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!
In 2025, chocolate hearts will be available for sale in Canada.
Stay tuned for your club’s opportunity to place orders in time for Valentine’s Day.
A member of the Gift of Life team will be in touch with details in early January.
U.S. clubs will be contacted to make club donations instead of buying hearts.
The Gift of Life program accumulates funds to pay for surgeries to correct congenital cardiac anomalies in children from third world countries. The operations are typically performed at facilities in these countries as coordinated by Gift of Life International.
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.
Club Presidents are asked to prepare a 2-minute presentation on the "One Big Thing" for the coming year. (Think elevator pitch.)
Rotary Service Above Self: A friendly competition for gathering new "Socks and Skivvies". These will be donated to the Response To Love Center, along with any extra cash. Prize: besides bragging rights is TBD.
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
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 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.
On December 10, 2024, the Lewiston/NOTL Club held its' annual X-MAS PARTY and distributed the profits from its successful Theatrical Production of The Odd Couple to help the less fortunate. Recipients included HART (Home Assistance Referral Team), Care and Share Food Pantry, Heart, Love and Soul Food Pantry and Messiah Lutheran Church
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.
Attached are two photos (LNOTL-Big Check & LNOTL-Paul Harris) I am going to identify the people in each BUT it matters not at all to us if you include the captions or not in the article.
LNOTL-Big Check: 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
LNOTL-Paul Harris: 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.
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.
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
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.
The Rotary Club of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, a multiethnic club founded in 2002, rebuilt a bridge that collapsed during the war in the former Yugoslav republic
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.
Gift of Life Begins Annual Fundraising 
WORKING TOGETHER WORKS BETTER: #D7090WTWB
The Rotary Club of Ancaster AM recently held their Paul Harris awards night at the Dundas Valley Golf and Curling Club.
Spreading Joy and Warmth in The Community
The Rotary Club of Buffalo President, Tom Van Nortwick, along with Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon, presided over the annual Tree Lighting at Fountain Plaza.
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!
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”.
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.
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.
The Rotary Club of Fonthill Celebrates the Holidays
2024 Bell Ringing Season
Skip Mazenauer was a dedicated Rotarian and a valued member of our community. 
The Greater Jamestown AM Rotary Club was happy to gather for a recent Christmas party on Tuesday, December 10th, 2025. 
Celebrating the Season with Rotary Club of Hamilton
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.
The Rotary Club of Jamestown celebrated its first Rotary Family Service Night.
The Lancaster-Depew Rotary Club hosted our annual Hanukkah & Christmas Celebration. 
We mourn the passing of Bill Kotansky, a fantastic person and model Lancasterian, but also one of Lancaster-Depew Rotary Club's leaders.
On December 10, 2024, the Lewiston/NOTL Club held its' annual X-MAS PARTY and distributed the profits from its successful Theatrical Production of The Odd Couple to help the less fortunate. Recipients included HART (Home Assistance Referral Team), Care and Share Food Pantry, Heart, Love and Soul Food Pantry and Messiah Lutheran Church 
Members from the Hamilton Police, Hamilton Fire, Ancaster AM & Lincoln Rotarians joined forces to provide a breakfast and gift from Santa for the 
Community Theatre at West Niagara Secondary School Donation
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.
It's the festive season; a time when Norfolk Sunrisers and their friends enjoy assisting the local 
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!
45 Tables! 360 Players! Great new location! Mountains of popcorn and hotdogs! Tons of prizes!
More than 300 people turned out to have breakfast with Santa at the Waterdown Legion Saturday morning.
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 Rotary club of West Seneca hosted the West Seneca Holiday Community Party on Friday December 6th, 2024.
The Westfield-Mayville Rotary Club President Janese Berkhouse presented 50 new books to Cindy Sears, Minerva Library Director in Sherman NY.
.png)
