Vocational service is at the core of Rotary, embedded in its history, present and future. It calls on us to foster high ethical standards in business, recognize the value of all occupations, and dignify our occupations as an opportunity to serve our communities. By including men and women from diverse professions and backgrounds, Rotary recognizes the importance of all skills and occupations and encourages our members to leverage their skills and expertise to enhance communities.
Consider putting your vocational service in action by:
- using your skills and expertise to serve a community.
- mentoring young people to help achieve their career goals.
- offering leadership and professional development guidance to others.
- practicing your profession with integrity and inspiring others to do so.
The 2025 Rotary International Convention in Calgary is shaping up to be a huge hit! With 58 Rotarians from our own District 7090 already registered, the excitement is building. But there's still time for you to join the fun - Rotarians, friends, partners, and others are all welcome to register.
The big question on everyone's minds is - who are the featured speakers and what special events are planned? Well, get ready for some awesome surprises! One of the highlighted speakers is musician and Rotary Peace Fellow David LaMotte, who will be taking the stage on Sunday, June 22nd.
David is known for his powerful storytelling, and you'll get a glimpse of that when you read about the gripping account in his book of a sudden illness that nearly robbed him of his voice and musical talents. But David bounced back, and now he's bringing his inspirational message to the Rotary stage.
And the fun doesn't stop there! The convention will be packed with breakout sessions that are sure to energize and inspire. From polishing your leadership skills to brainstorming ways to boost membership and fundraising, there's something for everyone. The preliminary schedule will be published in early spring 2025.
Oh, and let's not forget the famous Rotary home hosting! Calgary was the first convention in 1996 to offer this unique opportunity, and it's been a huge hit ever since. Imagine getting to be hosted one evening by a local Rotarians and experience the city like a true insider. Talk about a convention you'll never forget!
So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets and get ready for an unforgettable Rotary experience in Calgary. This is one convention you won't want to miss!
As we step into the New Year, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for each of you in our Best of Friends Rotary family. Your unwavering commitment to Service Above Self has created a ripple of positive change in our communities and together with Rotarians around the globe we are achieving incredible results – from impactful local projects to life-changing international initiatives, all reflecting our shared Rotary spirit.
In 2025, we look ahead with hope and excitement. One of our primary goals is to grow our membership, inviting more passionate individuals to join us on this meaningful journey. As we expand, we strengthen our ability to make a difference, not just as a network, but as a force for good in the world.
Our projects — from literacy initiatives to supporting local food programs, to environmental conservation and peace-building — are a testament to the power of collective action. Every hour you dedicate, every dollar you contribute, and every new connection you foster makes an undeniable impact.
As we continue this journey together, I encourage you to inspire others to join us in our mission. Let’s reflect on our accomplishments, embrace the opportunities ahead, and remain steadfast in our commitment to service.
Thank you for being part of this extraordinary District.
The District 7090 Nominating Committee, chaired by PDG Anne Bermingham, held a competitive process and recommended Joanne Serkeyn, a member of the Rotary Club of Lincoln, Ontario to be our District's nominee for Governor for the 2026-2027 Rotary year. The committee, recognizing its responsibility to select the best-qualified Rotarian available to serve as Governor, is confident in its determination that Joanne Serkeyn is that individual.
Furthermore, as part of the same competitive process, as required by Section 12.030 of Article 12 of the Rotary International Bylaws, the District Nominating Committee recommended Paul Gibel, a member of the Rotary Club of Hamilton - Tonic After 5, Ontario to be our District's nominee for Governor for the 2027-2028 Rotary year. The committee, recognizing its responsibility to select the best-qualified Rotarian available to serve as Governor, is confident in its determination that Paul Gibel is that individual.
The District Governor Elect is Aaron Carlson, who will serve as 7090 DG beginning July 1, 2025.
Attention all 2025-26 President Elects!!! Note these dates... mark your calendar!
This roadmap is designed to be informative, interesting, and valuable, leading to your ability to succeed as a guide to a better future for your Club.
A) Jan 29, 2025: President Elect Learning Seminar – Technology; Online Meeting (CLICK to register)
The world of information is at your fingertips. There will be an online meeting with two topics to be covered. The first: how, where, and what information is stored in District and RI databases - information that will better serve you in making decisions leading to success. The second will be on the District Budget Approval process.
B) Feb 2025: Complete 2 Online Courses – “Club President Basics” and “Club Rotary Foundation Committee Basics”
PE Learning through the month of February will be through the “Learning Center” of Rotary International. You will be asked to complete two online courses: The Club President Basics and the Rotary Foundation Comm Basics. Even if you have been a President previously, the value of doing these two sessions will add to your knowledge and skills as a leader in your club. “Office Hours” will be open all month to help answer any questions.
C) March 22, 2025: President Elect Learning Seminar – in person (CLICK to register)
In person at Niagara College (NOTL) with the opportunity to meet all your fellow PE’s. Share your ideas and concerns. Breakout sessions will group you with PEs of either smaller or larger Clubs, with a Keynote speaker at noon.
D) April 24, 2025. A Q& A session to cover any point you might think is needed. District leaders and experienced club presidents will be there to respond to your questions
E) May 17, 2025: District Learning Assembly. Please encourage all your incoming Club officials to this online session.
“Those who work hard, work alone. Those who work smart, work as a team.” (Utibe Samuel Mbon)
F) June 14, 2025: District Changeover…. A Celebration of your success.
“The future belongs to those that prepare for it today.”
Strengthening Our Story: Tackling Public Image Barriers Together
One of the biggest hurdles many of our Rotary members face is navigating the ever-changing world of online promotion. From updating a Facebook page to creating an engaging Instagram post, it can all feel a bit overwhelming — especially if technology isn’t your strong suit! However, being active and visible online has never been more important for sharing Rotary’s impact and connecting with the community.
Below are some practical tips and examples of how other Rotary clubs are boosting their online presence:
Leverage Easy-to-Use Platforms Don’t let the idea of complex graphic design or video editing stop you. Tools like Canva (for simple graphics) or CapCut(for short videos) can help you create polished, engaging content with just a few clicks.
Partner with Younger Members or Local Students Some clubs collaborate with Interact or Rotaract members, or even local high school/college students, to help manage social media, create graphics, and record short videos. This partnership not only improves the club’s online visibility but also empowers youth to contribute their tech expertise.
Work Together for Greater Impact Consider designating a “tech lead” who can assist multiple clubs within the district. Collaborative approaches not only expand your pool of expertise but also foster stronger bonds across clubs. For more inspiration on teamwork, check out our article: Working Together Works Better
When you help others and meet new people you also learn, grow, and expand your network.
A great way to expand your awareness of Rotary, give back, and have fun at the same time?
Bring together Rotarians, Rotary Clubs, and their community partners in a conversation about volunteering - the issues, needs, and working together better.
This holiday season, the Rotary Club of Ancaster AM members have truly embodied the magic of hope through their heartfelt actions.
With great cheer and camaraderie, they shopped and wrapped Christmas gifts for families and seniors, spreading joy and warmth in the community.
Their efforts were part of the St. Matthews House Holiday Hope Program, which aims to help families and seniors thrive during this festive season.
Our support is made possible this year because of our volunteers and the wonderful District 7090 matching grant.
Rotarians are people in action, dedicated to service above self. Their commitment to the community is a testament to the Rotary motto, "One Profits Most Who Serves Best."
Through their selfless service, the members of the Rotary Club of Ancaster AM have made a significant impact, illustrating the true spirit of giving and hope.
WHAT: A Social Gathering: Sharing the Magic of Rotary
A time to get to know the people in our Rotary neighborhood, not just to hang with our own club members. Hearty hors d'oeuvres and Cash bar. Mingling is encouraged!
WHEN: Monday, Jan 6: 5:30 - 7:30 PM
WHO: Rotary Area 10 Clubs including Buffalo, Buffalo Sunrise, BNMC, Kenmore, Tonawanda Satellite, Amherst South, and UB Rotaractors
Parking is available across the street and on the street
BRING: "Socks and Skivvies" – New unopened packages of socks, gloves, hats, scarves, undergarments, etc. These will be donated to the Response To Love Center, along with any extra cash.
The Rotary Club of Buffalo was proud to award 2 local non-profit agencies with a Grant.
They were:
Photo #1 - CEO LuAnne Brown of Buffalo Prenatal Perinatal Network was presented with a check by Grant's Committee Member Kim Nyoni in the amount of $6,474 to purchase beds for new moms.
Photo #2 - Founder Mandy Bailey and Board President Stephanie Smith of Big Big Table Community Cafe was presented with a check by Grant's Committee Member Kim Nyoni in the amount of $5,400 for a Defibrillator and creating an ADA bathroom.
The Rotary Club of Buffalo President, Tom Van Nortwick, along with Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon, presided over the annual Tree Lighting at Fountain Plaza.
Buffalo Rotary made ice skating at Rotary Rink at Fountain Plaza possible by pledging $500,000 for the project back in 1991!
This annual event marks the official opening of the free ice-skating season in the heart of Downtown Buffalo.
Our Rotary Club is a collection of talented, diverse, passionate women and men, with unified goals. So, no surprise, RC Buffalo Sunrise closed out 2024 with an energetic and productive strategic planning activity led by Mara Huber. Our morning holiday gathering also featured a fun filled, sometimes raucous, white elephant gift exchange. On to 2025 and partnership opportunities within our local area, internationally, and with District 7090!
We look forward to a busy year with a strong focus on our Niagara Greenway Adopt-A-Trail commitment, support in partnership with other area clubs on significant projects, a new fundraising activity for club projects, growth of the BSR Foundation, and of course our continuing commitment to Youth Exchange.
We appreciate the varied talents of our members, engaged in international efforts in Africa, mental health issues, the environment, human trafficking awareness, and fun!
We give a special shout out to our strong leadership: the ever-energetic President Timothy Priano and Past President Melanie Rushforth, Greg Norton (Youth Exchange), Melissa Brinson (Social Coordinator), Jeff Lebsack and Barbara Ochterski (Rotary Greenway Steering Committee), Paige Mason (Social Media), Denis Lefebrve (Bicycle Collection and Repair and everything else). We could not be who we are without all our great members!
On December 3rd, the club inducted four new members, three of whom will be part of The Rotary Satellite Club of Dundas Valley Sunrise: “STamp Out Polio”.
STamp Out Polio inductees are Pascale Tymen, Rebecca Reble, and Dieter Staudinger. Robert Scheiding second from left will join us as a breakfast member.
The club’s induction ceremony is formal and involves President Russ Powers, President Elect John Merrill (with Tom McLeod standing in that morning), Past President Phil Wood, Membership Director Ralph Montesanto and sponsors David Maciulis, Marnee Maroes and Sandra Gemin.
PHOTO (L to R): Pascale Tymen, Robert Scheiding, Rebecca Reble, Dieter Staudinger
Special thanks to Marjorie Ettinger for having the vision behind the Rotary evening that had members and community come together to commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the Sod Turning of the Welland Canal. Hosted by the Merritt Room in Dunnville, everyone enjoyed a rustic inspired meal followed by a historical presentation. Dressed in period costume, Glen Brough’s enactment brought to life the persona of Wm. Hamilton Merritt, a driving force behind the canal’s development. Guests were then treated to a slide-show presentation by Andy Panko, whose pictures provided a vision of yesteryear. Special thanks to Marjorie and John for organizing, and to Carissa for donating prizes for the evening.
The local Santa Claus parade presented another opportunity to highlight our club services. Our entry was a themed polar/penguin sleigh float, capped off with our Rotary sign! A bitter cold and windy night didn’t dampen spirits as we paraded through the streets handing out candy to young onlookers, (Thanks Carissa!). A huge shout out to Kirsten and her husband Cactus for their many hours’ work and lighting expertise. Thanks too to Penny for donating the huge inflatable Polar Bear that was a hit with both young and old. It was a memorable and joyful way for Rotary to come together to celebrate the season with community members.
PHOTO (L to R): Judy and Glen Brough, Andy Panko, Marjorie Ettinger
This past fall saw our small - but growing - group, busy pulling off a couple of large events requiring man and womanpower from our ever-willing Rotarians.
Our annual Trick or Trunkwith St. Paul’s Lutheran church was a huge success.
Special thanks go out to the kind volunteers and Interim Pastor Laura Csellak (from Lutheran Jamestown) at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church for providing the facility for this annual event for the children in the community. Over two hundred children attended along with parents. It was a smashing success, as it is every year.
Pumpkinville supplied cider sippers and pumpkins, Tim Hortons generously gave us Tim-Bits, the Ellicottville Volunteer Fire Company brought their firetruck and helped with safety, and the Sons of the American Legion and the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary provided financial donations.
The event was generously spearheaded by Rotarians Caylin Moss and Brenda Smith who were assisted by many Rotarians and friends of Rotary.
Some members of the Flamborough AM pose with Santa Claus at the Waterdown Breakfast with Santa as we raised funds for Food4Kids-Waterdown, a chapter of Food4Kids-Hamilton on Nov 30th.
Fun was had in being of service to our many Flamborough families.
The Rotary Club of Grand Island rang the bell for Salvation Army donations at Tops Market from December 11 to 21.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Rotarians, Interactors, and Early Actors who participated in supporting our local Tonawanda Salvation Army, which serves both Grand Island and Tonawanda.
Coats 4 Kids
Coats for Kids is an annual program created by Colvin Cleaners.
This program allows Buffalo's favorite dry cleaner to give back to the community in a way that WNYorkers desperately need -- by giving the gift of warmth.
This year our Rotary Club collected coats from our closets, neighbors and friends to contribute to the collection to give warmth in the coming cold winter.
Our own member, Michael Billoni, is a brother to Paul Billoni, Colvin Cleaners president. Colvin Cleaners was established in 1931 by Phil and Angeline Billoni.
PHOTO (LEFT) Grand Island High School Interact Students
Skip Mazenauer was a dedicated Rotarian and a valued member of our community.
Skip was a member of the Rotary Club of Grand Island since May 1959, having an impressive 65 years of Rotary service.
He was recently honored as a Legacy Member by the club.
He was a three-time Paul Harris Fellow (1999-2000, 2012-2013, and 2017-2018) and participated in the EREY program for eight years.
Known for his active involvement, Skip contributed to Rotary conference hospitality and was instrumental in securing a grant for the Niagara Falls Aquarium.
Beyond Rotary, Skip was deeply engaged in the community. He served on the boards of Artpark and Old Fort Niagara and was a founding member of the Lewiston Jazz Festival.
Skip was also a prominent figure in local media as the publisher and CEO of Niagara Frontier Publications, which produces three weekly newspapers and the website wnypapers.com.
Under his leadership, NFP played a key role in supporting the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce and helped establish the Grand Island Citizen of the Year and Property Improvement awards.
Skip retired just a few months ago, leaving Niagara Frontier Publications in the capable hands of new leadership.
He will be remembered for his remarkable contributions, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the community he loved.
Celebrating the Season with Rotary Club of Hamilton
As the year draws to a close, the Rotary Club of Hamilton has truly made this December one to remember.
With the spirit of giving and community at the heart of our mission, we celebrated the holiday season through three remarkable initiatives: the Rotary Children's Christmas Celebration, Operation Santa Claus, and the Christmas Tree of Hope.
These events brought joy, support, and hope to countless individuals in our community.
Looking Ahead with Gratitude
The success of these events is a testament to the power of community and the unwavering support of our sponsors, partners, and volunteers.
Together, we have demonstrated the true meaning of the season: giving, caring, and creating hope for a brighter future.
As we prepare for the new year, the Rotary Club of Hamilton remains committed to making a difference.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this December truly unforgettable. Here’s to continuing our mission of service above self in the year ahead!
For over 25 years Hamilton AM Rotary has hosted a Christmas Breakfast for students and staff.
Under the capable leadership of Michelle Austin, Elizabeth Ward, and Irene Stayshyn, this "Christmas Miracle" was pulled off on December 18, again, without a hitch!
Special this year was an appearance by Hamilton Mayor, Andrea Horwath, who not only brought greetings from the City of Hamilton but also helped out in the classrooms, doling out syrup on those delicious pancakes.
Four teams of Rotarians cooked up about 700 pancakes, and other club members, Rotaractors and friends delivered them hot to each classroom.
Each student also received a "goodie bag" full of candy, a stuffed toy, mitts and a toothbrush and toothpaste.
A new book courtesy of Hamilton Public Library was also there to take home!
This was a great event, loved by students and teachers alike but especially heartwarming for Hamilton AM Rotarians and friends. Merry Christmas everyone! PHOTO: Santa (Mark Ewer), Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath (pouring syrup!)
For many, many years the Rotary Club of Jamestown has welcomed the holiday season with a luncheon performance by the Jamestown High School a cappella choir that is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its founding in 1924 by Ebba Goranson, with a special invitation to all of its alumni to join in the public Vespers concert on 12/14.
A luncheon was celebrated in the gathering room at First Lutheran Church before the students arrived to sing at noon.
Next year, the club invites all to join in the wonderful concert - watch the Jamestown, NY calendar for the appropriate date.
The choir, under the direction of Lauren Scharf, also includes the Mixed Choir, Men of Tomorrow, Ladies of Today and the Madrigal Singers groups. Over the years, the choir has performed with Kenny Rogers, Jim Brickman, including concerts at Walt Disney World twice, Disney Springs, and in EPCOT Center’s Candlelight Processional narrated by Marlee Matlin in 2019. In addition, they have performed at the National Shrine Basilica and the National Presbyterian Church in Washington, DC, New York City's St. Patrick's Cathedral, St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna, and Boston's Old North Church, as well as others.
This year, they were joined by almost 400 alumni of JHS, including one from the Class of 1952.
In addition, the Rotary Club of Jamestown's Literacy committee decorated this year's holiday parade float with the title - "READING LIGHTS UP YOUR MIND".
Over 600 books and candies were distributed along the parade route!
The Rotary Club of Jamestown celebrated its first Rotary Family Service Night. Thirty-three attendees accomplished the goal of completing 20 "no sew" blankets which were donated to Heritage Park nursing home residents.
Children attended with their parents; if they didn't want to make blankets, they designed glorious Christmas cards which were distributed to the residents
as well. Pizza and cookies were served.
PHOTO: Vice President Caitlin O'Reilly teaches 'the fellows' how to tie the blanket fringe.
We mourn the passing of Bill Kotansky, a fantastic person and model Lancasterian, but also one of Lancaster-Depew Rotary Club's leaders.
Past President Bill Kotansky was instrumental in helping build the Lancaster-Depew Rotary Club into what it is today. Throughout his over sixty years of membership in the club: a small, but diverse, dedicated, and passionate group of individuals from Lancaster and Depew who work together to make the world a better place was formed.
What's important about Bill is that he exemplified what is most important to Rotarians. The Four Way Test; service above self, always a way of life. Mr. Kotansky was an old-school Lancastrian, not just a resident but a small businessman in the central business district, but who also ran his lumber business from his home. Bill lived, worked, played, served, and worshiped in the heart of our community for nearly his entire life. He witnessed Lancaster change from a small farming community to a post-urban renewal suburban town.
PHOTO (L to R): Rotary Past District Governor Robert Artis and Assistant District Governor Robert Benzel presenting a second Paul Harris Fellowship to William Kotansky recognizing over 50 years of active membership. Mary Kotansky is attaching the award pin to his lapel.
In addition, Paul Harris Fellowships were awarded to Rotarian Frank Scelsa, who worked tirelessly to turn the nascent idea of a theatrical production into a reality, and Club President Ron Danielewicz (PHF+2) who coordinated community support and managed the logistics masterfully.
PHOTO 1 (L to R): Rotarian Frank Scelsa, Rotary Club President Ron Daneilewicz, Pastor Tim Anas from Messiah Lutheran, Jennifer Stahlman from Heart Love and Soul, Christine O'Hara from HART, Harmony Retzlaff-Hurtgam from Care and Share
PHOTO 2 (L to R): Club Secretary Tommy Gerbasi, Rotarian Frank Scelsa, Rotary Club President Ron Daneilewicz.
Members from the Hamilton Police, Hamilton Fire, Ancaster AM & Lincoln Rotarians joined forces to provide a breakfast and gift from Santa for the Davey Elementary Schoolthis morning.
A big shout out to Chef Brad Rempel for preparing the breakfast for the three seating groups to accommodate all the kids at the school.
This is Lincoln Rotarian President Joanne's 20th year organizing the breakfast.
Community Theatre at West Niagara Secondary School Donation
On November 26, 2024, the Rotary Club of Lincoln in partnership with the West Niagara Secondary School held a free community event in the new theatre at the school. The event named “For the Love of Theatre” invited Tim Carroll the Artistic Director, Shaw Festival to give a presentation about the state of theatre in Niagara and Shaw Festival news. A reception was held before the event at the school with the culinary students catering the reception.
To kick off the event in the theatre a cheque presentation from the Rotary Club of Lincoln, by President Joanne Serkeyn was presented to Principal Mat Miller for $100,000 to be used for funding the theatre.
The focus of our club is primarily youth and community orientated, and we felt with this donation to the WNSS theatre we will be fulfilling that focus by helping to provide funding to keep the arts alive in our school and community.
We would like to thank Meridian, Beamsville Branch for sponsoring this event and Sunrise Greenhouses for the poinsettia and plant donations.
A big thank-you goes out to our Rotarians who spearheaded this donation, to all our Lincoln Rotary club members who have fundraised, and to our sponsors, volunteers and participants of our events that made this donation possible.
December started out with a bang. Our 25th anniversary Holiday House Tour was our biggest fundraiser ever!
The HHT Co-Chairs, Rose Campbell and Keven Stokes, along with a dedicated team, generous homeowners, talented decorators and designers, community partners and sponsors, hundreds of volunteers, and months of preparation produced an extravaganza that truly reflects the Magic of the Season and the Magic of Rotary.
In response to our $10,000 donation to the Ronald MacDonald Loungeat the Marotta Family Hospital in St. Catharines, Tim Lutton and Stewart Istvan hopped on a bus full of fellow Rotarians from St. Catharines Clubs and participated in the Ronald MacDonald Light Up the House event in Hamilton.
Our members described it as an outstanding, uplifting, positive experience.
The Niagara on the Lake Historical Museum received our 3rd donation of $5,000 for its Expansion Project. Five annual donations are pledged for a total of $25,000.
On behalf of the club, Chris Hatch and Jeannie Manning visited the Community Crew Lunch Program at the Community Church on York Road. This program is fueled by hands on volunteers serving 33 elementary schools, 1400 children, 4,000 lunches, Tuesday – Thursday every week school is in session in the Niagara Region. They are currently confirming the need in NOTL’s elementary schools. Our club donated funds for a badly needed commercial refrigerator in the amount of $2034.
Once again, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise (RCNS), in collaboration with Peerless Cleaners, the Langton Knitters and the First Baptist Church have organized our annual Coats for Kids & Adults community support event. With the support of many players, we collected over 1500 coats and had a variety of knitted products donated for distribution.
Peerless Cleaners ensured that all the products were cleaned and hygienically prepared for give-away (think about that as a contribution the next time you take in a coat to be cleaned!!).
The Langton Knitters donated over 8 boxes of home-made hats and mitten sets, knitted lap blankets, and knitted slippers.
At the actual event, more than 90% of the coats were distributed.
Sunrisers then bagged the few left-over coats and knitted items, all of which will be going to several pre-determined local-area support agencies.
It's the festive season; a time when Norfolk Sunrisers and their friends enjoy assisting the local Salvation Army by providing a presence on the collection kettles in Delhi, Port Dover and Simcoe.
As coordinated by our own Joanne Kiefer, this year the RCNS is providing 38 different volunteers to help out on 6 different days at these three Norfolk locations.
What a great experience it is to do this - to see first-hand the wonderful generosity that defines the citizens of Norfolk County.
On a cold, blustery morning at the Port Dover location, we see volunteers Lynda Simpson with friends of Rotary, Scott & Heather Furtney, as well as Jim & Marjorie Dawson all a bit chilled but all so happy to help such a terrific community cause.
In a less frigid setting, our busy coordinator, Joanne Kiefer is enjoying the warmth of the Simcoe location.
Often our Club seems to be primarily focused on service in support of local needs: community service right here in Norfolk County - we are certainly proud of that work!
Nonetheless, a small number of our club members are also doing excellent work on the international scene.
Our International Committee, as lead by Jim Dawson, continues to be very busy doing some great things for some desperately needy people.
Watch THIS VIDEO for a glimpse into one example of their world of Rotary-supported/funded projects around the world: one that we have been associated with for many years.
Since the start of the new Rotary year in July, the Olean Rotary Club has kept busy engaging the community. In August, the club launched their annual mum sale. This sale raises money for the club's general operating expenses and community service projects throughout the year. This year, over 280 plants were sold, which exceeded the number from the previous year. Club members, assisted by the Pleasant Valley Greenhouse & Nursery, delivered flowers all over Olean in the second week of September. Plans for our annual Veterans Dinner also started to take shape. At our meetings, we enjoyed presentations from the League of Women Voters, Reality Check, Victims Services, and the Mayor of Olean.
In the fall, members participated in the Olean General Hospital Gala and in the Walk to End Alzheimer's. Both events were promoted by the club. On October 29th, a dinner fundraiser was held at Chipotle. The following week, Rotarians met at the Olean First Baptist Church to pack bags of hygiene products to be handed out through their "We are His Hands" ministry. This project was supported by a matching grant. One week later, the annual Veterans Day Dinner was an enormous success. For the first time since 2019, the dinner was available for eat-in as well as take-out. Diners commented how nice it was to sit down and eat together again. The Rotary Club had help from the Interact Club of Allegany-Limestone High School and the swim and dive teams of St. Bonaventure University.
45 Tables! 360 Players! Great new location! Mountains of popcorn and hotdogs! Tons of prizes!
No matter how you add it up, our November 23rd Trivia Night was a banner event.
Congratulations to the 2024 Winning Team: Cameron, Peter, Lizanne, James, Mike, Alex, John and Matt.
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.
Featuring "100 Questions" developed by the Club’s own quizmasters over 7 rounds, this annual team event (tables of 8) features free hot dogs, popcorn and a great time for all involved (participants and volunteers alike). Watch for our 25th Annual Winter Trivia Night coming in February! Details to be announced.
More than 300 people turned out to have breakfast with Santa at the Waterdown Legion Saturday morning.
The community event was organized by the Waterdown Legion, the Flamborough AM Rotary Club and the Rotary Club of Waterdown.
Proceeds will support Food for Kids Hamilton, which assists 33 kids in local schools.
Those who attended enjoyed a helping of pancakes, bacon, fruit and juice, along with crafts and activities - and, of course, a visit with Santa himself.
The Rotary Club of Welland will be holding its 7th annual Curling Social this year on Tuesday evening, February 11th at 5 pm. Games start at 6:00 p.m.
The format of the evening will be the same as previous years. Curling instruction will be available for beginners prior to the start of our curling. This will be followed by 6 ends of curling organized on a blue team/yellow team format followed by a light dinner of pizza and wings. Cost per person for curling and food will be $45. Cost for non-curling guests is $25.
There will be a cash bar and a 50/50 draw.
You can enter a 4-person team, a couple or individually. People not entered as a team will be assigned to teams by the organizers.
Online registration for this event is now open. Please use this link to register
Please let Don Thorpe don.thorpe@sympatico.ca know if you will be paying by cheque or cash
Payment can be made either by e-transfer (preferred), cheque (made payable to Rotary Club of Welland) or cash (on night of event). E-transfer: treasurer@wellandrotaryclub.com
Our club delivers gifts of hope to infants, children, teenagers, and young adults in need during the holiday season.
This collaboration has become a cherished tradition, bringing joy and warmth to countless families.
Each year, club members come together, fueled by a shared passion for making a difference in our community.
We carefully select presents, ensuring that each gift is chosen with thoughtfulness and care, reflecting the unique spirit of giving that defines the holiday season.
Through these efforts, The Williamsville Rotary Club not only spreads cheer but also fosters a sense of belonging and support for those who may feel isolated or forgotten.
The impact of this partnership is profound, creating lasting memories for both the recipients and the Rotary members, and reinforcing the idea that even small acts of kindness can have a monumental impact on someone’s life.
The Rotary Club of Williamsville looks forward to continuing this heartwarming tradition, inspiring hope and compassion in the community.
This story appeared in the February 2018 issue of Rotary magazine. It’s a crisp, sunny day in late October, and school groups are touring the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library in
Rotary member and astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti dreamed of space travel since she was a kid. Now, she’s sharing the cosmic awe with her fellow earthlings
Throngs of tourists are overwhelming the world’s most popular destinations. Here’s how to rethink the way you travel — and an alternative bucket list to get you started.