Clean water, sanitation, and hygiene education are basic necessities for a healthy environment and a productive life.
Clean water is a basic need for human beings. When people, especially children, have access to clean water, they live healthier and more productive lives. However, at least 3,000 children die each day from diseases caused by unsafe water. This motivates Rotarians to build wells, install rainwater harvesting systems, and teach community members how to maintain new infrastructure.
While very few people die of thirst, millions die from preventable waterborne diseases, providing the impetus for our members to also improve sanitation facilities in undeveloped countries.
Ask your friends and associates to Join Rotary and help extend the flow of clean water to everyone.
Through water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs, Rotary’s people of action mobilize resources, form partnerships, and invest in infrastructure and training that yield long-term change.
Mário César Martins de Camargo, a member of the Rotary Club of Santo André, Brazil, has been selected as president of Rotary International for 2025-26.
De Camargo revealed the 2025-2026 presidential message, Unite for Good on February 10, 2025.
The Rotary International Convention is for all Rotarians, both new and seasoned.
Many Rotarians mistakenly believe the conventions are only for Rotary leaders, but that is not the case.
The conventions are open to all Rotarians and Rotaractors, as well as their families.
The conventions provide an excellent opportunity for new Rotarians to learn about the global impact of Rotary.
They also serve as a chance for seasoned Rotarians who may have lost some of their Rotary enthusiasm to get rejuvenated and reconnected with the organization's mission and fellowship.
Research shows that many Rotarians join primarily for the friendship and social activities.
The international conventions allow Rotarians from around the world to connect with like-minded individuals who share their passion for service.
Whether you are new to Rotary or a long-time member, the Rotary International Convention can enhance your Rotary journey.
The next convention is taking place in Calgary, Canada in June - SIGN UP TODAY to be a part of this exciting event.
You can play a part in Stopping Abuse in Families Everywhere.
Become a Special Representative and together break the silence on violence!
Join our Rotary SAFE Families International Mega Meeting and become informed how to be a Rotary Special Representative in your District, Club and Communities.
This Mega-Meeting will bring together top Rotary International Leaders, District Governors, Rotary International Representatives to the United Nations, Club Presidents, Rotarians, Friends of Rotary, Social Workers, Global Peace Ambassadors, Humanitarians, SAFE Families Advocates, Peace Builders from around the world.
Rotary SAFE Families was created for the primary prevention of all forms of family abuse by addressing its underlying causes. It has evolved into an international peace program with valuable resources including short films on Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Elder Abuse and Abuse of Males. Our Guide for Prevention of Family Abuse is freely available in 9 languages to inform and assist in the prevention of abuse.
Now in 2025, Rotary SAFE Families is reaching out around the world as a Global Peace Initiative, whilst preventing family violence and fostering respectful relationships and harmony in families around the world.
PLEASE NOTE: The meeting will be open 15 minutes before for friendship exchange and interaction.
Our blue planet. 70% covered in oceans. Almost everything we build or grow has to manage or use water somehow. Life is not possible without water - and Rotary supports local solutions to bring clean water to more people. March celebrates Rotary’s efforts around Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene. And as with all of our areas of focus there is an associated Rotary Action Group: WASHRAG - supported by those especially keen Rotarians who are helping people in the developing world improve life and livelihood through the provision of safe water and sanitation. An interesting tidbit is that WASHRAG’s founding chair is Ron Denham who started his Rotary career in our District in 1957 - my club actually. His stay in 7090 (it was 709 back then) was all too brief and he has been a long-standing member of the Toronto-Eglinton club. I have had a chance over the past few years to meet up with him several times - an exceptional Rotarian. I would invite you to join WASHRAG - or any one of the other Rotary Action Groups to deepen your membership experience and meet new friends from around the world.
If your club has done a project - or is doing a project related to this month’s theme - or any other theme, write it up and get it into the news.
In looking at the future I would like to think we could work together on a clean water project in our own district, support citizen science, and lend a hand in promoting water saving programs.
The campaign for Canadian clubs to donate to Rotary District 7090’s Gift of Life chocolate heart sale has been a huge success.
A total of 740 solid Belgian chocolate hearts were sold. Each heart cost $10 Canadian and the total profit realized was $3,115 CAD.
Hearts were handmade be Chocolates Etc.in St. Catharines.
The fundraiser was spearheaded by Cathy Henry with the support of other Canadian Board members Margaret Andrewes, Carol Lipsett, Pam Milroy, Shelly DeSantis and Valerie Phillips.
Please contact Cathy Henry Co-President at dhenry1@cogeco.ca for more information.
U.S. counterparts will begin their club visits to try to obtain financial support from clubs in March and will continue through June. The goal is to obtain at least $100 from every club on the U.S. side.
The more generous a club can be, the more children we can support through life-saving cardiac surgery. Clubs are encouraged to invite speakers to present at club meetings.
Contact Co-President Pat Castiglia at ptcas34@hotmail.com to make arrangements.
Chocolate hearts will continue to be sold at the District Conference!
“Join or Die” is a film about why you should join a club — and why the fate of America depends on it.
It's a documentary film that explores the decline of social and community engagement in America. Inspired by the sociologist Robert Putnam's book Bowling Alone, the film examines how the weakening of community ties has led to a range of societal issues, from increased loneliness and mental health problems to political polarization and weakened democracy. Through interviews with experts, activists, and ordinary citizens, the film highlights the importance of rebuilding community connections and fostering a sense of belonging. The film underscores the urgency of reversing the trend of social fragmentation and encourages viewers to take action to strengthen their own communities.
His groundbreaking Bowling Alone research — which demonstrated that levels of American community connections were in decline over the past half-century — rocketed Putnam to national fame in the late 1990s, earning him the moniker “the poet laureate of civil society” and the ear of presidents, religious leaders, and tech founders over the coming decades. In 2012, President Obama awarded Putnam the National Humanities
Medal, the nation’s highest honor for contributions to the humanities. As more Americans turn on to the reality of our social isolation crisis, a consistent drumbeat of media interest in revisiting Putnam’s work has grown.
Akron High School's Rotary Interact Club has completed its collection of school supplies in support of a school in Honduras devastated by Tropical Storm Sara last November.
Many thanks to all who contributed to the effort!
Over 120 binders, over 200 notebooks, and over 650 folders, in addition to boxes of crayons, markers, pens, pencils, children's books, art supplies, etc., were collected!
The materials will be delivered to the Albion Interact Club, which is arranging for shipment, during an upcoming leadership conference.
Brantford-Sunrise is pleased to announce the Club’s 5th Annual Online Auction, running April 17 to 27, 2025.
With the community’s tiniest and most vulnerable members in mind, proceeds from the auction will once again support paediatric programs at the Brantford General Hospital.
Here’s how fellow Rotarians can help make this event a continued success: donate new items or experiences (e.g., tickets to sporting events, theatres, etc.); share auction details to increase contributions and participation – and encourage bids; encourage others to check out the auction website, and bid starting April 17!
Updates will follow in the next couple of months, but in the meantime, those interested in donating an item or service are welcome to send an email to RotarySunriseAuction@gmail.com
And in belated news, the Brantford-Sunrise Club delivered 126 Christmas Poinsettias during their annual poinsettia campaign in late November, early December 2024.
There were 13 care homes included in the deliveries, much to the delight of the various residents.
PHOTO: Rotarian Mike Foster (centre back) delivered Christmas Poinsettias to St. Joseph’s Lifecare
On March 7th Buffalo Rotary member Dan Blake will embark on an extraordinary journey, biking across America to raise funds and awareness forStroke Onward.
This challenging and inspiring endeavor will span 53 days and 52 nights, covering an impressive 2,941 miles from San Diego, California to St. Augustine, Florida.
To begin his journey, Dan will dip his back tire in the Pacific Ocean before riding through the southern U.S. all the way to Florida, where he will dip his front tire in the Atlantic at the end of April.
His ride was inspired by Stroke Onward's co-founders, Debra Meyerson and her husband Steve Zuckerman, who rode across America in 2022 to raise awareness about what life after a stroke
looks like.
After hearing them speak about their ride and their journey navigating life after Debra’s stroke, Dan vowed that he would complete the same feat with the same intentions.
Although Dan has not been affected firsthand by a stroke, he understands the impact that cognitive or physical disabilities can have on a person, their family, and their caregivers.
Their dedicated team has helped so many rebuild their identities and learn how to live fulfilling lives after a stroke. For more information visit strokeonward.org
PDG Lisa Bishop (RC Norfolk Sunrise), with her partner Lionel Ulrich, visited Buffalo Sunrise and shared a PowerPoint highlighting her trip to India to assist with polio eradication.
She described the impact of Rotary’s involvement in eradicating this dread disease.
According to recent updates from Rotary, the organization is actively working towards polio eradication, with the most significant news being that polio cases have been drastically reduced by 99.9% globally, with only Afghanistan and Pakistan remaining endemic; Rotary is committed to raising funds and continuing vaccination efforts to achieve a polio-free world, often partnering with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to maximize impact.
Special guest Larry Koon (RC Kenmore) added that his club, for many years has involved elementary school children in learning about and helping children around the world to be immunized through RC Kenmore’s Purple Pinkie initiative. School children learn about polio through video presentations and then donate $1 to have their pinkie painted purple in solidarity with children across the world and the receive a “Lifesaver” candy for also helping to stamp out polio world-wide.
Monday, February 17th, marked Family Day in the Province of Ontario with many businesses and services closed for that day.
Over seventeen (17) years, the Dundas Valley Sunrise Rotary has teamed up with the Dundas Museum & Archives (DM&A) to co-host Inside/Outside Dundas with events taking place in two (2) venues on that day.
Sunrise Rotary hosted a fulsome 'Outside' program of musical entertainment, free hot chocolate, nearby tobogganing and a youngster-focused 'Shoot2Score' in partnership with the Dundas Jr C hockey club, all focused around the $750,000 Dundas Rotary Rink that our Club constructed and opened to the public in 2009 and turned over to the City of Hamilton.
That day's winter weather of -13C and breezy did not limit a crowd of 250-300 people who came out to enjoy our traditional annual event.
We are excited to announce the annual Rotary Meat Raffle will be held on Saturday, March 22 at the Cristoforo Colombo Society Hall on 2223 Pine Avenue - Niagara Falls New York 14301
Doors open at 6:00 PM. The Meat Raffle portion of the evening will start at 7:00 PM.
We are accepting a $10 donation for each ticket or a table of 8 for $70.
To order tickets please click here - or contact Jude Kuehne by calling (716) 773-8801 or emailing her at... JudeKuehne@gicsd.org
The meat raffle will benefit the “Growing Readers” Program. Growing Readers is a very unique program, which provides a new book for infants and toddlers when they attend their “well baby visits”.
The baby receives their first book at a two-month visit and their well visits at the 6th, 12th, 18thand 24th month.
We have had an old-fashioned winter…cold and snow almost every day. We are certainly glad to have the comfort of our houses.
Now imagine if you did not have that, and lived below a bridge, outside.
A few of the things that would comfort you and give you some dignity are new underwear and socks.
Grand Island, with the help of local businesses and churches, collected approximately 10-12 large bags of underclothing and socks to donate to the local missions. Niagara Community Mission, Lighthouse Ministries of Niagara Falls and the Homeless Task Force of the Tonawandas were the recipients of the generosity of Grand Island residents.
The empathy and caring of our community is to be celebrated.
PHOTO: The Homeless Task Force of the Tonawandas with Rotarian Donna Wilde and her mother Eleanor
The Rotary Club of Hamburg once again made "no sew" blankets for the Erie County Medical Center Hospice Program.
The cozy, warm blankets are bound in two layers of beautiful, soft designs that are tied together by fringes all around.
Pictured (TOP) at the hospital presentation are Hamburg Rotarians Barbara Stanley and Dale Stanley, with Hannah Hasfurter, RN, left, and Tara Gregiore, Nurse Manager, right.
The club has provided blankets regularly as one of its projects.
The Rotary Club of Hamburg was assisted in assembling blankets for Hospice patients by volunteers from the community and from the Town of Hamburg Youth Engaged in Service(YES) Program led by Corrie Hall.
The Rotary Club of Hamilton AM welcomed Bill Curran, an exceptional local architect with CGS Architects, Hamilton, to its February 5, 2025, club meeting. During his presentation he showed pictures of amazing examples of architecture, past and present, the world over.
Bill Curran is an architect, architecture teacher and writer who has practised on a wide range of architecture, interiors and urban design projects across Canada, the USA and internationally in his 40 years of professional experience. He also undertakes real estate development projects.
CGS’s buildings and interiors aspire to be thoughtful, engaging and to transcend the ordinary. They are understated, sophisticated, contemporary architecture that seeks to subvert accepted paradigms.
Their notable projects range from a 3 million square foot urban neighbourhood under design to high rise housing, civic buildings, restaurants and bars and wineries, university and college buildings, affordable housing, and cutting-edge workplaces. Locally, they include Mohawk College i-Wing, Good Shepherd Square, the Lister Building, Rapscallion Restaurant, Capital Bar, The Reservoir Dogs townhomes, Wentworth Lodge and McMaster Family Health Clinics.
CGS has received over 20 design awards for their innovative work, and their work has been published internationally in books and journals.
Bill is a Fellow of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, a member of the Ontario Association of Architects, holds a LEED AP professional designation in sustainable design, has taught undergraduate architecture for over 30 years, and mentors intern architects and students.
At its Wednesday, February 19 meeting, Hamilton AM Club members heard the story of Gord Maretzki, co-owner of Urban Tractor Farm Winery and Studio, who is a man of many talents. In 2009, Gord and his wife, Paula, moved to a vintage farm in the Vinemount Ridge area of Niagara, seeking a simpler life. They restored the land using sustainable farming practices, and in 2018, they planted their first vines—Seyval Blanc and Baco Noir. By 2020, they harvested their first crop and began producing estate-grown wines, partnering with local growers to explore new grape varieties and wine styles with each vintage.
But Gord’s creativity doesn’t stop at winemaking. He is also an accomplished stained-glass craftsman with years of experience. Not only has he mastered the craft, but he has also taught others and contributed his work to art galleries and helped with the restoration of historic stained glass windows. His deep knowledge, skill, and passion for stained glass shines through in every piece he creates; making it clear that his talents extend far beyond the winery. Whether designing intricate pieces or restoring timeless works, Gord's love for stained glass is as evident as his passion for winemaking.
Club members are invited to visit the winery and studio in Beamsville; it is about 40 minutes from Hamilton “on the bench” (https://urbantractorfarm.com/)
At the regular club meeting on January 15, 2025, Hamilton AM Club members welcomed Shannon Kyles who gave an excellent presentation on some of Hamilton's wonderful examples of outstanding Ontario architecture. Shannon has chronicled hundreds of prime examples of historic Ontario architecture on her website http://ontarioarchitecture.com/
A key reason for the presentation was to interest club members in the upcoming event, Open Doors, which will take place May 3 and 4 at as many as 50 historic buildings in Hamilton.
As well as being able to see the inside of these interesting structures, she is also looking for those interested in volunteering at a particular location - essentially recording the number of visitors.
Those who have done this in the past have found it quite an enjoyable experience.
Hamilton, Ontario has many historic buildings to explore, and Shannon is hoping her passion for the subject will encourage Hamilton AM members to enjoy "Open Doors Hamilton" in some capacity.
Checking out Empowerment Squared's New East End Digs for Sports Activities and Learning
Since its inception in 2007, Empowerment Squaredhas been growing exponentially, expanding their mission and programs to empower newcomer, racialized, and marginalized youth, families, and communities with the tools and skills to reach their full potential and thrive.
Together with their dedicated staff, board, volunteers, donors, and partners, we have been transforming hundreds of thousands of lives locally and globally.
PHOTO: Rotarians Sarah Brunt with President Mike Dunne presented Ann-Marie Anie and Leo Nupolu Johnson a $2000 cheque to assist them in the funding of their educational endeavors.
Rhys Preston, General Manager of New Flyer - Jamestown, welcomed the members of the Rotary Club of Jamestown, NY to tour the local company and learn more about its production.
Preston has been with the company since it opened in Jamestown in October 2016. Preston brought over 35 years of manufacturing experience to the Jamestown Community College/Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency supported NYS Start-Up efforts of New Flyer of America.
Preston explained that New Flyer of North America’s heavy-duty transit bus leader offers the most advanced product line under the Xcelsior™ and Xcelsior CHARGE® brands. It also offers infrastructure development through NFI Infrastructure Solutions™, a service dedicated to providing safe, sustainable and reliable charging and mobility solutions. New Flyer actively supports over 35,000 heavy-duty transit buses (New Flyer, NABI, and Orion) currently in service, of which 8,600 are powered by electric motors and battery propulsion and 1,900 are zero-emission.
Currently, the Jamestown plant has 106 employees, most of whom are from the immediate Jamestown and surrounding areas. Employees are compensated with a very comprehensive wage and benefits package ranked in the top 10% of Chautauqua County and are supported by the IUE/CWA Union. They are currently operating on one shift from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm on weekdays in the renovated Quality Market and adjoining Drugstore on Fluvanna Ave. A recent renovation was completed in July of 2024 to support increasing production demands in 2025 and beyond.
PHOTO (L to R): Jamestown NY Rotarian Program Chairman, Becky Robbins; Rhys Preston, New Flyer Manager; and Jamestown NY Rotary President, Marion Beckerink
The members of the Rotary Club of Jamestown, NY participated in the YWCA’s annual, mobile, “chilly” fundraising endeavor on February 22 at 5:00 PM.
According to Jamestown, NY Rotary Club’s President-Elect, Michelle Jones, the Coldest Night of the Year event is our new National Walk for Homelessness, and here in this community, it is raising money for people and families experiencing homelessness, hurt, and hunger.
Last year’s CNOY event raised more than $15,000 for the YWCA’s Transitions Supportive Housing Program. This vital program provides housing and case management support services for single women and women with children who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Transitional housing provides a unique and critical component in addressing homelessness by offering up to two years of stable housing paired with supportive case management. This approach allows women to stabilize their lives, develop essential skills, and achieve goals that enable them to secure and maintain long-term permanent housing. Through personalized support, case managers assist clients in accessing resources and unlocking their full potential, empowering them to build a foundation for lasting success,” said Jacqueline Cook, the YWCA’s program director (Choosing Action.)
Funds raised will help YWCA Jamestown do this work until injustice is rooted out, until institutions are transformed, until the world sees women, girls, and people of color the way we do: Equal. Powerful. Unstoppable.
Inquiries and/or donations may be sent to PO Box 732, Jamestown, NY 14702.
Rotary Club of Jamestown, NY Holds Second Annual Mini Golf Bar Crawl
On February 1, the Rotary Club of Jamestown, NY held its Second Annual Mini Golf Bar Crawl.
Ninety-six people participated in the tournament by visiting the following Jamestown establishments: Northwest Arena, Wicked Warrens, The Pub, Haggy’s 4 Below, Brazil, and the Pearl City Hops to try their hand at mini golf. Registration was $80 per foursome and the Club raised over $3,000 with entry fees, a 50/50 drawing, and special basket drawings.
Hole forms were constructed ahead of time and hole sponsors could then personalize the holes at their locations.
Great fun was had by participants AND spectators. Join in the fun next year!
On Tuesday, February 25th the Interact Club at Kenmore West High School and members of the Rotary Club of Kenmore visited Hoover Elementary and Hoover Middel School for the Purple Pinkie Project! 21 Students and 2 Advisors led the charge with 5 Rotarians raising $435 ($315 from the Elementary School and $120 from the Middle School). The Rotary Club of Kenmore will match this $435 and donate a total of $870 to the PolioPlus fund which will then be tripled by the Gates Foundation making it $2,610. Great job students at Hoover Elementary and Middle School and the Kenmore West Interact Club for helping to #EndPolio!
In countries where the threat of polio remains, children receive their polio vaccine by mouth. When vaccinating millions of children in a short period of time it is impossible to document it. Because of this, every child has the pinkie nail of their left hand painted with an indelible purple marker to ensure they only receive one dose. This is how the “Purple Pinkie” has become a symbol of a polio free world and why the Rotary Club of Kenmore hold multiple Purple Pinkie Projects annually.
On March 11th the Kenmore West Interact Club will team up for a third time this year with the Rotary Club of Kenmore from 10:30-1:30 at Edison Elementary Schooland host another Purple Pinkie Project.
If you are interested in checking out the Purple Pinkie Project or learning more about it, come stop by!
Another very successful Coldest Night of the Year Walk.
The Lincoln Rotary Club and the Grimsby Evening Rotary volunteered and walked as part of the West Niagara YWCA event.
Twenty-nine teams participated to raise a total of $89, 885 so far.
The Lincoln team raised the 5th largest amount of $6835 with the small but mighty team of walkers.
Rotary International raised the most money in the Community Group Challenge with 89 teams across Canada competing to raise a total of $226,047 with the Lincoln Rotary team placing 7th overall.
The Rotary Club of Lockport will be hosting our annual Cash Raffle on Friday April 25th, 2025, from 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM at the Cornell Cooperative Extension 4H Building, 4487 Lake Ave, Lockport, NY 14094.
The event is catered by The Shamus Restaurant.
Tickets are $150 and that includes dinner for 2 and 1 entry into the raffle.
Prizes are $2,500 for First Prize, $1,000 for Second Prize and $500 for Third Prize.
The Rotary Club of Lockport will be hosting a Shred-It! Event on Saturday April 26th, 2025, from 9:00 AM 12:00 Noon at The Dale Association, 22 Ontario St., Lockport, NY.
Suggested donation is just $10 per bankers' boxes.
The event will be in the parking lot behind The Dale, off of Lock Street.
From 23-25 January 2025, the Meaford & Thornbury-Clarkson Rotary Clubs hosted the 69th Annual Rotary Can-Am Curling Bonspiel. In attendance were curling teams from locations throughout Ontario and the north-east United States. The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise registered a team and was represented by Skip Rob Munden (Clarksburg), Vice Jim Simpson (Port Dover), Second Andy Kooistra (Waterford) and Lead Keith Jones (Port Dover).
A great weekend of terrific curling, warm fellowship and just plain fun resulted. Well done to the Meaford organizing team.
As it turned out, the local Norfolk Club finished in the A Division final, playing in the Can-Am championship game against a great team from Rice Lake in Wisconsin. Whilst the Sunrisers had to be happy with a second-place finish in the final game, the RCNS team was privileged to qualify as the Canadian Team invited to the International Curling Fellowship of Rotarians, World Curling Championship, set for April 2026 in Stranraer Scotland.
As a bit of a concluding teaser, curling is just one of a surprising number of Rotary Fellowships you might enjoy - how many you ask? -answer at this link.
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.
On Tuesday morning, 03 Feb '25, Kate Stratford welcomed and introduced Daryl Granger, co-owner of RoseLe Photo Studio as our Special Guest Speaker.
At our hybrid (i.e. live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, he spoke to us about the production of his recent documentary film 'Netting the Waters'.
In the most engaging way, he told us of the background and production of the film, as well as the success he has witnessed as a result.
Clearly, here's a Norfolk County shining star whose modest aim was to capture a significant story about our community and to educate us in its local impact/reality. A glimpse into his documentary 'Netting the Waters' can be found at his RoseLe Facebook page linked herein.
After a great question period, which included a most heart-felt message of personal gratitude from Carol Mummery (representing five generations of the local commercial fishing community), Past President John Wallace offered Daryl our RNCS sincere appreciation for the presentation as well as our recognition of his creative work and success in promoting our community. Daryl was then presented with a certificate of appreciation acknowledging a woman whose sight had been restored as a part of our RCNS work with, and support of, Operation Eyesight.
The Olean Rotary Club will present its seventh-annual "Service Above Self" Award to the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany at a dinner on Tuesday, April 8 at 5:30 PM.
The Franciscan Sisters of Allegany is a congregation of Catholic women religious and their Associates serving the poor and marginalized of Bolivia, Brazil, Jamaica, Mozambique, and the United States for over 160 years.
Just one example of the impact the Sisters have had : for more than two decades, the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany have ensured local mothers had enough clothing, diapers and necessities to care for their babies and toddlers during the holidays and new year through the “Shower for Mary” collections as a form of “Welcome to the Neighborhood Bags” being collected for the approximately 600 babies born at Olean General Hospital each year.
The “Service Above Self" dinner will be held from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM on Tuesday, April 8 at "Woodside Tavern on the Range" at 3319 W. River Rd Olean, NY.
Cocktails start at 5:30 PM; Buffet Dinner at 6:15 PM; Cash Bar; Presentation to follow
Tickets, $45 per person or $85 per couple, can be purchased at the door, by mailing a check to PO Box 121 Olean, NY, or online on the Rotary Facebook page HERE.
🎳 Bowling Night at Parkway Social Brings Rotarians Together!
Rotary fellowship was in full swing at our recent Bowling Night, where members enjoyed a fun-filled evening of strikes, spares, and socializing. Attendees included Jackie Van Lankveld, Sharon and Duncan Willock, Amin Osmani, and his wife, Macjamin Nwador, Reyam Abdulridha, Margaret, Oksana Fisher and her husband, Tom Pekar, Trevor, and Blair Pollard.
Beyond the friendly competition, the event reinforced the camaraderie and connections that make Rotary so special. Stay tuned for more opportunities to get together and strengthen our bonds through service and fellowship!
The Rotary Club of St. Catharines recently hosted a Bowling Night at Parkway Social, bringing together members for an evening of fun and friendly competition. Whether rolling strikes or cheering each other on, everyone had a fantastic time celebrating the spirit of Rotary.
Events like these provide a great opportunity to build relationships beyond meetings and connect with fellow Rotarians in a relaxed, enjoyable setting. Special thanks to everyone who participated!
Would you like to join us at our next social event?
The Rotary Club of St. Catharines is proud to have supported a life-changing water project in Urkupiña, Bolivia, providing clean water access to 200 families. This initiative, with a total project budget of $35,000 USD, was made possible through the efforts of multiple Rotary clubs, The Rotary Foundation, and District 7090.
Rotary’s commitment to sustainable solutions is transforming lives worldwide!
Water is essential, yet many communities around the world lack reliable access to clean drinking water. The Rotary Club of St. Catharines, along with The Rotary Foundation, District 7090, and 11 partner clubs, recently helped fund a $35,000 USD water project in Urkupiña, Bolivia, providing a sustainable water source for 200 families.
This initiative exemplifies Rotary’s global impact, bringing together clubs from multiple countries to support health, hygiene, and community development. Projects like these are a reminder that Rotary truly changes lives—not just in our own communities, but across the world.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this project a success!
Rotary friendships last a lifetime! During a recent trip to Johannesburg, South Africa, Rotarian Rick Evans had a heartwarming reunion with Candice Harrison Train, a former Rotary Youth Exchange student he hosted in 1989. Rick had the opportunity to reconnect with Candice whom he and other families hosted in 1989. Candice spent her exchange year with Linda and Gord Johnston, Rick’s family, and Bill and Anne Finley, forming lasting connections that continue to this day.
The reunion was extra special, as Candice finally met Rick’s son, André, who was just a baby when she was first welcomed into their home 36 years ago!
Now an accomplished consultant and entrepreneur, Candice owns two Gelato stores in Johannesburg. However, with ongoing infrastructure challenges in the city, including water shortages and power outages, she and her family are preparing to relocate to Cape Town by the end of the year.
Rotary Youth Exchange changes lives—not just for the students, but for the host families who welcome them. These lifelong friendships are just one of the many ways Rotary connects people across the globe.
Candice, hosted by Linda and Gord Johnston, Rick’s family, and Bill and Anne Finley, has built a successful career as a consultant and business owner. Today, she owns two Gelato stores in Johannesburg and is planning a move to Cape Town with her family.
Rotary’s Youth Exchange Program creates friendships that stand the test of time!
Firing Up the Grill – Rib Fest Officially Launched!
The countdown to the Rotary Club of St. Catharines’ most anticipated event of the year has begun!
On January 23rd, John Potts, co-chair of the Rib Fest Committee, officially launched the 25th anniversary of Rib Fest.
With promises of sizzling barbecue, live entertainment, and family-friendly fun, John emphasized the importance of teamwork, calling for volunteers and sponsors to make this milestone event bigger and better than ever.
25th Annual Winter Trivia Night Another Blockbuster!
Our 25th Annual Winter Trivia Night was a banner event with the usual big crowd, great questions, lively chatter, tons of popcorn and lots and lots of hot dogs.
Thanks to all who sold tables, volunteered, announced, kept score, and even played.
And thanks to Club Roma management and staff for their outstanding support of our efforts.
Congratulations to the 2025 Winning Team who were presented with the much sought after "Lighthouse Trophy" by President Coral: Beth Shepard, Janette Holmes, Arden Phair, Erika Phair, Graham Phair, John Wessel, Wayne Shepard, Gerry Welsford!
The Rotary Club of St. Catharines South and The May Court Club of St. Catharines extend our heartfelt thanks for the generous support of our October 2024 “Because We Care” Gala. The event raised $230,000+ towards the $300,000 pledge for the creation of the new Ronald McDonald Lounge on the 4th floor of The Marotta Family Health Centre (The St. Catharines Hospital).
Ronald McDonald House Charities reports that, since the September opening, the lounge has welcomed over 10,000 families 24/7. There is, however, still a significant funding gap to address to support this truly nurturing facility. As a result the two organizations are once again joining forces to host
“Because We Care” presents Ain’t Misbehavin’
A Big Band Evening Spent Under the Stars Saturday, June 14, 2025 – 6:30 pm – 10:30 pm
at the beautiful Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery, catered by Inn on the Twenty.
The net proceeds will go to The Niagara Ronald McDonald House Charities Family Room in the Marotta Family Hospital in St. Catharines.
Please see the accompanying poster for additional event details. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.
For more information please contact.
John Teibert, President Penny Dickenson, President
The Rotary Club of St. Catharines South The May Court Club of St. Catharines
The Rotary Club of Welland held its 7th annual Curling Social on February 11, 2025. Hosted by the Welland Curling Club, we had 82 Rotarians, family, and friends attend, with a complement of 64 curlers on 16 teams.
Past District Governor Scott Marcin (Rotary Club of Amherst South NY) graced us with his presence, along with our own District Governor David Alexander.
The Rotary Club of Grimsby fielded a rink, as did the Niagara Children’s Centre. The Rotary Club of Welland has been associated with the Centre since its establishment in 1964. We were proud to have two rinks of Special Olympians join us. Two energetic teams from the City of Welland as well as various teams of Welland Rotarians and friends rounded out the roster. We had 18 non-curlers attend, with expert training by volunteers of the Welland Curling Club.
Everyone had an enjoyable evening, including Rotary Youth Exchange Student CoCo Chen from Taiwan. She is hosted by the Rotary Club of Grimsby.
As it was a fun event, a draw was held to determine the winning rink, the prizes being Gift Cards for each member of the rink.
Net proceeds from this event will be used in the Rotary 2025-2026 for Youth, Local Community, and Indigenous/International projects.
We plan to continue this annual event. Look for us in 2026, our 106th Anniversary!
On Tuesday February 24, 2025, civic volunteer Fred Farnham, aka Freddie the Clown, was treated to a surprise 98th Birthday celebration in Welland. Over 40 friends of Fred came together to celebrate Fred’s accomplishments to the local and wider community over his active life .
He was presented a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Club of Welland in 1988, later joining Rotary in 1996. He has been heavily involved in Rotary Youth Programs RYLA, SLAPSHOT, now Jr. RYLA, and Rotary Youth Exchange. In other community partnerships, he was a Big Brother twice, while mentoring with Big Brothers Big Sisters later in life. He was there at the beginning of the Welland Food Drive and successfully corralled Welland Rotary Members to participate from the beginning in 1990 up to this past November. He was a long-time blood donor until, for some reason, he aged out….Today, Fred still volunteers to read to young children at Ross Public School.
Those celebrating with Fred were community members, past participants in Rotary Youth Programs and Rotarian friends from both sides of the Boarder.
This week we honored 20 Westfield-Mayville Rotary Scholars of the Month from Sherman, Brocton, Westfield Academy and Central School (WACS), and Chautauqua Lake/Ripley High Schools!
There were nearly 60 people in attendance at our mid-year presentation.
President Janese Berkhouse (LEFT) welcomed everyone.
Youth Services Chair Dan Smith (RIGHT) explained the program and started introductions.
Pictured not necessarily in order:
Sherman: Dylan Carey, Logan Swan(abs.), Kenadi Long, Zachary Schmitz and Joseph Issler
Brocton: Ava Thompson, Keara Brady, Haley Ehmke, Madison Sears. Joseph Watson (abs.)
Rotary honors a teacher and mentor with the 2025 Sylvia Whitlock Leadership AwardThis Turkish Rotarian has promoted women’s financial literacy, funded scholarships for girls, and
Young trailblazers find inspiration at Rotaract UN Days. Three participants tell us about the experience, their takeaways, and what it was like to enter the halls of the historic Palais des Nations.
Since 2018, members of the Interact Club of Lotus Valley International School in Noida, India, have been manufacturing menstrual pads for girls and women, using a process they perfected at their school outside of Delhi
Rotary honors six People of Action: Champions of PeaceThe honorees’ projects empower farmers and refugees, heal postwar trauma, and establish dialogue among diverse
Rotary highlights six ‘Champions of Peace’EVANSTON, Ill., USA (24 Feb. 2025) — Six Rotary members and participants from around the world have been recognized as Rotary People of Action: ‘Champions of
Rotary to host peacebuilders in IstanbulPeace experts and Rotary members from 88 countries will explore challenges and solutions for sustainable peace.EVANSTON,
ater, sanitation, and hygiene education are basic necessities for a healthy environment and a productive life.
Mário César Martins de Camargo, a member of the Rotary Club of Santo André, Brazil, has been selected as president of Rotary International for 2025-26. 
The Rotary International Convention is for all Rotarians, both new and seasoned.
You can play a part in Stopping Abuse in Families Everywhere.
Our blue planet. 70% covered in oceans. Almost everything we build or grow has to manage or use water somehow. Life is not possible without water - and Rotary supports local solutions to bring clean water to more people. March celebrates Rotary’s efforts around Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene. And as with all of our 
The campaign for Canadian clubs to donate to Rotary District 7090’s Gift of Life chocolate heart sale has been a huge success.
RYLA: Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, an intensive leadership experience organized by Rotary clubs and districts.
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Many of you have been wondering what's going on up at Veterans Park.
Akron High School's Rotary Interact Club has completed its collection of school supplies in support of a school in Honduras devastated by Tropical Storm Sara last November.
Community Spaghetti Dinner
Brantford-Sunrise is pleased to announce the Club’s 5th Annual Online Auction, running April 17 to 27, 2025.
On March 7th Buffalo Rotary member Dan Blake will embark on an extraordinary journey, biking across America to raise funds and awareness for
PDG Lisa Bishop (RC Norfolk Sunrise), with her partner Lionel Ulrich, visited Buffalo Sunrise and shared a PowerPoint highlighting her trip to India to assist with polio eradication.
Coming event: Buffalo Sunrise is initiating a fundraiser to benefit local and international needs.
Monday, February 17th, marked Family Day in the Province of Ontario with many businesses and services closed for that day.
We have had an old-fashioned winter…cold and snow almost every day. We are certainly glad to have the comfort of our houses.
The Rotary Club of Hamburg once again made "no sew" blankets for the Erie County Medical Center Hospice Program.
Hamburg Sunrise Rotary presented an award to David Heppel at the Hamburg American legion Post 527.
The Rotary Club of Hamilton AM welcomed Bill Curran, an exceptional local architect with 
At its Wednesday, February 19 meeting, Hamilton AM Club members heard the story of Gord Maretzki, co-owner of Urban Tractor Farm Winery and Studio, who is a man of many talents. In 2009, Gord and his wife, Paula, moved to a vintage farm in the Vinemount Ridge area of Niagara, seeking a simpler life. They restored the land using sustainable farming practices, and in 2018, they planted their first vines—Seyval Blanc and Baco Noir. By 2020, they harvested their first crop and began producing estate-grown wines, partnering with local growers to explore new grape varieties and wine styles with each vintage.
Open Doors Hamilton is Coming, May 3, 4, 2025
Checking out Empowerment Squared's New East End Digs for Sports Activities and Learning
Rhys Preston, General Manager of New Flyer - Jamestown, welcomed the members of the Rotary Club of Jamestown, NY to tour the local company and learn more about its production.
The members of the Rotary Club of Jamestown, NY participated in the YWCA’s annual, mobile, “chilly” fundraising endeavor on February 22 at 5:00 PM.
Rotary Club of Jamestown, NY Holds Second Annual Mini Golf Bar Crawl
On Tuesday, February 25th the Interact Club at Kenmore West High School and members of the Rotary Club of Kenmore visited Hoover Elementary and Hoover Middel School for the Purple Pinkie Project! 21 Students and 2 Advisors led the charge with 5 Rotarians raising $435 ($315 from the Elementary School and $120 from the Middle School). The Rotary Club of Kenmore will match this $435 and donate a total of $870 to the PolioPlus fund which will then be tripled by the Gates Foundation making it $2,610. Great job students at Hoover Elementary and Middle School and the Kenmore West Interact Club for helping to #EndPolio!
The Lancaster-Depew Rotary Club reflects on 2024 as we plan for 2025. 
The Lancaster-Depew Rotary Club distributed funds raised through our Christmas Light fundraiser in the villages of Lancaster and Depew. 
Another very successful Coldest Night of the Year Walk.
From 23-25 January 2025, the Meaford & Thornbury-Clarkson Rotary Clubs hosted the 69th Annual Rotary Can-Am Curling Bonspiel. In attendance were curling teams from locations throughout Ontario and the north-east United States. The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise registered a team and was represented by Skip Rob Munden (Clarksburg), Vice Jim Simpson (Port Dover), Second Andy Kooistra (Waterford) and Lead Keith Jones (Port Dover).
On Tuesday morning, 03 Feb '25, Kate Stratford welcomed and introduced Daryl Granger, co-owner of 
The Olean Rotary Club will present its seventh-annual "Service Above Self" Award to the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany at a dinner on Tuesday, April 8 at 5:30 PM.
Save the date!
🎳 Bowling Night at Parkway Social Brings Rotarians Together!
💧 Clean Water for 200 Families in Bolivia!
🌍 Rotary Youth Exchange: A 36-Year Reunion!
Firing Up the Grill – Rib Fest Officially Launched!
25th Annual Winter Trivia Night Another Blockbuster!
The Rotary Club of St. Catharines South and The May Court Club of St. Catharines extend our heartfelt thanks for the generous support of our October 2024 “Because We Care” Gala. The event raised $230,000+ towards the $300,000 pledge for the creation of the new Ronald McDonald Lounge on the 4th floor of The Marotta Family Health Centre (The St. Catharines Hospital).
“Because We Care” presents Ain’t Misbehavin’
The Rotary Club of Welland held its 7th annual Curling Social on February 11, 2025. Hosted by the Welland Curling Club, we had 82 Rotarians, family, and friends attend, with a complement of 64 curlers on 16 teams.
Fred Farnham celebrates his 98th Birthday!
This week we honored 20 Westfield-Mayville Rotary Scholars of the Month from Sherman, Brocton, Westfield Academy and Central School (WACS), and Chautauqua Lake/Ripley High Schools!
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