The Rotary Clubs of St. Catharines; St. Catharines South and St. Catharines Lakeshore were pleased to recognize seven local community leaders at their Third Annual Paul Harris Celebration Evening held at Amici’s Banquet and Conference Centre. Six (Marion Markarian; George Soilis; Scott Hill; Stephen Cooper; Mike Burtnik; and Justin Preston) were recognized as Community Paul Harris Fellows (for individuals) and one (Cat’s Caboose) was recognized with a Community Certificate of Appreciation (for organizations) for their meritorious service."Each of these individuals and organizations exemplify Service Above Self and Doing Good in the World, two of the key tenets of the Rotary motto", said Lakeshore Club Public Relations Chair.
"While the number of recipients may change each year, they are always from St. Catharines/Niagara, quietly working to make lives better for everyone who lives here and often around the world.
This recognition is just one small way we can thank them for their efforts."
PHOTO:
Back Row (L to R): Mike Burtnik, Scott Hill, Stephen Cooper, George Soilis
Front Row (L to R): Ashley Rendall, Justin Preston, Marion Markarian
A lifelong educator, volunteer, and community leader, Marion Markarian. served as a teacher and Special Education Consultant with the District School Board of Niagara as well as a driving force at the St. Catharines Rowing Club Youth Rowing School and the Learn to Sail Program at the Dalhousie Yacht Club. Through decades of service, Marion has remained steadfast in her belief that opportunity—especially in sport—should be accessible to all.
George Soilis has participated in the Rotary Ribfest every summer for many years. He and his family give generously of their time and energy, always approaching their work with selflessness, and a warm spirit that enhances the experience for everyone. His Heavenly Dreams Ice Cream Truck has continuously provided no charge ice cream treats to the small army of volunteers. George's warm smile and generous nature has made him one of our most beloved Ribfest vendors.
Cat’s Caboose, and Partner/Manager Scott Hill, take few bows for their substantial community involvement and charitable donations. It's more than just a place to eat, drink and be merry. It's a place of making memories that is tightly woven into the fabric of this community. News columnist Doug Herod once said "One doesn't normally attach historical significance to a bar located in a strip mall, but an exception could be made for Cat's Caboose. In fact, the whole course of St. Catharines' social and cultural development can be traced to this South-end establishment". Ashley Rendall, one of owners, accepted on behalf of the full Cat's Caboose ownership group.
Scott Hill himself is extremely generous and community focused in his spare time, coaching high school football along with participating in a wide range of community involvement and charitable donations.
A dedicated supporter of Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre for more than a decade, Stephen Cooper helping raise over $10,000 each year through his charity hockey team alone. His own company, HBFirst Initiatives, supports local charities and businesses, uplifts youth, and builds meaningful connections across our community. His impact here in Niagara is real, and it’s lasting. He has previously given his time as an Executive Director with Community Crew, and most recently, stepped into the Executive Director role with Comfort Bears.
Mike Burtnik of Burtnik Printing is a lifelong champion of community service in Niagara, quietly supported countless local organizations by providing essential printing services often at reduced or no cost—helping charities share their message and expand their impact. Beyond his business contributions, Mike is deeply involved in community initiatives, including the Niagara Golf Marathon, the Rankin Cancer Run, and the Community Care Holiday Food Drive. Each year, his annual pig roast collects significant food donations for those in need.
Justin Preston is a powerful voice for kindness, inclusion, and hope founding Rise Against Bullying, a global movement that encourages individuals to lead with compassion and embrace their uniqueness. Through school presentations, community events, and social media, Justin has inspired hundreds of thousands with his message be the change you want to see in the world. As a National Ambassador for Kids Help Phone, Justin advocates for accessible mental health support for young people across Canada, drawing from his own experience of reaching out for help when he needed it most.