Rotary 7090 News
Reg Madison, District Governor, May 2018

Dg reg's message

As we get closer to the end of a very successful Rotary year I want to reach out and thank our club presidents, membership chairs and the district membership committee led by Kevin Crosby for reversing our declining membership.  Yes, we are doing very well; at the end of April we posted active membership of 2256, our highest number since May of 2016!  One club I’d like to highlight is the E Club of Social Innovators, who chartered in December. They contributed 57 members, with an outstanding female membership of 46%. Thank you Club President Gordon Crann and Membership Chair Howard Weinstein!  To all those clubs who have seen growth this year, (there are too many to mention) many thanks for Making a Difference!
 
If there is a disappointment for this year it’s the results of club and individual contributions to the Annual Fund – the fund that the district receives 50% of in three years!  At April month-end our result was only $175,000, a far cry from the $300,000 we achieved last year. At this time last year only two clubs had not contributed; this year it’s 10 clubs. You don’t have to be a math genius to recognize the limited amount of funds we’ll have three years from now for district grants, scholarships and the Vocational Training Team. Hopefully clubs and individuals will step up and improve the situation before we are out of time.
 
Now, on to sharing the joys of serving as your district governor.
 
It started with an absolutely phenomenal turnout for our District Council meeting in St. Catharines.  It was so good to be joined by a number of club presidents as well as so many of the district leadership team.  Remember council meetings are open to all and our final meeting of the year is June 2nd at Hyatt Place Hotel in Amherst.  Register on the district's website.
 
The next event was a pleasant journey to the Dundas Valley Sunrise club to assist with a Paul Harris presentation and receive the club’s Annual Fund contribution. This was followed by a lunch meeting of all the Niagara clubs (see photo of presidents and presidents-elect) hosted by President Jeff Thomas of the St. Catharines South club.  The guest speaker’s topic (trees) inspired the cake that is pictured.
 
We enjoyed a wonderful evening at the Lincoln Paul Harris function at 13th Street Winery to pay tribute to two individuals, Andy Fluit and Alice Klamer. It was a gorgeous setting for the event so well hosted by President Sue Foster and Assistant Governor Margaret Andrewes. 
 
Then we were off on a trip to historic Gadawski’s in Niagara Falls, NY for a fun-filled 80th anniversary celebration of the Lewiston, NY Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON club.  Loretta, Karen Oakes and Wolfgang enjoyed great food, great fun and President Ron Danielwicz is a treat with the microphone.
 
Our next stop was the Prince of Wales Hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake for another Paul Harris evening.  President Bill French along with event chair Howard Kudlats are to be commended for their hospitality and the organization of a very classy event at a classy and historic location.  Congratulations to the Paul Harris recipients! 
 
The highlight of the week came with a return to St. Catharines where President Vicky Rudachuk and the St. Catharines club hosted a citizenship luncheon.  What a thrill to participate and meet the 30 some individuals who became Canadian citizens.  It was my first opportunity to participate in a citizenship function and was especially meaningful as my grandfather emigrated to Canada and a homestead in Saskatchewan in March of 1911.
 
The last weekend in April was a busy one. A freak accident with my safety razor caused us to miss the Delhi club’s annual Looney Auction (we’ll try again next year!).  We did host DGE Melisa and her husband John that night, and they attended the Looney Auction. Saturday morning, Melisa, DGND Frank Adamson and I attended Slapshot. That night we all attended  the Brantford Sunrise Fish Fry. Sunday morning I was back at Slapshot for their final segment - talk about energy! It was a thrill to see and hear the commitment from these 100 young leaders.  I wish all Rotarians could experience the qualities and dedication of these students.  My gratitude goes out to chair Rob Nagy and his entire team for a fantastic leadership weekend for these 100 young people.
 
That same weekend RESI member Rosalind Lockyer  and corporate member Joyce Adolwa were honored with global awards in New Delhi, India in front of 8,000 attendees.  Congratulations to Rosalind and Joyce for receiving the prestigious Woman of the Decade for Community Leadership from the Women Economic Forum for their extraordinary work – a fitting honour.  Yes, Rotarians do Make a Difference!  
 
Then it was on to Port Dover (home of the Friday the 13th motorcycle invasion) for an Area 1 four-club meeting hosted by president Hadley Jackson of the Simcoe club.  At this well attended event at the Port Dover Yacht Club, two individuals were surprised with Paul Harris awards.  It was a wonderful gathering with an interesting speaker.  I was joined by DGE Melisa and John and Assistant Governor Lisa Bishop. 
 
The final event was a very different fundraiser by the Hamilton AM club titled Tacos, Tapas and Tequila.  It was great to see many friends once again.  I must say I learned a lot about Tequila and enjoyed all the different things that the committee organized.  Hats off to president Jane Blums and Assistant Governor Marta Stitler.
 
And last but not least by any means was the Club Leadership Training session in downtown Buffalo at Erie Community College.  The first-time location was a great spot for DGE Melisa to shine and encourage us all to Be the Inspiration!  All the verbal feedback I received at lunch and after the event was very positive and kudos go to chair Anne Bermingham and her committee for organizing an outstanding 20 sessions.  Thank you also to the many presenters and the participants for a great day.
 
June will be a very busy month with council on the 2nd, the district changeover on the 16th and convention in Toronto as well as many club functions!  Keep Making a Difference!
 
Reg
 
District Changeover News

LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL

Join my husband John and I for a relaxing afternoon in our hometown of Akron, New York.  We will be celebrating the outstanding accomplishments of District Governor Reg Madison and his fantastic team of hardworking Rotarians.  Tickets are $40US each and can be purchased online at www.rotary7090.org - also see Upcoming Events in this newsletter.  Please register by June 1, 2018.  We look forward to welcoming you to our home and celebrating another great Rotary Year!
District Events
2018 District Conference - Social Event
The Niagara Oast House Brewers
Oct 19, 2018
7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
 
REGISTRATION OPEN - District Conference 2018
Niagara on the Lake Community Centre
Oct 20, 2018
8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
 
Rotaractor Registration for District Conference
Niagara on the Lake Community Centre
Oct 20, 2018
8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
 
Engagement Projects at District Conference
Oct 20, 2018
9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
 
District Council Meeting
Milo's on Main
Nov 17, 2018
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
 
District Council Meeting
Zoom Online Meeting
Jan 12, 2019
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
 
PETS 1 A - Option 1
Zoom Online Meeting
Jan 22, 2019
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
 
PETS 1 A - Option 2
Zoom Online Meeting
Jan 30, 2019
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
 
PETS 1 B - Option 1
Zoom Online Meeting
Feb 05, 2019
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
 
PETS 1 B - Option 2
Zoom Online Meeting
Feb 13, 2019
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
 
District Council Meeting
Best Western Hotel & Conference Center
Apr 06, 2019
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
 
District Council Meeting
Milo's on Main
Jun 15, 2019
 
 

The 2018 Zone 24/32

This year, Everyone is invited to Join us!

Pre-Conference begins 9/18/18

Conference - 9/20 - 21/18

Hotel Bonaventure, Montreal

 
 

Club Events

 
Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise
presents
11th Annual Ride (motorcycle) for Polio
 
When: Saturday, August 25, 2018
Where: Tim Horton's
Queensway East, HWY 3 & 24, Ontario - ride along Lake Erie to Sparta for lunch
Time:  9:00am
Tickets:  $25 CND
Contact: Dave N @ 519.771.8402/davenicolle@gmail.com
or Dave B @ 519.427.8905/dbradshaw@bradshawfuels.com
 
 
Rotary Club of Ellicottville 
presents
Tuscan moon - Gourmet Dinner Party
 
When: Saturday, August 25, 2018
Where: Holiday Valley Cabana Bar & Pool Comple
6557 Holiday Valley Road, Ellicottville, NY
Time:  6:00-11pm (live music at 6:30pm - strictly acoustic)
Tickets:  $65 US (online at website)
 
 
Rotary Club of Albion
presents
6th Annual Car Show
 
When: Saturday, September 8, 2018
Rain date: September 22, 2018
Where: Bullard Park, Rte 31, Albion, NY
Time: 11am to 1pm registration
Cost: $15 US Entry Fee (dash plaques to first 50 registrants)
Show: 1 - 4pm - Free to All
Info: Call 585.703.3159
 
 
Rotary Club of Niagara Falls, ON
presents
It's Annual Lobster Feast
 
When: Friday, September 14, 2018
Where: Club Capri Thorold
Tickets: $85 CND
(all the lobster you can eat plus roast beef dinner)
Info: Email or call Jim Craig at samum905@gmail.com or 905.397.0505
 
Rotary Club of Amherst
presents
Harvest Moon Dinner Dance
 
When: Friday, September 21, 2018
Where: Buffalo Yacht Club
Tickets: $75 US
(auction, dinner & dancing)
Info:  Call Pravin Suchak at 716-868-9150
 
 
Rotary Club of Batavia
announces
It's Back in the Game
with a NYS Complaint Cash Rafffle
 
When: On Sale Now
Drawing:  September 29, 2018
Where: Annual Brew Fest
Batavia Downs Gaming
Batavia, NY
Raffle Tickets:  $100
(999 will be sold)
 
 
Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise
presents
Zombie Outrun
Blood, Sweat, Fears - 5K
 
When: Saturday, October 13, 2018
Where: Waterford, Ontario
Info: Call 226.931.9220 or register online at https://www.facebook.com/thegreatraceforrotary
 
 

District Links

2019 Hamburg Germany - RI International Convention
District 7090 Facebook Page
Rotary International Zone 24 - 32 (fka 22)
Rotary International Videos on You Tube
Rotary Links
Rotary International
RI President Home
Rotary Global Rewards
Joining Rotary
Rotary History
Rotary Foundation
For New Members
Russell Hampton
National Awards Services Inc.
ClubRunner
Club Resources & News
Club Leadership Training 2018

CLT.......VICTORIUS

Just as the Mexican forces celebrated victory over the French troops on May 5th of 1862, attendees at the Cinco de Mayo Club Leadership Training (CLT) walked away feeling victorious, inspired, and energized as they had participated in dynamic workshops including “Show Me the Money;” “New Club Flexibility,” It’s Not a Zoo,” and “Circle the Wagons,” amongst many other empowering and thought provoking sessions. Workshops were hosted by DG Reg Madison, DGE Melisa Schrock, PDG Kevin Crosby and a host of influential business leaders, marketing experts, and dynamic Rotarians.
 
Built in 1901, the majestic and architecturally brilliant former Buffalo Post Office now home to Erie Community College, was the setting for the lively and engaging morning and afternoon events. Each moment from registration, to coffee breaks to a sit down lunch and breakout sessions offered the opportunity for seasoned Rotarians to network with their longtime friends while they welcomed and imparted Rotarian pride and knowledge to dozens of new Rotarians who are ready to make their own clubs and District 7090 shine throughout the upcoming Rotary year.
 
A brand new Rotarain, Nehal Mahran of the Ancaster Evening Club, stated that she was thankful her President, Celine Legret encouraged her to attend the CLT as it offered Nehal a chance to network with professionals from many career paths and discover how, “Rotary all comes together and inspires Clubs to collaborate in the future.”
 
Veteran Rotarians, such as Lorne White from the Rotary Club of Ft. Erie, were eager to be part of the day, once again. This particular longtime Rotarian is a two time past president, has attended multiple CLTs and Lorne staunchly believes that participating in these fun-filled and informational district events helps to keep clubs active.  He happens to be is a great role model not only for his club but for the district by being an active member and devotedly bringing district information and events back to his fellow Rotarians.
 
Boisterous laughs, newfound friendships, and soon to be experts in social media could be found exiting  room 412 after the workshop "Social Media" presented by Paul McAfee and Lisa Mueller was complete. The Cinco de Mayo theme resonated as participants discovered that # hashtagging is not just for millennials, and the power and creativity it holds for even the smallest of clubs is quite useful! Rotary Trivia games, The Rotary Foundation successes and challenges, vocational service ideas, and becoming effective leaders were topics brought back to dozens of clubs and, as at any Rotary event, the tasty food and camaraderie were proportioned in exact measure.
 
Congratulations to all who attended the CLT of 2018; committee members are sure to see you next year and with many of your fellow seasoned and newbie Rotarians! 
Read more...
Vocational Training Team News

AUSTRALIANS ARRIVE MAY 23RD

Our 1st Inbound VTT (Vocational Training Team) to visit District 7090 will be from Australia’s District 9790 and will focus on Fruit Farming aspects.  See attached Bio’s.  They will experience many aspects of production, pest control, water management, geography, as well as explore labor methods, government influences, and marketing avenues.
 
They will tour the US from May 23rd arriving in Buffalo and then touring our upper regions of the District where there are multiple Fruit Farming venues.  They will be staying with Rotarian Host Families in Lockport, Medina, Holley, Clarence, and Westfield. 
 
Starting June 4th, they will tour the CA side of our District with its plentiful Fruit Farming venues. The Hosts will be in Vineland, Beamsville, Brantford and Simcoe.  They will depart on June 16th from Toronto.
 
For the detailed schedule and bios of the team, click here or go to the District website - www.rotary7090.org, in the header menu click on Our Rotary Work, The Rotary Foundation, then Vocational Training Teams.  The schedule and the bios will be in the left-hand menu on the VTT page.   
 
Special thanks go out to the VTT Committee and Coordinators Tom O’Neill (CA) and Janet Walker (US), plus all the participation by the 22 Host Families. 
Read more...
Rotary Zone 24 & 32 Conference

YOU ARE INVITED

 
Hello everyone,
 
First, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for all that you have done or are doing for our organization. Just as our collective humanitarian efforts accomplish more than any of us could individually, it is the collective effort of all of you that allows our organization to operate year in and year out. We appreciate you.
 
Some of you receiving this are long time friends and acquaintances in Rotary. Some are relatively new. Some of you we have not yet had the privilege of working with. Regardless, we need each of you to consider the following: 
 
September 20-22, 2018, we will be holding the first ever Zone 24/32 Conference. Oh wait you say, we've had Rotary Institutes for years. Right you are. So what's the difference? This event is open to ALL Rotarians. Past Officers, incoming officers, current officers, AG's, district Rotarians, club Rotarians. Everyone!

Why you might ask? It is our belief and experience that non governor types get incredibly motivated, energized, and engaged when they can interact and engage with you who are more experienced and have a different knowledge base (possibly higher Rotary IQ) and skill set. We've seen it over and over. So now we're going to get intentional about it. We're eliminating the silos and allowing for and encouraging growth through collaboration.

That will only be successful if YOU are there. It doesn't matter how long ago you were Governor. We want you back. It doesn't matter how long it has been since you've been to a Zone event, we want to celebrate you. We stand on your shoulders. All of us do. Welcome back. Welcome home.

I am simply the Convener. There is an extraordinary team of people planning an outrageously exciting event. This is YOUR event.

So, go to:
https://portal.clubrunner.ca/50077/sitepage/2018-montreal-conference/conference-schedule and see what the program looks like. Register and join us in Montreal.
 
Encourage others from your Governor's Council, District, and Clubs to join you. The early bird discount ends June 1st so act NOW.

We look forward to welcoming you to Montreal....and celebrating you.

Sincerely,
 
Jeffry Cadorette
Incoming Rotary International Director
Read more...
District Conference 2018 News

ONE DAY - on its way

The 2018 District Conference was launched by DGE Melisa Shrock on May 5, 2018 at Club Leadership Training.  District Conference 2018 - ROTARY RESET, will be a fun ONE DAY District Conference held on Saturday October 20, 2018, at the low cost of $100, including dynamic speakers, engagements projects focusing on water & sanitation, polio eradication and awareness, literacy and more....all encouraging you to, Be The Inspiration in 2018-19. The main conference runs 8:30 am -4:30 pm and includes fun food experiences for breakfast, lunch & coffee breaks.  
 
ROTARY RESET is to be held at the Niagara-on-The-Lake Community Centre easily accessible to the historic old town, local craft stores, world class theatre, breweries and wineries that make Niagara-on-the-Lake a destination of choice for weekend getaways. Come for the day or add on a night or two as you choose at local Bed & Breakfast,  Hotel or motel, for a getaway and more Rotary fellowship. 
 
Come for one day or stay the weekend! Extra opportunities you may want to add on are (to be added on website soon), Friday Evening at the wonderful Oast Brewery in their, Hayloft Room, for a relaxed evening of music and fellowship for those arriving the night before. On Saturday evening, more fun with a meet & greet social, onsite dinner and “Shark Tank Event” whereby Rotaractors compete for funding for their charity projects and yes, the sharks are past district governors putting them through their paces. 
 
Registration is OPEN online on District 7090 ClubRunner or http://www.districtconference7090.org/
 
Register now and bring Rotaractors, prospective Rotarians and family. 
Read more...
Niagara Falls, ON News

ROW..ROW..ROW YOUR BOAT

This month, the Niagara Falls Rotary Club Foundation donated $10,000 to purchase a rowing (sculling) boat for the Niagara Falls Rowing Club. The Niagara Falls Rowing Club is a non-profit community organization.  The boat will also be used to teach youth how to row and to enhance the Rowing Club’s ability to offer more programming to youth and young children within our community.
 
The boat honours 2 very special Rotarians and has their names on it - George Dalby and Jack Collinson.  The club is planning a "boat christening" in a few weeks.
Read more...
St. Catharines News

NOT RETIREMENT

Ellis Katsof, a member of the Rotary Club of St. Catharines, has been sharing the finding from his new book, “Life 3.0: Protirement NOT Retirement" at local Rotary clubs.  He will now be speaking at the Rotary Convention in Toronto this June.
 
Life 3.0: Protirement Not Retirement
Tuesday, 26-Jun-2018, 15:00-16:00, Room 718B
You are invited to explore “protirement” through the eyes of 100 baby boomers — men and women who reached the next chapter of their lives and wondered, “What’s next?” This session will provide you with advice from people who’ve already begun the third chapter of their lives, thriving in 17 different “protirement activities.” Learn how your Rotary world fits into this exciting protirement lifestyle.
 
Workshop Description:
People are living 20 or more years after they retire’ as a result, Boomers have reinvented the retirement concept; retirement is no longer a destination for Boomers. Few people develop thoughtful retirement “lifestyle plans” before they retire. Research has shown that developing lifestyle plans, along with financial plans, BEFORE retirement, results in a more fulfilled retirement/protirement and a more comprehensive financial plan.
 
Based on advice from 100 retired people, from all walks of life, including many Rotarians, this Workshop will teach participants how to use a simple “Protirement Lifestyle Planning Framework”. Participants will learn why it is important to make lifestyle changes while still working, to enhance their Protirement.
 
Read more...
Member Recruitment News

UP UP UP tO 106

District 7090’s membership has continued to grow over the last month with the result that it has increased by 106 members since July 1, 2017 to reach 2,230 members as of May 14, 2018.
 
Over the last two months, District 7090’s membership has grown by 28, which is second in Zone 24 only to District 5060, which is the largest district in Zone 24 and has grown by 29 to 2,735.
 
District 7090’s membership growth so far this Rotary year has come from an increase of 54 members in our 67 previously existing Rotary Clubs and 52 new members in our new Rotary E-Club of Social Innovators (RESI).
 
Our membership growth during the last two months has further solidified District 7090’s position as the largest Rotary District in Zone 24 East by widening our lead over District 7070, that includes the City of Toronto, York Region and Durham Region, which has added 14 members to now sit at 2025 members as of May 14, 2018.
 
Within all of Zone 24, District 5050 (parts of B.C. & Washington State) with 2,592 members as of May 14, 2018 has grown by 14 members over the last two months; while District 5370 (parts of Alberta, B.C., Saskatchewan & Northwest Territories) with 2,114 members as of May 14, 2018 has grown by 10 members over the same period.
Read more...
Hamburg News

PLUS TWO

The Rotary Club of Hamburg inducted Mark Kurzberg April 17, 2018.   Rotary President Jerry Bastedo, right, conducted the ceremonies welcoming Kurzberg who relocated from his native Massachusetts recently to join Key Bank.
 
The Rotary Club of Hamburg has also welcomed into its ranks Dr. Richard Hughes, who transferred his membership from the Mohawk Valley Rotary Club to Hamburg. Dr. Hughes joined the local club after becoming superintendent of the Frontier Central School District and relocating from the Adirondacks area of New York State. Rotary President Jerry Bastedo, right, is shown with Dr. Hughes. 
Read more...
Ellicottville News

vOICE STILL BEING HEARD

The Rotary Club of Ellicottville has donated a bench in the Ellicottville Memorial Library to honor their great friend Bob McCarthy.  Bob was always strong supporter of the library and was involved in establishing the Rotary Tree project in the library.  So when the library decided to add benches (created by Bart Frank) around the tree in the entrance to the library, the club felt it was fitting to honor Bob with his own bench.
 
If you don’t know - the tree sponsored by 25 members of the Royal Oak Society was designed and made by the late Simon Griffis.  As part of the funding every year a class from ECS spends a day at Essex Arts Center in Buffalo designing and creating leaves for the tree.  Bob’s bench also is adjacent to a Brian Naber stone sculpture of Bob and donated to the library by Jane & Paul Hilbert.  You will find creations by Bob throughout the library which had a special place in his heart.
 
Bob McCarthy was known as the “Voice of Ellicottville” and is sorely missed by many in our town.  In early December, the Rotary Club of Ellicottville holds “Bob McCarthy’s Irish Christmas” to support his favorite cause, Santa’s Workshop.
 
If you are down Ellicottville way, please take some time to visit the library and tip your hat to Bob.  You may hear a little blarney if you listen hard enough.
Read more...
Fonthill News

memory TREES

On April 23, members of the Rotary Club of Fonthill joined current and former staff, along with students and community members for a special tree planting at E.L. Crossley Secondary School in Fonthill.  Members of the school’s Interact Club and teaching staff spent time honouring the memory of Sharon Keller, a special science teacher who passed away suddenly last fall. A teacher at the school since the beginning of her career in the mid-1980s, Ms. Keller, as she was known to her students, was much more than an amazing educator; she was an environmental leader and tireless promoter of all things science and technology. In her honour, the club donated a tulip tree, which has been planted on the west side of the school property. 
 
During the sunny Monday event, the club also donated several maple trees to the school, which the Interact Club will help plant in various places around the school property.

The tree planting was done in time for Earth Day activities, but also to fulfill the request of Rotary International President Ian Risely, who asked that 1.2 million trees be planted in 2018 around the world. This represents one tree for every Rotarian.
Read more...
Rotaract News

HOW YOU can HELP ROTARy/ROTARACT GROW

Rotaract Recruitment

Rotaract Clubs in District 7090 are growing, and filled with young adults excited to engage in service at home and abroad! Our clubs need referrals from Rotarians to help continue this growth. Every Rotarian knows a handful of young adults (ages 18-30) in their family, at work, and in their communities. Imagine how District 7090’s membership would grow if every member referred one Rotaractor! If you know of a civic-minded young adult interested in joining the Rotary family, please directly contact one of these Rotaract Clubs or send potential membership referrals to Rotaract Co Chair, Larry Coon at loreenzocoon@yahoo.com or call 716-870-9721.
 

Rotary International Convention and Rotaract PreConvention

The District 7090 Youth Services would like to thank all of the Rotary clubs who are directly or collectively sponsoring Rotaractors to attend the RI Convention in Toronto. Over 25 Rotaractors from our district are registered for either the Preconvention or the Convention, and that number is still growing! This is an amazing opportunity for our Rotaractors to meet others from around the world to encourage fellowship and collaboration between our clubs and districts! It's not too late for Rotaract members, or PROSPECTIVE Rotaract members to register to participate in the Convention, scheduled for Friday and Saturday, June 22-23rd.  District Rotaract Representative, Matthew Falcone (mfalcone@buffalo.edu) can assist with registration, or reasonably priced accommodations at the University of Toronto, where many Rotaractors will be staying for the Convention.
 
Suggested arrival is the evening of Thursday, June 21 to avoid Friday morning traffic and to be ready to hit the ground running Friday morning at the Pre Convention. Some Rotaractors are also attending the Rotary portion of the Convention Sunday to Wednesday, June 24-27. These young adults are poised to experience Rotary in a way that will have a fantastic, lasting impact! Don't miss out on a chance for our Rotary Family members to have an experience of a lifetime!
Read more...
Lewiston - NOTL News

80 years strong

The Rotary Club of Lewiston, NY & Niagara-On-The-Lake , ON celebrated the 80th Anniversary of its' Chartering by successfully sponsoring its 4th annual "Pints & Polish Platter" Autism fundraiser at historic Gadawski's Restaurant on April 21, 2018. Over 100 attendees enjoyed fine Polish cuisine, micro-brew and Polka music while helping to support the Autism Spectrum Disorder Center at Oishei Children's Hospital . 
 
The club was grateful that District Governor Reg & Loretta, PDG Karen Oakes & Wolfe, PDG Dick Earne and friends from Niagara Falls, NY and Grand Island, NY Rotary clubs honored this historic milestone in the life of the club by attending.
 
Pictured are Rotary President, Ron Danielewicz, presenting Center Coordinator, Jana Mertz, with a $1500.00 donation. 
Read more...
Batavia News

WHERE'S THE BEEF?

Batavia Rotary hosted its second annual “Meat Raffle”.  It was held on April 21, 2018, at the Sacred Heart Social Center.  The Meat Raffle started last year as a way to replace our annual car raffle. It has been a huge success both years.  The event was sold out this year with 371 participants. This event is “tailgate style” where we encourage people to bring whatever snacks and food they would like for a great night of fun!   Participants bought chances to win packages of meat, from hamburger to bacon and steaks to shrimp.  There were also side raffles for chances to win prizes which included A Wheelbarrow of Booze (what goes better with Meat?), A Grill, Lottery Tree, A Yearly Membership to the YMCA and more!  The club is already looking forward to next year.
Read more...
Norfolk Sunrise News

50 in 90

The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise "RCNS" planted 50 trees in 90 minutes along the Norfolk Sunrise Trail beside the Lions Park in Simcoe, ON.  The Norfolk Environmental Stewardship Team (NEST) helped.  Pictured is the team of RCNS and NEST.  RCNS members Jim Peters and Andy Kooistra are absent from the photo but were critical members of the crew; it was Andy that ran the skid steer with auger to drill the holes.  The Rotarians were quite proud of their cool new yellow #RotaryNorfolkSunrise #RotaryatWork shirts. 
Read more...
Paul Harris Society News

DOING GOOD MOTIVATES

Clarence Rotarian Dominic Cortese  (left) is presented with his PH+3 pin as he is welcomed into the Paul Harris Society by District 7090 Paul Harris Society Coordinator Jim Morabito, also of Clarence.  Dominic becomes the 5th member of the club to join the Paul Harris Society, which signifies a significant annual contribution to The Rotary Foundation.  More and more Rotarians are embracing the top-rated foundation as they become aware of all the good provided by The Rotary Foundation worldwide.  And consequently, they are naturally drawn to the prospect of doing more by virtue of society membership.  Are you next?  Contact Vincent J. (Jim) Morabito at the Rotary Club of Clarence, NY to learn more.
Read more...
McMaster Rotaract News
 

EDUCATIONAL IMPACTS

On March 23, 2018, Rotaractors from McMaster Rotaract Club travelled to Hess Street Elementary School in Hamilton to facilitate an Arts & Music Session for their after-school program. The children, from grades two to eight, were delighted by workshops on ukulele playing, origami folding, and bracelet making. Furthermore, they were introduced to the various causes of Rotary International and ways of getting involved. McMaster Rotaract Club is looking forward to more collaborations with local schools. For more information about this project, or interest in joining or collaborating with McMaster Rotaract Club, please email rotaractatmac@gmail.com, call 416-558-7188 or contact us on the "McMaster Rotaract Club" Facebook page.
Read more...
Brantford News

snoezelen - a soothing room

The Rotary Club of Brantford donated $2,000.00 to Grandview Elementary School for fundraising efforts put on by faculty.  The Autism Classroom teacher, Kat Trinder, is fundraising for the creation of a Snoezelen room in the school to promote positive mental health among all of the students and staff members.  The Snoezelen room is a multi-sensory environment that is comprised of soothing lights and sounds, cultivating aromas, comfortable seating, and gentle movements to encourage the user to meet their sensory needs and find their focus when they are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or upset.  They’re fundraising goal is $30,000 and with this donation they’re currently at $8,000 raised.
Read more...
Niagara Area Clubs

12 clubs come together

12 Niagara Area Rotary clubs had the annual joint club luncheon on April 18th at Club Roma in St. Catharines.  Hosted by the Rotary Club of St. Catharines South, we had 115 Rotarians come together for fellowship, to see a slide show reflecting the various service projects of each club and to hear a great guest speaker, Ellen Schwartzel, Deputy Commissioner  from the Commissioner’s Office of the Environment.  The theme of the meeting was Earth Day and the luncheon was held just before world Earth Day.  One of the highlights was a special video message from RI President Ian Riseley.  We also raised $413 for Polio Plus from the generous cash donations at each table.  Attached is a picture of the 12 club presidents or club representatives.
 
Read more...
Niagara Falls, NY News

SCHOLARSHIP AWARDED

On Thursday, April 20, 2018, the Niagara Falls Education Foundation, Inc. held its 8th Annual Scholarship and Alumni Recognition dinner supporting Niagara Falls City School District Students.  The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls, NY, participated as one of the scholarship sponsors for the first time.  The club is hoping to make this event a constant as Basic Education and Literacy is one of the Six Areas of Focus of Rotary International.   Niagara Falls, NY Rotarian Judie Glaser presented the club's scholarship award to Ms. Ariana Sanders.  Judie is the club’s Public Relations Chair and also the Public Relations Director at the Niagara Falls School District.
 
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Buffalo News

so what do you do?

The Rotary Club of Buffalo Vocational Services Committee held it’s 14th Annual Trade Show at Templeton Landing. With over 40 different businesses participating, the event was very well attended by the public and Rotarians. Vocational Services provided free food and drink for everyone.
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Holley News

SWISS CAKE ANYONE?

Our Swiss inbound exchange student, Lara Braun, recently shared her experiences with Holley Rotarians and their partners.  After the meal, Rotarians were treated to a special Swiss cake baked by Lara. There was one cake left, which was auctioned off for the Rotary Foundation. It raised $100.  Pictured left is the Holley Rotary family with Lara’s host families.  Pictured, right is Lara and Rotarian Dave Mitchell who successfully bid on the remaining cake. 
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YouNGER AT hOLLEY

Holley recently inducted its youngest member, 19 year old Jessica Mandigo. Jessica was a SLAPSHOT participant two years ago. Upon returning to her high school Jessica provided the leadership for forming an Interact Club at Holley High School. She served as its first President and oversaw its growth from 15 members to 39 members. Jessica is now attending a local community college while also working in retail. After expressing an interest to Rotarian John Heise about being part of a community service organization, Jessica was invited to join the Holley Rotary Club.
 
In the photo, Holley Club President Brian McKeon welcomes Jessica to the club with her name badge and a club golf shirt.
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Hamilton AM News

TEQUILA..TAPAS..TANGO

The Hamilton AM Club celebrated Cinco de Mayo in style.   Our second annual spring fundraiser featured great fellowship for a great cause; programs for children and youth in Hamilton's north end.   Tapas included home made Pico de Gallo and Guacamole. Decorations were sent straight from Mexico for an authentic touch, and the highlight of the evening was Tequila tasting, brands that most of us have never seen, all imported personally (by Rotarians) from Mexico.  A highlight of the evening (to accompany the Tequila tasting) was the Mexican Lotaria (Bingo), played with picture cards and kidney beans.   Everyone was a winner, with prizes handed out and $1,000 raised just from the Lotaria!    The proceeds for the evening should top $15,000, including sponsorships, ticket proceeds, and the rare Tequila auction.   Everyone who attended was given a lovely gift tequila glass to take home. 
 
The event also builds on our club's partnership with the Rotary Club of Valladolid, Yucutan, where the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM has helped fund drinking fountains in the community of Tamuy.
 
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HEADING TO CROATIA

Once again, the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM is delighted to participate in the Rotary Youth Exchange program.   At a recent meeting outbound student Skye Balice, pictured, was a guest and told us about her preparation for the year ahead in Zagreb, Croatia.  She has been learning about youth exchange and participating in district events, but now has the contact information for her first host family so the anticipation is growing.   Skye has a special interest in mental health issues and is looking forward to learning about the difference between Canada and Croatia in provision of programs.
 
The club is looking forward to hosting our incoming student Simona Schumacher from Switzerland.
 
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Lincoln News

IT's BIKE TIME

On Tuesday April 17, 2018, at Twenty Valley Public School, a very successful Bike Safety Rodeo was held. The Rotary Club of Lincoln, in partnership with Heart Niagara, put on the safety rodeo for grades 5 & 6 students. Community partners included Public Health, School Boards, School Board's Transportation Consortium, Active Transportation groups and Municipalities. Funding is from the Government of Ontario and the Rotary Club of Lincoln.
 
Certified CAN-BIKE instructors ( Canada's leading cycling education program) taught cycling safety, such as hand signals, required safety gear, bicycle/helmet fit, bike safety, traffic safety and rules of the road. Bike mechanic volunteers Rotarian Michael Hahn and community volunteer Jarret Gnys from Mountainview Cycling did a thorough inspection of the kids bikes and did minor repairs such as brake adjustment inflating tires, brake line replacement and installation of bells if the bike did not have one. Thank you David Fisk official pump mechanic insuring all tires inflated to required specifications and Valerie Pitt the official bell installer for the rodeo.  Rotarians Martha Kralt, Barb Mitges, Sue Foster and community partner Christine Hahn helped with the instruction and provision of snacks for the participants.
 
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AND THEN THERE WERE 8

Michael Hahn Membership chair inducted David Fisk and Phil Goodwin into the Rotary Club of Lincoln at its morning meeting on May 8, 2018, with President Sue Foster doing the pinning.
 
David Fisk (pictured left) is a twenty-year Rotary veteran from Guelph/Wellington Rotary Club, who moved to the area.  He checked out the club's website when looking for a club to become involved again.  After an invitation to a meeting and joining some of the club's social activities, he decided the Rotary Club of Lincoln was the club for him on his Rotary journey. 
 
Phil Goodwin (pictured right) also recently moved into the area and friend, Barb Mitges, one of our Lincoln Rotarians invited him to a meeting.  After a Fireside Chat and joining us in some social events,  Phil decided to join Rotary. 
 
According to President Sue, "Both David and Phil have jumped in with both feet and become involved with fundraising and programs.  We are confident both are great additions to our Rotary family". 
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Hamilton News

a booK for every child

The Rotary Club of Hamilton’s commitment to literacy continues as the Rotary year nears an end. On June 12, 2018, Hamilton Rotarians will hold their annual Books, Books, Books Program making sure every child has a book at home.
 
The Books, Books Books program offers children the opportunity to select a book  encouraging them to read at home. Every child will receive a book at Cathy Wever School as part of this program. Over 750 students will enjoy the gift of literacy. This Rotary year, the Rotary Club of Hamilton in partnership with the Hamilton Public Library and FBC have given out over 3,200 books. The Books, Books Books program was started 2 years ago as part of the club’s literacy initiatives which include the Rotary Summer Literacy Program.  “It is a wonderful day, as you see the excitement of the faces of children when they get their book,” said President Elect Heather Moroz.
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PAST PRESIDENTS CELEBRATED

The Rotary Club of Hamilton held its annual Past Presidents' Day on May 10th. The Past Presidents' Day is an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate those who have led our Rotary Club.
 
For the past 105 years, the Hamilton club has brought together business and professional leaders in the name of Rotary.  As Hamilton’s oldest and original Rotary club, we are honoured to have many great leaders serve as president.
 
There were 18 past club presidents in attendance this year.  Our past presidents have demonstrated Rotary’s motto “Service Above Self”. Each past president was provided a special plant, to enjoy and be reminded about the seeds they planted and to enjoy and what the growth and bloom.
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RESI News

GLOBAL HONOURS

Rotary E-Club of Social Innovators (RESI) Member Rosalind Lockyer, pictured on left, (from Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada) and RESI Corporate Partner CARE USA’s Director of Global Education Programming Joyce Adolwa (from Atlanta, Georgia, USA) both received the global Woman of the Decade for Community Leadership Award before 2,000 people attending the Women Economic Forum in New Delhi, India on Saturday, April 28, 2018.
 
The following are links to news articles from the Canadian and Northern Ontario press about RESI Member Rosalind Lockyer being honored with this prestigious award:
Ontario Ministry of Economic Development & Growth’s Office of Social Enterprise has called Rosalind: “one of the most remarkable social entrepreneurs in the world”, see: www.wef.org.in/rosalind-lockyer/.
Rosalind shared the stage with 8 other remarkable women from around the world, including Joyce Adolwa (Director, Global Education Programming at RESI Corporate Partner CARE USA), see: www.wef.org.in/joyce-adolwa/.
 
On May 7, 2018, RESI Member Howard Weinstein (from Sao Paolo, Brazil) was notified by the Global Social Benefit Institute (GSBI) at Santa Clara University’s Miller Center for Social Entrepreneurship in California’s Silicon Valley that he had been chosen to participate in GSBI’s 2018 TECh Accelerator Program consisting of the following parts: (continued)
 
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OVERCOMING POVERTY

 
The Ultra-Poor make up over half of the estimated 797 million people living in extreme poverty. As Nelson Mandela observed, “Overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is an act of justice. It is the protection of a fundamental human right; the right to dignity and a decent life. While poverty persists, there is no true freedom.” In 2015, 193 countries, together with the World Bank and the United Nations (UN), jointly declared an intention to achieve one of the most ambitious goals in human history: “By 2030, nobody will live in extreme poverty, anywhere in the world.”
 
What is required now is a shared, multi-sector commitment to immediately direct the resources and enact the policies required to do so.
 
On Thursday, June 28, 2018, immediately following the Toronto Rotary International Convention, District 7090’s Rotary E-Club of Social Innovators (RESI) will host - at the Westin Harbour Castle Toronto Hotel, 1 Harbour Square, Toronto, Ontario M5J 1A6 - an Ending Ultra-Poverty Summit.  For more information on the summit and tall ships event please click here.
 
 
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St. Catharines Lakeshore News

BREAKING THE POVERTY CYCLE

Yolanda Henry, an invested volunteer with the Tabitha Foundation, shared its goals and accomplishments of "Building Dreams for Cambodia's Poor" at a recent Rotary Club of St. Catharines Lakeshore meeting.
 
The Savings Program is the cornerstone of Tabitha's work. It encourages families to save their money in order to break the cycle of poverty. How it works is families achieve 4 to 6 dream items each year, ranging from basic necessities like a cooking pot, a sleeping mat, a bicycle and/or a child's education. Tabitha's relationship with a family will last for approx 5 to 7 years. This is long enough to allow families to break the cycle of poverty and graduate to complete financial independence.
 
Besides the Savings Program, the Foundation's team of volunteers builds homes, wells, schools and is currently invested in the building of a hospital to serve the health needs of women.
 
Tabitha Foundation is a registered Canadian charity. 2% of all funds raised in Canada are used for Canadian Administration. For more information go to www.tabitha.ca
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Youth worker recognized

The Rotary Club of St. Catharines Lakeshore recently recognized Dr. Al Scales with a Paul Harris Fellow.  Al is the club's Youth Services Chair and liaison officer with 4 local high schools. He is involved in coordinating candidates to Slapshot and RYLA and ensures the club’s presence at all convocation ceremonies.

 
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