As we charge into August and its Rotary theme, Membership and New Club Development, I am thankful to all those club members who have taken the time to pause and check in on their peers who they haven't seen in a while. This simple, personal act forms the basis of strengthening connections between members in your club and is a key factor in retaining members. I am asking all members and clubs to make sure you are creating a sense of belongingness -- especially involving those new Rotarians in your efforts. Becoming a more vibrant club can be intentional and a cornerstone in a member-care program that follows Rotary International guides and information at the Learning Center.
For those who are looking to connect on membership more broadly I want you to know that a few new teammates are welcome to join the District Membership Committee as we support club initiatives that engage the community and onboard new Rotarians. Please reach out to me if you are interested.
Among membership requests, PI President Stephanie Urchick has asked Districts to each add four new clubs. These can be any type of club including a satellite club or a cause-based club. What are your experiences? Do you have an idea for a new club? Is there a community that could develop a club? Let me know.
District 7090 is holding special events in September as part of an End Polio Effort.
If all eradication efforts stopped today, within 10 years, polio could paralyze as many as 200,000 children each year.
As a founding partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, Rotary has helped reduce polio cases by 99.9 percent since our first project to vaccinate children in the Philippines in 1979. Rotary members have contributed more than $2.1 billion, and countless volunteer hours, to protect nearly 3 billion children in 122 countries from this paralyzing disease.
Today, polio remains endemic in Afghanistan and Pakistan. An 11-month-old boy in Gaza has contracted polio.
It's crucial that the eradication initiative continue.
Place: Mutual Riverfront Park, Hamburg St., Buffalo, NY 14201
Registration Fee: $20.00 (covers food and drinks)
Purpose: Raise funds and awareness for the End Polio Campaign
Participants are urged to raise and donate funds to the RI Polio Plus Program.
Prizes will be awarded to participants who raise the largest amount of donations.
All donors will be entered into a drawing for a gift basket prize.
(You do not have to kayak, paddleboard, or engage in any other paddling activity to come and participate; only need to come on out and support your fellow Rotarians as we try to put an end to Polio once and for all!)
On Tuesday, July 23rd Thie Convery of the Rotary Satellite Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise: STamp Out Polio, Thie’s mother Sandra Bouchard, and the Stamp Out Polio club chair Frances Manias attended the “Help Rotary Strike Out Polio” at the $1 Million Baseball Game with the Pittsburgh Pirates playing the St. Louis Cardinals.
Rotary International President, Stephanie A. Urchick, challenged Rotarians to donate US$10,000 or more, with the first 25 PolioPlus supporters getting an invite to her hometown of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to join her and RI General Secretary and CEO John Hewko, in a private suite at the game (graciously donated by Rotarian Bob Brooks).
Other Rotarians joined in to watch Stephanie throw out the opening pitch, while celebrating over a million dollars raised for this initiative.
August is Membership and New Club Development Month.
Spread the word on what Rotary, our District, and your club accomplishes.
Encourage people you know to check out Rotary.
Did you see something interesting in the newsletter? SHARE IT!
You can share the newsletter to friends (including potential Rotarians!) by copyingTHIS LINK and pasting it into an email.
You can post the link to your social media accounts. (The District Newsletter is always available to the public.)
If you come across a particularly inspiring story, you can access the link by to that story by clicking on the story in the index. Copy and paste the website address and send it to/post it.
Speak Up! Let everyone in your social network know that you are a proud member by changing your Twitter and Facebook profile to the I’m a Proud Member
We Are Rotary. Using the hashtag #WeAreRotary, post photos to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn of your club members at work in your community or abroad to show how Rotary makes a positive impact in the world.
Making a difference. Rotary clubs are known for the high-impact service projects they undertake locally and globally. Share stories about your service projects and how they improve lives on the new Service Project Center.
Follow our District 7090 on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn to see what Rotary members around our district are doing to celebrate Membership Month.
You have made the great decision to go to the Rotary International Convention, but how will you get there?
While Calgary is in Canada it is still approximately 3200 km (2600 miles) from Hamilton (According to Google 33 hours of driving.) If you are driving, it is a great way to see the USA or Canada. However, the time it will take to drive both ways, and your costs along the way, are considerations.
If you want to leave the driving to someone else, Greyhound Bus is one way to go. You could stop along the way and see different areas of Canada or the USA. Again, it is very time consuming.
Unfortunately, Calgary does not have a train station. You could train to Edmonton and take alternative transportation from Edmonton (approximately 300 km from Calgary).
The trip from Toronto to Edmonton takes about 2 ½ days, and does not happen daily.
Flying is probably the way many Rotarians will go to Calgary. There are daily flights from Hamilton to Calgary (WestJet and Air Canada). Flight time is about 4 ½ hours. From Buffalo there are flights, though not direct. (Hamilton has a smaller airport, easy to get to and fast in-and-out time.)
Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Fonthill, Maria will be arriving in mid to late August to spend the school year at E.L. Crossley Secondary School.
Her infectious smile reflects her excitement to learn about Canadian culture, traditions, and to become part of our community.
Maria's year here will greatly depend on the warmth and support of our community.
We are urgently seeking 3-4 host families within the Fonthill/Pelham (E.L. Crossley jurisdiction) area who would be willing to open their homes to Maria during her stay.
The Rotary Club of Fonthill will provide comprehensive support, guidelines, and financial assistance to all host families.
If you are interested in hosting Maria or would like more information about this enriching opportunity, please contact Mike Taylor at the Rotary Club of Fonthill. Mike can be reached via email at fonthillrotaryyouthexchange@gmail.com. He is eager to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the process of becoming a host family.
Your participation will not only make a difference in Maria's life but will also contribute to fostering international understanding and friendship within our community.
Let's come together to make Maria's year in Canada an amazing and unforgettable experience!
District 7090 is holding special events in September as part of an End Polio Effort.
If all eradication efforts stopped today, within 10 years, polio could paralyze as many as 200,000 children each year.
As a founding partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, Rotary has helped reduce polio cases by 99.9 percent since our first project to vaccinate children in the Philippines in 1979. Rotary members have contributed more than $2.1 billion, and countless volunteer hours, to protect nearly 3 billion children in 122 countries from this paralyzing disease.
Today, polio remains endemic in Afghanistan and Pakistan. An 11-month-old boy in Gaza has contracted polio.
It's crucial that the eradication initiative continue.
Place: Mutual Riverfront Park, Hamburg St., Buffalo, NY 14201
Registration Fee: $20.00 (covers food and drinks)
Purpose: Raise funds and awareness for the End Polio Campaign
Participants are urged to raise and donate funds to the RI Polio Plus Program.
Prizes will be awarded to participants who raise the largest amount of donations.
All donors will be entered into a drawing for a gift basket prize.
(You do not have to kayak, paddleboard, or engage in any other paddling activity to come and participate; only need to come on out and support your fellow Rotarians as we try to put an end to Polio once and for all!)
We are thrilled to share the success of our recent Chicken BBQ and Garage Sale, held in support of Kevin Guest House. Thanks to our community's incredible generosity, we raised critical funds that will directly benefit this vital resource for patients and families in need of a home away from home. We are delighted to announce that due to the event's success, it will now be an annual tradition!
Our commitment to community service continues with our ongoing Blood Drives in partnership with ConnectLife. These drives are a testament to our dedication to saving lives and supporting our local healthcare system. Your participation is crucial, and we encourage everyone to roll up their sleeves and donate.
Planning is also well underway for our Annual Chili Cook Off. This beloved event brings together our community for a day of fun, friendly competition, and, of course, delicious chili. Stay tuned for more details and ways you can get involved.
We are proud to highlight our scholarship program, through which we awarded a deserving high school student a $1,000 scholarship this year. Investing in the education and future of our youth is a cornerstone of our mission.
On June 27th, the Rotary Club of Buffalo had 22 past presidents attend Brian’s final meeting. They ranged in years-in-office from 1987 to 2023. President Brian Casey is now happy to join the other Past Presidents in this photo (he is under the blue arrow). Under Brian’s leadership, we gained 2 corporate members and 7 individual members, met our Service Fund donation goal, and honored 13 members with a Paul Harris for their generous donation or for going above & beyond for their Service Above Self. We also had 19 members receive perfect attendance tags ranging from 1 year up to 45 years of perfect attendance.
On our members' behalf, we thank Brian for his leadership.
On July 16, Rotarians and guests were treated to an inspiring presentation by Drew Kahn, Distinguished Professor SUNY Buffalo State University, and founder of the Anne Frank Project. This program illustrates the power of stories as vehicles for community building, conflict management, and identity exploration. Inspired by the wisdom of Anne Frank, AFP surfaces, develops, and shares stories as vehicles for community building, conflict management, and identity exploration. Inspired by the wisdom of Anne Frank, AFP surfaces, develops, and shares stories stifled by oppression.
Professor Kahn reminded Rotarians that that we are all wired for stories. He explained that stories increase our awareness of our shared humanity, help us to process the enormity of life, and help to bring order to a chaotic world. A well told story, he remarked “lights up our brain.”
He referenced the Rwanda genocide that took place 30 years ago (Kwibuka), marking the beginning of the genocide against the Tutsis in Rwanda perpetrated by the Hutu extremist-led government. Professor Kahn emphasized that Rwanda’s continued success is based on forgiveness, unity, and love – an example for all countries to emulate. His presentation was particularly meaningful to our members, three of whom have Rwanda as their country of origin. Annually, Professor Kahn takes university students to Rwanda to experience first-hand the amazing success the country has undergone.
$15,440 Raised by the Rotary Satellite Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise: STamp Out Polio
By Thie Convery Past Chair
Frances Manias, 2024-25 chair of our STamp Out Polio club, started her Rotary year with a report on our club’s Pull for Polio fundraiser held on July 1st in the Dundas Driving Park: a powerlifting style, deadlifting event for all levels of experience and all ages - including kids!
There were 34 lifters, ranging in age from 10 to 80, including 3 Rotarians - Jennifer Baxter, Thie Convery and Kanwal Shankardass.
Total dollars raised are $15,440.00 – all toward Rotary International’s End Polio Now campaign!
Meanwhile, if you are wondering why polio has not been eradicated from the globe, even though we’ve had vaccines for almost 70 years, here’s a fabulous educational video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c1yxsYCn8Mw.
This year's Dunnville Canada Day festivities at Central Park were nothing short of outstanding! With the support of Rotary, other service clubs, and dedicated community members, the event, hosted by the Optimist Club, drew in 600 attendees and was a resounding success.
Attendees of all ages enjoyed a picture-perfect day filled with delicious treats like hotdogs, cakes, and ice cream. Our Rotary tent was a hub of activity, featuring kids' crafts, removable tattoos, and free giveaways. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our youth volunteer Paige Eydt for her invaluable contributions.
The event also welcomed our local MPP, Bobby Ann Brady and Mayor Shelley Ann Bentley, who shared warm greetings with the crowd. Live music added to the festive atmosphere, ensuring everyone had a memorable day celebrating Canada Day together.
We are grateful for the opportunity to strengthen community bonds and serve alongside the wonderful people of Dunnville. Here's to many more celebrations to come!
For your enjoyment also included in this edition of our newsletter is an interesting historical tidbit about the Rotary Bell, provided by member Marjorie Ettinger, who has a longstanding connection with the Bonita Springs Florida Rotary Club, that originally ran the article. (Click "Read more..." below)
Ellicottville Rotary Chili Cookoff: Saturday, September 28th
Upstairs at Madigan’s, 36 Washington St # 1, Ellicottville, NY
Want to enter your famous family recipe?
Contact the Ellicottville Rotary through their FB page, email evlrotaryclub@gmail.com, or call John Weismantel at 716-228-7288.
There will be prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, with judging to take place live at the event.
There will be a basket raffle on the premises and, prior to the event, an on-line auction of amazing, some one-of-a-kind items (Springville Country Club, Penn Hills Country Club, Cutco, Buffalo Sabres, local artists, etc.)
For $10, you can taste all the amazing recipes our contestants offer, along with freshly made bread donated by the Ellicottville Bake Shop.
Come join the fun and support the Rotary Club of Ellicottville.
Rotary Club of Ellicottville member Dave Rothrock is hiking for a cause! Combining his passion for long-distance hiking (272 miles), climbing, and environmental conservation, he is raising funds to purchase much-needed safety equipment for the Programme for Belize Rangers who are working hard to save the endangered yellow-headed parrot. Some of the climbing equipment they are trying to send includes harnesses, helmets, ropes, rope bags, spikes, stick ladders, gloves, etc. These Rangers’ safety is at risk. They are using old, borrowed equipment. If enough funds are pledged, they also hope to purchase body cameras, boroscopes, raptor gloves, etc.
Why support this cause? Rotary International is committed to supporting activities that strengthen conservation and protect our natural resources. Habitat destruction and trapping for the pet trade have severely compromised the numbers of the double yellow-headed Amazon parrot in the wild; only a few thousand wild birds remain. They need our help.
Dave began his trek on July27th and plans to finish August 16, walking along the The Long Trail from Canada through Vermont to Massachusetts.
Many volunteer members of the Ellicottville Rotary cooked up our famous hot dogs during the Summer Festival of the Arts.
Shown in photo – clockwise left to right:
President, John Weismantel, Jean Pelletier, Deborah Ryan-Pelletier and Judy Brown.
Many of our community contributions come about by selling one hot dog at a time, as our President reminds us.
Scholarships: The Elicottville Rotary Club was proud to announce the winners of their four $1000 scholarships for the school year 2023-24: Reese Benjamin (BOCES), Layla Kerns, Keelan Finn, and Dalayla Alexander (ECS). Congratulations to these graduates and their families for the culmination of four years of excellence.
Please drive up at your registered time, and volunteers will direct you through the drop-off route where “GreenSheen” representatives will remove the products from your vehicle. Please follow signs and directions for the safety of all!
Do not exit your vehicle!
Spread the word; invite your friends and neighbors to join us at the Paint Recycling Event.
(Free, but donations gratefully accepted.)
Let's come together to make a difference!
Click HERE to Register a time slot to save you time and hassle
Pick up Aug 17: VFW, 2121 Grand Island Blvd, Grand Island, NY
Pre-sale tickets are required for the exclusive BBQ meal, which includes pecan smoked pulled chicken, apple smoked pulled pork, peach BBQ baked beans, corn on the cob, slaw, and a roll and butter.
Priced at $18.00, the last day to order is August 12, 2024. The meal can be picked up or enjoyed at the VFW. Scan the QR Code to visit the ticket site for purchasing meals and selecting your preferred time for pick-up or dine-in.
Neil Gallagher’s team, Too Sauced to Pork, placed 3rd in the world for Ribs competition category at the Memphis World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. Recognized by USA Today as the “Most Prestigious Barbecue Contest,” the Memphis contest is a four-day competition held at Liberty Park in Memphis, TN. “Teams representing the best of barbecue that have been honing their craft for years compete for the title of World Champion and a share of the more than $150,000 in prize money. The Contest features championship pork categories of Ribs, Shoulder, and Whole Hog, as well as the ancillary competitions of Hot Wings, Sauce, and “Anything But Pork.”
Hamburg awards scholarships to Hamburg and Frontier graduates.
The Rotary Club of Hamburg presented scholarship awards to graduating seniors from Hamburg High School and Frontier High School at their July 2 meeting at Uncle Joe’s Diner.
The honorees are shown with Rotary Scholarship Committee Chair Maria Guizzotti.
From left, they are:
Lauren Holstein, of Hamburg High School who will attend SUNY Erie to pursue the Music Therapy Program;
Paige Zilnik, of Frontier High School, who will attend Daemen University in the Physician Assistant Program; and
Allison Castiglia, of Hamburg High School who will attend the University at Buffalo in the Industrial Engineering Program.
West Herr, Bieler Foundation support Rotary Club of Hamburg Farm to Family Program
In partnership with the Scott Bieler Family Foundation, West Herr Cares presented the keys to a 2023 white Chevrolet Silverado pickup work truck to the Rotary Club of Hamburg Foundation on Friday, July 5, at West Herr Ford, 5025 Camp Road in Hamburg. The donation was made to the Rotary Club in support of its Farm to Family vegetable distribution program, which serves thousands of Western New York residents who are challenged by food insecurity throughout the growing season.
The Rotary Club of Hamburg Farm to Family Program currently distributes fresh produce to about 25 nonprofit food pantries, distribution centers and shelters from May through December, giving away 125,500 pounds of free vegetables in 2023. Bieler heard of the program and was intrigued and felt compelled to assist the Rotary Club and local farmers in bringing fresh produce to those in need.
"We are thrilled to support the Rotary Club of Hamburg Foundation's vital Farm to Family Food donation program," said Scott Bieler, president and CEO of West Herr Automotive Group. "By providing this vehicle, we hope to enhance their ability to transport and distribute fresh food to those who need it most in our local community, ensuring that no family goes hungry." The donated vehicle, a former rental with a mileage of 9,000, was a welcome gift to the Farm to Family Program, which requires a dependable vehicle six days a week to drive the produce to far-flung locations.
PHOTO: On hand for the gift transfer of a new Farm to Family pickup truck courtesy of West Herr Cares in partnership with the Scott Bieler Family Foundation to the Rotary Club of Hamburg Foundation were from left: Rotarian Tom Johnston, Scott Bieler, President and CEO of West Herr Automotive Group, Rotarian Eileen Hotho, Brad Hafner, Chairman of West Herr Automotive Group and Rotarians John Nowak and Earl Knauss
ROTARY CLUB OF HAMILTON ANNOUNCES 2024 PAUL HARRIS FELLOWSHIP RECIPIENTS!
The Rotary Club of Hamilton is thrilled to recognize this year’s Paul Harris Fellowship Award recipients!
The Paul Harris Fellowship, named after Rotary’s founder, is one of the highest honors bestowed by Rotary International. It is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the community and embody the spirit of “Service Above Self.”
This prestigious award is a symbol of appreciation and respect, recognizing those who go above and beyond in their commitment to service and excellence
Congratulations to our two Paul Harris Fellowship recipients who received their honour at the Rotary Celebration Event on June 26th, 2024.
What do green alligators, long-necked geese, camels, chimpanzees and unicorns have to do with helping kids keep and improve their literacy skills over the summer? Much more than you think!
For the past 26 years, the Rotary Club of Hamilton has been running the Rotary Summer Literacy Camp, a free program that focuses on literacy, providing kids from JK to Grade 5 with an engaging model of shared and guided reading and writing activities.
Over 200 children each day have the opportunity to attend the free camp-style literacy program for 2 weeks each summer. Each day Rotarians visit the program, welcome the children & parents and then participate in the opening read-aloud.
Children who attend the program maintain and/or improve their literacy skills over the summer where skills can decline. The Rotary Summer Literacy Camp is designed to engage, enrich, educate and excite, creating a truly special learning experience: learning for one and all.
On July 25th, we held a special Books & BBQ event for all the children at the camp.
Delicious food, fun games, and lots of smiles all around. It was a great event!
Thanks to the Rotarians for their hands-on-service of BBQing and serving the hot dogs, chips and drinks. After the BBQ, Rotarians got to see the program in action.
We had our Assistant District Governor Cathi MacDonnell and our 7090 District Governor David Alexander join us for the BBQ lunch and to see the Rotary Summer Literacy Program.
The Rotary Club of Hamilton AM presents "Summer Starry Night," Friday, Aug. 9, at Pier 8 in Hamilton.
This year, our event will shine brightly with the captivating theme inspired by Vincent van Gogh’s The Starry Night.
The star-themed event promises a memorable evening filled with food, drinks, entertainment, prizes and enjoyment.
And we are reaching out to request your support to help make it a resounding success!
Along with encouraging your purchase of tickets (HERE), we are also seeking donated items for our exciting Live and Silent Auctions.
As well, we have designed several sponsorship levels to suit various budgets and preferences.
Please let me know if you would like those details. Thank you for considering our request.
In its 38 years, the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM has worked hard to make a difference in our community and worldwide.
Each year, our fundraising events play a crucial role in supporting our programs and initiatives, which focus on the needs of the North End of Hamilton.
We are excited to announce that all proceeds from this event will go to three important charities: Stac, St. Matthews House and Eva Rothwell Centre.
Summer Starry Night is a highly anticipated gathering that brings together our community supporters, including community leaders, business leaders and passionate supporters like you!
Together, we can illuminate the path toward a brighter future for our community. Our shared commitment to making a positive impact.
Don’t hesitate to contact me to purchase tickets, donate items or for sponsorships. I will guide you every step of the way!
Members & partners enjoyed a wonderful evening hosted by outgoing President Nobert Augustine & his wife Liz at their Estate Vineyard overlooking Lake Ontario.
We were entertained with live music and wonderful food.
The evening was capped off with the “gavel passing” & President’s pin presentation to incoming President Mike Dunne. We look forward to an exciting year ahead.
Troxells Honored By Rotary As International Global Ambassadors
Rotarian David Troxell and his wife Marissa were honored at the Rotary Club of Jamestown’s annual Recognition Dinner for their international global ambassador activities.
The couple have traveled the Far East extensively, where they became involved in a Rotary sponsored school called the Cambodia Academy. Through David’s research, the local couple were able to bring many projects to the Jamestown Club such as planting grass for a recreation field, new white boards for teachers and students, followed by a vision screening, a book drive, installation of a clean water filtration system, new toilets, a freshwater cistern as well as a handwashing area.
Other projects include a Women’s Cooperative Weaving Project in Nepal, clean toilets and handwashing stations at Kaloleini Primary School in Moshi, Tanzania, a health clinic in Karachi, Pakistan, another school project in Addis Ababa, and most recently refurbishing more than 1,000 bicycles for Singapore school students.
The Troxell’s live in Jamestown 6 months of the year and in Thailand the remainder of the year. However they travel to each of these locations to work on the details of the projects in partnership with local Rotary Clubs in those locations.
The projects chosen also focus on our world’s most persistent issues to promote peace, fight disease, provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene, save mothers and children, support education, grow local economies, and protect the environment.
PHOTO: Jamestown Rotary President Ruth Lundin left presented Rotarian David Troxell and his wife Marissa with an award honoring their international global ambassadorial activities on behalf of the club.
Ruth Lundin was honored at the recent Rotary Club of Jamestown annual recognition dinner for her outstanding service to the club for the past year.
President-Elect Marion Beckerink presented Ms. Lundin with her past president pin and thanked her for her leadership. During the past year, the club has gained 12 new members, including the addition of the category of Organizational membership and she led the club to reinforce bylaws to encourage attendance and service by all members.
Lundin has been committed to the environment, diversity/equity and inclusion, good governance, engagement and growth which has yielded the fruits of service the members of the club have provided throughout the year.
Beckerink presented her with an outgoing gift and recognized Lundin’s husband Paul Hedberg for his role as “best supporting husband” with a Bonsai plant as a symbol of his deep, sustaining, and enduring strength over the past year.
Lundin has agreed to accept the role of club treasurer for the coming year.
The Rotary Club of Jamestown celebrated the installation of its new President, Marion Beckerink administered by Past President, John Healy.
Beckerink earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Dickinson College and Juris Doctorate from the Cleveland Marshall College of Law.
She is happily married to retired Southwestern Central High School teacher Rod Beckerink, the man who brought her to Jamestown, and the proud mother of her musician son, Joshua a/k/a Cautious Clay.
Ms. Beckerink then performed her first duty as President of Rotary by installing the organization’s Board of Directors.
Left to right are Marion Beckerink, President; Michelle Jones, Vice President and President-Elect; Irene Dobies, Director; Kenneth Omeruo, Director, Jennifer Harper, Secretary; Emily Cama, Director; Ruth Lundin, Treasurer; John Bauman and Paulette Klein, Directors.
Not present were: Chris Anderson, Melissa Meyers, Max Eimiller, John Felton and Dan Heitzenrater.
Friends and neighbors of Rotary Lewiston/NOTL enjoyed Internationally Famous (at least in Lewiston, NY, USA and Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, Canada) Hot Dogs grilled to perfection at Bella Rose Winery 1243 Ridge Rd Lewiston, NY 14092 on Sunday, July 21, 2024.
There was Free Live music in the vineyard from 2-5pm by REFLECTOR (A Classic & Modern Rock Group).
Almost like the 1969 Summer of Love! (Without the long hair and beads and with better sanitation).
On June 25th our club celebrated our Changeover with a lovely evening and a dinner by the chef from Grand Oak Culinary Market.
The evening was hosted by Rotarian Barb and her hubby George at their home in Vineland. As well as thanking board members from 2023/24 and welcoming new board members for 2024/25 we had two other celebrations with the awarding of a Paul Harris Fellow recognition & welcoming a new member to our club. Congratulations to George Mitges for his Paul Harris Fellow recognition and to Jennifer Toews as our latest new member.
Join us for a ride through Lincoln, the heart of Niagara’s Benchlands!
Saturday, August 24: 8:00 AM -4:00 PM
Serena Dr, Beamsville ON
For our cyclists, this will be a unique experience: natural scenery, vineyards, and rural countryside.
As you ride, discover the wineries, distilleries, craft breweries and vast dining experiences available to you.
Pick your adventure: 100/75/50 km, or a fun wine tour with stops for tastings at various wineries, breweries and distilleries.
This is a charitable cycling fundraiser with proceeds going to the Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre and other Lincoln Rotary Youth Programs.
Rotary strives to celebrate Healthy Communities by developing, and growing the popularity of cycling in our area and the opportunities cyclo-tourism can bring to the local community.
On July 7th, the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls, Ontario, presented student Shredeev Patel with the Dr. Ron Mergl Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $5,000CDN. Mr. Patel’s parents and sister were present as well to see him receive his award, and he spoke about how grateful he was to receive it. Shredeev has just graduated from high school in June of this year, and is heading to Western University to study premed.
Dr. June Mergl, Dr. Ron’s wife, was part of the presentation to Mr. Patel, and felt that this was a wonderful choice, as Shredeev’s resume over his last 4 years in high school clearly demonstrate that he truly exemplified “Service Above Self.” June feels honored that her husband has been recognized in such a manner and knows that Ron would be very thrilled with the scholarship and this year’s recipient.
This tuition scholarship has been presented annually for 3 years by the club via their Foundation branch to honour Dr. Ron Mergl (1958-2020), a 33-year member (and past-President and past AG) of the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls.
The scholarship is presented annually to one Niagara Falls student who is pursuing a full-time university science, agricultural, animal, pre-vet or pre-med program. Applicants should show moderate to high academic achievement and show evidence of "Service Above Self" through giving back in a volunteer role to the local and/or global community.
A little wind and rain didn’t have a chance of dampening the energy for 24 Dragon Boat teams (over 500 paddlers) brought to the Dragon Boat Festival in Waterford, Sunday 23 June 2024. Sponsored once again by the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise(RCNS) and the Cancer Resource Support Program (CSRP), this annual event is a major fundraiser for both organizations. Over 35 volunteers were onsite including Sunrisers, CSRP members, family, friends and students.
On Race Day, the races started at 8:45am and finished up around 5:15pm. A couple of rain delays, a boat snagged on a log and a rescue boat that required rescuing left everyone with a few good stories to tell. Spirits ran high throughout the park with many moving to the great music provided and the cheering as race times and winners were announced. Everyone was kept nourished with the local food vendors onsite and entertained by a live DJ playing music all day long. New to the event this year were formal team pictures taken behind the wooden dragon boat and paddles made by Abel Enterprises.
Following the 2024-2025 activity year, it was time for the Norfolk Sunrisers to enjoy ourselves at the Waterford Legion and to conclude some essential Club business before our summer break. It was planned as a social moment to reflect on that which we have accomplished, to recognize our most recent Paul Harris recipients (see two accompanying stories at our Club website), to induct our new Board Directors for 2024-2025, to offer our thanks and respect to our Outgoing President John Wallace and to welcome in our Incoming Co-Presidents Ross Gowan & Mary Mercato
Go to the 'Read more ...' tab to read more and/or to see selected photos from each of these aims. Click on thislink to see a compilation of all of the photos of this event as kept on Club Runner.
Our thanks go out to our Club Services Chair, Gail Bouw for organizing the evening, to the Waterford Legion for the wonderful meal and facility, and to Lisa Bishop who provided emcee guidance through all of this.
Now, for a short summer break - we look forward to several social get-togethers to keep us going until a very challenging fall schedule of business & fun begins! Let the 'Magic of Rotary' continue.
At a recent Rotary Club of Olean meeting, Theresa Shaffer, retired Reference Librarian from St. Bonaventure and director of the Rotary Foundation for the Olean club, was named Paul Harris Fellow honoree. The Paul Harris Fellow is Rotary International’s highest honor, and the award was presented by Rotary Area Governor and Olean President, Paula Bernstein.
Bernstein noted that in addition to Rotarians, the Paul Harris Fellow recognition has decorated a group of dedicated, compassionate, community-minded individuals, including presidents, philanthropists, heads of state, entrepreneurs, industrialists, teachers, students and business professionals.
“After retiring from St. Bonaventure University Library, I joined the Olean Rotary Club. I’ve enjoyed working on projects with other members to better our community. The Paul Harris award is greatly appreciated since it indicates a commitment to helping meet the needs all over this world” said Shaffer.
“Theresa is an incredible advocate and ambassador for all things Rotary and St. Bonaventure. She is a staunch supporter of the Rotary Foundation and the principles of Rotary. We are fortunate to have someone with Theresa’s talents who is so fiercely devoted to our community,” said Bernstein.
Pictured: Paula Bernstein, Area 15 Governor and Olean Club President, and Theresa Shaffer, Rotary Foundation Director and Rotary Member
The Rotary Club of St. Catharines Lakeshore celebrated 38 years at our last meeting in June.
Chartered in June 1986 by our sponsor, the Rotary Club of St. Catharines, the Club membership still includes four Charter members: Bruce Timms, Dr. Emilio Raimondo and Bob Miller (along with Doug Weeks who was not present at the meeting).
The bell rung to call each meeting to order has the date of September 17, 1986, engraved on it as our actual first official meeting.
This bell was donated by our sister club, the Rotary Club of St. Catharines South.
Photo (L to R): Bruce Timms, Dr. Emilio Raimondo, outgoing President Annette Marchionda and Bob Miller.
Join Us for an In-Person Talk with Abdul Aziz Memon
We are excited to invite you to an in-person talk with Abdul Aziz Memon, Rotary Foundation Trustee, Polio Plus Chairman, and Chairman of TMSG. Mr. Memon will speak at our club meeting on October 8, 2024, at Loft 123 in St. Catharines from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM. He will address the critical issues of malnutrition and polio, providing insights and solutions based on his extensive experience.
Abdul Aziz Memon is a highly respected figure in the Rotary community and beyond. As a Rotary Foundation Trustee and Chairman of both Polio Plus and TMSG, Mr. Memon has been instrumental in leading initiatives that combat malnutrition and eradicate polio. His dedication and leadership have made significant impacts on global health, particularly in vulnerable regions.
Get Your Tickets: Tickets for the event can be ordered via this link. We encourage all members to attend this enlightening session and join us in supporting the fight against malnutrition and polio.
This event is organized by the Rotary Club of St. Catharines South. We look forward to seeing you there and working together to make a difference. - Najeeb Syed
Sangkoo Yun, of the Rotary Club of Sae Hanyang, Seoul, Korea, is the selection of the nominating committee to become Rotary International’s president for 2026-27.
With transplant changes afoot, Rotary members push to end global organ shortages. One kidney donor crisscrosses continents in his SUV to dispel fears about giving
As we charge into August and its Rotary theme, Membership and New Club Development, I am thankful to all those club members who have taken the time to pause and check in on their peers who they haven't seen in a while. This simple, personal act forms the basis of strengthening connections between members in your club and is a key factor in retaining members. I am asking all members and clubs to make sure you are creating a sense of belongingness -- especially involving those new Rotarians in your efforts. Becoming a more vibrant club can be intentional and a cornerstone in a member-care program that follows Rotary International guides and information at the Learning Center.
District 7090 is holding special events in September as part of an End Polio Effort.
Paddle for Polio 2024
5th Annual “Dr. Ron Mergl” Memorial
On Tuesday, July 23rd Thie Convery of the Rotary Satellite Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise: STamp Out Polio, Thie’s mother Sandra Bouchard, and the Stamp Out Polio club chair Frances Manias attended the “Help Rotary Strike Out Polio” at the $1 Million Baseball Game with the Pittsburgh Pirates playing the St. Louis Cardinals.
August is Membership and New Club Development Month.
You have made the great decision to go to the Rotary International Convention, but how will you get there?
Meet Maria! She is eagerly anticipating her year ahead in Canada as this year's incoming grade 11 youth exchange student from Sao Paulo, Brazil.
The Ancaster AM Club had their annual student BBQ, sending Cali Schwiedernoch, home to Germany, and Moira Dunmore off for a year in Australia.
On June 27th, the Rotary Club of Buffalo had 22 past presidents attend Brian’s final meeting. They ranged in years-in-office from 1987 to 2023. President Brian Casey is now happy to join the other Past Presidents in this photo (he is under the blue arrow). Under Brian’s leadership, we gained 2 corporate members and 7 individual members, met our Service Fund donation goal, and honored 13 members with a Paul Harris for their generous donation or for going above & beyond for their Service Above Self. We also had 19 members receive perfect attendance tags ranging from 1 year up to 45 years of perfect attendance. 
On July 16, Rotarians and guests were treated to an inspiring presentation by Drew Kahn, Distinguished Professor SUNY Buffalo State University, and founder of the Anne Frank Project. This program illustrates the power of stories as vehicles for community building, conflict management, and identity exploration. Inspired by the wisdom of Anne Frank, AFP surfaces, develops, and shares stories as vehicles for community building, conflict management, and identity exploration. Inspired by the wisdom of Anne Frank, AFP surfaces, develops, and shares stories stifled by oppression.
The Rotary Club of Buffalo put some muscle and smiles into the annual Sunshine Day at Cradle Beach on July 11.
$15,440 Raised by the Rotary Satellite Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise: STamp Out Polio
This year's Dunnville Canada Day festivities at Central Park were nothing short of outstanding! With the support of Rotary, other service clubs, and dedicated community members, the event, hosted by the Optimist Club, drew in 600 attendees and was a resounding success.
Saturday, September 28th
Ellicottville Rotarian Goes the Extra Mile
Ellicottville Rotary Putting On The Dog:
Paint Recycling Event
Don't miss out on this unique opportunity!
Hamburg awards scholarships to Hamburg and Frontier graduates.
In partnership with the Scott Bieler Family Foundation, West Herr Cares presented the keys to a 2023 white Chevrolet Silverado pickup work truck to the Rotary Club of Hamburg Foundation on Friday, July 5, at West Herr Ford, 5025 Camp Road in Hamburg. The donation was made to the Rotary Club in support of its Farm to Family vegetable distribution program, which serves thousands of Western New York residents who are challenged by food insecurity throughout the growing season.
ROTARY CLUB OF HAMILTON ANNOUNCES 2024 PAUL HARRIS FELLOWSHIP RECIPIENTS!
Thanks to the Rotarians for their hands-on-service of BBQing and serving the hot dogs, chips and drinks. After the BBQ, Rotarians got to see the program in action.
The Rotary Club of Hamilton AM presents "Summer Starry Night," Friday, 
Members & partners enjoyed a wonderful evening hosted by outgoing President Nobert Augustine & his wife Liz at their Estate Vineyard overlooking Lake Ontario.
Troxells Honored By Rotary As International Global Ambassadors
Ruth Lundin was honored at the recent Rotary Club of Jamestown annual recognition dinner for her outstanding service to the club for the past year.
The Rotary Club of Jamestown celebrated the installation of its new President, Marion Beckerink administered by Past President, John Healy.
It was the can't miss event of the weekend.
Join us for a ride through Lincoln, the heart of Niagara’s Benchlands!
The Rotary Club of Lockport has held an on-going pavilion/brick fundraiser for the past 2 years. 
On July 7th, the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls, Ontario, presented student Shredeev Patel with the Dr. Ron Mergl Memorial Scholarship in the amount of $5,000CDN. Mr. Patel’s parents and sister were present as well to see him receive his award, and he spoke about how grateful he was to receive it. Shredeev has just graduated from high school in June of this year, and is heading to Western University to study premed.
A little wind and rain didn’t have a chance of dampening the energy for 24 Dragon Boat teams (over 500 paddlers) brought to the Dragon Boat Festival in Waterford, Sunday 23 June 2024. Sponsored once again by the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise
SAVE THE DATE!
Following the 2024-2025 activity year, it was time for the Norfolk Sunrisers to enjoy ourselves at the Waterford Legion and to conclude some essential Club business before our summer break. It was planned as a social moment to reflect on that which we have accomplished, to recognize our most recent Paul Harris recipients (see two accompanying stories at 
At a recent Rotary Club of Olean meeting, Theresa Shaffer, retired Reference Librarian from St. Bonaventure and director of the Rotary Foundation for the Olean club, was named Paul Harris Fellow honoree. The Paul Harris Fellow is Rotary International’s highest honor, and the award was presented by Rotary Area Governor and Olean President, Paula Bernstein.
The Rotary Club of St. Catharines Lakeshore celebrated 38 years at our last meeting in June.
The Rotary Club of Westfield-Mayville Presents a Backyard BBQ Package Raffle
2024/2025 Football Pool Fundraiser
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