept on the floor before realizing we didn’t know where our connecting flight was. Alas, we made it on with just enough time to spare and arrived in Bangkok at 10 a.m. local time. The complicated process of finding my hosts (it took me two hours of wandering around the Bangkok airport alone) and leaving behind everything at home was quite stressful. But I was greeted by my Rotary Club and all three families I will live with. It was a most amazing and heart-warming welcome as they lavished me in flowers, hugs, and pictures — so many pictures.

Within my first month here I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing so much, and even now it still seems so completely surreal. I’ve started going to school, been to a Buddhist temple, swam in the South China Sea, walked through countless night markets, and made more friends than I ever expected.

I started school the second week I was here, and I’ve been treated incredibly. I’ve met only two students who can speak English, and though at first I naturally clung to them as translators, I’ve been branching out and communicating with the rest of the student body in Thai. The teachers have all been so helpful to locate all of my classes (there are seven buildings) and introduce me to new students every day. I am in a school of around 3,000 kids and my classes include: Thai cooking, Thai dancing, Thai art, Thai clothing, and theThai language.

One of the most complicated issues I had to adapt to with school was how different the schooling system is. For example, my classes end at a different time each day, and instead of grade levels, like Kindergarten to Grade 12, they have what are called prathoms (much like elementary) and matthayoms (much like high-school).

To choose one specific day as the best so far would be too hard, as every day I spend here seems to be my favourite. Choosing between all the experiences that I’ve had wouldn’t give my time here justice, as it’s been the most incredible experience I’ve had in my life so far. In these pictures I have included you can see me in my school uniform standing in the back row of my Rotary club. They are the easiest people to get along with and I can, without a doubt, say that each and every one of them is a gift to the world. The second photo is with my host sisters, aunt, and a friend. We were waiting for supper before going to swim in the sea!

Thank you to the Rotary Club of St. Marys for supporting me in this experience of a lifetime. They have had full confidence in me through the entire process.

I look forward to the rest of my year here, positive that Thailand has so much more to teach me. I’ve never wanted to learn so much before!

Analee Leavitt

Click on 'Read More' to look at several of her pictures....

 

Analee Sent an update on her exchange through local paper 2015-10-27 04:00:00Z 0

Save the date - October 23/15 - World Polio Day

 

Save the date: 23 October, Rotary’s World Polio Day event

 

Celebrate our remarkable progress toward a polio-free world with the Rotary World Polio Day event, streamed live from New York City on 23 October.

Co-hosted by UNICEF, the event will highlight recent milestones: In July, Nigeria marked one year without a case of polio caused by the wild poliovirus, and in August, the entire African continent celebrated one year without a case. Jeffrey Kluger, health and science editor at Time magazine, will serve as moderator, joining other health experts, including UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake and polio ambassadors.

The event, which drew 23,000 viewers in 24 countries last year, will be available on social media and will be rebroadcast immediately on endpolio.org. Clubs can host their own activities to help raise awareness and funding for our final push to eradicate polio worldwide.

World Polio Day, which officially is observed on 24 October, was established by Rotary International more than 10 years ago. The timing in late October is in honor of the birthday of Dr. Jonas Salk, who led the team that developed the first polio vaccine.

Here are ideas for promoting and marking World Polio Day:

  • Promote the streaming event on social media
  • Host a viewing party in your community.
  • Share your club’s celebration on social media, using #endpolio.
  • Show a recording of the streamed event at your next club meeting, along with an update on Africa’s progress toward polio eradication.



Rotary News

23-Sep-2015
Save the date - October 23/15 - World Polio Day Linda Schuyler 2015-10-04 04:00:00Z 0

Three decades of PolioPlus

 
Spotlight:
ROTARY CELEBRATES THREE DECADES OF POLIOPLUS
 
This year marks the 30th anniversary of Rotary's PolioPlus program. Read about the start of the program and our commitment to end polio globally.
 
 
 
Click "Read more"
 
Three decades of PolioPlus Linda Schuyler 2015-10-04 04:00:00Z 0

Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Member Testimonials

We have three more member testimonials to post:
 
​Gary Cumming:
 
In 1946 I was a five year old living on a dairy farm where my dad worked after returning from the war.  I went into the milk-house for a drink of water and tipped up A jug containing lye that was used for cleaning purposes for the equipment. It is a strong corrosive. Long story short it was the start of many medical procedures and hospital stays in Chatham, London and Toronto. It was also a financial hardship for my family.  I am not sure of how but I do know that the Rotary Club of Chatham was instrumental in helping my family.  I can remember attending special parties that I attended with other children who were assisted by this club.  Over the years I always was aware of the good work of Rotary.
 
            Flash ahead to the 80s and my neighbor and good friend Max Frehner who was a Rotarian approached me about joining and invited me to a meeting.  There were several members that I knew and it was hard to say no to Max and also my early experience with the Chatham club convinced me that I owed Rotary some pay back. It was a privilege to be accepted by these outstanding community leaders.
 
            Why do I go?  I enjoy the chit chat with friends, a good meal, the chance to hear speakers on interesting topics, and the chance to have input on future endeavors.
 
            I am proud of all of the accomplishments of this club and of Rotary International and enjoy the time spent with my fellow members at meetings and on projects. I am a believer of the work of the Rotary Foundation and a contributor. I feel guilty that I am not more involved and about the time that I am away and have contemplated resigning but for now it is an honor to be a Rotarian.
 
Rotarian Gary Cumming
 
 
Stan Malcolm:
My Rotary Story:
 
   The late Jack Whyte proposed me for membership in the Rotary Club of Stratford, after inviting me to several meetings at ( presumably ) his own expense. He solicited me at my business and counselled me that becoming a Rotarian would be a win-win. Jack proposed more members in that club than anyone else before or since.
 
Continuing to belong to Rotary provides Synergy to our individual efforts. Hence, my small contribution can be multiplied physically and financially through the Service Vehicle which is Rotary. Through Rotary International, I have real and valued friends nearby and in several places abroad. Without exception, these are intelligent, focused, and generous people who add to my pride in belonging to an organization which enjoys unblemished success on all fronts.
 
The question of "When did I realize that I was a Rotarian, as separate from a Knife and Forker" is difficult for me. Since much good work is done over food and drink (In Vino Veritas!), the regular meetings will always be central to continuity and consensus. For me, becoming a true Rotarian is a  life long apprenticeship. There have been many experiences, learning, emotional, and motivational, which come to mind. To have a chance conversation with PRI Pres. D.K. Lee was motivational. He is very successful in business and is giving back. To have visited a class of reformed Guerrillas who would like to have their lives back was emotional! Working with District 6330, particularly in the Peace Fellowship program was a unique learning experience.
 
Thank you Rotary Club of St. Marys for honouring me with membership.
 
 
Daryl McClure:
 
I joined Rotary mostly because I had just purchased a new accounting business in town and thought joining Rotary would be a good opportunity to meet other people in the community, both as part of Rotary directly, and through the various Rotary activities and services we provide in the area.  I also believed joining was a wonderful way to give back to the local community, and to society/mankind as a whole really, through Rotary’s various worldwide projects.

I stay because of the great comradery I’ve found, and especially because it gives me the opportunity, when I can, to help our club and my fellow Rotarians provide the various benefits and support services that we are able to offer back to the local community.

Daryl McClure
Rotary Club of St. Marys, Ontario
 
 
 
Why I joined and stay in Rotary-Member Testimonials Linda Schuyler 2015-10-03 04:00:00Z 0

So Much To Experience

Posted on Sep 28, 2015
A Letter to the Journal Argus from Brett Dill:
 

So much to experience

... in only a year!

I have been in Brazil just over a month now, and I’m already having the time of my life!
This experience has proved to be much more than just a year away from Canada. In what seems like the short time that I have been here, I’ve learned a lot about the culture of Brazil, and myself. I learned to be not only more outgoing, but also independent. Dealing with situations in another language is beneficial on multiple levels. So far I am loving the culture of Brazil. The people here are so friendly and warm so it’s really easy to fi t in. The weekdays are very relaxed, but there is always something to do on the weekends. After getting off an 11-hour plane ride from Toronto, I received a warm welcome from my host family. Since then I have had the pleasure of eating many delicious foods, meeting amazing people, and seeing things I wouldn’t have dreamed of. Here, I live in the “small” city of Marilia, home to almost 300,000 people! The temperature here is usually around 25-30°C, and right now it’s winter!

As soon as I arrived, I noticed a lot of differences between here and St. Marys — good and bad. Unfortunately, as with most of Brazil, many of the houses are gated and have high security — due to violence. Also, Brazilian traffic is a lot more crazy than Canada’s, generally speaking. However, there is a lot more to do here. For example, there are three universities, three colleges, an airport, and much more. Aside from me, there are also eight other Rotary Exchange students here, which definitely makes life better. I am really close with all of them, and it’s really interesting talking to people from all around the world (literally).

So far, school has been... well, school. I am at a private school that has around 2,000 students, from Kindergarten to Grade 11. On most days it starts at 7 a.m. and ends at 1 p.m. While waking up at 6:30 has been hard for me, the bigger challenge has been trying to pay attention during classes. My Portuguese is not yet at a level where I can understand the topics teachers talk about. However, I have met a lot of my Brazilian friends here and there is an English class. Once my Portuguese improves, I will teach English to some of the younger people at my school, and talk to them about Canada. Over a month into my exchange, I have noticed a lot of improvement in my understanding and speaking of the language. I guess it’s because I am constantly listening to it and practicing. I am currently taking lessons twice a week, for two hours each time, which also helps.

     Click on 'Read More' for the rest of the story and some pictures
So Much To Experience 2015-09-28 04:00:00Z 0

Member Testimonials

Why I joined and stay in Rotary: The series continues
 
Gary Cumming:
 
In 1946 I was a five year old living on a dairy farm where my dad worked after returning from the war.  I went into the milk-house for a drink of water and tipped up A jug containing lye that was used for cleaning purposes for the equipment. It is a strong corrosive. Long story short it was the start of many medical procedures and hospital stays in Chatham, London and Toronto. It was also a financial hardship for my family.  I am not sure of how but I do know that the Rotary Club of Chatham was instrumental in helping my family.  I can remember attending special parties that I attended with other children who were assisted by this club.  Over the years I always was aware of the good work of Rotary.
 
            Flash ahead to the 80s and my neighbor and good friend Max Frehner who was a Rotarian approached me about joining and invited me to a meeting.  There were several members that I knew and it was hard to say no to Max and also my early experience with the Chatham club convinced me that I owed Rotary some pay back. It was a privilege to be accepted by these outstanding community leaders.
 
            Why do I go?  I enjoy the chit chat with friends, a good meal, the chance to hear speakers on interesting topics, and the chance to have input on future endeavors.
 
            I am proud of all of the accomplishments of this club and of Rotary International and enjoy the time spent with my fellow members at meetings and on projects. I am a believer of the work of the Rotary Foundation and a contributor. I feel guilty that I am not more involved and about the time that I am away and have contemplated resigning but for now it is an honor to be a Rotarian.
 
Rotarian Gary Cumming
 
 
Stan Malcolm:
 
My Rotary Story:
   The late Jack Whyte proposed me for membership in the Rotary Club of Stratford, after inviting me to several meetings at ( presumably ) his own expense. He solicited me at my business and counselled me that becoming a Rotarian would be a win-win. Jack proposed more members in that club than anyone else before or since.
 
Continuing to belong to Rotary provides Synergy to our individual efforts. Hence, my small contribution can be multiplied physically and financially through the Service Vehicle which is Rotary. Through Rotary International, I have real and valued friends nearby and in several places abroad. Without exception, these are intelligent, focused, and generous people who add to my pride in belonging to an organization which enjoys unblemished success on all fronts.
 
The question of "When did I realize that I was a Rotarian, as separate from a Knife and Forker" is difficult for me. Since much good work is done over food and drink (In Vino Veritas!), the regular meetings will always be central to continuity and consensus. For me, becoming a true Rotarian is a  life long apprenticeship. There have been many experiences, learning, emotional, and motivational, which come to mind. To have a chance conversation with PRI Pres. D.K. Lee was motivational. He is very successful in business and is giving back. To have visited a class of reformed   Guerrillas who would like to have their lives back was emotional! Working with District 6330, particularly in the Peace Fellowship program was a unique learning experience.
 
Thank you Rotary Club of St. Marys for honouring me with membership.
 
Daryl McClure:
 
I joined Rotary mostly because I had just purchased a new accounting business in town and thought joining Rotary would be a good opportunity to meet other people in the community, both as part of Rotary directly, and through the various Rotary activities and services we provide in the area.  I also believed joining was a wonderful way to give back to the local community, and to society/mankind as a whole really, through Rotary’s various worldwide projects.
I stay because of the great comradery I’ve found, and especially because it gives me the opportunity, when I can, to help our club and my fellow Rotarians provide the various benefits and support services that we are able to offer back to the local community.

Daryl McClure
Rotary Club of St. Marys, Ontario
 
 
Member Testimonials Linda Schuyler 2015-09-21 04:00:00Z 0

We've Got Mail! Analee Leavitt

 
It's always nice to hear from our exchange students. In Rotary, the month of September is devoted to Youth Services. I contacted Anallee to find out about her adventures. Here's what she had to say:
 

Hi Linda!

 

The airport was definitely a struggle, but one of the first things I learned was how nice the Thai people are! And so many people contributed to me finding my family safe and sound, I was very,very grateful. I've had the pleasure of experiencing so many new and exciting things, it's been the most incredible adventure of my life so far. 

I'm so thankful to Rotary for this. 

 

Absolutely!! I think updates for the newsletter is great. How would you like me to format them? And is there anything specific I should be updating/writing about?

 

The page about the exchange students is very cool, I would love to do something for it when I get back!

 

Let me know what you are thinking about the updates!

Analee

 

I have also included some pictures from her blog:

 

Temple of Buddha:
 
 
Thai Boxing with her sparring coach:
 
 
Analee Skating indoors in Thailand - relief...it's 40 C outside:
 

 

Analee entertains her classmates in Thailand:

 

 

​Analee has written a letter to the JA about her first month in Thailand. Please click on 'Read more' for her story.

 

We've Got Mail! Analee Leavitt Linda Schuyler 2015-09-20 04:00:00Z 0
Wine & Cheese Tasting- Nov 14th Pierre Chateauvert 2015-09-17 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Foundation earns 4-star rating for 8th year

 
 
Foundation earns four-star rating from Charity Navigator
 
For the eighth straight year, The Rotary Foundation has earned a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, the largest and most prestigious independent evaluator of nonprofits in the United States. The rating, which is the highest that Charity Navigator assigns, reflects The Rotary Foundation’s sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency. Learn more about this and other recent announcements from Rotary.
 
 
 
Rotary Foundation earns 4-star rating for 8th year Linda Schuyler 2015-09-16 04:00:00Z 0

We've Got Mail!

Posted by Linda Schuyler
In September, we celebrate Youth Services. May I encourage everyone to reach out to our outbound exchange students. I sent a note to Joep and Brett and we have mail. I haven't included the notes I sent to them but here's their responses.
 

Thank you so much! I am so excited! I have read something on the Rotary site about me, very nice. I will meat you soon! 

Best regards,

Joep

 

Hi Linda,

 

Thank you for the kind words! Even though I have only been here 1 month, I can definitely see the benefits of this amazing program. I am really enjoying myself and have adapted quickly to the Brazilian culture. I would be happy to give back as much as possible to not only Rotary, but also the community. As time goes by, I will definitely send some pictures and updates! To start of the collection, I will send a few. Among these are various sightseeing and tourism places around São Paulo, as well as a group photo with all of the exchange students in my district. Enjoy, and thanks for the continued support!

 

Brett Dill

 

His pictures follow:


   

 

 


   

 

 

 

 

 

We've Got Mail! Linda Schuyler 2015-08-30 04:00:00Z 0

Calling All Candidates for Youth Exchange

Posted by Mark Oliver on Aug 16, 2015
 
 
 
 

Calling All Candidates!

 

No this isn't an election call!  The Rotary Club of St. Marys is looking for teenage candidates who are interested in going on exchange in 2016.  If you know of someone in Grades 10 -12 who you think would make a great exchange student please put them in touch with Mark Oliver. Local interviews will be held during the last-half of September. District interviews take place on November 14th.

 

 

Calling All Candidates for Youth Exchange Mark Oliver 2015-08-16 04:00:00Z 0

Youth Exchange Report - Outbound Students

Posted by Mark Oliver on Aug 16, 2015
 

Outbound Update:

 

​Brett Dill:

 

    

 

Brett Dill has been in Brazil since July 24th.  He is hosted by the Rotary Club of Marilia de Dirceu, a few hours outside of Sao Paulo. Brett is having a wonderful time.  He recently started school and now realizes that he has to get his Portuguese up to speed.  Brett can be reached via email at mr.dill11@hotmail.com.  Drop him a line - he'd love to hear from Club members.

 

Analee Leavitt:

 

   

 

Analee Leavitt arrived in Bangkok, Thailand on August 9th.  She is hosted by the Rotary Club of Bangkok Suwanabhum.  Although she has only been there a few days Analee told me in an email that she is already in love with Thailand. Analee is quickly learning to think and speak in Thai while trying not to get swamped by culture shock.  You can follow Analee's blog at http://analeeinthailand.tumblr.com.  I'm sure she would welcome your words of encouragement via email at leavitt.analee22@gmail.com.

 

Billy Strathdee:

Billy Strathdee leaves for France on August 25th.  He is hosted by the Rotary Club de Reims.  Billy was one of the stars of the talent show at the Central States Rotary Youth Exchange Summer Conference in Grand Rapids, MI back in July.  His on-stage performance of Stompin' Tom's "The Hockey Song" was a crowd pleaser!  Billy can be reached via email at billy-bob-boy@hotmail.com

.

Youth Exchange Report - Outbound Students Mark Oliver 2015-08-16 04:00:00Z 0

Youth Exchange Report - Inbound Students

Posted on Aug 16, 2015
 

Rotary Youth Exchange - Inbound Students

 

Welcome Joep!!


 

We are delighted to welcome Joep Heddes, our next inbound exchange student, from Hem, the Netherlands.  He arrives on August 31st.  Joep will become the 47th student hosted by our Club!  Joep is active in judo and soccer.  He enjoys history (particularly World War II) and geography.  He will turn 19 in November and he has just graduated from high school.  He wants to learn our culture, master English and meet new people.  He hopes his year will bring him new friends, new family and a new language.  Joep can be reached via email at joepheddes@hotmail.com

 

Once he arrives here, Joep can be called or texted on his cell phone 519-949-0950.  Joep's first host family is Rich Sumstad & Kris Skjellerup.

 

Farewell Laura :(

 



 

 

Laura Portalier returned to France on July 18th after a successful year here in St. Marys.  She will resume her high school studies this September when she enters 10th grade. Laura made many friends at school here.  She had such an impact that one of her friends here has applied to be an outbound exchange student for next year!  Laura improved her English skills dramatically over the course of her stay.  She learned to play guitar and was a "regular" at the World's Coolest Music Store.  I asked Laura if she had any advice to offer Joep.  Her advice, "Take lots of photos and have lots of patience."  Our club is very grateful to Laura's host families:  Scott & Jill Taylor, Chris & Mary Woolf and Patrick & Amy Brennan.  Laura can be reached via email at laura.portalier@hotmail.fr

 

Laura, we will miss you!

Farewell Laura :(

 

 

 

 

Youth Exchange Report - Inbound Students Mark Oliver 2015-08-16 04:00:00Z 0

Summer meeting at Rotary Park

 
July 27, 2015 meeting:
Members of the Rotary Club of St. Marys enjoy one of our summer meetings at the Rotary Park.
    
                                             
 
Sadly, our summer meetings have come to an end. A big THANK YOU goes out to Rotarians who hosted and prepared our meals. Everything was delicious and how can you not enjoy being outdoors for a relaxing gathering among Rotary friends.
Summer meeting at Rotary Park 2015-08-07 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Global Rewards

 
Rotary Global Rewards
The good you do comes back to you.
Rotary’s new member benefits program gives Rotary members access to discounts on a variety of products and services selected with their interests in mind.
Discounts & special offers
Rotary Global Rewards offers discounts on car rentals, hotels, dining, and entertainment. More products and services from companies around the world will be added throughout the year. Check back often to see what’s new in Rotary Global Rewards.
How it works
Anyone can view the offers and discounts on Rotary Global Rewards. But only Rotary club members who are signed in to their My Rotary accounts can redeem them. You can access and redeem rewards from your computer, smartphone, or tablet.
Create a My Rotary account now to take advantage of the new member benefits program. If you need help creating an account, see the How to Create a My Rotary Account quick guide (PDF).
Rotary support
For questions related to a specific offer, please contact the company directly using the contact information in the offer. If you're unable to resolve the issue with the company, please tell us so we can troubleshoot the problem. Select the flagged link under Claim Offer. Still have questions? Contact us so we can help.
Rotary Global Rewards 2015-08-07 04:00:00Z 0

Nigeria sees no wild polio virus for 1 year

 
Nigeria sees no wild polio cases for one year
(from Rotary Weekly Newsletter - July 24, 2015)
 
Nigeria sees no wild polio cases for one year Today marks one year since Nigeria last reported a polio case caused by wild poliovirus. The country is on the brink of eradicating the paralyzing disease. If no cases are reported in the coming weeks, the World Health Organization is expected to remove Nigeria from the list of countries where polio is endemic, leaving just two: Afghanistan and Pakistan.
Nigeria sees no wild polio virus for 1 year 2015-08-03 04:00:00Z 0

Exchange student from France bids adieu

Posted on Jun 28, 2015
Laura Portalier gives her farewell speech on June 22, 2015. The club has kept her very busy this past month.
 
 
Rotarian Ray Bennett explains the story around the Canadian flag that we give to our exchange students.
 
 
 
 
Exchange student from France bids adieu Linda Schuyler 2015-06-28 04:00:00Z 0

29th Annual Golf Tournament

Posted on Jun 28, 2015

 
Under the guidance of Chair Len Hawkins and committee volunteers, we held another successful golf tournament. Master of Ceremony  for the evening part of this event wss Pierre Chateauvert.
 
         
Laura Portalier (L) relaxing with Rotarian Lucie Stephens before the golf tournament began.
 
 
Rotarians Home Rath and Grant Barton work at the registration desk.
 
 
Rotarian Pierre Chateauvert serves as Master of Ceremonies for the evening.
 
The winners were:
 
 
     
     
   
 
 
 
 
29th Annual Golf Tournament Linda Schuyler 2015-06-28 04:00:00Z 0

Bill Gates Congratulates Rotary on its Polio Eradication Efforts

 
June 8, 2015
Bill Gates thanks Rotary for fighting to end polio
 
Bill Gates addressed Rotary members at the International Convention to thank them for their unwavering support to end polio over the last 30 years. 2015 marks the 30th anniversary of PolioPlus and three decades of progress and challenges the program has faced. In its early years, PolioPlus was dedicated to fundraising for immunization efforts. In May 1988 Rotary announced that the campaign, which aimed to raise US$120 million, had raised nearly $220 million in contributions and pledges. That same year, the World Health Assembly set a goal of worldwide polio eradication and launched the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) with Rotary as one of its partners.
 
The GPEI partners, which included WHO, UNICEF, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, were able to boost world immunization levels from less than 50 percent in 1985 to over 80 percent in 1992. In 2007 Rotary entered into a partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which issued Rotary a $100 million challenge grant to raise funds for polio eradication. This partnership continued to grow, and in 2013 the Gates Foundation offered to match Rotary’s contributions for polio eradication 2-to-1 for five years (up to $35 million per year).
 
Since the launch of the GPEI, the global incidence of polio has decreased by 99 percent. In March 2014 India was declared polio-free, making WHO’s entire Southeast Asia Region polio-free. Now, only Afghanistan, Nigeria and Pakistan remain polio-endemic.
Bill Gates Congratulates Rotary on its Polio Eradication Efforts Linda Schuyler 2015-06-12 04:00:00Z 0

Working Together for the Good of Rotary:A Membership Initiative

Posted on Jun 08, 2015
 
Something for our members to consider:
 
The Vancouver Metropolitan-Area Membership Strategy
(From a post to the Zone 24 & 32 Blog - By Gayle Knepper, Rotary Coordinator, Z24W)
When District 5040 (BC) leaders held the annual strategic planning meeting for the 2014-15 year, a topic discussed in depth was the health of clubs and the membership decline which had occurred over time.
In fact, when completing the SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis at the session, two of the top-ranking threats were identified as:
  1. Not dealing with aging membership
  2. Not turning around the declining membership
It was critical to the future of the clubs, they determined, to focus action on these issues now, looking at new methods to turn around this troubling trend.
“Grow membership 15% over 5 years,” was the goal, to be reached through a combination of retention and new member/club development.  While they had already identified the WHAT -- the issue, determined the HOW MUCH – the goal, and the WHEN to do it (now), the real job was just beginning. Leaders now faced the bigger task -- HOW.
Working Together for the Good of Rotary:A Membership Initiative 2015-06-08 04:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of St. Marys 29th Annual Scramble Golf Tournament

 
You still have time to register for
the Rotary Club of St. Marys
29th Annual Golf Tournament
 
This will be one tournament you don't want to miss!
 

It's that time of year when we can enjoy the outdoors. Why not bring a foursome and participate in the Rotary Club of St. Marys fun-filled scramble golf tournament. It is open to everyone.

It was 29 years ago when the late Charlie Dutton first chaired the golf committee and brought a very competitive tournament to St. Marys...a day he could bring Rotary and his golf buddies together to raise some money for local community projects. The location has changed several times over the years but what hasn't changed is the good fellowship and the benefits to our community.

Chair Len Hawkins and his committee have worked hard to put together this year's tournament. Let's support the committee and bring in those foursomes and sponsorships needed to make this tournament another successful event.

Location: St. Marys Golf & Country Club
Date:       June 18, 2015
Time:       1 pm shotgun start
Costs:      $140 includes round of golf and cart, putting contest, roast beef dinner and $30 tax receipt
Questions: Contact Len Hawkins 519-284-0104
 
Rotary Club of St. Marys 29th Annual Scramble Golf Tournament 2015-05-31 04:00:00Z 0

What a party! Our club is 90 years old and going strong

Posted on May 28, 2015
This picture was taken by Nelda Oliver at our 90th anniversary event. What a pleasure it was to have our Exchange Student, Laura Portalier from France (front row-far right) and our 3 outbound exchange students in the red jackets join us. Brett Dill (centre left) is heading to Brazil and Annalee Leavitt will travel to Thailand and Billy Strathdee (right) will spend a year in France.
What a party! Our club is 90 years old and going strong Linda Schuyler 2015-05-28 04:00:00Z 0
London Hyde Park-Wine Tasting and Food Pairing Event Linda Schuyler 2015-05-27 04:00:00Z 0
Festival City Club hosts Spaghetti Dinner 2015-03-30 00:00:00Z 0

Government honours Rotary Clubs of Canada

Posted on Feb 23, 2015

Rotary clubs of Canada Honoured by Government of Canada

 
 
 
In celebration of the 50th anniversary of our national flag, the Government of Canada is giving this proud Canadian symbol to 50 Canadians and organizations who have contributed significantly to the well-being of our citizens.  The Rotary clubs of Canada will receive this honour in recognition of Canadian Rotarians’ dedication to “service above self” and their efforts to save mothers and children, provide clean water, support education and fight disease.
 
 
 
 
Government honours Rotary Clubs of Canada 2015-02-24 00:00:00Z 0

Carolin Welp- A life sign from Germany

Posted by Claire Sherwin on Feb 08, 2015

Thank you Claire for forwarding this email from Carolin Welp, Exchange Student from Germany in 2011-2012.

Carolin continues to receive our e-Bulletins. Good luck on your exam today. Click on 'Read more' to view some pictures that she sent. It was great to hear from you.

Linda

Dear Rotarians,

Dear Friends in St.Marys, Ontario and around Canada,

The New Year is already a month old, but it’s still time to give you a vital sign and also to give you a little report about what happened in 2014. This letter was written while sitting in the car back from my parents and grandparents hometown Bielefeld, Germany to my hometown Herbolzheim, Germany. It is supposed to give you a little view in my live back home.

2014 was a very different year to those before. It is now 2 ½ years ago that I left to fly back from Toronto, Canada to Frankfurt, Germany and one year later came back to visit with my family for 4 weeks. But in 2014 I graduated from school and now I’m officially a student at the University of Freiburg studying Microsystems Engineering. This study path includes all the sciences you can possibly think of. In my first semester I had Math, experimental Physics, Chemistry as well as Technologies and Processes. In January started my "white room" practicum in addition to the other courses. On February the 9th is my first exam and exam-time will end on the 16th of March 2015.

But back to 2014… I used my free time right before and after my "Abitur" (=Graduation) to travel around. Together with my boyfriend Jan (still the same one ) I went to a Boyce Avenue concert in Munich. For those who don’t know Boyce Avenue. They are a band of three Canadian brothers who toured in Germany last year. I even caught a pick of the leading guitarist.

In April we had our "every-year-again-family-vacation" in a little town called Serneus, Switzerland. Two weeks of skiing and doing things together with my parents, my brother and my boyfriend. And my second skiing trip was to the international scout centre in Kandersteg, Switzerland. A couple of days skiing together with 17 others.

I also traveled to the Bodensee (Lake Constance) together with my grandparents. It’s the biggest lake in Germany and special about it is, it’s crossing three country boarders. We had some beautiful days in a hotel driving around to explore the towns around every day. We also visited Bregenz, Austria and saw the scenery of the Bregenz Festival (a big outdoor theatre). http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Constance

My second visit of Lake Constance was right after the trip with my grandparents. Together with some Rotex people (youth of Rotary – age 17-30). We had lot’s of fun swimming, camping and having some fun in the city itself.

And this wasn’t the only lake I visited in 2014. In the summer I traveled to Italy, together with my boyfriend and his family (parents and sister). We were camping right next to the Gardasee (Lake Garda). And of course we visited Verona to see were Romeo and Julia (Shakespeare) kissed on the balcony and we visited Venice to get an impression of this old and rotten but at the same time most beautiful on the water build wooden city. http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gardasee

The weather in 2014 wasn’t the most brilliant. On our camping vacation with the scouts we had rain half of the time and unfortunately we had to leave the campground for one day. It was storming so strong that the camp leaders decided it is too dangerous to let over 4500 scouts sleep in their tents while a rainy storm is going over their heads. So finally we all had to leave the campground and sleep in community halls, schools, churches and other more or less large buildings for that night. The police is now using the videos they maid while the evacuation was going on to show them as teaching videos for festivals.

I turned nineteen in 2014 and that was my chance to have an awesome day at the Oktoberfest in Munich together with my parents and my boyfriend. My parents also showed us the places where they walked along with me when I was just born and of course the hospital I was born in…but this hospital isn’t existing anymore. There are

normal houses now. And I still couldn’t find anyone there eating sausage in a bun together with sauerkraut . The typical food on the Oktoberfest is hock, chicken and Bavarian veal sausage (a with sausage you can buy in Kitchner, Ontario as well).

I still had a "nineteenth-birthday-party" together with my friends and for many of them it was the last time to see me for a year. Two are on a travel and work year in New Zealand right now, one girl is in France as an au pair, one in Angola as a teacher for girls who never learned reading (they are already 15 years and older!) and two others are leaving for a travel and work year to Canada this month. If there is anyone of you in Vancouver in the next 10 months let me know. I’m sure they would be pleased to have contact to some Canadians to get to know the country a little better.

Traveling in 2014 also meant to be with my larger family in Bielefeld. We have been there in June of 2013 to celebrate my uncles marriage, this time we came back to celebrate my cousins baptism. I’m now a godmother of Marinus Valentin Welp (that’s his full name) and at the same time his cousin. In January we traveled there again to celebrate my grandfather’s 80th birthday.

For Christmas Eve my little family and I were at home alone to have a wonderful enjoyable evening together. The end of year I celebrated together with my own and my boyfriend’s family. Of course we left the house shortly before midnight to see the beautiful fireworks in town.

Still there weren’t just trips and parties. There was also a lot of studying weather for school (before graduation) or for university (since October). Now I just hope to manage my exams to be ready for the next semester that starts in April.

I hope you are all having a wonderful year 2015 and remember you are always invited to visit me. For now I want to welcome Darby Alderson, she will be visiting me in August. I was so excited to hear about that, when we skyped the last time.

Thank you for reading my report. I hope you enjoyed reading it. If you have questions or just want to let me know how your last year was, go ahead and send me an e-mail.

Best regards and big hugs from Germany

Carolin Welp,

Rotary Exchangestudent in 2011/12

Carolin Welp- A life sign from Germany Claire Sherwin 2015-02-09 00:00:00Z 0

Polio Update- RI Letter to Club Presidents

On Wednesday, February 4, 2015 2:58 PM, PolioPlus <polioplus@rotary.org> wrote:

 
Rotary.org
Dear Club Presidents,
The new year has begun in earnest and the Rotary year is in full swing. We take this opportunity to thank you for the work undertaken to raise awareness of our ongoing effort to End Polio Now. We were proud of the efforts made by clubs throughout Canada on and around World Polio Day. The work was recognized by Canada’s Prime Minister Stephen Harper, who issued a special letter of appreciation to Rotary clubs for the longstanding and continued commitment to a polio free world and collaboration with the government of Canada toward this goal.
While World Polio Day has come and gone, our work continues, and we encourage you to continue to “beat the drum” which will raise awareness and support, including among officials and candidates as we head into an election period. Polio is an issue of common concern and that means we encourage the support of every official and every candidate, regardless of party affiliation.
 
We draw your attention to a few key upcoming opportunities when it will make sense to highlight Rotary’s role and engage officials. The first is Rotary’s 110th anniversary, 23 February. Similar to World Polio Day, we encourage you to reach out to your Member of Parliament and your community to highlight progress toward global polio eradication and the continued good work of Rotary. The attached update provides a good summary which you can use for this purpose.
We also have an excellent opportunity to highlight progress during World Immunization Week, which is the last week in April. We have a great story to tell in terms of the contributions our polio eradication efforts have made, and continue to make, in support of other public health efforts including strengthening routine immunization, reaching children – including those in conflict affected areas -  with essential health interventions beyond polio immunization, and learning how to build trust community by community. Indeed, in recognition of polio eradication efforts and Rotary’s work, we have been invited to make a presentation to Parliament’s Maternal and Child Health Caucus in mid February.
 
Last but certainly not least, we are also aware that clubs, as urged by International President Gary Huang, continue to hold Rotary Days. These continue to offer a great opportunity to highlight the work your club is doing within the community and our broader work to End Polio once and for all.
 
We remind you of the fantastic resources to support you in your work including End Polio Now Zone Coordinators, Regional Rotary Foundation Coordinators, and Rotary Public Image Coordinators, and us. Please let us know how we can help. Equally important, please let us know of any interaction you have with officials. We are keeping track of this so we can ensure we are well coordinated in our efforts.
 
We thank you for what you have done and what you continue to do to achieve our shared goal of a polio free world.
 
Yours sincerely,
Wilfrid Wilkinson
National Advocacy Advisor, Canada
 
Bob Scott
Chair Emeritus, International PolioPlus Committee
Polio Update- RI Letter to Club Presidents 2015-02-07 00:00:00Z 0

2015-2016 Presidential Theme: Be A Gift To The World

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Jan 25, 2015
President-elect urges Rotary members to ‘Be a Gift to the World’
 
 

RI President-elect K.R. “Ravi” Ravindran (Sri Lanka) announces his presidential theme for 2015-16,

'Be a Gift to the World', at the opening session of the International Assembly in San Diego, California, USA.

 

 

Using their talents, expertise, and leadership, Rotary members worldwide are asked to be gifts to the world this upcoming 2015-16 Rotary year.

2015-2016 Presidential Theme: Be A Gift To The World Linda Schuyler 2015-01-26 00:00:00Z 0

January is Rotary Awareness Month

 
Can you recognize a Rotarian? Are you aware of the projects or activities of our Rotary club? 
 
 
 
           
 
       
 
Projects and Activities of The Rotary Club of St. Marys
 

Pyramid Recreation Centre

Trout Creek Clean up

Development of Rotary Park

International Youth Exchanges

St. Marys Minor Sports

Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame

International Polio Eradication

Literacy Programs

Meals on Wheels

St. Marys DCVI Music Program

Highway Cleanup

Heritage Festival Fireworks

St. Marys Mobility Bus

Homes in El Salvador

Hope for Haiti

Youth Leadership

Veterans Dinner

Parkview East

X-Park
Community Dinner

Rotary Crocus Waterfall at Cadzow Park

January is Rotary Awareness Month Linda Schuyler 2014-12-30 00:00:00Z 0

Nominate a candidate for our club's new 'Service Above Self' award

Posted by Bob Stephens
 
Please remember to submit your nominee for this new award to Doug Fread by email or personal contact by January 1, 2015.
 
Proposed ‘Service above Self’ Award
Awards Committee of the Rotary Club of St. Marys
It is proposed that:
 
1.            The St. Marys Rotary Club initiate an award called the Rotary Club of St. Marys
“Service above Self” Award;
2.            The Award will be separate from the Paul Harris award or any other presently existing award at the District or International level of Rotary;
3.            The Award will honour those Rotarians who have given the most exemplary service to our club, to the community and the principles of Rotary;
4.            Recipients of the award will be nominated by the club members but chosen by a committee of three.  (Note: the reason for the ‘committee’ is to keep the award a secret from the recipient until it is presented);
5.            Members of the committee will serve a maximum of three years and will not be eligible to receive an award while a committee member.  The first committee members will service a term of 1, 2 and 3 years respectively;
6.            The award will be a plaque to be hung at Rotary Hall, with a replica given to the recipient;
7.            The award will be presented at the Rural Urban program and will be a significant part of the evening. This way the recipient will receive the attention deserved in front of a large audience and the press;
8.            The idea is to keep the award special and the most coveted award that our club can offer.  Only outstanding candidates will receive it and not necessarily every year;
9.            The award will be unique because:
                             i)             It will only be received as a result of service to Rotary
                            ii)             It will be chosen by the recipients’ peers within our club              
10.          Proposed first committee:
              . Len Hawkins               - 1 year
              . Bob Stephens             - 2 year
              . Doug Fread                 - 3 year
               First Chair-           Doug Fread
11.          The first award will be at the 2015 Rural Urban.
12.          Nominations will be received January 1 each year for the Rural Urban in that year.
Nominate a candidate for our club's new 'Service Above Self' award Bob Stephens 2014-12-30 00:00:00Z 0

2015 RI Convention

 
Reconnect in São Paulo
 
 
Martin Ward
Dec 13, 2014

Image

Brazil is home to many former Rotary Scholars, Youth Exchange students, and Group Study Exchange team members. The 2015 RI Convention in São Paulo offers a wonderful opportunity for you to reunite with people your club or district has hosted, while you experience all the excitement of a Rotary Convention. Like Rotary, São Paulo is notably diverse. In its many ethnic neighborhoods, you’ll feel the influence immigrants from your country have left on this South American metropolis, and you may even discover a long-lost branch of your family tree.

2015 RI Convention 2014-12-30 00:00:00Z 0

Winners of the Christmas Raffle Draw

Posted by Linda Schuyler
 
On Monday, December 22, 2014 Rotary's Christmas Raffle Draw was made at Rotary Hall with the help of Sabrina Fread, Laura Portalier our visiting exchange student from France and Past President Ron Aitken.
 
The list of winners and prizes are as follows:
1) Deb Ward                     - $500 grocery voucher from McDonald's YIG
2) Paul Marziali                 - $250 dinner for 4 at Westover Inn
3) Tom Osgerby                - $250 gas voucher from GOCO Gas Station
4) ? McEwan                     - $250 grocery voucher from McDonald's YIG
5) Gord Shaughnessy        - $250 gas voucher from GOCO Gas Station
6) Rob Staffen                  - $250 grocery voucher from McDonald's YIG
 
A big thank you to our prize sponsors, to our volunteers and to everyone who supported the Christmas Raffle Draw.
Winners of the Christmas Raffle Draw Linda Schuyler 2014-12-28 00:00:00Z 0

Give the gift of Rotary

Posted on Dec 13, 2014
 
Give the gift of Rotary
 
Every year, hundreds of thousands of people — children, families, and entire communities — benefit from projects funded by The Rotary Foundation.
Although Rotary gives back in countless ways, we focus our service efforts in six areas: promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water, saving mothers and children, supporting education, and growing local economies.
You can help us continue to create positive, lasting change with a gift to The Rotary Foundation. 
What your gift supports
 
$10 Mosquito bed net
Bed nets provide a safe, peaceful night's rest in countries like Uganda, where malaria is a major health concern.

 
$25 School uniform
Succeeding in school starts with dressing the part. The gift of a school uniform can open the doors to education for a child.

 
$85 Box of purple markers
Purple markers are used to mark the pinkie fingers of children who receive the polio vaccine, helping health workers identify children who still need to be immunized.

 
$100 Folding walker
Walkers and wheelchairs can offer people with physical disabilities mobility, improved health, access to education, and economic security.
 

 

 
$50 Water filter
In rural Guatemala, deadly waterborne diseases are common. Personal water filters offer simple, sustainable access to clean water.

 
 
Give the gift of Rotary Linda Schuyler 2014-12-14 00:00:00Z 0

Updates on Grand Bend Club's Global Literacy Project

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Dec 12, 2014
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I recently received the following letter from Rotarian Brian Hall (Grand Bend Club) who provided an update on the Global Literacy Project. Several of our Rotarians have volunteered on this project over the past year. If you click on "Read more" you will see the Dorchester Signpost article of appreciaion. Please take a few moments to click on the hyperlink below to view the 30 minute video made about the program evaluation in conjunction with the Avon Maitland School Board. Brian's letter begins:
 

Hello everyone

Well we have set another record with the loading of container #41 this past Saturday in Exeter. A huge thank you to all that came out to help and especially to Dini Twynstra for the delicious hot lunch enjoyed by everyone.

 

This milestone caps a banner year with 11 containers shipped to South Africa and one to Uganda. The huge Exeter Warehouse so generously provided by Hensall District Co-Op is now empty (the main areas anyway) although we are still holding a small amount of material for a handicapped school in Botswana. And just in time too, as the warehouse will soon be full of seed beans waiting for spring planting. Thank you to the Co-Op for their support!

 

I have attached a letter to the editor from Coleen Deiner in Africa telling everyone how valuable the craft and sewing supplies have been. I want to make special mention of the efforts of our Dorchester Dynamo, Fay Rath who has spearheaded the collection of this material. Thank You Fay!

 

As a reminder, we would love to have sewing, knitting and craft supplies and especially sewing machines but cannot take any clothing which is restricted from importation.

 

One final note during this season of giving. The last freight bill has increased to nearly $6000 with the decline in the Canadian dollar. If you would like to include the Global Literacy Program in your year-end donations we would very much appreciate it. Unlike most charities, virtually 100% of what you give goes directly to the freight costs and a charitable tax receipt is available. Please make your cheque payable to

The Foundation For Education Perth Huron

62 Chalk St.

Seaforth ON N0K 1W0  

Please identify the Global Literacy Account

 

The full video from the program evaluation tour last March in South Africa has now been released and can be viewed at

http://foundationforeducation.ca/our-documentary/

 

Enjoy the fruits of all the hard work we have done. It is an amazing video and a real credit to Wes MacVicar and Adam Sipione from the Avon Maitland School Board who created it. Please share this link with others who might be interested.

 

Thank you again for all your support!  All the best this holiday season.

 

 

Brian Hall

Global Literacy Committee Rotary Club of Grand Bend

Box 1261 Grand Bend ON  N0M 1T0

Tel: 519-238-8892(W)        519-238-6116(H)

For information go to www.grandbendrotary.com/

Updates on Grand Bend Club's Global Literacy Project Linda Schuyler 2014-12-13 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Hosts Community Dinner

 Pictures from the kitchen on December 15, 2014:
 
                       
 
 Rotarian Grant Barton prepares refreshments and Rotarian Gerry Teahen prepares the stew.                    
 
 
On December 15, 2014 local Rotarians host the Community Dinner which will be held at the United Church. We anticipate we will serve beef stew to 100 guests again this year. We always have such great fun in the kitchen. Everyone participates... food preparation, serving, clean up and chatting with our guests.
 
There is no admission or price charged for the meal. For many, it is the one hot meal that they are going to enjoy for the week. Although we do not charge for this meal, some guests do make a free-will donation. 
Rotary Hosts Community Dinner Linda Schuyler 2014-12-04 00:00:00Z 0

Maternal and Child Health

Posted by Dr. Roberta Howlett
Area Coordinator for Maternal/Child Health for District 6330

 
 
December is Family Month
Maternal & Child Health Rotary International Priorities Maternal and child health is one of five priority areas identified by Rotary International for Rotary development initiatives. Theses priority topics also align with some of the Millennium Development Goals articulated by the WHO. Maternal and child health interfaces closely with the other four priorities: 1) promoting peace 2) fighting disease and poverty 3) providing clean water and 4) supporting education.  All five areas of focus relate to the need for a healthy population in a safe and healthy community to ensure optimal development of all. 
 
Maternal and Child Health 2014-12-03 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarians Host Annual Veterans Dinner on November 10, 2014

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Nov 09, 2014
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WE WILL NOT FORGET!                                                                 

For more than 30 years the Rotary Club of St. Marys have hosted the annual Veterans dinner. Rotarian Ray Bennett who has been the event coordinator for most of those years, told club members that when our club first started hosting the Veterans dinner, there were approximately 50 local veterans attending. Sadly, with the aging of our veterans and their failing health, we were only able to honor 12 veterans this evening.

It has been the practice for club members to pick up the veterans and return them to their homes after an evening of good entertainment and an excellent meal. It is one way that we can say thank you to them for their sacrifices.  

This year was no exception. Our caterer, Janice Mitchell, served a complete turkey dinner with all the trimmings. Frank St. Germain, a resident of Rotary Parkview, played piano and led a sing along. The veterans were in good voice and seemed to thoroughly enjoy singing the old tunes of their youth. Percy Smith told a story about a watch he has that was from a German spy.

This annual dinner is our favourite event. We are so humbled by their bravery and courage and so thankful for their safe return to their families and community.

     

Rotarians Host Annual Veterans Dinner on November 10, 2014 Linda Schuyler 2014-11-10 00:00:00Z 0

What is The Rotary Foundation

The Rotary Foundation
Posted by Martin Ward on Nov 04, 2014
 

Image

The mission of The Rotary Foundation is to enable Rotary members to advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty.

The Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation supported solely by voluntary contributions from Rotary members and friends of the Foundation who share its vision of a better world. This support is essential to make possible projects, funded with Foundation grants, that bring sustainable improvement to communities in need.

Read more about Rotary Foundation

https://clubrunner.blob.core.windows.net/00000001069/en-ca/files/homepage/the-rotary-foundation-reference-guide/TheRotaryFoundation-219en.pdf

 

 

What is The Rotary Foundation 2014-11-10 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Foundation receives coveted rating

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The Rotary Foundation earns coveted 4-star rating
 
The Rotary Foundation earned a 4-star rating from Charity Navigator, the largest and most prestigious independent evaluator of nonprofits in the United States.
"Our foundation continues to operate at the highest ethical standard," said Rotary Foundation Trustee Chair John Kenny. "We are proud that Charity Navigator has recognized our commitment to accountability and transparency for the seventh straight year."
The 4-star rating, the highest that Charity Navigator awards, recognizes sound fiscal management, accountability, and transparency. Charity Navigator evaluates thousands of nonprofits each year, and only one of four earns 4 stars.
This year's top distinction marks the Foundation's seventh in a row, placing it in the top 3 percent of U.S.-based charities. In a letter to the Foundation, Charity Navigator President Ken Berger wrote, "This 'exceptional' designation differentiates The Rotary Foundation from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust."
Rotary News
October 27, 2014
Rotary Foundation receives coveted rating 2014-11-01 00:00:00Z 0

Message from DG Doug Burnard

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Governor Doug’s  Message:  November is Rotary Foundation Month

                                                
The Rotary Foundation is our Foundation and is the vehicle that allows us, as Rotarians, to contribute to the many humanitarian projects that Rotary International carries out throughout the world every year.
 
In addition, The Rotary Foundation also supports the Global Scholarship program, the Peace Scholarship program and provides disaster relief when necessary.                                                                                                                                                             
 
The Rotary Foundation also administers the Polio Eradication program and is a key partner in efforts to eradicate polio by 2018.  The Annual Fund of the Rotary Foundation is the fund that we use to finance our District and Global Grants. Fifty percent of our donations in 2014-15 will be made available to District 6330 in 2017-18 to continue our District and Global Grants.                      
 
During my club visits, I have asked members and clubs to increase their support to the Annual Fund by $10-15 this year and have challenged all members to donate personally to The Rotary Foundation. If we achieve this goal, our district will be able to sup- port an additional Global Grant.  
I urge all Rotarians in District 6330 who are not already making monthly donations via Rotary Direct, to consider making a do- nation to the Annual Fund Share before the end of  2014, either directly to RI via the website or via your Foundation Chair or Club Secretary who can submit on your behalf. I also ask clubs to send in the proceeds from the many Polio Eradication fundraisers held in October, as well as at least 50% of their
2014-15 Foundation goals that have been entered in Club Central.    The Rotary Foundation makes Rotary different from other Service Organizations. Your support is appreciated.                             
 
The week of November 6th is Interact Week:                                                                                                                                     
Clubs who sponsor an Interact Club are encouraged to invite members to your meetings or attend the Interact meeting and support these enthusiastic future  Rotarians.                                                                                                                                            
 
“Official” Club Visits:                                                                                                                                                                         
As of October 30th I have visited 60 of 61 clubs and will complete this fun task on November 6th. Clubs continue to impress me with what they do, the great fellowship and the unique fundraisers they carry out.  The increased focus on membership is working for many clubs as I have had the privilege of participating in the induction of almost 20 new members during my visits.  I look forward to meeting with our Rotaract and Interact clubs in the near future and would appreciate any suggestions that you may have as to the best time to do this.  Keep up the good work and keep asking, asking, asking potential members to join us as we continue to Light UP Rotary in District 6330.                                 
Message from DG Doug Burnard 2014-11-01 00:00:00Z 0
We are 'This Close' Celebrity Video Linda Schuyler 2014-10-29 00:00:00Z 0
World Polio Livestream October 24, 2014 2014-10-29 00:00:00Z 0

PM Stephen Harper receives Polio award

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Canada honoured as Prime Minister Stephen Harper receives the Rotary Foundation Polio Eradication Champion Award
October 20, 2014
For immediate release
October 18, 2014 (Toronto, Ontario)
Prime Minister Stephen Harper today received the Rotary Foundation Polio Eradication Champion Award, for his longstanding support and continued leadership in efforts to eliminate polio around the world. The Prime Minister accepted the award at a ceremony hosted by the Canadian Rotary Foundation in Toronto.
The Polio Eradication Champion Award is the highest honour the Rotary Foundation presents to heads of state, health agency leaders and others who have made significant contributions to the global polio eradication effort. The Rotary Foundation is an international organization that helps fund humanitarian activities, from local service projects to global initiatives. It undertakes worldwide Rotary campaigns such as eradicating polio and promoting peace. Rotarians and friends of Rotary support the Foundation’s work through voluntary contributions.
The Government of Canada has been at the forefront of the fight against polio. Since 2006, Canada has disbursed significant funds to eradicate polio, namely through support to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), to which Canada is one of the top donors. At the Global Vaccine Summit in April 2013, Canada reconfirmed its commitment to polio eradication and pledged funds over six years to support the GPEI’s 2013-2018 Endgame Strategic Plan which sets out a roadmap to eradicate polio by 2018.
 

 “I am honoured to receive this prestigious award that recognizes the significant efforts and contributions that our Government continues to make towards eradicating polio. We will continue to work with our partners to help put an end to this devastating childhood disease which can be prevented with a simple vaccine.” – Prime Minister Stephen Harper

PM Stephen Harper receives Polio award 2014-10-27 00:00:00Z 0

2015 RI Convention in Sao Paulo

 
 
 
 
Plan your trip to São Paulo now
Posted by Martin Ward on Sep 19, 2014
 

VImageisit the convention site for everything you need to plan your trip to São Paulo and register for the 2015 Rotary International Convention Saturday, 6 June, to Tuesday, 9 June. Don’t wait. The best price for registration is available through 15 December. The Host Organization Committee has just lowered prices for host events to give more people opportunities to sample Brazilian culture.

2015 RI Convention in Sao Paulo 2014-10-21 00:00:00Z 0

Polio Update - October 1st

 
Polio this week as of 1 October 2014
  •  All cases of wild poliovirus type 1 reported this week were from Pakistan. In 2014, Pakistan has accounted for 83% of cases reported globally. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) constitute the most heavily infected area of the world, with 73% of cases worldwide occurring within these provinces.
  • The risk of international spread of polio from Pakistan remains high. The bulk of cases in neighbouring Afghanistan are linked to cross-border transmission with Pakistan, and the outbreak affecting the Middle East originated in Pakistan.
  • The Global Polio Eradication Initiative’s Independent Monitoring Board (IMB) is meeting this week in London to review the progress of the past months. The IMB report will be published in 3 weeks. 
Polio Update - October 1st Linda Schuyler 2014-10-03 00:00:00Z 0

October is Vocational Service Month

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Oct 01, 2014
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In Rotary, October is recognized as Vocational Service Month. What is vocational service? If you are an active, engaged Rotarian, vocational service is a way of life to you, even if you find it difficult to give a clear definition.
 
THE OBJECT OF ROTARY:
The Object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and, in particular, to encourage and foster:
FIRST: The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service;
SECOND: High ethical standards in business and professions; the recognition of the worthiness of all useful occupations; and the dignifying of each Rotarian’s occupation as an opportunity to serve society
THIRD: The application of the ideal of service in each Rotarian’s personal, business, and community life;
FOURTH: The advancement of international understanding, goodwill, and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in the ideal of service.
October is Vocational Service Month Linda Schuyler 2014-10-02 00:00:00Z 0

October 24th is World Polio Day

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Oct 01, 2014
SAVE THIS DATE - OCTOBER 24, 2014 - WORLD POLIO DAY
 
 
 
 
2014 World Polio Day
Non-Profit & Activism Event  
Date
Fri Oct, 24 2014 7:30 PM EDT — Fri Oct, 24 2014 8:30 PM EDT
About
Join Rotary on World Polio Day, October 24, for a live-streamed global status update on the fight to end polio. Guests will include Global Polio Eradication Initiative partner, celebrity ambassadors, polio survivors and special guests. Tune in at 6:30 CT to watch the live event and take part in the conversation.
 
To watch live on October 24th, click on   http://new.livestream.com/rotaryinternational/worldpolioday
After that date, you will be able to click on the taped video.
 
 
 
October 24th is World Polio Day Linda Schuyler 2014-10-02 00:00:00Z 0

Global Grant Scholarship Applicants Needed

(Posted by Johnna Johansen, District Chair)
 
Rotarians in District 6330
We Need Your Help Now!
 
We have $30,000 available as a Global Scholarship Grant to
a deserving student who lives in District 6330 or goes to
school here. Do you know any students who may be interested?
The recipient of this grant cannot be a Rotarian, Honorary
Rotarian or be closely related to a Rotarian. Rotaractors
and former youth exchange students are eligible and are encouraged
to apply along with any other interested students
from your communities.
The student must have completed an undergraduate degree
by June 2015 and must choose further studies that incorporate
one or more of the following Rotary foci:
 Peace and conflict prevention/resolution
 Disease prevention and treatment
 Water and sanitation
 Maternal and child health
 Basic education and literacy
 Economic and Community Development
More information and the Global Grant Scholarship Application
form are available on the District 6330 website -
www.rotary6330.org.
Qualified candidates must submit their completed application
to their local Rotary Club for review and support by
October 15, 2014.
Interviews for District 6330 finalists will be conducted on a
Saturday in November 2014, in Sarnia Ontario or by Skype.
The successful candidate will then make a formal application
to the Rotary Foundation. If approved, the scholar should be
ready to start his/her studies in September, 2015 or January 2016.
 
For more information, please contact Johnna Johansen
(jjohansen@cogeco.ca)
Global Grant Scholarship Applicants Needed Linda Schuyler 2014-08-30 00:00:00Z 0

August is Membership Month

 
Celebrate Membership Month
In Rotary, August is Membership Month which means it’s time to celebrate our Rotary club, our members, and the good we do in our community and around the world.
August is Membership Month Linda Schuyler 2014-08-25 00:00:00Z 0

Library project update - The first shipment of books arrive

 
Our club has successfully satisfied the required criteria for the District Grant for the book donations for the St. Marys Public Library. In early June 2014, the first shipment of the books/DVDs that we donated arrived at the Public Library.
 
Pictured above, on the left is Lori Henry (Collections Officer for the St. Marys Public Library), Shannan Sword (Library CEO), Rotarians Linda Schuyler (Literacy Chair), Ron Aitken (Past President), Marion Creery (Incoming President) and President Pierre Chateauvert (R) are shown with some of the books/DVDs that were donated by our club. We can now let our guest speakers know which book/DVD we have selected for donation in their honour.
 
Some of you may have noticed that our book donation has been recognized in the Library's weekly newsletters. In two of them, several of the books that we donated were profiled in detail.
Library project update - The first shipment of books arrive Linda Schuyler 2014-06-30 00:00:00Z 0

Polio This Week - June 25th

Posted on Jun 29, 2014
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Polio this week as of 25 June 2014
  • On 18 June, Brazil reported that wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) had been detected in a sewage sample collected in March 2014 at Viracopos International Airport in Sao Paolo state. Genetic sequencing indicates that this virus is most closely related to the virus that is circulating in Equatorial Guinea. No one in Brazil has been paralyzed by the virus nor is there evidence of transmission within the population of that country. This importation is a reminder of the importance of responding to the central Africa outbreak efficiently, of the critical need to vaccinate residents of Equatorial Guinea before international travel, and of the need for all countries to maintain high immunity against polio.
  • In the Bara sub-division of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), Pakistan, a successful door-to-door polio vaccination campaign took place for the first time in five years reaching more than 42,000 children. The campaign – led by the FATA Secretariat and conducted by volunteers – was made possible by new financial support from the United Arab Emirates.
  • On 20 June, the Polio Oversight Board (POB) – made up of the heads of GPEI partners WHO, UNICEF, Rotary International and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and senior leadership from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation – met for the third time this year to examine progress against the Strategic Plan and review updates on GPEI management, financials and communications. Among other decisions, the POB endorsed additional activities to protect at-risk polio-free areas.
      

    Wild Poliovirus (WPV) cases
Total cases
Year-to-date 2014
Year-to-date 2013
Total in 2013 
Globally
106
77
416
- in endemic countries
93
46
160
- in non-endemic countries
13
31
256

 
Polio This Week - June 25th Linda Schuyler 2014-06-30 00:00:00Z 0

Message from Incoming District Governor

 

District Governor Doug Burnard:

I am deeply honoured to serve as your District Governor for 2014-2015 and have the privilege to follow the outstanding Rotarians who have served as our past District Governors. Their continued support in the upcoming year is appreciated. The two years I have spent in preparation for my year as District Governor have been the highlight of  my 34 years in Rotary, as over this time I have had the opportunity to meet many Rotarians from all corners of the world.

RI President Gary C.K. Huang’s theme for 2014-2015 is “Light Up Rotary”

President Gary asks all of us to Light Up Rotary by sharing our service, strengthening our clubs, and letting our light shine throughout our communities. “Rotary Days” are opportunities to give our communities a chance to learn more about Rotary and the service that we provide both locally and around the world.

We will also Light Up Rotary and make history by continuing our plan to eradicate polio, which is absolutely realistic within the next few years.
Message from Incoming District Governor Linda Schuyler 2014-06-29 00:00:00Z 0

Happy Canada Day

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July 1st is the perfect time to reflect on how lucky we are to live in Canada. Spend time with your families, explore the Town of St. Marys and participate in the many planned activities in our town.  
Happy Canada Day Linda Schuyler 2014-06-29 00:00:00Z 0

Summer Meetings

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Jun 28, 2014
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Rotarians, remember that our summer meeting schedule starts on July 14, 2014. Please refer to the 'Upcoming Events' for information on the location of each meeting.
Summer Meetings Linda Schuyler 2014-06-29 00:00:00Z 0

Polio This Week as of 28 May 2014

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Polio remains endemic in 3 countries - Afghanistan, Nigeria and Pakistan. Until poliovirus transmission is interrupted in these countries, all countries remain at risk of importation of polio especially in the 'poliovirus importation belt' of countries from West Africa to the Horn of Africa.
 
Polio this week as of 28 May 2014
  • A case of polio due to wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) was reported in the past week from Iraq, the second child to be paralyzed by polio in the country since the beginning of the Middle East outbreak last year. Countries are currently implementing the second phase of the regional outbreak response. A targeted mop-up campaign is currently ongoing in the area where the two cases in Iraq were found.
  • Rotary International’s Annual Convention is set to take place in Sydney from 1-4 June. A major portion of the convention will be devoted to polio eradication, which is Rotary’s top priority. Watch here the Australian ABC TV report on Pakistan’s polio eradication efforts and the heroism of vaccinators there.
      

    Wild Poliovirus (WPV) cases
Total cases
Year-to-date 2014
Year-to-date 2013
Total in 2013 
Globally
84
41
416
- in endemic countries
74
35
160
- in non-endemic countries
10
6
256
  
- See more at: http://www.polioeradication.org/Dataandmonitoring/Poliothisweek.aspx#sthash.z0l4Qg5I.dpuf
Polio This Week as of 28 May 2014 Linda Schuyler 2014-06-01 00:00:00Z 0
28th Annual Scramble Golf Tournament - June 12, 2014 Linda Schuyler 2014-06-01 00:00:00Z 0

Promoting International Convention in Sydney Australia

Posted by Linda Schuyler on May 31, 2014
 
The theme for the month of May each year in the Rotary World is to promote the International Convention. This year the RI Convention will be held in Sydney Australia. For more information, click on the Link (lower left side) for 'Sydney-RI Convention site in 2014'.
 

 
 
                   June 1 - 4, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Promoting International Convention in Sydney Australia Linda Schuyler 2014-06-01 00:00:00Z 0

Leave A Legacy Fund receives much appreciated donations

Posted by Leonard Hawkins on May 20, 2014
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In Memoriam
Finnie: The Rotary Club of St.Marys would like to acknowledge that a donation has been made in Marion Finnie’s name to the Rotary Foundation “ Leave a Legacy Fund” from a dear friend. The “ Leave A Legacy  Fund ” is working on a project to revitalize the area along Trout Creek – named Rotary Park.
 
In Memoriam
McQuirk: The Rotary Club of St.Marys would like to acknowledge that a donation has been made in Peggy McQuirk’s name to the Rotary Foundation “ Leave a Legacy Fund” from a local family. The “ Leave A Legacy  Fund ” is working on a project to revitalize the area along Trout Creek – named Rotary Park.
Leave A Legacy Fund receives much appreciated donations Leonard Hawkins 2014-05-21 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Leadership Institute

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Apr 10, 2014
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Excerpt from the April District Newsletter: A message from DG Don Moore
 
"The more we can share about what we do as Rotarians, the more support we will earn in our communities and the more we will be able to attract new members into our clubs. You have heard it from me before, and you will hear it from DGE Doug. Membership is one of the priorities in Rotary. We need to engage everyone in our clubs. We need to share what Rotary is all about. Please encourage your members, both old and new, to enrol in the Rotary Leadership Institute being offered in May in Sarnia.”
 
Please consider signing up for the Rotary Leadership Institute sessions. It is a great way to learn more about Rotary. Our club supports these programs and will pay for any member who wishes to register for these classes. If you are interested but unable to attend the next course, please let President Pierre Chateauvert know and he can provide you with more information regarding other classes.
Rotary Leadership Institute Linda Schuyler 2014-04-11 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarian Magazine

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Apr 01, 2014
In April, Rotarians celebrate "The Rotarian", our monthly newsletter. In addition, there are over 30 regional magazines which are independently produced and published. Canada has a regional quarterly magazine which was first published in 2009 and currently has a circulation of 33,000.
 
The first issue seen below was published in January 1911.

 
The second issue appeared in July 1911. It contained a ‘President’s Corner,‘ news from the clubs, and more than 20 advertisements. Soon after, the magazine started its monthly publication schedule. (In February 1995, the magazine published its 1,000th issue.) Name change: In 1912, by action of the R. I. Convention, the name of the magazine was changed to The Rotation. Source: PH, President’s Corner, The National Rotarian, July 1911.
 
Did you know that you can browse through back issues of The Rotarian through Google Books? It is easy to do and very interesting.
 
Rotarian Magazine Linda Schuyler 2014-04-02 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Thanks Our Sponsors, Volunteers and Guests

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Mar 31, 2014
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The Rotary Club of St. Marys thanks our corporate sponsors and the following people for making our Rural Urban event a success:
 
 
Waghorn Stephens Sipos & Poulton
 
TD Canada Trust, St. Marys Branch
 
Rev Pirie Mitchell   
 
Frank St. Germain                            
 
Janice's Fine Country Catering  and staff
 
Donors of Live and Silent Auction Items
 
Rotary and Inner Wheel Volunteers
 
Guests
Rotary Thanks Our Sponsors, Volunteers and Guests Linda Schuyler 2014-04-01 00:00:00Z 0

Literacy Month

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Feb 28, 2014
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In the Rotary World, the month of March has been designated as Literacy Month.
 
Stay tuned for upcoming information on our grant application to purchase books for
the St. Marys Public Library and provide a unique way of thanking our guest speakers.
 
Update: Our grant application has been approved. The Collections Officer at the Library is gathering books for the Literacy Committee to review for purchase for the Rotary Collection. She has recently attended a book fest where many new books are released for library selections.

April 30, 2014 District Grant Update-the grant monies have been received, the books have been ordered and we have paid for the books....now we have to be patient and wait for the books to arrive. 
Please read the letter submitted to the District Literacy Chair, Sue Storie by club Literacy Committee
Chair, Linda Schuyler on behalf of our club. It's titled "Literacy in St. Marys is Alive and Well".           
Literacy Month Linda Schuyler 2014-03-01 00:00:00Z 0

Think Canada. Think Water. Myth?

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Feb 28, 2014
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“Think Canada, and you think water. More than two million lakes and one-fifth of the world's fresh water lie within our borders. Now forget all that. The number you need to remember is 6.5 percent. That's the amount of the world's renewable fresh water we have at our disposal (not an awful lot, considering our land mass). The supply is only 2.6 percent in southern Canada. Use more, and we risk gnawing away at our water capital — draining our aquifers and lakes rather than living sustainably and using the water that precipitation replenishes each year. So Canada's water wealth? A myth. That's why it's critical for us to safeguard our waterways, to ensure they're managed well. In the face of climate change, a global water crisis, rising energy demands and urbanization, our water resources don't just become more valuable. They desperately need our help.”      - Canadian Geographic
Think Canada. Think Water. Myth? Linda Schuyler 2014-03-01 00:00:00Z 0

Water, by the numbers

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Feb 28, 2014
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World Water Day is celebrated annually on March 22nd. Organizations, governments and individuals around the world are encouraged to get involved by participating in fun and educational events to raise the profile and understanding of water.
 
 
Water, by the numbers Linda Schuyler 2014-03-01 00:00:00Z 0

Polio Update

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Feb 28, 2014
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Polio this week

The data table below is as of 26 February 2014
  • Seven new cases (six wild poliovirus type 1 - WPV1 - and one circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 - cVDPV2) are reported this week from Federally Administered Tribal Areas and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Pakistan. This area is largely considered the ‘engine’ for polio transmission in the country. See ‘Pakistan’ section below for more information.
      

    Wild Poliovirus (WPV) cases
Total cases
Year-to-date 2014
Year-to-date 2013
Total in 2013 
Globally
24
5
404
- in endemic countries
24
5
160
- in non-endemic countries
0
0
245
 
 
 
Polio Update Linda Schuyler 2014-03-01 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Earns 3.3 Million Charity Miles

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Feb 15, 2014
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Rotary will receive 3.3 million miles from United's 10 Million Charity Miles giveaway, which took place in December. Thanks to your votes, we finished in a close second to Shriners Hospital and received 800,000 more miles than the previous year. The miles will provide 33 international airline tickets for humanitarian programs.
 
For the past several years, United has given at least 25,000 miles to each of its nonprofit partners participating in the promotion. The remaining portion of the 10 million miles is distributed to participating charities based on the percentage of total votes received.
Rotary has been United's partner for many years through the Rotary Miles program, which provides free airfare for hundreds of children and adults in need of lifesaving surgery and other worthy causes.
 
Rotary News
Rotary Earns 3.3 Million Charity Miles Linda Schuyler 2014-02-16 00:00:00Z 0

February is World Understanding Month

Posted by Linda Schuyler
Paul P. Harris
 
 
 
 
Paul P. Harris and three of his
friends founded Rotary in Chicago
on February 23, 1905.
 
 
 
 
 
The month of February is very special in the Rotary calendar since it is designated World Understanding Month. The month also includes the anniversary of the first meeting of Rotary held on February 23, 1905, now designated World Understanding and Peace Day. World Understanding Month is a chance to pause, plan and promote the Fourth Avenue of Service - Rotary's continued quest for goodwill, peace and understanding among people of the world.
 
" The Rotary Way Works! But Rotary has no patent on it, for it is but the Golden Rule in action. Any person, any nation, can apply it by displacing negative hatred and fear with goodwill based upon understanding. Peace among nations is not impossible of attainment;  they can find peace if they will," Paul P. Harris, January 1946.
 
 
February is World Understanding Month Linda Schuyler 2014-02-12 00:00:00Z 0

February is World Understanding Month

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Feb 11, 2014
Paul P. Harris
 
 
 
 
Paul P. Harris and three of his
friends founded Rotary in Chicago
on February 23, 1905.
 
 
 
 
 
The month of February is very special in the Rotary calendar since it is designated World Understanding Month. The month also includes the anniversary of the first meeting of Rotary held on February 23, 1905, now designated World Understanding and Peace Day. World Understanding Month is a chance to pause, plan and promote the Fourth Avenue of Service - Rotary's continued quest for goodwill, peace and understanding among people of the world.
 
" The Rotary Way Works! But Rotary has no patent on it, for it is but the Golden Rule in action. Any person, any nation, can apply it by displacing negative hatred and fear with goodwill based upon understanding. Peace among nations is not impossible of attainment;  they can find peace if they will," Paul P. Harris, January 1946.
 
 
February is World Understanding Month Linda Schuyler 2014-02-12 00:00:00Z 0

Presidential Message- February 2014

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Feb 11, 2014
Presidential message
 
 
Ron D. Burton
President 2013-14
February 2014
 
It was 109 years ago this month that Paul Harris and three of his friends founded the first Rotary club. His goal was simple: to create an oasis of friendship amid a city of strangers, with those who shared his values.

Over time, the philosophy of Rotary developed and matured, and Rotarian ideals expanded to include service, vocational ethics, and international understanding. As Rotary grew and spread, Paul Harris envisioned a world in which conflict would ultimately melt away – a world where personal connections and acceptance of differences would relegate war to history. If people could only come together in a spirit of friendship and tolerance, he felt, they would soon realize how much they had in common.

Paul Harris was fortunate in his lifetime to see the Rotary idea take hold and establish itself in dozens of countries around the world. Every week, in 34,000 communities, his vision lives on in every Rotary club meeting. But nowhere in the world does Paul Harris' vision take life as vividly as it does at our annual Rotary International convention.


 
Presidential Message- February 2014 Linda Schuyler 2014-02-12 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary Display at the St. Marys Library for the month of February Linda Schuyler 2014-01-29 00:00:00Z 0

India Celebrates Three Years Without Polio

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Jan 20, 2014
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(Story by Dan Nixon - Rotary News - 13 Jan 2014)
 
India Celebrates Three Years Without Polio
Throughout India and around the world, Rotary clubs are celebrating a major milestone: India has gone three years without a new case of polio. The last reported case was a two-year-old girl in West Bengal on 13 January 2011.
To mark this historic triumph -- reached after a decades-long battle against polio -- Rotary clubs illuminated landmarks and iconic structures throughout the country with four simple but powerful words, "India is polio free."
The three-year achievement sets the stage for polio-free certification of the entire Southeast Asia region by the World Health Organization. The Indian government also plans to convene a polio summit in February to commemorate this victory in the global effort to eradicate polio.
India Celebrates Three Years Without Polio Linda Schuyler 2014-01-21 00:00:00Z 0

Polio Update - week of January 15, 2014

Posted by Linda Schuyler
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Polio This Week:

The data table below is as of 15 January 2014
  • In Syria, polio vaccination campaigns continue despite challenges. According to preliminary results more than 2 million children were immunized against polio across Syria last week during a third round of vaccination in response to a polio outbreak in the country. For more, please click here.
  • India celebrates three years since its last case of polio, despite once being considered the most challenging place to end the disease. Pending final clearance of December and January laboratory samples, the Regional Certification Commission is expected to certify the South-East Asia Region of the World Health Organization as polio-free in March. For more, please click here.
  • The WHO Executive Board (EB) will meet in Geneva on 20-25 January. Ahead of the EB session, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) published the report: “Poliomyelitis: intensification of the global eradication initiative”. The full report is available in English and French here.
     
Polio Update - week of January 15, 2014 Linda Schuyler 2014-01-19 00:00:00Z 0

Huang encourages members to 'Light Up Rotary'

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Jan 18, 2014

RI President-Elect Gary C.K. Huang chooses 'Light Up Rotary' as the presidential theme for 2014-15.

 
RI President-elect Gary C.K. Huang chose Light Up Rotary as his theme for 2014-15. Huang was inspired by the teachings of Chinese philosopher Confucious who said: "It is better to light a single candle, than to sit and curse the darkness."
Huang encourages members to 'Light Up Rotary' Linda Schuyler 2014-01-19 00:00:00Z 0

Avenues of Service - Zone Photo Contest

Posted on Jan 16, 2014
Martin Ward
Jan 07, 2014

(from Chris Offer, PDG of District 5040, and Zone Photo Contest Grand Poobah)

2014 is starting across Zones 24-32 with a little fun - the first ever Zone 24-32 photo contest. RI Director Bryn Styles has endorsed an Avenues of Service - Zone Photo Contest.

This is an opportunity for the Rotarians across Zone 24-32 to share photos about the Rotary service projects and fellowship events they have held or will hold this Rotary year.

The prizes are simple, boasting rights as the best Rotary photographer in the zone, a certificate and the winning photos in each of the Avenues of Service posted on this website and hopefully district websites. Winners will be announced in mid- April.  So get out your SLR, point and shoot or phone camera and click away.

The most important rule of the contest is “have fun”.

  • The photographer must be a member of a Rotary, Rotaract or Interact club in Zone 24 or Zone 32.
  • Photos submitted must be in JPEG file format with a maximum size of 3 MB and be submitted on or before March 31 2014.
  • Each photographer may submit up to 3 photos that were taken between July 1 2013 and March 31 2014.
  • Each photo will be submit in one of the 5 Avenues of Service that the photo best illustrates.

The Zone 24-32 RPICs (Rotary Public Image Coordinators) will be the contest judges. 

1.       The enter the contest and upload a photo click HERE 

2.       For contest rule and small print click HERE and for the judging criteria click HERE  

Good luck and looking forward to seeing your photos,

 

Avenues of Service - Zone Photo Contest Linda Schuyler 2014-01-17 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Christmas Raffle Draw Winners

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Jan 15, 2014
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The Rotary Club of St. Marys wishes to thank St. Marys and area residents for their support of the club's 2013 Christmas Raffle Draw.
 
We are pleased to announce the winners as follows:
 
Victor Hearn, St. Marys         $500 Groceries
Lucas Graff, St. Marys           $250 Westover - Dinner for 4
Chris Cumming, St. Marys     $250 Gas
Bob Doupe, St. Marys           $250 Groceries
Louise Young, St. Marys        $250 Gas
Pete Francis, London             $250 Groceries
 
We wish you a very Happy New Year.
 
The Rotary Club of St. Marys
Christmas Raffle Draw Committee
Rotary Christmas Raffle Draw Winners Linda Schuyler 2014-01-16 00:00:00Z 0

Additional Pledge from Canadian Government for Polio Eradication Efforts

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Jan 10, 2014
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(from Zone 24 and 32 FaceBook Post by PDG (7080) Doug Vincent on Jan 11/14)
 
Canada has just announced another donation of $20 million to our PolioPlus Initiative. At the conclusion of his visit to Pakistan where he met with vaccinators, doctors and UNICEF staff, Minister of State, Tim Uppal announced Canada's latest contribution to the fight to eradicate polio.
 
Canada is a leading supporter of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative and supports the fights in several critical areas. Today's announcement of $20 million over 3 years will support the PolioPlus initiative in Pakistan.
Additional Pledge from Canadian Government for Polio Eradication Efforts Linda Schuyler 2014-01-11 00:00:00Z 0

Revised Mailing Address

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Dec 27, 2013

The Rotary Club of St. Marys has a new mailing address : 12 - 20 Huron St. N., St Marys, ON  N4X 1C5.    Our meeting place is unchanged - still at 22 St. Andrew St N. St. Marys, ON.

Revised Mailing Address Linda Schuyler 2013-12-28 00:00:00Z 0
Drive 4UR Community -A very successful partnership Ronald Aitken 2013-11-21 00:00:00Z 0

Meet Jakob Allmer - our exchange student from Austria

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Nov 18, 2013

ImageImageImage

Thank you Jakob for sharing your story and pictures with us.

 

A short story about me.

I was born and raised in Vienna. Some of my early childhood I spent on the Canary island La Gomera. My first childhood memories are all from there. This is where my sister was born.

Meet Jakob Allmer - our exchange student from Austria Linda Schuyler 2013-11-19 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Historic St Marys Calendar

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Nov 14, 2013

Once again Rotary has prepared a beautiful calendar with illustrations of historic St. Marys.  Thanks to our generous sponsors these calendars are free.  Pick one up from any Rotarian or  from various merchants in town, including M&M variety store and The Independent.

Rotary Historic St Marys Calendar Linda Schuyler 2013-11-15 00:00:00Z 0

World Polio Day: Making History- October 24, 2013

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Oct 24, 2013
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New Rotary Logo - ENDPOLIONOW_4p          

 

On October 24th, 2013, World Polio Day, Rotary and Northwestern University’s Centre for Global Health hosted a live streamed global status update on the fight to end polio.

 (Watch the 'World Polio Day: Making History' Livestream :  http://ow.ly/pH1ED ) 

The program before a live audience at Northwestern’s John Hughes Auditorium in downtown Chicago, brought together a panel of experts to discuss the progress of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative -- the ambitious public-private partnership spearheaded by Rotary, the World Health Organization, UNICEF and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with additional support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation – and the many ways that members of the general public can help make history by supporting the final push needed to end polio forever.

Speakers included Dr. Bruce Aylward, WHO assistant director-general for polio, emergencies and country collaboration; Dr. Robert Murphy, director of the Center for Global Health at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine; and polio survivor and world-class Paralympian Dennis Ogbe, an ambassador for the United Nations Foundation’s Shot@Life campaign to promote childhood immunizations and Emmy Award-winning actress Archi Panjabi.

          

 

 

World Polio Day: Making History- October 24, 2013 Linda Schuyler 2013-10-25 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary presents 'Rotary Park' and 'Taylor Trail' to the community

Posted by Leonard Hawkins on Aug 20, 2013
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The Rotary Club of St. Marys and the Rotary Club of St. Marys Foundation "Leave A Legacy Fund" partnered with Upper Thames River Conservation Authority and the Town of St. Marys in the Trout Creek Enhancement project. The objectives were to beautify one of the entrances to the town, provide a leisure area for the citizens of St. Marys and visitors to enjoy, and to improve the Trout Creek water habitat.

Rotary presents 'Rotary Park' and 'Taylor Trail' to the community Leonard Hawkins 2013-08-21 00:00:00Z 0

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announce new fundraising agreement with Rotary

Posted by Linda Schuyler on Jun 25, 2013

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WEDNESDAY, JUNE 26, 2013

 

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announces a new fundraising agreement between Rotary International and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

"Jeff Raikes, CEO of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, advises that if the new agreement is fully realized, the value of the new partnership with Rotary is more than US$500 million."

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announce new fundraising agreement with Rotary Linda Schuyler 2013-06-26 00:00:00Z 0
Welcome to our new website! 0

President's Corner-January 2019

Posted by Claire Sherwin
 

“Peace on Earth - Goodwill to men”. So goes the song in the 1939 animated short film narrated by the voice of Mel Blanc (Bugs Bunny and so many more). It’s a theme that is often repeated but never more so than at this holiday season.

 

Peace and Goodwill are themes close to the heart of every Rotarian.

 

A past President of Rotary once said that if every teenager in the world was to participate in the Youth Exchange Program there would be no more wars.  About 9,000 students experienced the program last year, in more than 100 different countries. That does indeed do much to advance Peace and Understanding between Nations but it is not the only contribution to Peace and Goodwill that Rotary makes on an international scale.

 

 

President's Corner-January 2019 Claire Sherwin 0

November is Rotary Foundation Month

  

From The District Governor - November 2017

November is Rotary Foundation Month

During visits to District clubs this year I’ve frequently quoted Rotary International President Ian Riseley when he announced his theme for the year;
“The theme this year is Rotary: Making a Difference – because, after all, that is what we do – every day - in ways large and small, we make a difference in the lives of people throughout the world.”

 

The Rotary Foundation helps us do just that. In large part, we can “make a difference” because of our Foundation – because our Foundation helps Rotary clubs transform our gifts into service projects that change lives both close to home and around the world.

 

Our Foundation, concentrates our projects in at least one of the 6 areas of focus;

    

     

Promoting Peace, Providing Clean Water, Saving Mothers and Children,
Supporting Education, Growing Local Economies, and Fighting Disease.

 

Funding for Our Foundation comes directly from us - individual Rotarians like you and me.
Please join me in supporting The Rotary Foundation - our foundation - and help our clubs make a difference.

 

If you would like to learn more about the Foundation;

November is Rotary Foundation Month 0
2015 District Conference in London May 21-23, 2015 0

Rotary Club of London celebrates 100 years of service

Posted by Martin Ward
 
Celebrating 100 Years of Service:
The Rotary Club of London is preparing for its Celebration of 100 Years of Service Above Self in 2015. Over the next 18 months we will be funding 1 major project of approximately $100,000 plus 10 - $10,000 projects - project details here.
Our Paul Harris Fellow Goal - 100 Paul Harris Fellow recognitions:
On March 21, 2015 we will be holding our Centennial Dinner at the London Convention Centre. RI President Gary Huang will be joining us for this very special occasion. At this dinner we would like to have President Gary present100 Paul Harris Fellow recognitions. Please mark your calendar now!
 
Rotary Club of London celebrates 100 years of service 0