This is my last newsletter piece as DG. I have had one of the greatest experiences of my life in supporting and leading the District this past year. I want to thank each Rotarian for their hospitality, friendship, service, and leadership.
As Rotary’s first binational District I am proud of how we continue to work together to support the effort of our clubs and the amazing things that everyone does on behalf of our communities. Our Best of Friends tag is apt. Each and every visit to clubs, all the organizing and meetings, and the support from people who balance their club work with serving others across 7090 is much appreciated and worthwhile.
I wanted to say to our club leaders: finish strong. Get your club goals into ClubRunner and get that Rotary Club Excellence Award! You deserve this. Work with your AG and others to get this done. Also, almost all clubs have given to the foundation, but if your club has not, a minimum donation of $100 US to the shared fund signifies you and your club get the importance of what we do as Rotarians in general including accessing the grants process that benefits us all.
From the bottom of my heart I want to again say thanks to those Rotarians who stepped up and worked with me to bring the vision of a new kind of District Conference to life. We did find that the theme of Working Together Works Better applied to our team and to working with our community partners. Acknowledging the efforts of volunteering and telling the stories about volunteers is a great way of bringing the community together to address our challenges and to provide leadership to the work we do. I really think that we are onto something…
It's Not Too Late to join the Fun-Filled Calgary International Convention!
You've heard about all the exciting fun that will take place on June 21-25th in Calgary at the International Convention and wonder - am I too late to join? No! There's still time to book your ticket and join District Governor Dave and the over 60 Rotarians from District 7090, plus more than 15,000 fun-loving Rotarians from around the world. Book now online or in person at the convention. Visit Rotary Convention for more information.
The Rotary app Rotary Events Calgary (Android; Apple) has all the details on day-to-day fun activities, entertaining speakers, lively breakouts, and special fun entertainment. Of course, there are always surprise guests and magical moments all around Calgary. Signature events include a mini stampede, toe-tapping Canadian music, peace happenings and so much more fun!
If you cannot make it, watch our district Facebook site for some day-to-day fun highlights.
Want to book for the International Convention for Taipei June 13-17, 2026? The fun pre-booking price will be the lowest during the week of the Calgary Convention!
Watch for a fun wrap-up in the July newsletter about Calgary.
One of the principles important to Paul Harris and the co-founders of Rotary was “fellowship”: friendly associations, especially with people who share one's interests. Rotary Fellowships are international groups that share a common passion. Being part of a fellowship is a fun way to make friends around the world, explore a hobby or profession, and enhance your Rotary experience.
Membership in a fellowship is open to any interested individuals, including non-Rotarians. They are not intended to be a means to promote a service project or program. Their purpose is to bring together people with a common interest in any of a number of areas. Rotary Fellowships globally unite individuals around a common interest, culture, vocation, or recreational activity with the primary purpose to network, further friendship, and build community. There are more than 115 Fellowshipsright now. And with at least 25 people, in at least 5 countries, a new fellowship can be formed.
Check out the list of fellowships HERE and see what’s available!
“Every Rotarian Every Year” status is achieved by clubs when, during the Rotary year:
EVERY member of that club personally contributes at least $25 to the Rotary Foundation’s Annual Fund
AND The club’s total TRF Annual Fund contribution averages at least $100 per capita.
The Rotary year (7/1 – 6/30) is fast coming to a close. This is the perfect time to make your donation to The Rotary Foundation (if you haven’t already done so).
You can make a one-time contribution or set up recurring (monthly, quarterly, annually) donations.
1. "RAISE FOR ROTARY" FUNDRAISING PLATFORM: The Rotary Foundation’s peer-to-peer fundraising platform.
Members, donors, and participants use it to create fundraisers for birthdays, athletic challenges, and events like World Polio Day. You can quickly post fundraisers and updates on social media to raise awareness about your favorite Rotary cause.
FEATURE SPEAKER: Edina Mehovic, Senior Annual Giving Officer, Rotary International
2. FOUNDATION REPORTS: How to locate & interpret both club and personal contribution reports
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, your club's Newsletter Rep, a Committee Member, or just a Rotarian looking for better ways to share your Rotary story - JOIN US!
The first huddle will take place on Monday, July 28th (8:00 - 8:45 AM)
Once again this year, Rotary District 7090 invites you to take part in a special event to End Polio: the 6th Annual Dr. Ron Mergl Participate for Polio on Saturday, September 13.
Bring your bike and join the ride!
Participants will gather at 10:00 a.m. at the St. Davids Lions Club, 1462 York Road, St. Davids, before cycling to Niagara-on-the-Lake.
After our return, we will convene for food, beverages, and fellowship at The Old Firehall Restaurant, just a short distance away at 268 Four Mile Creek Road.
Our fundraising goal is $5,000 CAD from the Ontario side of District.
Due to global efforts led by Rotary, polio cases have dropped by 99.9%.
Although we are closer than ever, significant challenges remain.
Every $1 you give becomes $3 thanks to the 2:1 match from the Gates Foundation so Let's End Polio Now.
The Ancaster AM Rotary Club ran their annual spring cleanup on Saturday, May 10 where they pick up trash on the baseball and soccer fields around the Ancaster Rotary Centre.
The Rotary Club of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus heard a fascinating and – given our name – highly appropriate presentation from Bob Lester, speaking on behalf of ConnectLife. This is Western New York's only community blood bank and federally designated not-for-profit organ procurement organization. ConnectLife helps save and heal lives through organ, eye, tissue, birth tissue, and blood donation. BNMC regularly sponsors blood drives at the campus through ConnectLife. (Next ones: Tuesday, July 15 and Wednesday, October 1.)
The gift of life comes in many forms and the impact one person can make is incredible. It can change the world.
Bob’s daughter Nicole had learned about blood and organ donation as a young girl in school. When she got her first driver’s license she indicated that she was willing to be an organ donor. When the unthinkable happened and Nicole was critically injured and passed away in 2016, her family honored her wishes and gave their permission for her organs and tissue to be donated. The story of the journey of Nicole through so many people’s lives will touch you and will hopefully encourage you to register as an organ donor, to encourage others to do so, and to be sure your family knows of your decision.
You can contact Pasquale Maggiore at pmaggiore@connectlife.org or 716-529-4353 to arrange a presentation at your club.
PHOTO (L to R): BNMC Rotarian Dr. David Johnson, ConnectLife Rep Bob Lester, and BNMC President Sean Brennan.
The Rotary Club of Buffalo had a terrific evening socializing, eating and drinking, while learning about the Buffalo Maritime Center.
The tour was a real eye opener, not only the historic craft they are reconditioning but all the educational classes they offer to young people, including boat building.
Students learn how to build a craft from drawing to launching on Lake Erie.
If you have not yet purchased a $20 USD raffle ticket to support the good work of our club in such efforts as:
Combatting human trafficking in the Western New York area and neighboring Ontario
Supporting the unique and highly successful Youth Exchange Program
Partnering with area Rotary clubs along the Niagara River in the upcoming Erie Canal Historic Site Rejuvenation
Enhancing our BSR Adopt-A-Trail section and perennial pollinator garden at Towpath Park, Buffalo with a Peace Pole and Little Library.
Please help our club to be able to make a positive contribution to the citizens of WNY and beyond! Cash or checks are accepted. and you don’t have to be local to win or participate. Contact us to be a part of making a positive difference! Timothy Priano: timothy@abtp.com or Barbara Ochterski: barbarao2@aol.com
Recent Buffalo Sunrise meetings have featured two inspiring people who are making a difference in revitalizing the City of Buffalo.
Grace Karambizi of the BILT Buffalo Immigrant Leadership Team works alongside immigrant and refugee leaders.
Grace is a dedicated community leader and advocate with a strong commitment to empowering immigrant and refugee communities in Buffalo, NY.
As the Executive Director and Lead Organizer for the Buffalo Immigrant Leadership Team (BILT), she builds leadership among community members and leads initiatives that promote social justice.
Grace is a former refugee and is dedicated to the cause of immigrants and refugees, mainly those causes that bring systematic changes to allow children, youth, and women to have access to equitable education and health.
She brings a tireless commitment to bridging gaps between communities and promoting social justice.
Since 2002, except for the COVID years, the Dundas Valley Sunrise Rotary Club has hosted the Victoria Day Fireworks Extravaganza on Ontario’s May 24 weekend for the City of Hamilton.
This year’s event attracted more than 7500 persons to an afternoon/evening of kids' fest, food fest, music fest and fireworks.
The public generously supported our Club’s community projects through their donations at the various entry gates into the Dundas Driving Park.
The club’s first skilled-trades bursary recipient, Uma Pala, joined the bucket brigade at the gate to the park.
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who came out April 26 for an incredibly successful community cleanup!
We had 18 people joining together from our Club, ERA Real Estate and Vacation Rentals, and several new friends from The Depot.
It was beyond our expectations and everyone’s efforts made a huge difference in a short period of time, all around the Village, the creeks, and the Park, collecting many bags of garbage (and 35 cigarette butts directly under the butt receptacle!).
Of course, playtime was called for and the social time afterwards at Mill Street Sports Bar was great fun.
Rotarians are never afraid of hard work, and they surely know how to party.
Many thanks to Rotarian Anne Rothrock for her dedicated planning and coordinating of this event every year!
After a delicious dinner at Dina’s upstairs, club Treasurer Anne Rothrock and President John Weismantel presented checks to the Governors for our share in helping the eradication of polio and another for the good works of Rotary International. Governor Alexander offered generous compliments on the amazing growth of our club and gave praise for how far the club has come.
PHOTOS:
Left: Rotary Club of Ellicottville President, John Weismantel presenting checks to District Governor Dave Alexander and Area Governor Paula Bernstein.
Right: Rotary Club Members and guests: Standing Lisa Chatham, Tom Swarthout, Darlene Allen, District Governor David Alexander, Judy Brown, Area Governor Paula Bernstein, Anne Rothrock, Dave Rothrock, Rachele Dove. Kneeling Tom Opsahl, Patrick Martin, and President John Weismantel
The Rotary Club of Ellicottville presented a check to Patti Snyder and Molly Timke of the Ellicottville All Inclusive Playground for the purchase of Three Conga Drums and 2 Tot Swings with Chains.
Finally, a fun Meet and Greet held at the end of the month of May brought three new Rotarians into our ranks. It’s been a busy, fun spring for Ellicottville Rotarians.
The Rotary Club of Fonthill is once again ready to celebrate the humanitarian contributions of the Pelham community through the Paul Harris Fellowship, one of the highest honours Rotary can bestow upon a person.
Recipients are community professionals and volunteers, in recognition of their outstanding contributions exemplifying the highest ideal in Rotary: “Service above Self.”
This honour accompanies a donation of $1,000 or more, in the recipient’s name, to Rotary International’s “Annual Fund SHARE program,” which supports Rotary’s world-wide programs centered on saving and enhancing lives by providing educational programs, food, potable water, health care, immunizations, shelters for millions of people, good environmental practices, and peace centers. The activities are funded, implemented, and managed by Rotarians and Rotary clubs around the globe, including our own Rotary Club of Fonthill.
Our Paul Harris Award evening will be on Wednesday, June 4th, 2025.
PHOTO: Gail Levay, Fonthill Charter Member - retired 2024, holds her lifetime honourary membership certificate. She also received her second Paul Harris Fellowship at the 2024 Paul Harris event.
In October 2024, a Rotary Youth Exchange student from Brazil, Maria, who was spending her exchange year in Fonthill, Ontario, proposed a meaningful international partnership. She suggested that the Rotary Club of Fonthill collaborate with her home club in Santa Fé do Sul, Brazil, on a global grant project to provide a new autoclave unit for their local hospital.
The Rotary Club of Fonthill quickly embraced the initiative and began consultations with other clubs in Rotary District 7090. Thanks to the generous combined efforts of the Rotary Clubs of Fonthill, St. Catharines, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Dundas Valley Sunrise, Niagara Falls, and Welland, a total of $8,400 was raised. This amount was matched, dollar for dollar, by Rotary International, leading to the successful funding of the global grant project.
Quietly but significantly, Maria also rallied support from the Rotary Interact Club at E.L. Crossley Secondary School. Inspired by her passion, the students hosted a movie day featuring The Lorax and organized a pop-up thrift store, collectively raising $350 towards the project.
This successful campaign is a testament to the power of global collaboration and the remarkable impact that can be achieved when communities come together to care for one another—across towns, countries, and continents.
PHOTO: Members of the E.L. Crossley Interact Club pose with Fonthill Rotarians on May 14, 2025, Location E.L. Crossley Secondary School
The Rotary Club of Grand Island will again have their annual “document destruction” event.
Saturday, June 7, 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Location- Sidway School parking lot, 2451 Baseline Rd, Grand Island NY
Drive-through in-vehicle service where patrons will be able to watch the confidential destruction of their papers
Cost: $10 per box (approximately 12x16x10) or $20 for double bankers box
Please follow guidelines for secure document destruction by removing metal and plastic binders. Staples and paper clips will be accepted.
Only paper items accepted for curbside recycling are allowed.
If you have more than 6 large boxes, please contact us at 716-773-7265.
The funds raised at this event will be used by the Rotary Club for various community causes. Cosponsors for this event are Christine Learman CPA, PC and Madison Tile Carpet One.
Passing of Note: Dennis R Bauman We are saddened to report the passing of our member, Dennis R. Bauman. Dennis joined us this past year as a legacy Rotary member, following in the footsteps of previous generations of Rotarians in his family. The Bauman family have been generational farmers in our community. Dennis, along with his son Nicholas Bauman, operated their 25-acre Back Hills Farm at 951 Whitehaven Road, where they raised sheep, goats, and chickens. Dennis farmed for more than 40 years. He earned a degree in agronomy from Alfred State College and a degree in agricultural economics from the University of Georgia. He and his son studied permaculture in Belize, and Dennis assisted in grazing and crop management of both beef cattle herds and sheep flocks in Argentina. Their business uses sheep to manage vegetation on solar fields, several of which are located on Grand Island, with others throughout the state of New York. Dennis had also been a director supporting farmers in Erie County and New York State with the Erie County NY Farm Bureau. Dennis is survived by his sons Christian (Mai), David (Rachel), and Nicholas Bauman; his grandson, Benjamin; his mother, Margaret; and was predeceased by his father, Norman Bauman.
On Thursday, May 15 Rotary Club Members delivered the news to our 2024 Scholarship Winners. We are pleased to announce the following winners and share the joy of the families that support these young people. Both categories of scholarships weigh these young people's service to their communities as well as being well rounded students. Our good news delivery team were Faye Teluk, Diane Garey, Donna Wilde, and Sherry Miller.
Traditional Scholarship Winners: Skye Dreher and Natalie Kopf
Trade Scholarship Winners: Jacob Bonafede and Luke Gworek
The Rotary Club of Hamburg was grateful for Hamburg's warm welcome at its annual Shredding fundraiser at the Northwest Bank at 5751 South Park Avenue on May 17.
Our fundraisers enable us to support our many community and global projects, including Farm to Family and Warm the Children, along with world health initiatives and protecting the environment.
Rotarians, YES (Youth Engaged in Service) volunteers, and staff from Lincoln Archives unloaded bags and boxes in a drive-through on a busy Saturday morning at the bank.
PHOTO (L to R): Rotarians Diana Straube and President Tim Straube, Grace Cole of the Town of Hamburg Youth Engaged in Service, YES, Program, Rotarian Colleen Gibbons, chair of the event, and Financial Center Assistant Manager Katie Bosley of Northwest Bank.
The Hamburg Sunrise Rotary Club recently hosted their annual Grade Improvement Luncheon at Ilio DiPaolos Restaurant in Blasdell to recognize students in our local high schools who have shown improvement from the previous year. This year’s guest speaker was Carib from Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA). He educated us with the amazing volunteer work they do to empower children of abuse to feel safe in the world we live in. The court systems are overwhelming to children, and they provide them with the support they need.
Also, each year our club recognizes students from local schools with a breakfast and a scholarship. This year’s recipients are pictured below with our President Sue Harrington. Matthew Stepniak from St. Francis High School and Haley Piwko from Frontier High School. Congratulations to both and best of luck in your future endeavors.
PHOTO (Left; L to R): Rotarian members Marlene Gonzalez, Jim Eiseman, Dave Powers, Roger Jackson, Mark Walling, Carib (BACA member), Sue Harrington, Skylar Taravella (Horary Rotarian), Michele Ciavarella, Mike Reilly, and Cathy Rybczynski.
PHOTO (Right; L to R): Haley Piwko, Sue Harrington, Matthew Stepniak
On Saturday, April 26, Hamilton AM Rotary celebrated Earth Day by fielding a team of members and friends to do a clean sweep of Hamilton’s Bayfront Park and Pier 4 Park.
Approximately 20 stalwarts gathered in the parking lot at Bayfront Park, under the leadership of Elizabeth Ward, head of the club’s Community Services efforts.
Great Lakes Watershed Cleanup is an annual project of District 7090, and many clubs joined in the cause to support our local environment.
The City of Hamilton supported this effort by supplying clean up bags and Hamilton AM supplied “pickers” and glovers.
The cool weather did not deter everyone’s efforts, and the group collected approximately one full bag of garbage, bottles and cans, plastic utensils, discarded books and clothing for each volunteer.
The District will be collecting statistics on this effort to show the impact of this annual campaign.
The group picture was shared by CHCH TV over the weekend, recognizing this excellent civic effort.
RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) is an international program designed to develop leadership skills and foster a sense of service in young people, often through conferences and training programs.
Junior RYLA is an annual Rotary District 7090 event for youth between 15-18 years old.
On May 2- 4 weekend, about 30 youth from Canada and the USA gathered at Hamilton’s Canterbury Hills Conference Centre, Ancaster.
The weekend program focused on leadership and teamwork skills.
Leo, the youth sponsored by the Hamilton AM Rotary Club, completed the high ropes with a person who started out as a competitor, but the two quickly learned that only by working together could they complete the challenge!
Supporting the program were Hamilton AM club leads, Youth Committee Chair Ryan Dorosz. and STEP (Short Term Exchange Program) Coordinator Cheryl Gzik.
Around Earth Day each year, the Rotary Club of Kenmore heads to their 1 mile adopted trail section of the Shoreline Trail in Isle View Park to help keep our waterways and trails clean!
On May 3rd members of our Club and some family members attended our trail cleanup as part of our annual Earth Day events in partnership with the Niagara River Greenway Rotary Steering Committee.
Members braved the rain and spent a few hours collecting trash and beautifying the trail.
Rotarians are instrumental in doing their part to make the world a better place and care for Rotary’s seventh area of focus- Environment.
You're Invited to the 2025-2026 Kenmore Rotary Installation Dinner & Awards Celebration!
Join us on Monday, June 30 at Webster's Bistro & Bar (102 Webster St, North Tonawanda, NY 14120) at 5:30 PM as we induct our 2025-2026 Club Officers and Award some of our dedicated Club Members!
The cost is $50 per person and payment can be brought to a meeting or mailed to 3411 Delaware Ave., Suite 206, Kenmore, NY 14217.
Please RSVP to Steve Blass by 6/23/2025 at 716-868-8085 or Sblass61@gmail.com
Kenmore East Interact Club Does Purple Pinkie Project to END POLIO NOW!
On Wednesday, May 7th at Franklin Middle & Elementary Schools the Interact Club at Kenmore East High School, led by Interact Advisor Katie Struckmann and members of the Rotary Club of Kenmore, Rotary Club of Amherst and UB Rotaract visited the schools for the Purple Pinkie Project!
Since 1985, Rotary International began raising funds to help eliminate the Poliovirus worldwide. Although Polio has been wiped out in all but three nations, people and children living in third-world nations are susceptible to it. The hope is that by raising funds to fight against Polio, this deadly disease will be completely eliminated. In countries where the threat of polio remains, children still receive their polio vaccine by mouth. When vaccinating millions of children in a short period of time it is impossible to document so, every child has their pinkie nail of their left hand painted with an indelible purple marker to ensure they only receive one dose.
The Rotary Club of Kenmore is excited that the Kenmore East Interact Club held the Purple Pinkie Project for the first time this year! Students at Franklin Middle School raised $165 and students at Franklin Elementary School raised $235 for a total of $400 being donated to the Rotary Foundation PolioPlus fund!
An annual tradition for the Rotary Club of Kenmore, each May the Club honors deserving local students with the Club “Service Above Self” Awards. Each Spring, the Club reaches out to local Middle and High Schools looking for students that go above and beyond embodying “Service Above Self”. School Administrators select a student or two to be an award recipient. Additionally, each of the High School Students receives a scholarship.
Lancaster-Depew Rotary enjoyed a visit from DG David earlier this month, during which we presented our annual TRF contribution, and he inducted new member Irene Leary.
Then this morning several of our members gathered to represent the club and served breakfast to the Honor Roll students at Depew Middle School.
The club has been doing this for somewhere over 25 years.
Of our oldest members present the consensus was that we didn't know the start date, just that it preceded our joining Rotary.
Rotary Hosts Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Business After 5
As a way to reach out to the community at large and the local community businesses the Lincoln Rotary hosted the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Business After 5 on May 1.
It was a great way to showcase our Lincoln Rotary and have a chance to network with local business! It was an opportunity to explore membership opportunities, sponsorship opportunities and volunteer recruitment for our various club events. It was a great success, and we have been able to expand our Friends of Rotary list.
PHOTO (L to R): Lincoln Rotarians Sue, John, Lindsay, Martha, Barb, Emilia (Executive Director of The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce), Lincoln Rotarians Joanne and Nour
Thank you to the Guelph Trillium Rotary Club for inviting us from the Rotary Club of Lincoln to give a presentation on our completed Rotary Global Grant. We gave a presentation on what we learned after completing our club's first Global Grant and the success of the grant and how the power of Rotary Global Grants can make a bigger impact by Rotary Clubs working together. We also gave the Guelph club a preview of our next Global Grant "Survive to Thrive" which we will soon be submitting.
Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise Gives Back to the Community
Supporting Local Organizations Making a Difference The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise is proud to announce recent donations to several incredible organizations doing vital work throughout the Niagara Region.
These contributions reflect Rotary’s ongoing mission to support community growth, well-being, and resilience.
This year, the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls, through our Community Service funds, provided funding to:
Each of these organizations serves a unique and essential role in our region — from helping children thrive and supporting survivors of abuse to fostering innovation, promoting literacy, and ensuring families have access to food, shelter, and vital services.
The funds were raised through a combination of community fundraising events, grant opportunities, and the ongoing generosity of Rotary members and supporters. Thanks to this collective effort, the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise is able to extend its impact by supporting these partners in their missions.
“We’re deeply inspired by the work these organizations do,” said BJ Romans, President-elect for the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise. “It’s an honour to support their efforts and help create positive change right here at home.”
The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise remains committed to creating a lasting impact in the community — one act of service, one dollar, and one partnership at a time.
The Niagara-on-the-Lake Rotary Club hosted our annual Paul Harris Gala at historic Navy Hall on the shores of Lake Ontario on May 15, 2025. 80 Rotarians, guests and our five honourees enjoyed a magnificent dinner provided courtesy of Club Member Anne Dickson (Executive Catering). Among the attendees were MP Tony Baldinelli, a representative from MPP Wayne Gates, and Deputy Lord Mayor Erwin Wiens. Presentation of the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow recognition for service to the community was made to Rotarians Betty Disero, Greg Fedoryn, and Martin Quick, as well as prominent NOTL residents Julia Buxton-Cox and Dr. Richard Merritt (see left PHOTO). Many thanks to Members Brian Carberry, Jan Van Haren, and Carol Lipsett for all of their work leading up to this magnificent evening of fun and fellowship, acknowledging outstanding examples of service above self.
Also, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Club has partnered with the Rotary Club of Santa Cruz, Bolivia on a substantial Global Grant that will fund Immunohistochemistry equipment that will increase the speed and capacity of cancer detection. This will reduce times from two months to shorter than two weeks to get a diagnosis and treatment if required.
Finally, our membership continues to grow as we welcomed our newest member, Ann Hill in May. (PHOTO RIGHT)
This past month we donated $1000 toward 809 Air Cadets' fundraiser on May 31st. "Keep 'em Flying" featured "Dueling Pianos Niagara". See poster in ("Read more...") for details.
$3150 was donated to the Niagara Region Simbotics Team 114 to purchase batteries and motors.
The team finished 3rd in the world semi-finals in Houston, Texas and achieved their goal of no mechanical issues throughout the competition. GO TEAM!
We continue to support Niagara Nutrition Partners by delivering fresh fruit to our 3 elementary schools in Niagara-on-the-Lake
THE 2025 DRAGONS ARE INVADING - PARTICIPATE NOW TO HELP FIGHT CANCER
On 21/22 June, the RCNC will, once again, be paddling to fight cancer in Norfolk County and we want you to help.
You can just be aware of this initiative to assist those in need, you might donate to a great cause, or you could even assemble a team and challenge for that cause.
Celebrating Earth Day 2025, the RCNS undertook to add even more trees to our Sunrise Trail. So it was that ~25 Sunrisers (supported by a few 'toys for the boys'), arrived to plant trees to make our Trail better and more beautiful.
Before the weather turned, the group had managed to plant 120 trees along two rows of the Trail. As a result, our Sunrise Trail was visibly improved and a period of Club fellowship resulted.
A description of the details of the work and a few representative pictures are given at the 'Read more ...' tab whilst all of the available photos taken during the event are given at this link. Check it out - you may be there!
The Olean Rotary Club announces their 2nd Annual Disc Golf Tournament to benefit the Marjorie and Robert Schaumleffel Rotary Scholarship
In these uncertain times, “Service Above Self” is more important than ever before.
To further help us achieve that motto, the Olean Rotary is hosting our 2nd annual disc golf tournament on July 20 at Gargoyle Park as a fundraiser for our Marjorie and Robert Schaumleffel Rotary Scholarship.
The Marjorie and Robert Schaumleffel Rotary Scholarship is a $500 scholarship, in memory of Robert and Marjorie Schaumleffel, for any graduating senior of Olean, Portville, Archbishop Walsh or Allegany-Limestone who is an active member of the Rotary Interact Club.
Applicants must include an essay about the meaning of "Service Above Self."
"As a club and community, we’re dedicated to helping students achieve their dreams and goals—both on and off the course. We foster personal growth, support academic and professional aspirations, and, of course, have a great time playing disc golf together." stated Paula Bernstein, President of Olean Rotary Club and Area Governor of District 7090.
The Rotary Clubs of St. Catharines; St. Catharines South and St. Catharines Lakeshore were pleased to recognize seven local community leaders at their Second Annual Paul Harris Celebration Evening held at Amici’s Banquet and Conference Centre. Five (Dr. Robert Cooper; Marko Bukovec; Ron Matsushita; Mario Divitiis and Korey Rorison) were recognized as Community Paul Harris Fellows (for individuals) and two (CAA Niagara – accepted by Marianne Wilson, Vice President of Marketing, Strategy and Member Engagement; and Start me Up Niagara – accepted by Board Chair Paul Miller and Executive Director Laura Dumas) were recognized with Community Certificates of Appreciation (for organizations) for their meritorious service.
PHOTO (L to R): Ron Matsushita; Laura Dumas; Paul Miller; Dr. Robert Cooper; Rotary 7090 District Governor Dave Alexander; Marianne Wilson; Mario Divitiis; Korey Rorison; Robert Cervoni, past Paul Harris recipient; Marko Bukovec.
Ribfest is an annual 4-day fundraising event hosted by The Rotary Club of St. Catharines.
LOCATION: 64 Ontario St, St. Catharines, ON L2R 5J5
This community event brings together food vendors, live music and family-friendly activities.
As one of St. Catharines biggest downtown events, there are over 30,000 annual attendees, 4 days of live music, local vendors offering food, drinks, merchandise, and of course plenty of ribs from your favorite ribbers.
There will be no charge for visitors to enter the park; however, donations for the Rotary Club would be greatly appreciated.
Saturday April 26th saw members and friends, including six Rotaractors from the University of Niagara Falls, meet at our Charles Ansel Park to save our small piece of the environment.
We joined over one billion people worldwide working on projects together in their communities during the week of Earth Day by doing a litter clean-up covering the Park and its abutting lands along the Welland Canal Parkway and Bunting Road itself.
The clean-up went north of the Park on both sides of Lock One across Lakeshore Road and along the Canal.
Congratulations to Chair, and chief litter picker extraordinaire, Bruce Timms for an outstanding event despite the usual cold and RAIN!
Following the clean-up, we retired to RickiJo’s for some liquid refreshments.
For the first time this year, the FIRST Robotics competition was held in Niagara at the Niagara College Welland Campus. The St. Catharines Lakeshore sponsored Governor Simcoe secondary School Team 1114 - Simbotics competed and qualified to move on to the next level being held at McMaster University in Hamilton. Teams compete throughout Ontario and around the world (over 3000 teams worldwide) to qualify for the provincials and then to qualify for the World FIRST Robotics Championship to be held later this year. As the photos indicate, the robots place a white roll on a purple stand. The higher you can put it (you’ll see they are placing it high in the second picture) the more points you get.
Click HERE for an article on the competition and a profile of our own Janet Allan, Volunteer Coordinator at the competition.
The Rotary Satellite Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise, STamp Out Polio (STOP), held its Walk Around the Clock on May 24-25, a 24-hour relay walk around the Rotary clock in the Dundas Driving Park.
The event started at noon on May 24 and continued uninterrupted until noon on May 25.
The event supported our club’s mission of raising awareness and funds for Rotary International’s End Polio Now campaign.
Dan Smith, Youth Services Chairman for the Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club presented Lincoln Smith of Chautauqua Lake Central School notification that he was the recipient of a $1200 Rotary District 7090 scholarship.
Additionally, Smith announced that Zachary Maguire of Westfield Academy and Central School was the 4th place winner of $1000 from the District.
Both high school seniors had to submit a lengthy application of their community and leadership activities and how they live up to the Rotary 4 Way test.
The Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club presented eight $400 Scholarships to local high school seniors who demonstrated Rotarian qualities of community service and leadership.
Dan Smith, Youth Services Chairman headed the process throughout the year.
PHOTO: The scholarship winners: Dylan Carey, Sherman; Sophie Smith, WACS; Lincoln Smith, CLCS; Mary Marshaus, CLCS; Ava Thompson, Brocton; Joseph Watson, Brocton. Unable to attend, Mason Baum, WACS; and Kenadi Long, Sherman. Funding for these scholarships is derived from club fund raising proceeds.
The Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club participated once again in the Great Lakes Watershed Cleanup along Lake Erie beaches at Barcelona, NY.
They were joined by students from Westfield Academy and Central School and Brocton Central schools.
Also, the club recently honored Scholars of the Month at a reception at the Lakeshore Assembly of God Church in Westfield. Students from Westfield Academy and Central School, Brocton Central, Chautauqua Lake Central School (including Ripley) and Sherman Central School were recognized. The high school students were joined by parents, school staff and Rotarians.
Westfield Academy and Central School: Zachary Maguire, Lillian Snyder, Alina Franklin, David Hoebener
Brocton Central School: Anthony Cruz, Michael Garcia, Jolena Doner ,Keyonna Kent & Kaylee-Sue Deming
Chautauqua Lake Central School: Mary Marshaus, Zach Braun, Paige Zarpentine , Charles Curtis & Devin Kelsey
Sherman Central School: Andrew Perry, Olivia Lindsey, Brady Phelps, Max Guzman and Kelsey Wagner.
On April 29, the Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club held its annual Rural-Urban Day. Our guest speaker was Jeff Winton, founder of Rural Minds, who spoke to an audience of 50 attendees regarding the need for good mental health in rural communities. He stressed that many who are involved with agriculture are often isolated and deal with stressors that can be debilitating. He explained the goal of Rural Minds is to provide information and support for good mental health and drastically reduce the incidence of suicides.
We invite you to join us for our 25th Strawberry Festival on June 18, at the Main-Transit Department pavilion (6777 Main Street, Williamsville, NY).
This celebration is dedicated to honoring America's Veterans, and the event aims to promote a nation where all Veterans receive the honor, gratitude, and supportive community they deserve.
All proceeds from the festival will benefit the Buffalo-Niagara Honor Flight program, which recognizes the United States Veterans for their sacrifices and achievements by providing complimentary flights to Washington, DC, allowing them to visit their memorials at no cost.
If you are interested in becoming a sponsor, kindly complete the Sponsorship Form or contact President, Richard Wojtowicz at wojtowiczr@aol.com.
Please ensure that all forms are submitted by June 8, 2025, in order to qualify for recognition displays.
Time banks benefit community members by operating on the premise that everyone has something to offer and that everyone’s time and skills are valued equally.
The Rotaract Club of Little River Current Transitions, South Carolina, includes members with disabilities who learn life skills in the local Current Transitions program
Olayinka Hakeem Babalola, a member of the Rotary Club of Trans Amadi, Nigeria, has been selected by the Board of Directors to become Rotary International’s president for 2026-27.
Larry A. Lunsford, a member of the Rotary Club of Kansas City-Plaza, Missouri, USA, is the selection of the nominating committee to become Rotary International’s president for 2027-28.
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This is my last newsletter piece as DG. I have had one of the greatest experiences of my life in supporting and leading the District this past year. I want to thank each Rotarian for their hospitality, friendship, service, and leadership.
It's Not Too Late to join the Fun-Filled Calgary International Convention!
One of the principles important to Paul Harris and the co-founders of Rotary was “fellowship”: friendly associations, especially with people who share one's interests. Rotary Fellowships are international groups that share a common passion. Being part of a fellowship is a fun way to make friends around the world, explore a hobby or profession, and enhance your Rotary experience.
District Council and Changeover Luncheon
“Every Rotarian Every Year” status is achieved by clubs when, during the Rotary year:
D7090 Foundation Office Hour
We invite you to join us for a Public Image Huddle the 4th Monday of Each Month at 8:00 AM via Zoom.
Once again this year, Rotary District 7090 invites you to take part in a 
The Ancaster AM Rotary Club ran their annual spring cleanup on Saturday, May 10 where they pick up trash on the baseball and soccer fields around the Ancaster Rotary Centre.
The Rotary Club of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus heard a fascinating and – given our name – highly appropriate presentation from Bob Lester, speaking on behalf of 
Brant Rotary Clubs did their part for the environment during the last weekend in April with community cleanups in Brantford and Paris.
Ahoy Rotarians!
If you have not yet purchased a $20 USD raffle ticket to support the good work of our club in such efforts as:
Recent Buffalo Sunrise meetings have featured two inspiring people who are making a difference in revitalizing the City of Buffalo.
Fireworks in the Dundas Driving Park
A huge THANK YOU to everyone who came out April 26 for an incredibly successful community cleanup! 
On May 1, The Rotary Club of Ellicottville had an official visit from District Governor Dave Alexander and Area Governor Paula Bernstein.
The Rotary Club of Ellicottville presented a check to Patti Snyder and Molly Timke of the Ellicottville All Inclusive Playground for the purchase of Three Conga Drums and 2 Tot Swings with Chains.
The Rotary Club of Fonthill is once again ready to celebrate the humanitarian contributions of the Pelham community through the Paul Harris Fellowship, one of the highest honours Rotary can bestow upon a person.
In October 2024, a Rotary Youth Exchange student from Brazil, Maria, who was spending her exchange year in Fonthill, Ontario, proposed a meaningful international partnership. She suggested that the Rotary Club of Fonthill collaborate with her 
The Rotary Club of Grand Island will again have their annual “document destruction” event.
We are saddened to report the passing of our member, Dennis R. Bauman. Dennis joined us this past year as a legacy Rotary member, following in the footsteps of previous generations of Rotarians in his family. The Bauman family have been generational farmers in our community.
On Thursday, May 15 Rotary Club Members delivered the news to our 2024 Scholarship Winners. We are pleased to announce the following winners and share the joy of the families that support these young people. Both categories of scholarships weigh these young people's service to their communities as well as being well rounded students. Our good news delivery team were Faye Teluk, Diane Garey, Donna Wilde, and Sherry Miller.
The Rotary Club of Hamburg was grateful for Hamburg's warm welcome at its annual Shredding fundraiser at the Northwest Bank at 5751 South Park Avenue on May 17.
The Hamburg Sunrise Rotary Club recently hosted their annual Grade Improvement Luncheon at 
On Saturday, April 26, Hamilton AM Rotary celebrated Earth Day by fielding a team of members and friends to do a clean sweep of Hamilton’s Bayfront Park and Pier 4 Park. 
RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) is an international program designed to develop leadership skills and foster a sense of service in young people, often through conferences and training programs.
Around Earth Day each year, the Rotary Club of Kenmore heads to their 1 mile adopted trail section of the Shoreline Trail in Isle View Park to help keep our waterways and trails clean!
You're Invited to the 2025-2026 Kenmore Rotary Installation Dinner & Awards Celebration!
Kenmore East Interact Club Does Purple Pinkie Project to END POLIO NOW!
An annual tradition for the Rotary Club of Kenmore, each May the Club honors deserving local students with the Club “Service Above Self” Awards. Each Spring, the Club reaches out to local Middle and High Schools looking for students that go above and beyond embodying “Service Above Self”. School Administrators select a student or two to be an award recipient. Additionally, each of the High School Students receives a scholarship.
The Lancaster-Depew Rotary Club is hosting its 2025 Car & Cycle Show at Russell’s Steaks, Chops & More on August 13, from 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
Lancaster-Depew Rotary enjoyed a visit from DG David earlier this month, during which we presented our annual TRF contribution, and he inducted new member Irene Leary.
Rotary Hosts Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Business After 5
Thank you to the Guelph Trillium Rotary Club for inviting us from the Rotary Club of Lincoln to give a presentation on our completed Rotary Global Grant. We gave a presentation on what we learned after completing our club's first Global Grant and the success of the grant and how the power of Rotary Global Grants can make a bigger impact by Rotary Clubs working together. We also gave the Guelph club a preview of our next Global Grant "Survive to Thrive" which we will soon be submitting.
The Rotary Club of Lockport would like to congratulate our own Aaron Carlson on his election as District 7090's District Governor for 2025-2026!
Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise Gives Back to the Community
The Niagara-on-the-Lake Rotary Club hosted our annual Paul Harris Gala at historic Navy Hall on the shores of Lake Ontario on May 15, 2025. 80 Rotarians, guests and our five honourees enjoyed a magnificent dinner provided courtesy of Club Member Anne Dickson (Executive Catering). Among the attendees were MP Tony Baldinelli, a representative from MPP Wayne Gates, and Deputy Lord Mayor Erwin Wiens. Presentation of the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow recognition for service to the community was made to Rotarians Betty Disero, Greg Fedoryn, and Martin Quick, as well as prominent NOTL residents Julia Buxton-Cox and Dr. Richard Merritt (see left PHOTO). Many thanks to Members Brian Carberry, Jan Van Haren, and Carol Lipsett for all of their work leading up to this magnificent evening of fun and fellowship, acknowledging outstanding examples of service above self.
Visiting the communities where International Rotary dollars have impacted people's lives reinforces that WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER.
Our club supports many Youth Initiatives.
THE 2025 DRAGONS ARE INVADING - PARTICIPATE NOW TO HELP FIGHT CANCER
It was a great day .... until it wasn't!
The Olean Rotary Club announces their 2nd Annual Disc Golf Tournament to benefit the Marjorie and Robert Schaumleffel Rotary Scholarship 
The Rotary Clubs of St. Catharines; St. Catharines South and St. Catharines Lakeshore were pleased to recognize seven local community leaders at their Second Annual Paul Harris Celebration Evening held at Amici’s Banquet and Conference Centre. Five (Dr. Robert Cooper; Marko Bukovec; Ron Matsushita; Mario Divitiis and Korey Rorison) were recognized as Community Paul Harris Fellows (for individuals) and two (CAA Niagara – accepted by Marianne Wilson, Vice President of Marketing, Strategy and Member Engagement; and Start me Up Niagara – accepted by Board Chair Paul Miller and Executive Director Laura Dumas) were recognized with Community Certificates of Appreciation (for organizations) for their meritorious service.
Saturday April 26th saw members and friends, including six Rotaractors from the University of Niagara Falls, meet at our Charles Ansel Park to save our small piece of the environment.
For the first time this year, the FIRST Robotics competition was held in Niagara at the Niagara College Welland Campus. The St. Catharines Lakeshore sponsored Governor Simcoe secondary School Team 1114 - Simbotics competed and qualified to move on to the next level being held at McMaster University in Hamilton. Teams compete throughout Ontario and around the world (over 3000 teams worldwide) to qualify for the provincials and then to qualify for the World FIRST Robotics Championship to be held later this year. As the photos indicate, the robots place a white roll on a purple stand. The higher you can put it (you’ll see they are placing it high in the second picture) the more points you get.
“Because We Care” presents "Ain’t Misbehavin’", a Big Band Evening Spent Under the Stars
Walk Around the Clock for Polio
Chicken BBQ - Thursday, June 5
The Rotary club of West Seneca met at 8:00 AM on Wednesday May 14th at Christie's Restaurant.
Dan Smith, Youth Services Chairman for the Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club presented Lincoln Smith of Chautauqua Lake Central School notification that he was the recipient of a $1200 Rotary District 7090 scholarship.
The Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club participated once again in the Great Lakes Watershed Cleanup along Lake Erie beaches at Barcelona, NY.
On April 29, the Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club held its annual Rural-Urban Day. Our guest speaker was Jeff Winton, founder of Rural Minds, who spoke to an audience of 50 attendees regarding the need for good mental health in rural communities. He stressed that many who are involved with agriculture are often isolated and deal with stressors that can be debilitating. He explained the goal of Rural Minds is to provide information and support for good mental health and drastically reduce the incidence of suicides.
We invite you to join us for our 25th 
