Rotary International D7090 District Governor 2023-24
“Happy New Year!” District 7090. Although it’s officially the New Year throughout the globe, it is officially the half way post for our Rotary year. That means that I am officially half way through my time as District Governor for Rotary International District 7090. I am not sure I am excited about that prospect, or if I am sad that the ride is already 50% done.
Based on my experiences so far, I would consider my feelings to be the latter. There is no doubt that the being a District Governor has been mostly a non-stop rollercoaster ride. And that Christmas break could not have come at a better time to recharge the batteries and reconnect with my family (who has been so gracious to grant me the time and space to do this role). But if we are weighing the scales on this matter, being District Governor has been such an unbelievable experience, on so many levels, that really there is no contest.
Seriously, in what other position could a person be flipping pancakes one morning, slinging beers on another day, dancing salsa at 7:30 in the morning, providing house tours to a historic home, handing out Paul Harris awards, inducting new members, serving lunch and breakfast to elementary students, filling food pantries, participating in a trivia night fundraiser, golfing with Rotarians from around the district and world, helping out at a Rib Fest, honoring a 60 year Rotarian, and giving speeches about “Creating Hope in the World”. And all the while, being welcomed by the most gracious of hosts, who introduced me to so many wonderful Rotarians, sometimes welcoming me into their homes, sharing meals, conversations, and our passion for Rotary. And the best part, is that I am only half way through. There are more clubs to visit, fundraisers to attend, community service projects to participate in, more Rotarians to meet. There is still so much left to do, and the time is ticking.
And as I view my Rotary Half Year, where much has been done, but there is much to do, it is not much different for each of our clubs. I know of so many great things that clubs have done in their communities, but know that there is still so much left to accomplish. So take stock of what you need to do to meet this year’s goals, whether it’s a project, fundraiser, foundation goal, membership goal, or international grant. There is still plenty of time to meet those goals, and in the process, create the lasting impacts in our communities that we endeavor to do.
So as we begin the New Year, I say Thank You to all those who have helped make the first half of my District Governor year memorable, and so rewarding. And I say a special thank you for all those who have stepped up to help me and guide me on this journey, for without all the help, none of the moments that I have enjoyed would have been possible. And now it’s time to get on with the business of Rotary and the ideal of Service Above Self, and go out and “Create Hope in the World”!
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard (Rick) Wilton Edward Sterne, an outstanding member of the Brantford community. Rick was a proud ambassador for Brantford and many of its organizations. He possessed a spirit of positivity, passion and generosity that would define his life.
He was most passionate about his work with Brantford Rotary Club (49 years), having served as both President and District Governor.
Rick left this world on December 5th, 2023, at the age of 79. Born on October 9th, 1944, in Brantford, he was the devoted husband to Jeanette Sterne and loving father to Katherine Clamp (Bob), Jennifer Stroebe (Tim), Eric Sterne, Gwen Greene (Jay) and Amanda Dohey. He was the beloved grandfather of Sarah, Charlotte, Hannah, Mia, Madison, Riley and Max.
The family welcomes donations in Rick's memory to the Rotary Club of Brantford Charitable Foundation or the Lansdowne Children's Centre Foundation. A Celebration of Life will be held to honour Rick on Saturday, January 27th, 2024, at the Brantford Club from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.
ATTENTION New Rotarians! Calling all D7090 members who joined Rotary after July 1st, 2021! A $350 award will be given to four new D7090 Rotarians who 1) Have an innovative action plan that benefits their local community, 2) Involves one potential Rotarian, and 3) Partners with one local NFP (Not-For-Profit agency) or supports a community event. Please submit this Form no later than January 1st, 2024. $350 for a New Rotarian Project
Project needs to be completed by January 1st, 2025. Clubs are encouraged to match $350, but are not required! Recipients will be chosen based on creativity, community need, and commitment to Service Above Self.
Do you have a community event that you would like to help sponsor, is there a local NFP that is in need of money and a few volunteers, what about a sign that says Please Drive Safe at a busy crosswalk with the Rotary Wheel logo, perhaps a youth advocacy agency needs supplies, or a Veterans Club needs non perishable food items.... the possibilities are endless. What is your passion in your local community, where do you want to embody Service Above Self?
Collaborate with a few of your Club members, seek out one potential Rotarian and cause, and complete the above form. It's as easy as that!
Did you know in 2022 our district established its own Endowment Fund? It was established with an initial $25000 from donations from many Rotarians and friends to recognize special Rotarians in our district. To date, thanks to donations, it is now $36,866 gift value with a market value of $38,311.
You can donate in a special Rotarians name or just add to the fund. If you would like your Rotarians name added to our webpage to honour that Rotarian please email sandichard@gmail.com that you have donated. We would be honoured to add their name to our list.
Each year a portion comes back to our district for District and Global Grants... a legacy forever for our District.
It is now available to donate online in any amount at www.rotary.org/donate. Toggle over to named Fund and enter E20602.
Please consider a contribution to our own Endowment and Fund the Future of our District.
The newsletter is sent to foundation chairs, presidents, president elects, and secretaries. Please share the information with your club, to help us all make The Rotary Foundation a success.
For Income tax receipts for 2023 you must have donations arrive by year’s end. The easiest way is online at www.rotary.org/donate.
Please let us know if you are doing Paul Harris events. We try to get someone from our committee to attend. Our team is also available to speak at your club.
Thank you all for making 2023 a success and look forward to working with all clubs as we start the second half of our Rotary year.
District Governor Elect (DGE) Dave Alexander has designed the PETS curriculum with many district leaders to best help and prepare you for an exciting year of leadership and taking action to create lasting change!
This year, PETS will be hybrid, where several sessions will be offered via Zoom and an in-person seminar, all culminating in the District Training Assembly, where all club officers will be invited for an inspiring day of learning, planning, and preparation for the 2024-2025 Rotary Year.
Please save these dates in your calendar. We ask that you register for the events; you’ll receive an invitation from ClubRunner for each session. You can also register on your own by visiting the District Events Website.
Please note that a description of each session is on the event invitation. We encourage you to attend all of them! Even if you are serving a two-year term or have served as a past president. We value the experience and mentorship you can bring forward in these sessions. Plus, one of Rotary’s strategic action plan pillars is ADAPT, and there are many changes that you’ll want to hear about and bring back to your club.
Rotary’s Brand Center (https://brandcenter.rotary.org/en-us/) is where members can make polished club and program logos, download promotional materials, and find helpful information about websites, social media, Rotary’s brand, and even public speaking, all in one place. Do you want to learn more about using Rotary logos? Take the course Our Logos: Representing Rotary. This requires login to My Rotary; if you need assistance with making an account contact me.
Rotary Club of Lockport President Shelley Unocic on the left celebrated with our DG team as everyone welcomed DGND (District Governor Nominee Designate) Aaron Carlson (next to right side of flag). Rotary builds Life Long Leaders and Learners! It’s never too late for our Members to begin thinking about who will be nominated for the 2027-2028 District Governor. Let’s take a look at our Rotarians, who chair projects, serve on committees, and are the Service Above Self people who create an impact and make our Clubs innovative and vibrant!
These Members could be our next District leaders, just like DGND Aaron Carlson!
Our next Membership meeting will be Wednesday, January 24th at 7:00 PM – Zoom. We will learn from Guest Speaker Past President John Shrock from the Rotary Club of Akron-Newstead, how his Club earned the coveted Governor’s Trophy. Through Club and community Engagement, PP John and his Club increased Membership and Impact! A great example to follow for retaining and recruiting Members!
Rotary – It’s About Connections … Relationships – Rotary in Russia
If you look the Rotary International Website, you will come across the “big picture” – things that are in the back of our minds, but which are ‘up front’ in the organization to which our clubs belong. You will see quotes like …
- Global network of 1.4 million neighbours, friends, leaders, problem-solvers
- People unite and take action to create lasting change
- Our 46 000+ clubs work together to….
- We provide service … promote integrity and advance world understanding….
As Rotarians, we have the opportunity to experience much of this in a variety of ways. As a member of the Dundas Valley Sunrise Rotary Club, I made contact with a Rotarian in Shanghai regarding an International Project. More recently he has moved – first to St. Petersburg (Russia, not Florida) and then to Thailand…but has maintained his membership in the St. Petersburg International Rotary Club. Strangely, he was originally from Dundas and has belonged to Rotary in London, Ontario and Ottawa, before moving to China for business.
I visited the St. Petersburg International club recently and listened with interest to Sergey Borokov, the Region 1 District Director (responsible for about 25 clubs in Russia). Four members of the host club were present and about 22 “visitors” … and was intrigued by many of the comments that were made on the ZOOM meeting.
I thought I would share some of these as well as a snapshot of the chat room … which was most interesting.
The Rotary Club of Buffalo was involved with Child & Family Services Adopt-A-Family program. We were matched with a family of 5 (Mom, Dad & 3 daughters) to help bring comfort, joy and gifts to their family Christmas. On Rattanaphasouk, Bridget Willadsen and Laurie Albertsson went shopping on behalf of the club and purchased clothing, household items, toys & electronics for the family.
Dunkirk-Fredonia hosted a Paul Harris Fellow Community Service Award dinner and reception at the beautiful Barn at Farrington Hollow in Cherry Creek, NY on November 2nd. Honorees exemplifying the rotary motto of “service above self” included Grace Czechowski, Lisa Powell Fortna, Joe Gugino, Dennis Hefner, Charlotte Herlong, Daniel Reininga, Joseph Reyda, Michele Starwalt and Jefferson Westwood.
PHOTO: L –> R: Daniel Reininga, Joseph Gugino, Michele Starwalt, District Governor Scott Marcin, Charlotte Herlong, Jefferson Westwood, Lisa Powell Fortna, Grace Czechowski
At a recent meeting at Dina’s in Ellicottville, the Rotary Clubs of Ellicottville and Olean hosted DG Scott Marcin, Rotary Foundation District Director Sandi Chard, and Alzheimer’s Association WNY Chapter Executive Director of Development Lynn Westcott.
Lynn Westcott spoke on the troubling progression of Alzheimer’s disease and the toll this takes on family and friends. She also mentioned progress being made in research on the development of new medications. Lynn then presented Club President Weismantel with a Cutco cutting board for winning the friendly competition with the Olean Club for fundraising this past Fall leading up to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s held in Olean.
PICTURED (L–>R): John Weismantel, Lynn Westcott, Sandy Sleggs (Olean Rotary)
Students in Pelham will benefit from enhanced science programs next term thanks to a recent donation from the Rotary Club of Fonthill. At its recent weekly meeting, President Carolyn Mullin and Past President Troy Killick were pleased to present a cheque for $1,500 Cdn to Michelle Butler, Regional Manager of Scientists in School.
Local Rotary Clubs partner in first charity golf tournament
Hosted at Riverview Golf Course in early September, nearly a hundred participants and more than a dozen volunteers from both Clubs took part, including District 7090 Governor Scott Marcin and District Governor-Elect David Alexander. The event featured a contest and prize at all 18 holes, along with Hole-in-One contests on four Par 3s and one Par 4. After golf, everyone sat down for a steak dinner, participated in a 50/50 draw, and took a chance bidding on over 50 silent auction items.
This year, the net proceeds were donated to Niagara Children’s Centre. It is Niagara’s one-stop organization for supporting more than 5,300 children and youth to reach their communication, developmental, physical, and behavioural goals each year. They do this by offering speech & language therapy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and a variety of other specialized programs, supports and services. Its commitment also extends to supporting the child’s family/ caregivers. They offer a range of programs for families that support skill teaching to help their child, empowerment, and support.
Thanks to Fonthill’s Hugh Graham (Past President 2003-2004, 2020-2021) and Welland’s Tim Proctor (Past President 2017-2018) for leading the way to make a fun and successful event!
PHOTO: Pictured L –> R Rotarians Annie Holtby (F), Tammy Morden (W), Tim Proctor (W), Oksana Fisher (CEO Niagara Children’s Centre), Rotarians Hugh Graham (F), Don Thorpe (W), Vic Kerschl (W), and Sandy Graham (W)
I ask that any President and/or other Directors as well as Chairs and especially Ribfest Chairs to email me at RotaryFortErie@gmail.com for an opportunity to increase your fundraising by several hundred dollars. Several hundred dollars is not a lot. But it is something. Please tell me how big the club is and if it is Ribfest or something smaller. The opportunity will be fine-tuned to the size of the club. It doesn’t hurt to send that email.
Dec 2, 2023, was very wet with temperatures in the low 40s, but that did not discourage Grand Island Rotarians and students from the Grand Island high school and Kaegebein students from answering the question, “What is Rotary”. The causes of Rotary International were on display during the Light up the Boulevard parade on Grand Island, which traversed Grand Island boulevard between Whitehaven and Baseline. The event was run by the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by local businesses.
"What is Rotary and what are the causes they support?" This was asked by a potential new member and needed an answer. The Rotary club of Grand Island, high school government class students and a few Kaegebein elementary students answered the question. A pseudo float was created for the Light up the Boulevard parade, sponsored by the chamber of Commerce of Grand Island. The participants walked the parade route with the placards to show the community and hope it generates some knowledge and interest in our group. Many thanks go to all the students who supported us. They actually made it happen.
The Greens have been hung at The DeGlopper Memorial, that honors all Grand Island residents, past, present, and future, who have proudly served the US as a member of the military. For a second year, the Rotary Club of Grand Island has placed wreaths at the memorial. This year we were able to expand to place wreaths at each of the new stands placed this past year as part of the final phase of the project.
The volunteers showed a remarkable spirit of patriotism and community service as we began the holiday season. Their dedication and compassion move us.
President Sherry Miller, PH+ presented Faye Teluk, President-Elect, with her first Paul Harris for donating to eradicate Polio. The award was announced at the club's December Holiday Dinner at the Buffalo Launch Club.
The Club enjoyed the musical stylings of Grand Island High School's Orchestra Ensemble under the direction of Matthew Ells.
The club also confirmed the election of their 2024-2025 slate of officers:
President - Faye Teluk; Faye will be serving a 2 year term.
Secretary - Donna Wilde
Treasurer - Diane Garey
Immediate Past President - Sherry Miller
Board Director serving a new three year term is Brian Graham
The club appreciates the service of Directors continuing their 3 year terms: Michelle Lockett (yr 3), Chris Learman (yr 3) and Mike Billoni (yr 2) in 2024-2025.
This completes a goal to achieve a succession plan according to the recommended RI Calendar.
The Rotary Club of Grand Island welcomed 3 new members at the December 6th Meeting held at the Western New York Welcome Center conference room. We look forward to seeing the volunteering passion that these new members will bring.
PHOTO (L to R): Sherry Miller, President - new members: Eloise Olmstead, Kathy Monkman & Brian Monkman - Tommy Gerbasi, Assistant Governor District 7090
The biggest news for the month of December is that our club made the Rotary magazine after the editors used excerpts of an article with photos that I sent to them about our Farm to Family Program created and led by our super Rotarian Earl Knauss (https://www.hamburgrotaryclub.org/). Earl's picture and my excerpted article appear in the People of Action Around the Globe section.
Our Farm to Family program works with over 20 sites and so far in 2023 has delivered over 120,000 pounds of food. The program was started by our member Earl Knauss. He has taken this program from concept to the current state of success. Food donations are continuing through November.
What a huge success - Hamilton AM Rotary's Imagine Summer Gala held August 11 raised $110,000 for Keaton's House, the planned Pediatric Hospice. (https://keatonshouse.org/)
Over 400 proud supporters enjoyed a fine dinner at Liuna Station and bid their hearts out in a beautifully displayed Silent Auction. Later in the evening the Live Auction also played a successful role in adding to the donation total. Great hors d'oeuvres, fine wine and some great late-night music made the evening truly "Gala"!
Hamilton AM partnered with Kemp Hospice staff and volunteers to plan the event, invite sponsors, donors, and staff the various elements of this fine evening. All this resulted in a very successful evening for both organizations and the Hamilton community,
A cheque presentation by Mac Lashley, (left) Hamilton AM President was made on November 29 to Danielle Zucchet (right), CEO of Dr. Bob Kemp's House (https://kemphospice.org/), partnering with Keaton's House.
Every year, members of the Rotary Club of Hamilton Stoney Creek and volunteers from our Corporate Partner Meridian Credit Union act as Parade Marshalls for the Stoney Creek Santa Claus Parade which has been taking place for 64 years. Member Sarah Brunt takes the lead on this event and although it was a bit drizzly we managed to line up all the floats, bands, cars & walkers to get them in order and onto the parade route.
Ruth Lundin, second from the left, President of the Rotary Club of Jamestown, NY, welcomed the second-place winners of the Club’s first annual Miniature Golf Pub Crawl held December 10. The event was chaired by member Max Eimiller who arranged for Ed Bradford to make the five difficult putt-putt holes.
Five very popular pubs in Jamestown, the Northwest Arena, The Pub, The Beer Snob, Haggy’s 4 Below and Brazil, allowed the Club to impose on their very busy holiday Saturday to welcome 18 teams of four putt-putters.
The teams had four hours to play the holes. The rules were: maximum score 7 strokes per hole; absolutely NO practice strokes; no Mulligans and no do-overs; all scores returned to the arena by 5pm; and tiebreaker determined by lowest total team score on the hole at the NW Arena.
First prize was $120 and a box of PROV1s and second place was the return of their registration fee of $80 per foursome.
A GREAT TIME WAS HAD BOTH BY THE GOLFERS AND THE BAR CUSTOMERS!
We had been busy in December. We gave out $6,800 in grants. The grantees were UP Project Inc., WNY Scouting Council, Kenmore West High School Work Based Learning Club, NAMI, Kenmore West High School Girls Leadership Academy, Ken-Ton Meals on Wheels. We also hosted a Meat Raffle where we donated a portion of the money to the Kenton School District for ViewFinders for Aqua Lane Park. We were on Local Channel 7 News and 4 News for partnering with Cardiac Crusade to Map AED locations in WNY through the PulsePoint App.
The Rotary Club of Lancaster-Depew had a smaller than expected celebration for the holidays, as several of our members and their spouses were ill. A scrumptious dinner was had at Russell's Steaks, Chops & More.
Some of those present: (L -> R): Robert Benzel (IPP & PAG Area 11), Diane Wojtowicz, Jennifer Benzel, Richard Wojtowicz (AG Area 11), Lucas Williams, Emily Williams, Brian Williams (PP & Sec.), Darcey Tillman, Diane Terranova (PP & Treas.), Bob Leary (VP), Irene Leary,Bob Artis (PDG)
The Lewiston/NOTL Rotary completed meetings for 2023 with an intimate Christmas Dinner at a member's home, enjoying traditional Italian favorites from both New York and Ontario. The Club will end 2023 and start the New Year with a service project, giving out meals at the Kevin Guest House to family of children hospitalized at Oishei Children's Hospital between Christmas and New Years Day.
Photo2-L-NOTL (L to R) President Elect Ron Danielewicz and President Greg Lidstone enjoy Italian Christmas goodies among their Rotary brethren.
Dr. J Edgar Davey Elementary School Holiday Breakfast with Santa
On December 12, the Rotary Club of Lincoln and the Ancaster AM Rotary clubs partnered with Hamilton Fire & Police services to serve up a breakfast for 560 kids that attend the Dr. J Edgar Davey Elementary School in North Hamilton.
Each child received a nutritious breakfast and then waited excitedly for a special visitor that gifted each with a Christmas present.
District 7090 Leaders Help Lockport Rotary “Celebrate” District 7090 Governor Nominee
Thank you, Rotary District 7090 leadership for helping Lockport Rotary Club celebrate member Aaron Carlson’s nomination as district governor in 2026-2027 (We give him time to adjust to this big role)! The Noon hour club meeting on December 12th featured noisemakers and audience participation in the music of Kool and the Gang played over the speaker.
PHOTO (from left): President, Shelley Unocic; Past District Governor, Lisa Bishop; District Governor, Scott Marcin; District Governor Nominee 2025-2026, Michelle Starwalt-Woods, District Governor Nominee Designate 2026-2027, Aaron Carlson; Past District Governor 2018-2019, Melisa Schrock; and Past District Governor 2020-2021, Frank Adamson
Lockport Rotarian Mike Mullane delivered the Basketball Tournament proceeds check to the Lockport Lions Varsity Basketball program. The money is part of the gate from the two-day tournament. The basketball program uses it for their summer program.
PHOTO: Senior Guard Ian Cooper (Lockport Lions Varsity Basketball player), Mike Mullane (Lockport Rotary tournament co-chair), and Varsity Basketball Coach Dave Gilson.
For over 80 participants and more than 40 local children, the magic of Christmas happened at the Junior Farmers Building on Saturday morning, 09 December 2023.
As organized. by Bettyann Carty and her merry band of Sunrise helpers, Santa arrived, joined up with Mrs. Claus, and treated all to a hearty measure of Christmas spirit and joy. Along the way, and with the corporate support of McDonald's and the Apple Place, everyone enjoyed a great breakfast as well! Even President John (having been particularly nice this past year), took his place in line to express his RCNS wish-list to ol' St Nic - we wonder what Santa will deliver??
So much fun for the children, both young and less-young ... particularly so for the young family (mom Amber Bradshaw with children Hazel & Beckett) who won the Gingerbread House door prize!
Go to the 'Read more ...' tab to see a small selection of photos.
Well done to Bettyann and her team - thanks for another great event - Merry Christmas to all.
The Rotary Club of St. Catharines Lakeshore was pleased to donate three comfort cats to seniors residing at the Linhaven Long-Term Care Home in St. Catharines
Designed to bring comfort and companionship to older adults living in senior communities, these mechanical cats have an authentic purr that sounds and feels just like real purring, are able to open and close its eyes, lift its paw, open its mouth and move its head and body. These innovative cats help alleviate leading senior issues including social isolation, loneliness and cognitive decline by delivering joy, fun and happiness to improve senior residents' quality of life.
Using the built in sensors, the companion pet cat responds to motion and touch such as petting and hugging, much like the real cats you know and love.
PHOTO: Heather Wild, Long term Care Program Manager for Linhaven, receives a comfort cat from Pres. Elect Coral Cutler and a cheque for two more from the Club
Embarking on a journey of hope, Chairman Najeeb Syed's visionary leadership within the International Service Committee of the Rotary Club of St. Catharines South sparked the inception of 'The Trust for Malnutrition and Stunted Growth' (TMSG). This momentum reached unprecedented heights when the Rotary Club of Karachi, recognizing its profound significance, formalized a monumental Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to seamlessly integrate into this noble cause.
Together, these clubs forged a not-for-profit trust dedicated to addressing malnutrition and stunted growth. A consortium of dedicated Rotarians, alongside a select group of independent individuals, assumed the role of trustees. Notably, Aziz Memon, a trustee of Rotary International and the Polio Plus Chair, provided invaluable expertise to bolster TMSG.
*Make a Difference Today!*: Support TMSG by contributing through e-transfer at treasurer@rotarysouth.ca or visiting www.tfmasg.com. Your donation directly fuels the acquisition of therapeutic food, ensuring that every penny contributes to the success of this transformative mission.
At the heart of TMSG's narrative lies a steadfast commitment to healing, hope, and holistic change as they continue to reshape the landscape of healthcare and nutrition in Pakistan.
- Najeeb Syed. Chairman International Service Committee Rotary Club of St.Catharines South
The clubhouse at Rotary Garden Court in Waterdown was a hive of activity for the second annual Operation Christmas Cheer following the club’s Dec. 4 dinner meeting.
Some 19 members and one community volunteer spent the evening writing thoughtful notes and attaching treats to cards that will be delivered to residents at local seniors’ residences.
The cards were collected earlier this fall at the club’s booth at the Waterdown Farmers’ Market and at a local café. In total, 500 cards were collected, and they will be delivered in time for the holidays.
And, since it is Rotary, club members turned the gathering into a fundraiser. Proceeds from a mini bake sale and the sales of handmade gift tags donated by Kim Piper will be directed to Polio Plus.
PHOTO: Waterdown Rotarians (left to right) Erica Kirkland, Margot Rae, Lena Aggus, Wendy Hickey, Nathalia Wellenreiter and Kim Piper add notes to cards during Operation Christmas Cheer on Dec. 4. Photo by Wilf Arndt
"The goal is to restore hope — to help the world heal from destructive conflicts and, in turn, to help us achieve lasting change for ourselves." R. Gordon R. McInally Rotary International President 2023-2024
Under a new strategic partnership, Rotary and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) are launching the 'Community Action for Fresh Water' initiative, focusing on the protection of freshwater ecosystems.
“Happy New Year!” District 7090. Although it’s officially the New Year throughout the globe, it is officially the half way post for our Rotary year. That means that I am officially half way through my time as District Governor for Rotary International District 7090. I am not sure I am excited about that prospect, or if I am sad that the ride is already 50% done.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard (Rick) Wilton Edward Sterne, an outstanding member of the Brantford community. Rick was a proud ambassador for Brantford and many of its organizations. He possessed a spirit of positivity, passion and generosity that would define his life.
Be Like Margot - Apply TODAY 
District Governor Elect (DGE) Dave Alexander has designed the PETS curriculum with many district leaders to best help and prepare you for an exciting year of leadership and taking action to create lasting change!
Rotary’s Brand Center (
Club of Lockport President Shelley Unocic on the left celebrated with our DG team as everyone welcomed DGND (District Governor Nominee Designate) Aaron Carlson (next to right side of flag). Rotary builds Life Long Leaders and Learners! It’s never too late for our Members to begin thinking about who will be nominated for the 2027-2028 District Governor. Let’s take a look at our Rotarians, who chair projects, serve on committees, and are the Service Above Self people who create an impact and make our Clubs innovative and vibrant! 
Rotary – It’s About Connections … Relationships – Rotary in Russia
The Rotary Club of Buffalo was involved with Child & Family Services Adopt-A-Family program. We were matched with a family of 5 (Mom, Dad & 3 daughters) to help bring comfort, joy and gifts to their family Christmas. On Rattanaphasouk, Bridget Willadsen and Laurie Albertsson went shopping on behalf of the club and purchased clothing, household items, toys & electronics for the family. 
Dunkirk-Fredonia hosted a Paul Harris Fellow Community Service Award dinner and reception at the beautiful Barn at Farrington Hollow in Cherry Creek, NY on November 2nd. Honorees exemplifying the rotary motto of “service above self” included Grace Czechowski, Lisa Powell Fortna, Joe Gugino, Dennis Hefner, Charlotte Herlong, Daniel Reininga, Joseph Reyda, Michele Starwalt and Jefferson Westwood.
At a recent meeting at Dina’s in Ellicottville, the Rotary Clubs of Ellicottville and Olean hosted DG Scott Marcin, Rotary Foundation District Director Sandi Chard, and Alzheimer’s Association WNY Chapter Executive Director of Development Lynn Westcott.
Students in Pelham will benefit from enhanced science programs next term thanks to a recent donation from the Rotary Club of Fonthill. At its recent weekly meeting, President Carolyn Mullin and Past President Troy Killick were pleased to present a cheque for $1,500 Cdn to Michelle Butler, Regional Manager of Scientists in School.
Hosted at Riverview Golf Course in early September, nearly a hundred participants and more than a dozen volunteers from both Clubs took part, including District 7090 Governor Scott Marcin and District Governor-Elect David Alexander. The event featured a contest and prize at all 18 holes, along with Hole-in-One contests on four Par 3s and one Par 4. After golf, everyone sat down for a steak dinner, participated in a 50/50 draw, and took a chance bidding on over 50 silent auction items.
Dec 2, 2023, was very wet with temperatures in the low 40s, but that did not discourage Grand Island Rotarians and students from the Grand Island high school and Kaegebein students from answering the question, “What is Rotary”. The causes of Rotary International were on display during the Light up the Boulevard parade on Grand Island, which traversed Grand Island boulevard between Whitehaven and Baseline. The event was run by the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by local businesses.
The Greens have been hung at The DeGlopper Memorial, that honors all Grand Island residents, past, present, and future, who have proudly served the US as a member of the military. For a second year, the Rotary Club of Grand Island has placed wreaths at the memorial. This year we were able to expand to place wreaths at each of the new stands placed this past year as part of the final phase of the project. 
President Sherry Miller, PH+ presented Faye Teluk, President-Elect, with her first Paul Harris for donating to eradicate Polio. The award was announced at the club's December Holiday Dinner at the Buffalo Launch Club. 
The Rotary Club of Grand Island welcomed 3 new members at the December 6th Meeting held at the Western New York Welcome Center conference room. We look forward to seeing the volunteering passion that these new members will bring.
The biggest news for the month of December is that our club made the Rotary magazine after the editors used excerpts of an article with photos that I sent to them about our Farm to Family Program created and led by our super Rotarian Earl Knauss (
What a huge success - Hamilton AM Rotary's Imagine Summer Gala held August 11 raised $110,000 for Keaton's House, the planned Pediatric Hospice. (
Every year, members of the Rotary Club of Hamilton Stoney Creek and volunteers from our Corporate Partner Meridian Credit Union act as Parade Marshalls for the Stoney Creek Santa Claus Parade which has been taking place for 64 years. Member Sarah Brunt takes the lead on this event and although it was a bit drizzly we managed to line up all the floats, bands, cars & walkers to get them in order and onto the parade route.
The Rotary Club of Lancaster-Depew had a smaller than expected celebration for the holidays, as several of our members and their spouses were ill. A scrumptious dinner was had at Russell's Steaks, Chops & More. 
On December 12, the Rotary Club of Lincoln and the Ancaster AM Rotary clubs partnered with Hamilton Fire & Police services to serve up a breakfast for 560 kids that attend the Dr. J Edgar Davey Elementary School in North Hamilton.
Thank you, Rotary District 7090 leadership for helping Lockport Rotary Club celebrate member Aaron Carlson’s nomination as district governor in 2026-2027 (We give him time to adjust to this big role)! The Noon hour club meeting on December 12th featured noisemakers and audience participation in the music of Kool and the Gang played over the speaker.
For over 80 participants and more than 40 local children, the magic of Christmas happened at the Junior Farmers Building on Saturday morning, 09 December 2023.
The Rotary Club of St. Catharines Lakeshore was pleased to donate three comfort cats to seniors residing at the Linhaven Long-Term Care Home in St. Catharines
Embarking on a journey of hope, Chairman Najeeb Syed's visionary leadership within the International Service Committee of the Rotary Club of St. Catharines South sparked the inception of 'The Trust for Malnutrition and Stunted Growth' (TMSG). This momentum reached unprecedented heights when the Rotary Club of Karachi, recognizing its profound significance, formalized a monumental Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to seamlessly integrate into this noble cause.
The clubhouse at Rotary Garden Court in Waterdown was a hive of activity for the second annual Operation Christmas Cheer following the club’s Dec. 4 dinner meeting.
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