CELEBRATING NON-ROTARIANS COMMITMENT
The Rotary Club of Dundas Valley recently celebrated the commitment of several non-Rotarians for their contributions to the local community. At its Annual Paul Harris dinner, the club granted Paul Harris Fellowships to four very worthy individuals.
Bill Parkes, retired executive director of HARRRP, has worked for over 8 years to provide clean and secure space for members of the local community to set up and run programs – about thirty in total, ranging from potter and painting to an excellent self-run choir.
Alan Hansell has personally managed a large number (600) of volunteers and guests to clean up Cootes Paradise – in an attempt to bring it back to its name, a paradise. His weekly cleanup efforts are complimented by a growing stewardship program. Alan is currently the Executive Director of the Stewards of Cootes Watershed.
Mary Bannatyne is always in the background, working to make things better for the citizenry of Dundas. She helps with St. Mark’s church, the monthly community dinner, Meals on Wheels and projects of the Sunrise Rotary Club.
Isabella O’Brien is one of the top young environmentalists in Canada; her science fair projects, all with a distinct environmental focus, have won international renown. In addition to her dedication to environmental concerns, Isabella has also served as a page in the provincial legislature and is an Ocean Youth Ambassador promoting awareness about ocean acidification. She was the youngest Canadian ever to be a global finalist in the Google Science Fair. Indeed, her bright, young (16 years of age) curious mind and her dedication to project follow-up are commendable qualities.
We congratulate all those who have made contributions to making Dundas a better place to live.
Flanked by District Governor Melisa Schrock and Club Foundation Chair Jessica Brennan are the new Paul Harris Fellows - William Parkes, Mary Bannatyne, Alan Hansell and Isabella O’Brien