Rotary supports investments in people and communities toward alleviating poverty by creating measurable and enduring economic improvements in poor and underserved areas. We enable members to do this by:
• Building the capacity of local leaders, organizations, and networks to support economic development in poor communities
• Developing opportunities for productive work and improving access to sustainable livelihoods
• Empowering marginalized communities by providing access to economic opportunities and services
• Building the capacity of entrepreneurs, social businesses, and locally supported business innovators
• Addressing gender or class disparities that prevent populations from obtaining productive work and accessing markets and financial services
• Increasing access to renewable energy and energy-efficiency measures to create more sustainable and economically resilient communities
• Empowering communities to develop environmental and natural resource conservation skills for economic gain
• Strengthening communities’ economic resilience and adaptive capacity in response to environmental and climate-related hazards and natural disasters
• Developing and supporting community-based basic emergency preparedness services to improve economic resilience
• Funding graduate scholarships for career-minded professionals related to community economic development
September was a busy and inspiring month filled with club visits, District Council, special events, Zone training, and many opportunities to see Rotary in action on both sides of our border.
I had the honour of visiting the Rotary Club of Brantford Sunrise, where President Jerry Lawlor and members gave me a warm welcome, with PDG Reg Madison providing my introduction.
This dynamic club, along with its innovative Paris Satellite Club, combines fellowship and service through events such as the Duck Derby, Canada Day Beer Tent, and Trip of the Month fundraiser.
At the Rotary Club of Hamilton, President Stewart Wynne and members shared some of their tremendous work, including the Christmas Tree of Hope and their Rotary Summer Literacy Program, which has been changing children's lives for more than 25 years. Having attended the summer program myself, seeing the joy of the children was a wonderful reminder of how Rotary can truly change lives.
Our District Council was held in Lockport on September 12 in a hybrid format, demonstrating Rotary's ability to adapt and provide opportunities for everyone to participate. Following the meeting, Rotarians and community members attended “Rotary Wants Your Help to Stop Human Trafficking,” learning about Project Mona's House and its connection to our Human Trafficking Global Grant initiative.
World Polio Day — October 24 — is an opportunity for every Rotary and Rotaract club to help raise awareness, generate support and remind our communities that the fight to End Polio Now is not over.
Established by Rotary International to commemorate the birthday of Dr. Jonas Salk, whose team developed one of the first successful polio vaccines, World Polio Day has become a global day of action and awareness for polio eradication.
So, what are we doing here in District 7090?
Paddle for Polio
On August 22, District 7090 held its 4th Annual Paddle for Polio at Mutual Riverfront Park in Buffalo, New York. Many thanks to organizer and Past District Governor Scott Marcin.
It was another fun morning on the water, with participants in kayaks, canoes and paddleboards getting a little wet while raising funds for The Rotary Foundation's PolioPlus Fund and increasing awareness of Rotary and its partners' efforts to bring us closer to a polio-free world.
Poker Run Bike Ride to End Polio
On September 26, the Rotary Club of Amherst South hosted its Poker Run Bike Ride to End Polio at Ellicott Creek Trailways Park in Amherst, New York. Rotarians, friends and supporters enjoyed a morning of cycling and fun while raising funds for PolioPlus.
Sometimes growth begins by strengthening the club experience we already have.
When we talk about membership growth, our first thought is often, “How do we find more members?” That is certainly part of the conversation — but perhaps it should not be the first question we ask.
Before inviting someone to join our Rotary club, we might want to ask a more fundamental question: What are we inviting them to join? “What are we inviting them to join?”
• What is our club known for in the community?
• What do our members value most about belonging?
• Are our meetings enjoyable and worthwhile?
• Do members feel heard, involved and connected?
• What do we want our club to be known for?
Strong clubs do more than recruit. They create a member experience that makes people want to participate and gives them reasons to stay.
That means paying attention to current members as well as prospective ones. Ask what is working. Ask what could be better. Give newer members opportunities to share ideas, connect them with mentors, invite them into meaningful service early, and create social opportunities where relationships can grow. Then — most importantly — act on what you hear.
Sometimes a club may discover that it is time to try something different. That could mean changing a meeting format, introducing more flexibility, sharpening the club’s focus, refreshing the member experience, developing a satellite club, or exploring an entirely new club model.
Have you ever thought about being a District Governor, or participating in a role on the District Level?
Well, if you have, then we have the Webinar for you.
On October 6th, sign up and join your fellow Rotarians from D7090 who have an interest in exploring roles beyond their own club, for “Could I Be A District Governor?”
At this webinar, we will provide personal information about being a District Governor, what responsibilities the role entails and what being a District Governor is really like.
Get an honest look at the role from those who have held it, and why so many so it was the best Rotary Experience of their lives.
We will also explore other District Roles that are up for vacancy in the near future.
Registration for this event can be done HERE at the District Website (www.rotary7090.org) at the events/calendar tab.
You probably know someone in your club who likes to do cold calling...and then making new friends.
Or maybe it's you!
Add your skills to the Fundraising team with the D7090 Foundation as we seek a few brave people to help make a few calls to your nearby clubs as we put a scan together on everyone's plans.
These are easy interviews with one or two leaders per club as we rise to the occasion of mapping out club fundraisers and pledge commitments, especially to the Annual Fund and other key contribution opportunities.
If you aspire to a leadership role within your club, or see yourself moving beyond club service to supporting broader initiatives, this growth opportunity is for you.
📌We invite you to join us for a Public Image Huddle the 4th Monday of Each Month at 8:00 AM via Zoom.
This informal session is open to anyone interested in Public Image, whether you’re the Club President, Club Public Relations Chair, a Newsletter Rep, a Committee Member, or just a Rotarian looking for better ways to share your Rotary story - JOIN US!
This is the perfect space to:
✔️ Ask questions about Public Image Tools & Strategies
The PRISM Award – Public Relations and Image Strategy Merit is Rotary District 7090’s signature recognition for clubs that demonstrate excellence in public image.
It’s more than a certificate. It celebrates how your club shares Rotary’s story, values, and impact with the world.
The initiative encourages clubs to strengthen their visibility, communicate strategically, and follow Rotary branding best practices—all while highlighting the meaningful work they do locally and around the world.
2026–2027 PRISM AWARD CYCLE
The 2026–2027 PRISM Award gives every District 7090 club an opportunity to strengthen its public image and receive recognition for the work it is already doing.
Completing the monthly tasks will help your club improve community visibility, communicate its impact, engage current members, and attract prospective members.
All 2026–2027 PRISM Award tasks must be submitted by May 31, 2027.
If you need assistance, please contact Julio Batres-Gavidia at jbg@rotarysouth.ca.
Y2Y is a transformative program that immerses Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth between the ages of 15 and 17 in Indigenous culture while fostering connections with a diverse group of young people from across Canada. They engage in meaningful cultural exchanges, learn about Indigenous traditions, and deepen their understanding of Indigenous history and heritage. This event is cost-free for selected participants. This includes travel to and from the event, accommodations, food and admission to facilities such as Museums. Only 50 youth will be chosen for this experience.
Interested youth must be:
A Canadian citizen or permanent resident,
Aged 15 to 17 at the time of the event, and
In a Canadian secondary school
Applications must be submitted online by the end of the day on October 30, 2026 at HonouringIndigenousPeoples.com. Selected applicants will be interviewed. Those selected for the program will be notified by November 27, 2026.
Over 65 attendees were present for the September 12th Human Trafficking Awareness, Education and Prevention training (this one at Lockport) as part of the continuing outreach through a global grant.
Kelly Diane Galloway, CEO with Project Mona's House in Buffalo, kept the audience of community organization representatives, institutional leaders, Rotarians and others engaged for 2½ hours with the material she had to share.
On September 26th, the Amherst South Rotary Club held its first ever Poker Run Bike Ride to End Polio.
This 10.4-mile, family fun bike ride was held on a beautiful, late September morning, beginning and ending at the Ellicott Creek Trailway Park in Amherst.
Riders traversed a beautiful ride along Ellicott Creek, and in the process raised funds for Polio Plus and awareness about Rotary’s efforts to eradicate Polio from the planet.
This was a great way to kick off Rotary’s October theme of Polio Plus and helped us get a little closer to the goal Rotary made some 40 years ago.
The Batavia Rotary Club is getting ready for one of our favorite fall traditions, the 8th Annual Trick or Trot 5K! On Saturday, October 24, 2026, runners, walkers, families, and Halloween enthusiasts will gather for a fun-filled event that combines fitness, community spirit, and plenty of spooky-season fun.
The Trick or Trot has become a popular Batavia tradition, welcoming participants of all ages and abilities. Whether you're a serious runner, a casual walker, or simply looking for a fun way to celebrate Halloween with the family, this event has something for everyone. Participants are encouraged to get into the spirit by wearing their favorite Halloween costumes as they take on the course.
Young runners can join in the Halloween fun with a special race just for kids. The kids’ race is free, but registration is required, so be sure to sign up in advance.
Registration is open! Grab your running shoes, start planning your costume, and join us for a spooktacular day of fun while supporting Batavia Rotary and our community.
The Rotary Club of Batavia recently celebrated an exciting milestone with the induction of our first Corporate Members - four executives from Liberty Pumps.
This new membership represents a wonderful partnership between Rotary and one of our region’s respected businesses, bringing additional leadership, experience, and community spirit to our Club.
We are thrilled to welcome the Liberty Pumps team into our Rotary family and look forward to working alongside them as we continue to strengthen our community through Service Above Self.
Football season is here, and you can support great causes while cheering on the Buffalo Bills!
The Rotary Club of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus is once again holding its popular Bills Season Square Fundraiser. Proceeds help fund our club's work in the community, including scholarships for local students, support for community initiatives, and Rotary projects that make an impact both locally and around the world.
Whether you're a die-hard Bills fan or just want to support a worthy cause, there are options for everyone. You can purchase a square for the entire season or choose individual games throughout the year.
Every square purchased helps us continue Rotary's mission of Service Above Self by investing in education, strengthening our community, and supporting humanitarian projects that improve lives near and far.
Join the excitement of Bills season while making a difference. Purchase your season-long or single-game square today and help us turn every touchdown into an opportunity to serve.
The Canadian Cancer Society CIBC Run for the Cure is an event that unites thousands of people across Canada to raise millions for the breast cancer cause. It's a day full of inspiration, courage, and hope.
I am proud to participate and fundraise for this year's CIBC Run for the Cure. This event is not just about running or walking; it's about raising vital funds for groundbreaking breast cancer research, important advocacy work, and essential support programs and services.
My goal is to raise 5,000. With your help, I can reach this goal and make a significant impact for people in Canada affected by breast cancer.
I would greatly appreciate it if you would consider making a donation. Nothing big is ever solved by one person or organization, so that’s why every dollar counts and helps improve countless lives.
Thank you in advance for your generosity.
P.S. If you’d like to register for this year’s CIBC Run for the Cure, please visit www.cibcrunforthecure.com.
The Director of the Stedman Community Hospice in Brantford says people are not their diagnosis. They are not a number!
Kerri Vansickle told Club members in September she wants to help people think differently about palliative care.
Clarifying the difference between palliative care, hospice care and end of life care (which are often used interchangeably), she also provided an overview of Hospice programs, new initiatives and community engagements. She stressed the importance of volunteers. Kerri says Stedman Hospice is able to do what they do because of the many volunteers.
In closing, the Director thanked the members of Brantford Sunrise for their ongoing commitment to the Hospice. Club Past President, Cameron Johnston, presented her with a $500.00 cheque in support of the Hospice programs.
There’s nothing better than enjoying our Rotary Club of Buffalo excursions.
This month we donned hard hats and safety vests to explore the enormous FeedMore complex still under construction in Hamburg.
Massive is not adequate to describe all the specialized areas – freezers, commissary, volunteer areas trucker bays and waiting areas, classrooms, event space and more.
Our group was led by Collin Bishop, former News Executive and now VP for External Affairs at FeedMore.
We can’t wait to see the space filled with more than 160 workers serving four counties in Western New York.
Three club members and WS Rotarian Wally Ochterski participated in an informative and interesting Human Trafficking Seminar in Lockport. Although the subject material was disturbing, the need for awareness and response was made clear in a thoughtful way by presenter Kelly Diane Galloway, Executive Director of Project Mona House.
Sunrisers were delighted to welcome our newest RYE students: Lyla from Italy and Rose from Taiwan!
A featured speaker at our mid- month meeting was Mark Jentsch, President and CEO of the Buffalo City Mission, inspiring members as he discussed the organization's role in supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and crisis. Buffalo City Mission is a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit corporation that relies heavily on private, tax-deductible donations to feed, shelter and care for our community's poor, hungry and homeless people. Mark also referenced his personal journey to City Mission despite a serious health issue he is facing and the satisfaction he feels from giving back to his community.
Rounding out September is a cleanup and winter preparation of the native pollinator garden at Towpath Park in Buffalo along the Niagara River, and a cleanup of Buffalo Sunrise’s Adopt – a Trail section of the Niagara River Greenway. The morning will be topped off with the installation of a Little Free Library adjacent to the children’s playground.
For years, the Clarence Rotary Club Foundation Porsche fundraiser has given our community the chance to win incredible prizes while helping us give back to the organizations, programs and people who make Western New York a better place.
This year, we're shifting gears.
We've transformed our traditional Porsche fundraiser into the new and improved Clarence Rotary Club Foundation Porsche Sweepstakes — with more ways to enter, more opportunities to participate, and one incredible Grand Prize:
A 2027 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet — or $100,000 CASH!
It's a new format, but the mission behind it hasn't changed. Every donation helps the Clarence Rotary Club Foundation continue supporting charitable organizations and important causes throughout our community.
New Sweepstakes. Same Mission. Bigger Possibilities.
The Rotary Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise wants every club in District 7090 to know that this Canadian club in Dundas Ontario always displays both the Canadian and United States of America flags at its morning meetings.
We have done this since the club started in 2000.
We are proud to do this and often need to explain to guests and new members that we are the “Best of Friends” District and as such we make it known.
On Saturday September 26, the Rotary Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise hosted our first Dundas Duck Derby!
All 1,000 ducks were sold out a couple weeks in advance and the weather was perfect, which brought many spectators out to see the action.
A Facebook Live video stream was also offered with many people watching online.
The venue for our club meetings (Amica Dundas) provided a barbecue lunch, games for kids, and the opportunity to view the conclusion of the race on a big screen.
The winners were thrilled ($2,500 for 1st place, $1,000 for 2nd place, and $500 for 3rd place), the Rotary Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise netted approx. $13,000, and by all accounts, everyone had fun!
PHOTOS:
LEFT: Dundas Ducks Dumped into Spencer Creek
RIGHT: John Merrill, Grace Davidson, Debra Hughes, Bob Webb, Nancy Baker, Jan Southall
Fonthill Rotary Purse Bingo 2026 to benefit Birchway Niagara and the Pathstone Youth Mental Health Satellite program at the Meridian Community Centre in Fonthill.
The Purse Bingo Team of the Rotary Club of Fonthill is excited to announce our Annual Purse Bingo event is ready to go. This year’s Purse Bingo will be held at the Meridian Community Centre in Fonthill in the Accursi Room on Friday, October 30, 2026. Registration begins at 5:30 p.m. Doors will open at 6 p.m. and the games will start at 7 p.m.
The Team is collecting sponsorships for 10 designer purses and is preparing for an exciting evening of fun for the community. All proceeds from our Purse Bingo evening will go towards Birchway Niagara and the Pathstone Youth Mental Health Satellite program that is held at the Meridian Community Centre in Fonthill.
If you or your company wishes to sponsor a purse for $250 you will get one ticket, first chance at reserving a full table and the opportunity to be announced as one of our valued sponsors.
We are also gladly accepting donations from local businesses for our highly anticipated Luxury Gift Package. Should you wish to be a purse sponsor or make a donation please contact our team.
Mike Charlesworth, center, is the newest member of the Rotary Club of Hamburg. Mike is the district director of the Buffalo office of the Great Falls Council of Scouting in America.
At left is John Nowak who has agreed to extend his term as president of the Hamburg organization for a second year through June 2027.
Earl Knauss, right, was the speaker at the Sept. 1 meeting, reflecting on his life as a construction contractor in Pennsylvania and New York State prior to his retirement.
Earl is most prominently known as the founder of Rotary’s Farm to Family Program which provides over 100,000 pounds of fresh vegetables annually to families through Western New York food distribution centers, food pantries and soup kitchens.
Farm to Family actively provides the produce up to six days per week from May through December when vegetables are available.
Hamburg Rotary meets at Uncle Joe’s Diner, Hamburg at 6 p.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of the month.
The Hamburg Rotary Club will be presenting a Dinner & Discussion involving Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security at the Hamburg Moose Lodge, 45 Church Street, Hamburg, on October 5, 2026.
The cost is $20.
Reservations must be made by September 30th.
The discussion will include advice on how to protect yourself in today's digital world, and is designed for everyone.
Hamilton After Five is hosting “A Charlie Brown Jazz Holiday Celebration” on December 8, 2026.
The Glenn Paul Jazz Trio will perform in the historic setting of The Scottish Rite Club of Hamilton.
The Trio is a highly acclaimed jazz trio.
Net proceeds from the event will be deposited in the Clubs self administered trust fund at the Hamilton Community Foundation to support poverty relief.
Why does our club mentor Rotary Peace Fellowship applicants every year?
Because a successful peace fellow will change the world for the better!
Vehae Tjiringe, a District 7090 Peace Fellow studying at International Christian University in Japan is an inspiring example of this. She earned straight “A’s” in her course work.
Vehae’s research aim is to explore “why women who develop strong leadership capabilities through education, civil society, and community leadership so rarely convert those capabilities into formal political representation.”
Here is her full report sent last month from Botswana:
Marvin Ryder, Associate Professor at McMaster University is one of the most popular and entertaining speakers at Hamilton AM Rotary morning meetings!
Marvin can explain the world of tariffs, interest rates GDP and other complicated economic terms so even Rotarians can understand them!
He was able somewhat to allay our fears about the possible negative consequences of recent USA challenges to Canada’s sovereignty and economic freedom. He was able to clarify that Canada’s economy was not in a “Recession”. He feels that the federal governments efforts to diversity trade exports, say to the European Union, are a very good move.
During his tenure, Marvin has mentored over 10,000 graduate and undergraduate students, explaining his popularity. He has written over 70 case studies and appears frequently on radio and television programs.
Enjoy an exciting evening of fun, laughter, and community while supporting programs that make a meaningful difference. Every ticket purchased helps the Rotary Club of Hamilton Stoney Creek fund local charitable initiatives that strengthen our community through youth, education, health, and community service projects.
Ten Luxury designer purses will be awarded (one per game). There will be an 11th game for a Gucci designer bag. Last year's event sold out, so purchase your tickets early! All tickets are sold online before the event.
President Phil Plossl called the breakfast meeting to order with the pledge and the four-way test. Jason Karcher, Anthony Macaluso, and Dasha Halladay were welcomed as guests at today’s meeting.
Then, we inducted a corporate membership today: 5 Star Bank as represented by Cassidy Bratcher and Tony Marinaccio (PHOTO Left). They were warmly welcomed to our club.
Past and upcoming programs were discussed:
Backpack program collection day held on September 10th in the Save-A-Lot parking lot was a huge success, with about $2000 in food and donations raised. Many thanks to the community and the volunteers who manned the table and transported the food to the First Baptist Church.
Anthony Macaluso thanked us for our donation to the Le Roy Recreation’s Program for pool membership scholarships. 18 families were given scholarships this year.
In October, Steve Hawley will be at our meeting discussing the Patriot Program for veterans that he sponsors yearly. The Rotary Club of LeRoy made a recent donation.
Dasha Halladay, president of the R.E.A. Milne Memorial Rotary Scholarship Fund, presented a report on the financial status and history of past and present scholarships awarded. They hope to plan a fundraiser soon and will also be sending out a “patron letter” in hopes of soliciting donations. President Phil Plossl presented Dasha with a check for $1316.68 resulting from the club voting to split the proceeds from the Oatkafest Hot Dog Stand with the Milne Foundation this year. For more information, visit their website athttps://milnescholarship.com/
On September 20th the Proudly Bi-National Rotary Club of Lewiston, NY & Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON once again supported the Terry Fox Run in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON by selling Hot Dogs, Hamburgers and Drinks to raise funds on the day of the Run to support cancer research.
We met Rotarians from the District eClub, St Catherines Lakeshore and patrons from Ontario, Saskatchewan, Nova Scotia, New York, Alabama, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Poland, Germany, Philippines, New Zealand, Australia, England, Ireland, Thailand, and Japan.
Continuing a tradition of over 50 years, the Proudly Bi-National Rotary Club of Lewiston, NY & Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON presents a theatrical, the proceeds of which will be used help fund worthy causes in need in our community.
This year the show is At Wits End , a one woman show based on the writings of Erma Bombeck, who began her professional syndicated column in 1965, writing over 4,000 columns chronicling suburban family life until April 1996, just days before her death.
More information and a link to buy tickets can be found HERE.
On Saturday, September 12, 2026, members of the Proudly Binational Lewiston/NOTL Rotary Club attended a very moving and powerful presentation in Lockport designed to raise awareness of the horrors of human sexual and labor trafficking.
Our Club is proud to have helped support this Human Trafficking Awareness, Education and Prevention Training Presentation as part of a Global Grant from Rotary International that is hosted by Lockport Rotary with St Catherines Rotary as the International Host with support by Rotary District 7090 and District 4690 Designated Funds and 14 other Rotary Clubs to help educate the public and endeavor to eradicate modern day human slavery.
From the first riders rolling out in the morning to the conversations over lunch, Bike the Benchlands brought Rotarians, cyclists, volunteers and our community together for such an amazing day.
Thank you to everyone who rode, volunteered, supported the event, donated and helped make Bike the Benchlands possible!
We’re so grateful you spent the day with us!
We can’t wait to see everyone again next year. Enjoy the freedom of the open road and the thrill of adventure! Explore vineyards, rolling countryside, and routes ranging from our SHORT FUN RIDE to 100km.
The Rotary Club of Lincoln Ontario was honoured to dedicate the installation of a Rotary Peace Pole at Rotary Park this morning September 22, 2026. Thank you Joanne Serkeyn District 7090 Governor for helping us dedicate this very important installation.
Peace Poles began in Japan after the Second World War as a symbol of hope and a reminder of our shared responsibility for peace. The first Peace Pole was created in 1955 by Japanese peace advocate Masahisa Goi.
Today Peace Poles stand in communities around the world. Each carries the message "May Peace Prevail" in several languages serving as a visible reminder of our common hope for peace, understanding and harmony. Rotary clubs around the world help communities install them as lasting symbols of unity and commitment to peace.
October is Community Economic Development Month across Rotary International. To deepen our collective understanding of how grassroots economic empowerment and scalable innovation transform communities, the SOWNY E-Club invites all District 7090 members to join our monthly Rotary Media Club.
Rather than a traditional book club, the Media Club curates a monthly multimedia lineup, featuring a book, a film, and a podcast episode; allowing Rotarians, Rotaractors, and friends to engage through whichever media format fits their schedule.
October Media Lineup: Community Economic Development
Book: Poor Economics by Abhijit V. Banerjee and Esther Duflo
This eye-opening book investigates the daily economic lives of the global poor, offering a fresh, randomized-control-trial approach to understanding why traditional poverty-reduction strategies succeed or fail.
Based on a true story, this inspiring biographical drama follows a young girl in the slums of Uganda who discovers life-changing potential and upward mobility through the strategic game of chess.
This episode explores innovative international economic policies—highlighting how market-based water allocation and modern inflation targeting can reshape community stability and financial resilience.
A Friendship Exchange Comes Full Circle in St. Catharines When Rotarians from Slovenia arrived at the Rotary Club of St. Catharines on September 24, they weren't just visiting a club. They were completing a circle of friendship and discovering a piece of their own Rotary history. The visitors came to Niagara through the Rotary Friendship Exchange between District 7090 and District 1912, which serves Slovenia and North Macedonia. The exchange ran in two parts. In late spring, twelve couples from District 7090 travelled to Slovenia and stayed with Rotary host families. In September, those same hosts came to Canada and the United States to be welcomed in return. St. Catharines member Rick Evans was among the District 7090 participants. Nine guests made the trip, including Rotarians from five of District 1912's clubs.
A shared history Rotary's roots in Slovenia run deep. The country's first club was chartered in Maribor in 1930, but clubs were disbanded at the start of the Second World War and remained banned under communism. Rotary returned in 1990, when Rotary Club Ljubljana was re-established while Slovenia was still part of Yugoslavia. That revival had a St. Catharines connection. Club members Ray and Olga Bukovec helped re-establish Rotary in Slovenia after the fall of communism, and they were recognized at the meeting with their Slovenian friends in the room. For the visitors, it was a chance to thank people whose work helped make their own clubs possible.
Youth Exchange student Sophie Blain, who returned from her year in Denmark in July, was the guest speaker at the Waterdown Rotary Club's Sept. 14 meeting.
She was happy to share details about her experiences and the country, including the foods, a little Viking history, school and local customs and practices -- including 'hygge'.
Sophie stayed with three families during her exchange year - one of which was in a castle!
Waterdown Rotary Club's Trivia Night is returning – it’s time to plot your path to victory!
This year, we are celebrating the schemes, tricks, and cunning minds of iconic pop culture and history with the theme: "Villains"!
Whether you’re returning to defend your title or gathering a brand-new crew of trivia masterminds, we want you at the Royal Canadian Legion on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026!
Event details
When: Saturday, October 24, 2026 (Doors open at 7:15 PM | Trivia starts at 8:00 PM)
Where : Royal Canadian Legion, 79 Hamilton Street North, Waterdown, ON
Team Size: 6 to 8 people per team
Standard Team Entry: $200
Corporate Team Entry: $350 (Includes company advertising!)
Cash Prizes & Perks
1st Place: $500
2nd Place: $300
3rd Place: $200
Costume Bonus: Earn extra points if your entire team dresses up in your favourite villain gear!
Extras: Door prizes, raffles, a silent auction, snacks, and a cash bar!
Tables fill up quickly, so rally your squad, choose your villainous team name, and claim your spot today!
To register your team or for more information, contact Rotarian George Tadross at George@tadross.ca or 416-886-2044.
The Rotary Club of Welland presents Duelling Pianos Niagara! Enjoy an unforgettable evening of great music, audience participation, and classic singalongs. Feel free to “show off your moves” on the dance floor!
Gather your family, friends, and neighbours for an unforgettable, high-energy dance party with the region’s own Duelling Pianos Niagara. See on YouTube
DATE: Saturday November 7, 2026
TIME: 7:00 Doors open; Music from 8:00 – 11:00 p.m.
LOCATION: Croatian Hall, 6 Broadway, Welland
COST: $40 per person
50/50 Draw $5 each, 5 for $20 Lottery License # M857480 Cash Bar
Supporting Food Security and Youth Programs in Welland. All proceeds including song request tips, help Welland Rotary support local initiatives that provide meals, opportunities, and hope for our community.
The Rotary Club of Welland held its 10th Annual Bocce Social on Wednesday September 16th at Casa Dante. 68 Rotarians, family, and friends came together to socialize and have fun. We welcomed two teams from the Rotary Club of Grimsby, three from the Rotary Club of St. Catharines South, one from the Rotary Club of Fonthill, one each from YMCA of Niagara, B&D CPAs, and Special Olympics. Special guests were three Rotary Youth Exchange Students, Marco Nazareth from Brazil, hosted by Welland Rotary, Lilly Laffineur from Belgium hosted by Fonthill Rotary and Maico Lafuente Llopis from Argentina hosted by 3 St. Catharines Rotary Clubs: Noon, Lakeshore & South. We can’t forget our host, Casa Dante.
Deanna D’Elia from YMCA Niagara won the 50/50 draw and generously donated it back to the Rotary Club of Welland
The tournament winners taking home the coveted trophy were from Bridgman & Durksen Charted Professional Accountants: Jason Mostowy, Marie Morin, Michelle Northrup, and Natasha Kuruliak
PHOTO 1 (L to R): Welland Rotarian Kyle Huntingdon, Jason Mostowy, Marie Morin, Welland Rotary President Ralph Malcolm
PHOTO 2 (L to R): Youth Exchange Students Lilly Laffineur, Maico LaFuente Llopis, Marco Nazareth
Tailgates Bar & Grill in Welland has generously donated $7,200 to the Rotary Club of Welland, representing proceeds from its 6th Annual Charity Classic Golf Tournament held on August 16, 2026.
Owner Ryan Nava presented the cheque to Rotary Club of Welland President Ralph Malcolm during the Club’s 10th annual Bocce Ball Social on September 16, 2026.
The donation will support the Club’s local youth and food security programs.
The Rotary Club of Welland extends its sincere thanks to Tailgates Bar & Grill for its generous support of the community.
This month the Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club members got to enjoy the fruits of their labors.
Early in the month, Andrew Webster, Westfield Recreation Director, gave an update on the community pool renovation project and gave members a tour of the upgraded facility.
Webster thanked the club for their financial gift of support. The W-M Club has been a supporter of this project for nearly 60 years!
Later in the month, the Club went to the Mayville Library and viewed the 67 books that were purchased through a matching club-district grant totaling $1000. Melissa Bartok welcomed and thanked Grant's Chair, Janese Berkhouse for the donation. Due to the library's ability to buy at a special rate, Melissa was able to turn $1000 into $1,674.09 in a total purchase! The books covered many topics for both young readers and adults. This is the 4th library that the club has provided many books including: Ripley, Brocton, and Sherman libraries.
PHOTOS:
LEFT: Andrew Webster, Westfield Recreation Director
RIGHT: Westfield-Mayville Rotary presentation to Mayville Library
Welcome to the OCTOBER 2026 
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= Learning
September was a busy and inspiring month filled with club visits, District Council, special events, Zone training, and many opportunities to see Rotary in action on both sides of our border.
World Polio Day — October 24 — is an opportunity for every Rotary and Rotaract club to help raise awareness, generate support and remind our communities that the fight to End Polio Now is not over.
Sometimes growth begins by strengthening the club experience we already have.
📌We invite you to join us for a Public Image Huddle the 4th Monday of Each Month at 8:00 AM via Zoom.
Celebrate. Inspire. Strengthen. Measure.
Y2Y is a transformative program that immerses Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth between the ages of 15 and 17 in Indigenous culture while fostering connections with a diverse group of young people from across Canada. They engage in meaningful cultural exchanges, learn about Indigenous traditions, and deepen their understanding of Indigenous history and heritage. This event is cost-free for selected participants. This includes travel to and from the event, accommodations, food and admission to facilities such as Museums. Only 50 youth will be chosen for this experience.
Over 65 attendees were present for the September 12th Human Trafficking Awareness, Education and Prevention training (this one at Lockport) as part of the continuing outreach through a global grant.
CanAm Ride
On September 26th, the Amherst South Rotary Club held its first ever Poker Run Bike Ride to End Polio. 
The Amherst South Rotary Club will be holding its annual Trivia Night Fundraiser on November 20, 2026, at the Amherst Youth and Family Center. 
Get Ready for the 8th Annual Trick or Trot 5K!
Score Big for the Community This Bills Season
There’s nothing better than enjoying our Rotary Club of Buffalo excursions.
Three club members and WS Rotarian Wally Ochterski participated in an informative and interesting Human Trafficking Seminar in Lockport. Although the subject material was disturbing, the need for awareness and response was made clear in a thoughtful way by presenter Kelly Diane Galloway, Executive Director of 
The Rotary Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise wants every club in District 7090 to know that this Canadian club in Dundas Ontario always displays both the Canadian and United States of America flags at its morning meetings.
On Saturday September 26, the Rotary Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise hosted our first Dundas Duck Derby!
Fonthill Rotary Purse Bingo 2026 to benefit Birchway Niagara and the Pathstone Youth Mental Health Satellite program at the Meridian Community Centre in Fonthill.
NEW HAMBURG ROTARIAN
Hamilton After Five is hosting “A Charlie Brown Jazz Holiday Celebration” on December 8, 2026.
Why does our club mentor Rotary Peace Fellowship applicants every year?
Marvelous Marvin Does it Again!
Join Us for an Unforgettable Evening!
Our Club was very pleased to welcome two new members this summer: Joanne Hoftsee and Heino Doessing
On September 20th the Proudly Bi-National Rotary Club of Lewiston, NY & Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON once again supported the Terry Fox Run in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON by selling Hot Dogs, Hamburgers and Drinks to raise funds on the day of the Run to support cancer research.
Lewiston/NOTL Rotary Does It Again.
On Saturday, September 12, 2026, members of the Proudly Binational Lewiston/NOTL Rotary Club attended a very moving and powerful presentation in Lockport designed to raise awareness of the horrors of human sexual and labor trafficking.
2026 Bike the Benchlands was the best one yet! 
The Rotary Club of Lincoln Ontario was honoured to dedicate the installation of a Rotary Peace Pole at Rotary Park this morning September 22, 2026. Thank you Joanne Serkeyn District 7090 Governor for helping us dedicate this very important installation.
Expand Your Learning: Join the SOWNY Media Club!
A Friendship Exchange Comes Full Circle in St. Catharines
Youth Exchange student Sophie Blain, who returned from her year in Denmark in July, was the guest speaker at the Waterdown Rotary Club's Sept. 14 meeting.
Calling all Trivia Champions & Masterminds!
The Rotary Club of Welland presents Duelling Pianos Niagara! Enjoy an unforgettable evening of great music, audience participation, and classic singalongs. Feel free to “show off your moves” on the dance floor!
The Rotary Club of Welland held its 10th Annual Bocce Social on Wednesday September 16th at Casa Dante. 68 Rotarians, family, and friends came together to socialize and have fun. We welcomed two teams from the Rotary Club of Grimsby, three from the Rotary Club of St. Catharines South, one from the Rotary Club of Fonthill, one each from YMCA of Niagara, B&D CPAs, and Special Olympics. Special guests were three Rotary Youth Exchange Students, Marco Nazareth from Brazil, hosted by Welland Rotary, Lilly Laffineur from Belgium hosted by Fonthill Rotary and Maico Lafuente Llopis from Argentina hosted by 3 St. Catharines Rotary Clubs: Noon, Lakeshore & South. We can’t forget our host, Casa Dante.
Tailgates Bar & Grill
This month the Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club members got to enjoy the fruits of their labors.
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