Rotary 7090 News
Reg Madison, DG, June 2018

DG REG'S JUNE MESSAGE

And now, the end is near and so I face the final curtain….how time has flown!   It seems like I was just starting my year and here we are just days away from a new Rotary year-end, the start of another very exciting year with Melisa Schrock, the #Changemaker, the incoming District Governor for 2018-19.  Speaking of Melisa, we celebrated the District Changeover in Akron last Saturday at their home. What a very different and fantastic event!  John Schrock did a fabulous job in organizing and conducting the event in their back yard and a great time was had by all.  Seen here, is the property with Rotarians - a small Rotary planet on a beautiful day for a changeover.  Thanks, Paul McAfee for the changeover photos - yes, a drone was involved.
 
Many thanks to the District Leadership Team and all the Club Presidents for making this year so special for Loretta and me.  In addition to the many results we’re so proud of, we were shown such wonderful hospitality at the official club visits and functions we attended.  It was indeed a memorable year on so many fronts.  I wish each Rotarian could experience a year like this to truly understand Rotary and what Rotary is and does.  Our deepest gratitude goes to all of District 7090 for Making a Difference and making so many special memories and friends.
 
While I may have thought the load would lessen as we neared the end of my DG year, I was wrong.  It has been an especially busy time in May and June, starting with attendance at the Rotary Club of Dundas' 70th anniversary.  What a wonderful night highlighted by the sharing of the history of the club.  President Judy Shepalo, who had to step up at the last minute as president, has done a great job leading the club.
 
Then the Australians came to town. The Erie Canal was the venue for the Australian Vocational Training Team to District 7090, hosted by the Lockport club.  A very interesting speaker contributed to the brunch as a welcome and prelude to their ride up the canal.  Then it was Lobsterfest at the Harry Howell Arena in Waterdown hosted by the two Dundas clubs.  Another great event with two happy people going away with wheelbarrows of beverages.
 
Our next stop was the Waterdown club’s annual Paul Harris night where we enjoyed a wonderful evening of fellowship, food and new Paul Harris Fellows.  Next it was on to Queenston for the Niagara Falls Lilac Luncheon and a very interesting presentation and tour of the history surrounding the War of 1812.  Congratulations to organizer Barbara Greenwood and President June Mergl for hosting a memorable event.
 
Into the month of June and our busy schedule continues. Early June we were back to the US for the final District Council meeting of my year where our new Strategic Plan was approved. It will be introduced in July.  Later that week we were again hosted by the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls, this time to welcome the visiting Vocational Training Team to Canada for the balance of their visit before returning to Australia on June 16th.  Thank you to Chair Dan Smith and our VTT committee, all the Rotarians and clubs who hosted Elizabeth, Jon, Ross and Team Leader Les.  They were most impressed by the kindness and hospitality of the Best of Friends District.
 
We returned to Lockport a few days later for a very different Paul Harris evening.  We installed 16 new Paul Harris Fellows that evening! President Ellen Schratz should be so proud of the Rotary Club of Lockport becoming an “All Paul Harris” Club. Up next for us was a first in our district as both in-bound and out-bound Youth Exchange Students were joined by host parents, past exchange students, RYLA grads and Rotaractors for a spectacular event.  Hats off to the YE committee for this new initiative. That same Sunday, Phil and Paula Race, Brantford Sunrise, hosted a farewell BBQ for the Australian team where we said our final good-byes.
 
Within days I was with members of our College of Past District Governors to bring them up to speed on the progress of the district.  Dean Nick Norton welcomed the attendees. In addition to my talk, DGE Melisa, DGN Bob and DGND Frank addressed the group prior to a lively and healthy exchange. Later that week there was one more Paul Harris evening, as Buffalo Sunrise honored two outstanding citizens at their gathering.
 
Finally, we had a most enjoyable time at the RYLA dinner in Fredonia at the State University of New York.  I presented Certificates of Appreciation to Sue O’Dwyer for her many years of leading RYLA and to Mike Taylor for his Youth Exchange service over the past 4 years.  We are pleased that Darren Luong has stepped up to replace Sue and Jill Norton will replace Mike.
 
One last tribute to someone so very special to me, my official aide and spouse Loretta. She gave so much to me in handling tasks and giving incredible support.  Loretta you are very special and I owe you a huge debt of gratitude.  Thank you so much!
 
And to all Rotarians and spouses, thank you for an unbelievable year and thank you so much for Making a Difference!  Now let’s rally around our new DG Melisa #CHANGEMAKER!
District Events
2018 District Conference - Social Event
The Niagara Oast House Brewers
Oct 19, 2018
7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
 
REGISTRATION OPEN - District Conference 2018
Niagara on the Lake Community Centre
Oct 20, 2018
8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
 
Rotaractor Registration for District Conference
Niagara on the Lake Community Centre
Oct 20, 2018
8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
 
Engagement Projects at District Conference
Oct 20, 2018
9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
 
District Council Meeting
Milo's on Main
Nov 17, 2018
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
 
District Council Meeting
Zoom Online Meeting
Jan 12, 2019
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
 
PETS 1 A - Option 1
Zoom Online Meeting
Jan 22, 2019
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
 
PETS 1 A - Option 2
Zoom Online Meeting
Jan 30, 2019
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
 
PETS 1 B - Option 1
Zoom Online Meeting
Feb 05, 2019
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
 
PETS 1 B - Option 2
Zoom Online Meeting
Feb 13, 2019
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
 
District Council Meeting
Best Western Hotel & Conference Center
Apr 06, 2019
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
 
District Council Meeting
Milo's on Main
Jun 15, 2019
 

CLUB LEADERSHIP TRAINING 2019

Did you enjoy Making A Difference this year?
Would you like to Be The Inspiration in 2019?
We are looking to add committee members to the CLT team.
Please contact Tracy Ford if you are interested tdowns336@aol.com
 

The 2018 Zone 24/32

This year, Everyone is invited to Join us!

Pre-Conference begins 9/18/18

Conference - 9/20 - 21/18

Hotel Bonaventure, Montreal

 
 

District Links

2019 Hamburg Germany - RI International Convention
District 7090 Facebook Page
Rotary International Zone 24 - 32 (fka 22)
Rotary International Videos on You Tube
Rotary Links
Rotary International
RI President Home
Rotary Global Rewards
Joining Rotary
Rotary History
Rotary Foundation
For New Members
Russell Hampton
National Awards Services Inc.
ClubRunner
Club Resources & News
Introducing our Incoming DG

MAGNANIMOUS MELISA

If you don't like
What you got
Why don't you change it
If your world is all screwed up
Rearrange it
 
Raise a little Hell, raise a little Hell, raise a little Hell
Raise a little Hell, raise a little Hell, raise a little Hell
 
If you don't like what you see
Why don't you fight it
If you know there's something wrong
Why don't you right it
 
Raise a little Hell, raise a little Hell, raise a little Hell
Raise a little Hell, raise a little Hell, raise a little Hell
 
 
If ever a song was handcrafted and tailor made to sum up the personality, enthusiasm, and absolute spunk of a human being, than “Raise a Little Hell,” by Trooper, is the banner song for Melisa Schrock, District Governor Elect of 7090. Melisa embodies a new vision, an inner strength, a purposeful direction to lead, govern, solidify, and expand the Rotary Mission; one we all know and love. Her formidable savvy and grit is contagious...so look out District 7090 Rotarians, are you ready to “Raise a little Hell?”
 
Almost a decade and a half ago, this Energizer Bunny, an eternally optimistic, charismatic, and service above self kind of gal; our very own Melisa Schlock's world changed, when she became a Rotarian and joined the Rotary Club of Akron. Not only did she discover an additional and profound purpose in her daily existence, but she also found the love of her life; her soulmate and best friend, John Schrock. While both of these dynamos lived and worked in Akron, they did not know one another.  As the stars aligned in the Rotary heavens and blue and gold fate would have it, that all changed during one Business to Business Tradeshow where the future lovebirds had display booths directly next to one another. John was an Akron Club Rotarian; Melisa had never heard of Rotary and John invited her to a meeting.  As John’s guest, she attended her very first Rotary meeting in April of 2003 and became a member in June of the same year.  “If you don’t like what you got, Why don’t you change it?”
 
That grand moment of becoming a Rotarian and following through with active participation, supported her during a challenging but not back breaking, life situation.  The struggle, hurt, and emotional hardship of divorce was ever present in our District Governor Elect’s life in 2003. Melisa has commented that she was going through, “a horrid divorce at the time, I joined Rotary and it gave me a whole new group of friends who became my strength that saw me through some dark days. Rotary gave me the opportunity to help people.” Her lifelong passion and hope of helping others came to fruition as a new Rotarian while her heart and soul was supported by newfound Rotary friends; the rough spot started to heal and morph into a shiny new interior and exterior. “If you’re world is all screwed up, rearrange it!”
 
“Rotary was the bomb, I didn’t think it could get any better,” says Melisa, when reflecting upon her early years as a Rotarian. Yet, it did get better; the Rotary Mission, Melisa’s passion, and the profound desire to graciously and bravely live up to service above self, soared exponentially to new heights when Melisa went to Africa in 2013. Stepping off the comfort and security of an international jet plane and descending steps into the unknown, a world of “...poverty, disease, starvation, everywhere! Children were hungry; women and their little ones walked miles each day for water; girls were not allowed to attend school, homes were literally huts which were made of mud. It was just SO much to process and completely overwhelming.”
 
Doing all, being all, donating all, isn’t possible for every Rotarian.  Melisa is the type of individual who rolls up her sleeves, walks in the mud, trudges through the poverty and contaminated water, to be a #changemaker. She fully embraces the fact that she is unable to donate one million dollars to the End Polio Now campaign; she admits she has not orchestrated massive global grants to build hospitals in third world countries, but in Melisa’s words, the moment she saw the fruits of her work in Africa, she knew she “...made a big difference to the people in African Villages and it made an even bigger impact in my heart.”
 
The gentleman, friend, business partner, and Rotarian that Melisa married is a second dad to her two beautiful, intelligent, and young Rotarian at heart daughters, Lindsay and Erin. Another generation has sprung forth, service above self has flourished, and the girls have been involved in Rotary from the time they were 3 and 5 years old.  Selling 50/50 tickets, helping at spaghetti dinners, Christmas auctions and highway clean ups, as well as starting an Early Act Club at their school, to joining Interact Club.  Lindsay accompanied Mom to the RI convention in Atlanta and discovered her passion in learning about Human Trafficking and is now looking for ways to become more involved locally. Erin has been inspired by Mom’s trip to Africa and subsequently went with Mom on a Service trip to Haiti and has been selected for Youth Exchange and will be going to Paraguay this year!  During the Christmas Break Erin and Mom went to the Dominican Republic for a service project with their Interact Club. The future Gov chaperoned 9 hormonal, excitable, and overly talkative teenage girls.  Who will be the Rotarian in our District to find Melisa’s Super Hero Cape? She surely most sport one on occasion!  “I’m raising Rotarians; we are truly a family of Rotarians,” Melisa often states in that proud Akron Club, District 7090, RI, sort of way! This “Raising a Little Hell” DG Elect gleefully sings about the love that she never knew.  Her heart belongs to her faith, her hubby, her children, and our Rotary! We are now all, future “Hellraisers!”
 
Fellow Rotarians, be prepared for this vigorous and enlightened gal who truly has been Raising Hell in the best way possible since 2003!  Let’s go 7090...be inspired to partake in an international service project, sign up to work one more community event, and let your Rotarian commitment and pride shine, for all to see.  Hang on tight, it’s going to be a superb District 7090 kind of year! Be a #changemaker that welcomes “Raising a Little Hell,” let your Rotarian beliefs and pride burn bright as we welcome our District Governor, the one...the only... Melisa Schrock!
 
By the way, husband John, surprised Melisa with a 50-1, birthday party following the changeover ceremonies.  Yes, the man bakes - cakes, cupcakes and surprises!  For more photos of the changeover, go to https://www.facebook.com/RotaryDistrict7090/.   
 
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VTT News

FAREWELL AUSSIES

Saying goodbye is never easy, but on June 3, 2018 about 40 Rotarians and guests gathered at Johnson Estate Winery in Westfield, NY, to honor the four Australian Vocational Training Team members from Rotary District 9790 and to enjoy appetizers and a delectable multi-course dinner with samplings of quality wines of Johnson Estate. This VTT “Farewell to U.S.” Rotary dinner was the send-off celebration for VTT Leader Les Mitchell and Members Elizabeth Mace, Jonathan Van Popering and Ross Abberfield, who were in the U.S. area of our Rotary District 7090 from May 23 to June 3 to learn more about fruit farming in the western NY region. Experience topics included production, pest control, water management, geography, labor methods, government influences and marketing. From June 4 through 16 the VTT members have been touring the Canadian side of our Rotary District. 
 
Johnson Estate Winery proprietors Fred and Jennifer Johnson welcomed all to the venue and were wonderful hosts. Fred Johnson was an outbound VTT member to the Melbourne area of Australia from February 25 to March 19, 2017.
 
The Rotary Club of Westfield-Mayville was the host club of this VTT special dinner. Dan Smith, Westfield-Mayville Rotarian and District 7090 VTT Chair, led the program. Special recognition was given to the VTT Committee and Coordinators Janet Walker (U.S.) and Tom O’Neill (Canada) for their great efforts with coordinating the VTT schedule and wonderful experiences. Also, thank you was given to the host families in the U.S. who shared their homes and who helped to make the VTT members feel welcome in various communities. Gratitude was extended to the many farms, businesses, and other sites who offered tours.
 
Each of the four VTT members offered highlights of what they learned about fruit farming in this region, how it differs from that in Rotary District 9790 in Australia, and what their goals were for incorporating various aspects of their educational experience with their professions. The evening concluded with Team Leader Les Mitchell strumming the guitar while the team members led everyone in the singing of a rousing rendition of “Waltzing Matilda.”  
 
The VTT members presented Janet Walker with a basket of beautiful flowers in gratitude for her hard work with coordinating their jam-packed schedule of many valuable experiences during their U.S. stay. Various parting gifts of trading club banners and also some shirts were given to the team members. To our new Aussie VTT friends, we say, “G’day, mates,” as we bid them farewell from the U.S. part of Rotary District 7090 and wish them many wonderful experiences in Canada and safe travels back to Australia!
 
Pictured above, some of the special attendees at the June 3 "Farewell to U.S." dinner at Johnson Estate Winery in Westfield, NY were (left to right) VTT Leader Les Mitchell, District 7090 VTT Chair Dan Smith, VTT Member Jonathan Van Popering, Johnson Estate Proprietors Fred and Jennifer Johnson, VTT Member Elizabeth Mace, VTT Member Ross Abberfield and VTT Coordinator (U.S.) Janet Walker.  
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Area 1 Clubs

NORFOLK CLUBS GET THE WORD OUT

The clubs in Area 1: Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, Rotary Club of Simcoe, Rotary Club of Delhi, and the Norfolk Rotaract Club, have a lot to celebrate this week.  They banded together with a public image piece highlighting Rotary and the Area 1 clubs.  Dave Douglas from RCNS spearheaded the project and about 10,000 copies will be circulated to Norfolk County residents this coming week.
 
To read all about it - click on the link below for an electronic version of the paper.  http://uploads.aylmerexpress.com/files/123394_Rotary_News_2018_PROOF.pdf
 
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Norfolk Sunrise News

OOPS!

The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise held its changeover on Monday, June 18.   A comparison of banner sizes left poor incoming president Keith Jones at a loss!  Not to worry President Keith.  You will get the right sized banner before long.  So will the rest of our incoming presidents.  Hang tight! 
 
Pictured here Keith Jones and outgoing President Gail Catherwood comparing their banners - and hoping to tease incoming DG Melisa.

 
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Lancaster - Depew News

AND THE WINNER IS...

Rotary Club of Lancaster-Depew President Rob Benzel and honorary member Doris Huber had the pleasure of delivering the Baby of Liberty Doll to the lovely home of Dr. Jim Burdick, our Area 11 raffle winner.  The donated doll was designed and produced by Doris Huber.  Proceeds of the raffle go to the It Happened to Alexa Foundation, which benefits women that have been sexually abused.  The clubs joined together for an Area 11 project that ended up creating over 200 clothing and cleanup kits for donation to ECMC.  Shown in the photograph are Dr. Burdick and Doris.  Photo by: Rob Benzel.
 
In other news, the club is pleased to give five college scholarships this year:  four go to Lancaster High School graduating seniors and one to a graduate of Depew High School.  Early on scholarships were in the form of Interest Free Loans.  However in 1959, they transformed into the present grant form.  Therefore, this marks the 60th year that Rotary Club of Lancaster-Depew has given back to the community this way.
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Lincoln News

GRANTS MAKE IT POSSIBLE

The Rotary Club of Lincoln purchased thirteen new storage lockers, which are installed at Khazimula Children's Centre (www.khazimula.co.za) located in Lidgetton, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.   The locker project was made possible through a matching District 7090 grant.  It has now been completed and the project report has been submitted to the District.
 
Khazimula provides a safe and loving environment for some thirty homeless children, 6-18 years. Since the centre opened in 2007, it has been home to more than 270 vulnerable children. The purpose of the new lockers is to provide the children with a secure place for their personal belongings and a sense of dignity in having their own private space.  Pictured are the lockers received and installed. 
In other club news:  A barbecue was hosted by the club and Torrie Warner a member of the VTT from Canada that visited Australia last year. Torrie owns and operates a local farm in Lincoln. A great time touring the farm, barbecuing some steaks and ribs and getting to know and exchange ideas with our visiting Auzzies.
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Hamburg News

HAMBURG - BUSY END OF YEAR

The Rotary Club of Hamburg, at its June 12 annual spring picnic, recognized two of its own with a Paul Harris Fellow.  From left, are Club President Jerry Bastedo, Patricia Castiglia, placing the pin on the lapel of recipient Jim Loomis, Tom Johnston and recipient Tim Hoelscher.  Both Jim and Tim have served the Rotary Club of Hamburg and the greater community well as active members.
 
In other news, at its June 5 meeting, the club awarded $1,000 college scholarships to local high school seniors.  From left are Rotarian Earl Knauss, Hamburg High School student Aydon Stormer, Frontier High School Student Tom Notto, Rotary President Jerry Bastedo, St. Francis High School student Dante Guizzotti and Rotarian Patricia Castiglia.
 
And, at its May 29 meeting, Rotarians welcomed Hamburg High School students Dakota Reynolds and Christina Birt, along with their parents, and Hamburg High School Academy of Finance teacher Krissy Lawrence. The students shared photos and spoke to the Rotary Club about their recent experience at Rotary District 7090’s SLAP SHOT Program in Welland, Canada.  The club sponsored the students who were referred by Ms. Lawrence, who herself once attended the Rotary Leadership Youth Award, RYLA program for college students. Pictured are from left, Rotarian Tim Hoelscher, who also works with the Hamburg Finance Academy, Christina Birt, Dakota Reynolds and President Jerry Bastedo.
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More Hamburg News

PLANTING 31 TREES

The Rotary Club of Hamburg supported an initiative of Rotary International in securing and helping to plant trees at the Town of Hamburg’s 18 Mile Creek Golf Course this week.  President Jerry Bastedo thanked Gullo’s Garden Center for donating 31 trees (crab apple and flowering pear) to the service club’s effort. Ian H.S. Riseley, 2017-18 President of Rotary International, asked all clubs throughout the world to plant a tree for each member, with an expected total of more than 1.2 million new trees planted by July 1, the beginning of a new Rotary year. Rotary’s effort is part of an ecological effort to counteract global warming. Additional trees will be planted at the Taylor Road Cabin and Park. 
 
Pictured are from left, Rotarians Dale Stanley, Barb Stanley, Patricia Castiglia, John Nowak, Jerry Bastedo, Jack Flint, Brandi Reed, Amanda Black and Amy Rooth.
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Lockport News

100 % PAUL HARRIS CLUB

The Rotary Club of Lockport celebrated its distinction as a 100% Paul Harris Fellows Club at its annual dinner on Wednesday, June 6, at the Spring Lake Winery.  Pictured are 16 new Paul Harris Fellows, along with District Governor Reg, who attended this momentous event. 
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Buffalo State Rotaract Club

A WHOLE HOST OF ACTIVITIES

This past spring semester the Buffalo State Rotaract Club participated in a whole host of events, including two bake sales and volunteer opportunities to help with its host club, the Rotary Club of Amherst South's events.  Additionally, the club participated in its first annual Earth Day Shoreline Pickup.  Its main fundraising event was the H.O.P.E Haiti fundraiser.
 
During the months of February and April, the club held two bake sales.  Its no bake peanut butter chocolate bars and vegan chocolate chip pumpkin cookies were delicious and resulted in combined sales of over $570.  During March, members participated in the Rotary Club of Amherst South's 5th Annual Bowl-A-Thon.  There members raised funds by participating on two teams of 4-5 members and were able to bowl, win prize basket raffles, and enjoy food with friends. During April, Rotaract members helped the Rotary clubs of Western New York, Buffalo State’s Great Lakes Center, the Greenway Commission, along with the West Side Rowing Club perform a trash clean up at the Black Rock Canal. Members aided in reducing the amount of nearby trash, invasive plants and debris.
 
Its main fundraising event was the H.O.P.E. Haiti fundraiser held to raise money to improve the main community library for the community of Borgne, Haiti. This event was held at the Marcy Casino on April 26th.  The event included live music, a cash bar, hors d'œuvres, and over 60 raffle baskets.  From this event,  the Buffalo State Rotaract Club along with the help of Nutrition Club and PHI-Upsilon Omicron and the Equal Opportunity Program raised $4,657 for the community of Borgne, Haiti!
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Niagara Falls, ON News

LILACS, LUNCH & WALKING

On Tuesday May 29, 2018, the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls held their 10th annual Lilac Luncheon.  Fifty years ago the club purchased 100 lilac bushes to build the Memorial Lilac gardens.  But, this year, the club wanted to learn about the Indigenous people whose land this once was.  Jim Hill, the superintendent of heritage for the Niagara Parks Commission took the Rotarians on a walking tour of Queenston Heights after speaking to them during lunchtime about the role that Indigenous people played during the Battle of Queenston Heights.  Jim Hill was an amazing guest speaker and shared with the Rotarians that they were eating lunch at the spot where 12,000 years ago, it was part of “massive” Lake Iroquois, which started draining out toward the Atlantic Ocean.  What a fantastic Lilac Lunch and learning experience!
 
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Flamborough AM News

FOOD4KIDS

The Rotary Club of Flamborough AM Club along with the Rotary Club of Waterdown helps children during the summer supporting a project known as FOOD4KIDS.  The project supports children in the Waterdown school area, with snacks over the weekend, so that they do not go hungry.   They are currently looking at including a second school.   Pictured are Rotarians Margaret Robertson and Frank Spiridoulias enjoying themselves while packing food.
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Westfield-Mayville News

A PLUS 1

Linda Dunn, a Westfield resident and a 31-year member of the Rotary Club of Westfield-Mayville, was honored with her Paul Harris Fellow +1 (Level 2) during the club's May 19, BBQ & Auction fundraiser at Eason Hall in Westfield.  Jim Wakeman, the club's Foundation Chair, made the presentation and gave Dunn her pin. The hundreds of community members and many Rotarians offered their congratulations to Dunn, who said, “I thought this presentation was for someone else, and was quite surprised when I was asked to come forward. Thank you!
 
Dunn has shown dedicated commitment to her Rotary club, her community and beyond.  She served as the Rotary Club of Westfield-Mayville’s second female president in 1996-1997, and throughout the years as club treasurer, youth exchange chair and board member. In addition, she has chaired numerous club events. Always willing to help, Dunn’s guidance and insights from her years of leadership experience, as well as her quick wit, are welcomed by club members.
 
She is a former Mayor of the Village of Westfield and business owner. Her strong commitment to volunteerism is shown by her many years of involvement with various community and area organizations. Some of Dunn’s activities include serving as The Patterson Library Board of Trustees Member and Chautauqua Hospice & Palliative Care Board Member.  Also, she assists with the Chautauqua County Historical Society and the McClurg Museum.
 
An avid traveler, Dunn’s visits to many other countries have provided her with firsthand experiences of global concerns and the importance of The Rotary Foundation’s significant projects and programs and their positive impact on many people. The Rotary Foundation, which has distributed over 3 billion dollars, was named by the Society of Fundraising Professionals as the outstanding 2017 charity in the world.  
 
The Rotary Club of Westfield-Mayville proudly congratulates Linda Dunn on earning her PH Level 2 Award and commends her on her many years of dedicated service and countless hours of volunteerism.
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Dundas & DVS News

REVERSE OSMOSIS PROJECT

While volunteering in Sri Lanka in July 2017, Neil Chopp, met the dedicated men and women in the Rotary Club of Kelaniya, near the capital city of Colombo. Eight months prior, Neil Chopp and Bill Armstrong initiated a plan in which the Rotary Club of Dundas and the Rotary Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise would support a clean water project in the country of Sri Lanka. Sarath Gunawardane, Chairman, Projects, of the  Rotary Club in Kelaniya acted as the primary contact regarding the process and completion of the reverse osmosis (R.O.) plant project. A $6,500.00 grant would be necessary for the construction of the R.O. plant; each Dundas club allocated $2,250.00 toward the project with an additional $2,000.00 matching grant from District 7090.
 
A team of six Rotarians from Rotary Club of Kelaniya together with the Sri Lanka Civil Defence Department (who would take over the maintenance/security of the plant and the sustainability of the project) worked to find a suitable location to fix the R.O. plant. A village called Kabithigollawa was selected where there have been several people affected by Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Some of these victims either have received kidney transplants or are undergoing periodic dialysis treatment. The village selected has about 500 people, who would be the beneficiaries of clean water for drinking and cooking purposes. We selected a vendor who has installed several such R.O. plants in CKD affected areas in the North Central province. Incidentally the vendor is part of a Buddhist organisation whose single objective is to alleviate the sufferings of CKD affected people and does the installations of R.O. plants on a non-profit basis.  Additionally, these R.O. plants were the least costly.   
 
The selection of the location was done in November 2017. The construction work; however, could not begin due to the monsoon which prevailed in December/January period. The local community took part in clearing the location, cleaning up an existing water well and formed a leadership team to support the Sri Lanka Civil Defence Force in the sustainability of the project. The construction of the plant house began in February 2018. 
 
A leadership team among the villagers was formed to oversee the operation during construction and thereafter. The Sri Lanka Civil Defence Force (with the consent of the hierarchy of the SL Civil Defence Department) was requested to take over the management where a nominal amount will be charged from the consumers (Cents 50 per litre of water) as maintenance cost for the replacement of filters and other consumables. The vendor will continue to do the service maintenance of the plant. The expected long-term impacts of this projects are:
  • To purify polluted water and provide pure water with the intention of preventing disease.
  • Making purified water available for a village and its local schools.                      
  • Improving the villager’s health, productivity and happiness.
The Rotary clubs of Dundas with the overseas partner, the Rotary Club of Kelaniya, worked diligently to provide the villagers of Kabithigollawa with sustainable access to safe and clean drinking water. Reports are forthcoming from Sri Lanka on the activation and commissioning of the R.O. plant on 19th of May 2018.
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Hamilton News

YEAR'S END CELEBRATION

On June 7th the Rotary Club of Hamilton held its annual Rotary Celebrates evening at the prestigious Hamilton Club. The annual event is an opportunity to celebrate the Rotary year, recognize President Brad Spencer for his accomplishments during the 2017-18 Rotary year and to welcome incoming President Nancy Baker. 
 
Rotarians and friends enjoyed an evening reception on the outdoor patio followed by a buffet dinner and then the presentation of awards. The Rotary Club of Hamilton celebrated the many projects and initiatives that they participated in the 2017-18 Rotary year. Over 9,000 local children & youth benefited from the multiple projects and initiatives of the club this year. Some of these projects include the Rotary Summer Literacy Project, Books, Books, Books and the CORE Kids After School Project.  The 2017-18 Rotary year was very busy with many service projects and initiatives.
 
The Rotary Club of Hamilton also presented two Paul Harris Fellows at the event.  The Past Presidents' nomination committee selected two worthy recipients from the nominations made by club members.
 
The internal award was presented to Past President & Rotarian Kevin Anstee. Kevin was recognized for his ongoing efforts and behind the scene work.  Taking on the role of treasurer during his year as President, creating our new procedures without a club administrator and setting up the club's financial records with a new bookkeeper going line by line. Kevin is very involved in all Rotary activities, fundraising and service projects often bringing his children to help and showing them how important service above self is. Congratulations to Rotarian and Past President Kevin Anstee.
 
The external award was presented to Ryan Ellis. Ryan grew up in Freelton and went on to play professional hockey. He is currently a defenceman with the Nashville Predators of the NHL. Ryan continues to give back to the community with various appearances in Nashville, but has continued to give back to his hometown of Hamilton. He started Ell4Kids Foundation to raise funds to support building play structures for kids. Over the past 3 years,  4 playgrounds have been built so kids can be safe and have fun while playing. Last year North Central Park (Keith Neighbourhood) received a new play structure and this summer Woodlands Park will receive one. As part of the event in July at Woodlands Park, our Rotary Summer Literacy kids will help with the build and Ryan will visit the participants. The Elly4Kids Foundation has supported other great causes in Hamilton including our Rotary Children’s Christmas Celebration each year. Congratulations to Ryan Ellis.
 
 
 
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Hamilton AM News

IMAGINE...100's of KIDS

Hundreds of children (and parents who wished they were!) explored over 20 workshops on June 2 in Hamilton's spacious Gage Park.  Activities ranged from dance to puppetry, play with clay and T-Shirt making and too many more to mention here.  A dedicated committee, led by Hamilton AM Rotarian  and Founder Sharon Levy-Cohen, continually came up with new activities  for the 8th annual event so there was something for every one.  Also, every child left with a free book, donated by Frontier College and First Book Canada.  There was magic in the air in the Magic Tent where Hamilton AM Rotarian Tim Dickins and two colleagues enthralled everyone with their prestidigitation!  No worries about hunger with Hamilton AM Rotarian Paul Reardon on the Hot Dog Cart!  This event is hosted by the Rotary Club of Hamilton AM and supported by many local businesses including the Hamilton Spectator.    This was the club's 8th Annual Imagine in the Park children's arts festival and the the biggest one to date!
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Dunkirk-Fredonia News

SAYING GOODBYE

Early June, the Rotary Club of Dunkirk-Fredonia said a sad goodbye and fond farewell to its amazing international exchange student Matheus di Silva Santos from Brazil.  Pictured (right) are Youth Exchange committee members Doug Manly and Brenda Hayes, and (left) Matheus and members of his three host families: the Davises, the Kinkellas and the Powell Fortnas.
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Lewiston, NY - N-O-T-L, ON News

NEW & DIVERSE MEMBER OCCUPATIONS

On May 23, the Rotary Club of Lewiston, NY and Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON was delighted to welcome Greg Lidstone to become a member of the club as well as rejoice that Leslie Scibilia (past president x2 ) was able to rejoin the club after an absence of a few years.
 
Pictured are President Ron Danielewicz with Greg Lidstone (classification, Neuro Rehab Therapist), Leslie Scibilia (classification, Counseling for Children with Special Needs) and newer members Jayne and Don Anderson, who have been involved in the hospitality industry in restaurants, banquet facilities and casinos.  The club takes great pride in adding this diversity of professions to its membership and notes, "Diversity in membership makes Rotary more welcoming for all!"
 
 
 
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Niagara Falls, NY News

UPDATE ON HISTORIC BUILDING

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls, New York held another high profile guest speaker luncheon meeting on Wednesday, June 6, 2018, at the beautiful Savor Restaurant on the downtown campus of the Niagara County Community College Culinary School.  Edward Riley, the guest speaker, is the Hotel Niagara developer. He discussed detailed plans for the city's landmark restoration, which should be completed by 2020. He also described his latest completed project, the Hotel Syracuse.  In the audience were community leaders, including Mayor Paul A. Dyster, Councilman Chris Voccio and School Superintended Mark Laurie, among others.
 
The Hotel Niagara of yesteryear hosted these prominent guests - US President John F. Kennedy, Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr., Joe DiMaggio, Marilyn Monroe while filming the movie Niagara in 1952 and Al Capone.  In 2008, the hotal was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. 
 
The event was very well attended and the eloquent delivery presentation of developer Ed Riley received quite enthusiastically.  The club intends to invite him back in the future for the project updates.
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Dundas Valley Sunrise News

KEEP THE CHANGE!

The Rotary Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise held its most successful Shredding Day community service project diverting 13 000 lbs. of paper from landfill to recycling and earning $4000 in the process. After 5 years, the event that runs each spring and fall is so ingrained in the community that folks often take home empty banker boxes to fill for the next Shredding Day. It is great to know that the club is making a difference and members feel it when many community members refuse to take change from their payment because, “This is Rotary. Keep the change!”
 
Besides the sweat equity of club members like Wayne Massey, a number of member grandchildren like Ethan Stoltz volunteer and receive credit towards their high school community service hours.  Pictured are Ethan and Wayne.
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