Stories

Rich Merlino Runs for Julianne

MARCH 2, 2023

Every morning, Rich Merlino heads out for his five-kilometre run.

The Niagara Falls resident started as part of his mission to run for 100 consecutive days and donate $100 to charity in the name of his 22-year-old friend, Julianne Miszk, who was battling cancer.

No matter the weather, Merlino has runs.

“I’ve had people come and run with me and we chat about Julianne while we’re running — just to keep her memory alive.”

Miszk died in last July after a battle with osteosarcoma.

The multi-time para-running champion is a Niagara Falls Sports Wall of Fame inductee for a career during which she captured seven Ontario Federation of School Athletic Association championships, among other medals.

Go to the following YouTube site for Rich's presentation to our Rotary Club. https://youtu.be/h_oZ6qYQIFo

Community Committee - Fort Erie Mathew House

Matthew House Fort Erie is a Canadian registered non-profit charity organization, which provides refugee claimants, broken families and homeless people with emergency shelter and transitional housing. It is a safe and welcoming community organization in Fort Erie, Ontario with a twenty-year history helping newcomers integrate to Canadian living.

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls is proud to help the Rotary Club of Fort Erie in support this worthy effort with $1000 from our Community Service Committee.

Niagara Nutrition partners

Our Club welcomed Meghann Riley, the Community Development Worker for Niagara Nutrition Partners.

All members should recognize that the Niagara Nutrition Partners (NNP) is the group that we support on an annual bases because they ensure that schools in the Niagara Region are provided with the resources to feed students through their Breakfast Programs.

You are encouraged to view the following Video of Meghann's presentation. She explained how NNP is organized, Their funding sources and the programs they facilitate. NNP has evolved through the pandemic to provide Breakfast, snacks and Lunch where the need is the greatest. The need has increased greatly in Niagara Falls alone. There has been a massive increase in demand due to the increase in the population from Refugees, migration and homelessness.

Watch the video.... It is very informative.

https://youtu.be/QJILUYFPsVc (39min)

We are #1 in 7090

Annually there are three awards a Rotary club can receive from the District and Rotary International.

The Rotary Citation from Rotary International for meeting at least 13 of 25 set Goals.
The Lighthouse award from District 7090 for meeting additional Goals set by the district.
The Governor’s Trophy for literally being the best Club in District 7090

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise / Sunset is the only club in District 7090 to receive all three of these awards for the year 2021-22.

Pictured above is (left to Right) Jennifer Schoenhals Club President for 2021-22, Anne Bermingham District Governor 2021-22, Carrie Zeffiro Club President 2022-23 and Lisa Bishop District Governor 2022-23.

Congratulations to the Rotary club of Niagara Falls Sunrise / Sunset.

What we have forgotten about Polio

October is Polio Month in the RI Calendar. The Niagara Falls Sunrise club was honoured and please to have Dr. Thomas (Tommy) Gerbasi speak to the club about "The Facts of Polio".

We are in an age when we all take for granted that polio is out of our lives and will never strike the children of Canada again. WRONG!! Tommy outlined the history of polio. (Because we all had forgotten what thousands of people went through in the middle of the last century.) He then outlined the future of Polio. (because we all take for granted it will be eradicated.)

Tommy's presentation was informative and worthy of all to view at the following YouTube site.

https://youtu.be/77P4KdHeD60 (27 min)

Beyond the Orange Shirt Story

Please join the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise and special guest speaker Phyllis Webstad along with members of the Survivors Secretariat. see also https://www.orangeshirtday.org/about-us.html

Tuesday, September 27th , Club Italia, 2525 Montrose Road, Niagara Falls
Doors open 11:30 Lunch at 12:00 Program begins at 1:00
Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by credit card or Google Pay/Apple Pay by using the QR Code below.
Tickets may also be purchased by e-transfer to carrielzeffiro@gmail.com

If you are unable to attend Phyllis’s presentation will be broadcast live by your local Cogeco station across the province

Niagara Falls Torch Relay

The second run in a series of 12, the Rotary club showed up early and met a group of community athletes, volunteers, sponsors, city staff and the crew from the Niagara 2022 games. Pictured here our Satellite group is hanging out at the start line with Shelly the official mascot of the games.

June 9 2022 Scholarship Winners

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise annually donates four scholarships to students from Saint Michael Catholic High School and Stamford Collegiate. Each of these recipients have demonstrated the elements of our Rotary Motto of Service Above Self. They have been selected by their school. Instead of the required 40 hours of volunteering to their community each student have recorded hundreds of hours to their school and / or local community. They do this in addition to maintaining academic success. Their path to success will continue for each student: (left to right)

From Stamford Collegiate:

- Amelia Upper: Environment Sustainability at the University of Waterloo

- Jacob O'Connor: Civil Engineering University of Waterloo

From Saint Michaels

- Hanna Cukierski: Sports Management and Communications at Niagara University

- Josh Post: Electrical Engineering at Niagara College then a Bachelor of Engineering at Thompson Rivers University

We all wished them continued success in the future, but we did remind them that Rotaract Clubs can be found in all the communities they are going to, letting them continue the role of "Service Above Self".

Paul Harris 2022

May 25 2022

Paul Harris 2022 Recipients

The Paul Harris Fellow is the highest honour a Rotary Club can bestow upon an individual. It recognizes the outstanding contributions of these recipients to their community and echoes the principle motto of Rotary: "Service Above Self".

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise and the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls donates $1,000 US for each recipient to the Rotary International Foundation. These funds are used directly in Rotary's extensive humanitarian and educational programs here in Niagara Falls and Internationally.

The 2022 Paul Harris Recipients are:

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise

Dr. Mustasfa Hirji
Andrew Wunderink

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls

Rev. Trish Archibald
John Albanese
The Team of Derek Thompson, Dean Fox, Chris Gleis and Dave MacKinnon

See the full program attached: https://clubrunner.blob.core.windows.net/00000000299/en-ca/files/homepage/paul-harris-2022/Program-2022.pdf

Crime Stoppers Niagara May 12 2022

Crime Stoppers Niagara is not just a community service organization that provides a system to anonymously report crimes after they happen. They are in the Crime Prevention business too.

Gary Snider and Ernie Sibbet, of Crime Stoppers Niagara, joined our meeting this week to talk about their “Be Aware …. Take Care” campaign. They are making people aware of the Frauds, Scams and Threats from con-artists that prey mainly on the elderly.

For a Con Artist to be successful the Con Artist will prey on individuals, utilizing the emotion of fear. There are 3 types of fears that Con Artists will tap into:

Fear of missing out on something.
Fear of concern/emergency.
Fear of Authority and illegal activity.

Watch the following Video to recognize the way these criminal operate

https://youtu.be/NflxrOSjBz0

May 3, 2022 Suzanne Court RRPC Foundation

Suzanne Court is the President and Founder of the RRPC Foundation. She attended our meeting this morning to tell us about her foundation that is helping the youth in Niagara that are in need of a Step up.

Their Mission Statement says it best:

" .... dedicated to helping youth to navigate and succeed; providing opportunities for youth that may not exist for them currently ..."

Suzanne's ambition is to grow the success of the "Step Youth Resource Center" that she has organized in St. Catharines. This is a place where homeless / troubled / confused or even just lost young people can "drop-in" and find people that will help them, listen to them and guide them to succeed in life.

Suzanne wants to expand this philosophy beyond the single facility in St. Catharines to the other centers in the Niagara Region.

Her presentation can be viewed at https://youtu.be/sCWUnvVWzs0 (29 min)

The Soup Kitchen April 21 2022

The wonderful Bonnie Brady visited our meeting this morning. As the Fundraising Chair for the Niagara Falls Community Outreach Program ( The Soup Kitchen), she talked about the changes the pandemic has brought to the Soup Kitchen. Before the pandemic they served just over 100 meals a day. Now they are serving 250 a day. They have had to change their operation to a 'Pick-up' service. They have had to remodel their operation to accommodate more storage for dry good and refrigerated / Freezer products. The pandemic, with the great support of local companies and individual donations, has required the Soup Kitchen to change with a benefit to their community.

Watch the following video to understand how all this has been accomplished. Little By Little... a little becomes a lot.

Following the meeting Bonnie was presented a cheque for $4,237. This was the portion of the Rotary Mega TV Auction that the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise raised In coordination with the Soup Kitchen

Great Lakes WaterShed CleanUP April 2022

It was a chilly Saturday morning, but a group of 12, seven Rotarians and 5 eager volunteers showed up to make a difference in our community. David Arevalo-Reyes, Slapshot 2021 co-recipient took attendance and handed out bags and gloves to the team, while Dave Berry snapped some wonderful action shots.

Satellite Charter Night

On March 14, 2022, the Rotary Satellite Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise was officially admitted to Rotary International. To celebrate this event, April 6, 2022 we had an official Charter Night gathering

March 31 2022 Chloe Grande

Chloë Grande was one of approximately one million Canadians who have been diagnosed with an eating disorder.

At the age of 15, Grande developed anorexia nervosa, an emotional disorder characterized by an obsessive desire to lose weight by refusing to eat. With the support of McMaster Children’s Hospital and family-based therapy, she recovered, But when the pandemic struck, Grande relapsed with her eating disorder as a coping mechanism to deal with her anxiety and stress. After receiving help from a new therapist, she was inspired to create an eating disorder recovery blog to share her story and encourage others experiencing similar struggles.

Go to https://youtu.be/PTvSTcKyc8I to view her complete presentation

Elizabeth Graham; Heartland Forest

March 24, 2022

Elizabeth Graham, is the Executive Director of Heartland Forest. During our meeting on March 24,2002, she talks about the features and programs available at this treasure of the Niagara Region. It is a peaceful, accessible, and inclusive place to enjoy nature. It provides programs with accessibility for all. Included are Day Camps, Para Sports, and wood working shops, that help all kids to have fun and learn to socialize. Follow Elizabeth Graham as she demonstrates the heart in Heartland Forest. go to https://youtu.be/8ZFKRRD_bDQ to view presentation.

March 17 2022

Marjorie and Jim Dawson: HIP

HIP: Honouring Indigenous Peoples

Jim and Marjorie saw a need for youth programs in the Pikangikum First Nation of Northern Ontario and as Rotarians have been working to provide music and outdoor education for them. All this has gown into “The battle of the Bands" and great Art programs for the youth of the community. Every year they go to teach canoeing and outdoor skills.

Go to https://youtu.be/I-wJPmu--Qg for this interesting and informative presentation.

March 10,2022

Posted by David Berry

Wellspring Niagara

Wellspring Niagara offers a wide variety of programs and services to meet the social, emotional, restorative, and informational needs of people living with cancer.

Ann Mantini-Celima, Executive Director of Wellspring Niagara, spoke to our club about how the organization has provided service despite the pandemic, Going ‘online’ has allowed them to still give the support to persons with cancer. By working with other Wellspring organizations, they served over 14,000 people per year from coast to coast. However; Ann is very excited that they will now be able to open their doors and give that personal touch that is needed.

View her presentation and learn how Wellspring Niagara serves those in need in Niagara.

Click on following link: https://youtu.be/1WbVXRTuLv4 (31:36)

CNOY - Coldest Night of the Year

Although it's not the first time a Sunrise Rotarian has participated in the Coldest Night of the Year, this was the first year we entered a whole team.

Meeting Feb 10 2022 Jackie Van Lankveld

Jackie Van Lankveld is a member of the R.C. of St Catharines She brought us an update on their integrated school project for orphaned children in Uganda. In 2015, Jackie partnered with the R.C. of Nkumba Uganda and an NGO Environmental Women in Action also in Uganda. Using the Rotary Foundation one time grant called “Simple School Build” that helped make Jackie’s vision possible.

With the support of 14 District 7090 clubs including NF Sunrise; the Ugandan NGO had been able to purchase a 4 acre property on Lake Victoria and the dream of the school that integrated orphans with community children was on its way to realization.

One large school structure was just completed, and since the school is flourishing there is need for more buildings.

Go to the YouTube site to hear Jackie discuss the project and it’s future: https://youtu.be/IObH9oQtLfU

Feb 3 2022; Tracy Geoffroy; Hotel Dieu Shaver

Thank you Tracy Geoffroy for reminding us of the critical role the Hotel Dieu Shave Health and Rehabilitation Centre has in Niagara. She related examples of success at the Centre. People recovering from injuries, stroke and cancer to return home capable and enjoying life. View the following video and learn about the Funding needs and Future plans at the Hotel Dieu Shaver Center: https://youtu.be/DncP6Cv1qZQ

Third Space Cafe Jan 27 2022

Third Space Cafe is a "Place for Everyone". Andrew Wunderink, a Director of the Cafe, explains the purpose and operation of this Community asset that invites people to connect, engage, discover, create and learn within an atmosphere of belonging and safety. Please watch this 40 min presentation to understand the heart and service this organization has put into serving the homeless and under-privileged members of your community

go to: https://youtu.be/i542P8tS3u0

The Snow Ball - Oh Baby, it's cold outside

The Satellite Steering Committee made good use of their time and winter weather gear, introducing our Newest Rotarian Jenny Yu to the Canadian cold.

Jan 20 2022 Dr. Frank Stechey RAG Family Safety

Dr. Frank Stechey spoke to our club about his work in helping dental professionals recognize signs of physical and sexual abuse in their patients and the value of The Rotary Action Group for Family Safety.

View the presentation at: https://youtu.be/cVr4EFGYtE8

Winterdance Dogsled Tours: Tanya McCready

Jan 06, 2022 Meeting

What a great story of the love of life, determination, and success. Tanya McCready of Winterdance Dogsled Tours in Haliberton, is a wonderful speaker, leaving her audience captivated describing how she and her husband build this business by following their dreams and love of dogs and life.

go to https://youtu.be/Vy4SES4OH-A (37 min) for a story that will have you smile, laugh and maybe even cry.

Project share in Niagara Falls Santa Parade

Project SHARE helps kick off the holiday season in the City of Niagara Falls Santa Claus Parade!

Project SHARE was thrilled to be able to be part of the Santa Claus Parade in Niagara Falls on Saturday, November 13. Rotary club member, and Project SHARE fundraising events coordinator Lauren Lewitzky led the team down the streets of Niagara Falls as they collected monetary and food donations for those living below the poverty line in Niagara Falls. They collected over $1,000 in monetary donations and 230 lbs of food.

Deck the Balls - A Christmas Party

Just before the Omicron put a dent in our social activities, we were able to gather for some Christmas Cheer. Fueled by the Ugly Christmas sweater theme and the presence of Santa's Elves a good time was had by all. Besides a little something extra with a hint of humour, Santa gave attending Rotarians some Rapid Antigen Tests, which became good as gold.

New addition to Maros Family

An Announcement

Suzanna and Zoltan Maros are very pleased to announce the arrival of a new member of their family. Arriving Dec 8, 2021 Rozie Maros is a beautiful bundle of delight.

Yes Rozie as a Hungarian Puli; maintains the family national heritage. This dog has been declared as one of the national treasures of Hungary. Rozie promises to be friendly and active. Pulis are often called the 'Mop" Dog because of their long corded hair.

Congratulations to Suzanna and Zoltan.

Dec 9 2021 Meeting: Angela Cancellara Alzheimer Society

We are so please to have Angela Cancellara of the Niagara Region Alzheimer Society join us this morning. She is the education coordinator for the Alzheimer Society of the Region.

Her presentation enlightened us all on the Programs and services provided by the Society. What we all were enlightened on is that the Society is not only there to fully support those with dementia, but also their care givers. The programs, resources and means of support for both were vast.

Review her entire presentation at https://youtu.be/-CNPmdHomJ8 (28 min)

Dec 2 2021 Dr. June The Vet Clinic in the Pandemic

A fascinating explanation of how a Vet Clinc had to operate during the Pandemic. Dr. June Mergl talks about her trials and tribulations while trying to remain open during COVID-19. The government recognized that the Vet service was a necessity and allowed them to operate but the rules, regulations and operating procedures made the job 100 time more difficult. This was especially more difficult because June serviced two 'small animal' clinics and has to service three zoo establishments in the region. Go to the following youTube site to gain an understanding of this esperience:

https://youtu.be/QZMTfX3Gq3A

Nov 25 2021 Anne Bermingham

A wonderful visit by Anne Bermingham, the District Governor of District 7090. She lead an insightful discussion center on the Rotary Vision Statement.

“Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change — across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.”

Anne’s friendly ‘fireside’ chat gave many of use a better vision on how we can guide our club and Rotary to succeed in the future.

To view the entire discussion go to : https://youtu.be/6YNYVyE3nyE (34 min)

Nov 18 2021 Jeffery Sinclair Niagara Region

Jeffrey Sinclair is the Advisor for Niagara Region’s Ten-year Housing and Homelessness Action Plan, which provides a collaborative system approach for addressing housing and homelessness in response to identified local needs.

Go to the follow for his presentation: https://youtu.be/ndlgFahNcpA

His presentation explained that the Region's Homelessness Action Plan is to obtain and retain housing for those in need; in addition to increasing the options available for those in Middle and low income households. A principle objective is to eliminate Homelessness in the region through programming that promotes outreach to those in need and focuses on Prevention rather than Crisis Intervention.

Go to the following Region site to understand further the complexity of this social dilemma https://www.niagararegion.ca/housing-homelessness/action-plan/default.aspx

Nov 4 2021 Jessica Gale Friesen

Jessica Gale Friesen

In this compelling presentation, Jessica talks candidly about her personal experience with postpartum depression after the birth of her son, as well as the years following that lead to an encouraging example of one woman’s recovery. With courage and self dedication, Jessica presents an enlightening story of the stigma and condition of mental health.

To see her presentation go to https://youtu.be/cdi_78DtOCY

For her book “This will Not Break Me” go to www.JessicaGaleFriesen.com

OCT 28 Meeting: Niagara Senior Dental Program

Oct 28, 2021

A 'visit' to the Dentist is expensive to say the least. In fact a visit for seniors on a limited fixed income would be impossible!

The Niagara Region is very fortunate to have a partnership of community based organizations that are addressing this problem. Lead by Alesha Ashington, of the Niagara Falls Community Health Centre, the members were enlighten to learn about the services provided in the Region for senior's dental care.

go to https://youtu.be/59DvYQWr8dI for the full story

Oct 7, 2021

Oct 7 2021

Kim Rossi is the Director of Philanthropy and Public Relations for the Pathstone Mental Heath Foundation. Kim explained the changes and challenges that Pathstone Mental Health has experiences during the past 12 months of the Pandemic. Did you know that:

70% of mental health challenges have their onset in Childhood or adolescence
Pathstone offers 17 programs for mental healyth needs
In 2020-21 they served over 9000 children
41% of these are between the age of 6 and 10 years old
There is a waiting list for 287 kids to get services as of Sept 30 2021
The result is almost a 3 month wait

Watch the following Youtube video (31 min) for details: https://youtu.be/U9c9OhMy384

Sept 30, 2021 Orange Shirt Day

We are really please that our own Rotarian Brian Kon was the speaker at this Thursday's meeting. Especially on the Canada's first Day of Truth and Reconciliation. Brian has earned recognition as a leader and educator for the First Nations of Canada. We are all proud to recognize that having him speak to this club on this day was an honour.

The video attached is a MUST view for all! We were to learn history in order to prevent repeating our errors of the past. Reconciliation is the attempt made by individuals and institutions to raise awareness about colonization and its ongoing effects on Indigenous peoples. Brian's presentation is a start to learn the truth about our past so that we can reconcile our errors and take action to change the future.

Thank you Brian; your lesson was well presented. It's up to us all to take action to change.

Go to https://youtu.be/rwy_h0biTAY for the Youtube video

Dave Augustyn FACS

Sept 23, 2021

Truly a pleasure to have Dave Augustyn, the Development Director of FACS Niagara speak to us today.

Dave educated with a very detailed understanding of the services presented by FACS to help families stay together and Children to develop and prosper despite the challenges of life.

The complete presentation is at https://youtu.be/sggKzR3IgyE

Sweet Celebration

A Sweet Celebration

A warm Wednesday night saw a gathering of 57 people to celebrate many things Rotary. Paul Harris, Past Presidents, New members and a special surprise were almost as sweet as the dessert table.

In all we had three planned Paul Harris awards and one surprise Paul Harris. We gave out 3 Past Presidents award. The Group of Seven, as President Jennifer affectionately calls them, were inducted into the Club by current District Governor Anne Birmingham. This group of dynamic individuals has formed the Satellite steering committee. Three local officials were present, the Mayor of Niagara Falls, Jim Diodatti, Member of Provincial Parliament, Wayne Gates, and Member of Parliament, Tony Baldinelli.

NPC Generating Station Tour Aug 2021

Rotarian and Friends enjoy a great tour of the new Niagara Parks Generation Station
For over 100 years this power station harnessed the Niagara Falls to produce power for Ontario. We were all impressed with the majestic structure. Built over 4 years and completed in 1904, it stands today a monument to the engineering and craftsmen of that era.

Trees that Feed the World

Shocking Statistics:

Malnutrition causes 45% of Deaths in Children under the age of 5
There are 7.6 million Children Deaths per year
20,000 children /day in developing countries are malnourished
1 in 6 children or 100,000 million children go hungry
1 in 4 children in the world are stunted
80% live in just 20 countries

Cathy Henry of the St. Catharines South Rotary Club presented these chilling facts at this mornings meeting. But as a Rotarian she also came with a unique idea that her club has been sponsoring to help eradicate these statistics in countries like Jamaica and Pakistan.

The Breadfruit tree is a tropical plant that can produce 450 lbs of fruit in just one growing season. It can be cooked in many ways and even made into flour for bread and puddings. It grows in tropical areas where most world wide child malnourished children are.

Cathy's Organization 'Trees that Feed Foundation' provides trees, and equipment to schools in Jamaica. This is used to support a school breakfast program, that encourage attendance and learning.

View Cathy's presentation at https://youtu.be/lJ9ngdllSBA 34 minutes

July 24 2021 Kevin Gibson & Niagara Real Estate

We were so pleased to have our 'friend of Rotary' Kevin Gibson, return to outline the status of the Real Estate market in Niagara Falls and the Niagara Region. This is a must view presentation that shows the statistics of market change, but even more important, discusses strategies for home sellers and buyers.

Go to https://youtu.be/DbUwS8WUA1o to view the presentation only (37 min).

Members can review the entire meeting at sitepage/zoom-meetings (56 Min)

And the Winner Is....The Environment

The Covid lockdown just made us all the more eager to participate in the Great Lake Watershed CleanUP. With just about a week’s notice a group of eighteen vol

unteers showed up on Wednesday June 9 to pick up garbage along the Chippawa Creek (or crick as the locals say!).

In total, the 7 Rotarians from the Niagara Falls Sunrise club were joined by 2 Rylarians, 5 adult volunteer and 4 teenagers. The group managed to collect 8 bags of materials, a mix of recycles and garbage and one role of matting.

It was a great event, first time for seeing familiar faces. The most eventful moment was the appearance of Rotarian Scott sporting about 50 ticks. Then a small tick removal team brushed and pulled off the pesky intruders.

It was lovely walkway along the river through George Bukator parkway, with the Rowing Club on the East end and the Boat launch on the right. Many groups of locals were enjoying the sunshine and waterway. Many spoke to us thanking us for our hot and sweaty work. In a year of Pandemic, it was a very inspiring day. In fact, the group is thinking of a repeat this fall. Watch for details and join in. It was a great opportunity to make a difference.

June 3 2021: Bob Morrow in Space

June 3, 2021: Bob Morrow in Space

As mentioned after by one of our members. "This was one of the most interesting presentations we've had in Rotary!"

Thank you Bob Morrow from the Dundas Valley Sunrise Club who has had a wonderful career with the Canadian Space Agency. His talk this morning, had us spellbound as he explained details of our efforts to put people into space. Go to https://youtu.be/6FljkDrFDgo to hear the presentation.

Rotary Sponsors Local Youth to Slapshot

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise recently sent two young Niagara Falls youth, childhood friends, to a virtual Leadership program. The SLAPSHOT program (Student Leadership Award Program for Students High on Training) is unique to District 7090. This year a dedicated theme was LEADER (Learn, Evolve, Adapt, Discover, Energize Rotary). Last year the pandemic put the program on hold, but this year, a dedicated group of volunteers made it available virtually.

May 20,2021 The Niagara Parks

Good Businesses and Great Service clubs operate with partners! The Niagara Parks Commission has been a partner of the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise for over 20 years. “Art by the Falls” and now “Ribfest” has been welcomed by the community to enjoy and help the Sunrise club “give back”.

Today we welcomed two of our supporters from the NPC; David Adames CEO; and Sandie Bellows, Chair, who presented a great reminder of the scope and direction the ‘Parks’ is headed.

Period Promise

April 29, 2021

About Period Promise

Period products are a basic necessity. If you are living in poverty or are vulnerable in other ways, access to tampons, pads or cups can be challenging especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Period Promise initiative by United Way mobilizes citizens to be a part of the solution. All donations are given to local agencies, food banks and service providers across the region.

Krista Butters, the Community Impact Associate with the United Way lead an enlightening discussion on the initiative that aims to reduce vulnerability and isolation caused by period poverty.

Bottle Drive

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise and some very helpful community volunteers help collect bottles and cans for our first Bottle Drive Fundraiser. Our next Bottle Drive will be held July 10, 2021 from 10am to 2pm at Gordon Wright Electric on Don Murie street.

The Stove Project April 8 2021

Speakers Dr. Douglas Thompson, from the Rotary Club of Stratford and David Knoppert, from the Rotary Club of London-Lambeth, spoke about various humanitarian efforts in Nicaragua and fundraising.

LGBTQ2 an Introductory lesson

Celeste Turner is a LGBTQ2 Support Coordinator at Niagara Falls Community Health Centre based in Niagara Falls, Ontario.

It was a great pleasure to have Celeste present us an introduction to the questions we all have about the term "LGBTQ2". This is a must watch presentation for all of us to understand, remove the stigma, and learn.

Go to Youtube: https://youtu.be/hJMP0S73EyI

Club Awards 2019-2020

Congratulations to The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise. Not only did all your efforts have Rotary International grant the club the Rotary Club Citation (2019-20), but RI has announced that we are one of two Clubs in the District to receive this award with the Platinum distinction!

Gord Crann

We were very pleased to have Gord Crann speak to our club on the addition of Protect the Environment as a New Area of Focus for Rotary International.

Tony Baldinelli

Good attendance today..... Especially wonderful to see your Club member and friend,Tim Zavitz join us this morning.

Heart Niagara

Why we are so proud of all Heart Niagara does!

go to sitepage/zoom-meetings

Santa's Elves 2020

Which members have been naughty.... Which members have been nice!

Watch the presentation by Santa's Elves to find out

YouTube... https://youtu.be/PINvJAZrtKY

Social Evening in the Kitchen

Not our normal Zoom Meeting. Chef Josh Berry, the executive Chef at 13th St. Winery, presented an entertaining evening showing us how to do something different for the Holiday dinner. Watch the video to see how to do a simple baked Brie with cranberry and roasted walnuts. Then Josh will show you a simple sausage stuffing and how to stuff a Turkey Breast. The result is a delicious difference to your Christmas Dinner.

go to the zoom page on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MASRiQjc25I

All recipes go to Zoom Page under Files on left: sitepage/zoom-meetings

Empty the bus

The Bus is empty!!

Our Rotary Club Members and with family and friends were there to unload the bus for The Soup Kitchen.

Thanks to the generosity of Niagara Falls citizens for donating food for the Kitchen. The bus was full and all of it very much needed. In this pandemic times, they are feeding almost 200 people a day.

Wine Social Nov 26 2020

Wine Social on Zoom Nov 26, 2020

Entertaining Learning about Malivoire Wines with Stephan Gash

NF Rotary Sunrise members enjoyed a very delightful session with the General Manager of Malivoire Wines, Beamsville ON.

Stephan explained why the Niagara Region has become world renowned for it's wine and how to judge a good wine. As he explained all this we were able to understand by experiencing a wonderful example of Malivoire's 2019 Small Lot Gamay.

Watch the video and learn. Oh!.... Don't forget to open and enjoy the wine as you do!

Go to sitepage/zoom-meetings for the YouTube link

Meeting Nov 19 2020 Amanda MacDonald Downtown BIA

Meeting Nov 19 2020

Great Meeting for Friends and Fellowship. Our speaker today was the Executive Director of the Niagara Falls Downtown BIA. Amanda MacDonald is an energetic and ambitious supporter of the Downtown area of Niagara Falls. In fact in order to recognize the depth of the area, she now is promoting what was always referred to as the Queen Street BIA as the "Downtown BIA". Her association is multi-dimensional in efforts to support and improve the area for business, and residents of the area.

Go to the following to see the entire presentation: sitepage/zoom-meetings

Meeting Nov 12 20202 Wayne Gates

Meeting Nov 12 2020

Welcome Wayne Gates to our meeting.

Truly a gentleman that demonstrates our Rotary Motto: Service Above Self

Go to the Zoom Page for full video of Wayne's presentation

Click here

Meeting Nov 5 Dave Meslin: Rebuilding Democracy

How we vote and what are the alternatives!

Go to site page/zoom-meetings

Meeting Sept 17 ... Quinton returns

it has taken a few years, but we were very pleased to have Quinton speak at today's meeting about the life long value being an Exchange student to japan and a RYLA grad has meant to him.

Go to the Zoom Page for the full meeting presentation: sitepage/zoom-meetings

Speaker Sept 10 Habitat for Humanity

https://youtu.be/VrsVSq3_SQs

Loraine is with Niagara's Habitat for Humanity organization. It was a wonderful explanation of some of the features that one fails to recognize about this tremendous asset to the Niagara Region. It's a "Hand Up; not a Hand Out" as see mentioned the structure of an organization that provides housing for people that is geared to family income. Consider their Re-Store the next time your are renovating.

Ron Mergl Memorial

Dr. Ron Mergl Memorial Participate for Polio2020

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise is participating in the Dr Ron Mergl Memorial "Participate for Polio 2020" event

We have nominated two riders to represent the club. Demonstrating the diversity of our club we have the young 27 year old Dale Hall and the 72 year old (but still capable) underdog David Berry. Recognize that Dale is a Nationally recognized Rugby athlete the has ridden 250 km a day on his new expensive bike, while the older David is riding his 18 year old bike and feels lucky to get 50 km in a day.

Yes this is a Challenge! We are asking every member (and their friends) to support at least one of the riders with a $50 USD ($70 CDN) donation to the Rotary Foundation Polio fund. The more donations to the rider of your choice, will give them support and drive to complete the ride.

So donate to either Dale the young athlete, or Dave the elderly underdog at their “Raise.Rotary.org” site.

Dale: https://raise.rotary.org/Dale-Hall/memorial

David: https://raise.rotary.org/David-Berry/memorial

see our DG on the Challenge

https://youtu.be/CMDRp9JkOU4

Aug 27 2020 meeting

Presentation given by DG Frank Adomson

Go to

https://youtu.be/N-kR5oUZkaU

Meeting Aug 13 2020

Meeting Aug 13 2020

Great meeting this morning. Our Speaker was Barb Horning of Giant FM radio. She gave us all an enlighten view of the Radio Industry during a pandemic. Barb stressed that her radio stations are what she called "Local Community Stations". She pointed out that their mission as a company has always been to accommodate local partners as clients. At the beginning of the pandemic they lost some of their major large corporate client and so had to lay off 1/2 of the staff. It was by their efforts to accommodate the local businesses that has saved them from disaster over the last 6 month. We all as a Rotary Club have been on the right side of their community approach. They attend and promote our events. With their efforts we both benefit. Thank you Barb for your visit this morning.

Some Announcements:

Yes Taylor and Dale are getting married this weekend. Rumours are that Jenn is organizing a "Drive By" for 4 o'clock at the gazebo.
The members (with a quorum, voted to adopt 3 new types of Memberships for our club; Corporate, Associate and Spousal. Click following See attached
We discussed the Goals set for the club especially the "Light-house" award presented by the District. All Goals will be brought back to the membership for review.

See the following link for the entire video of the meeting: sitepage/zoom-meetings

Ribs to Go ... A Great Event

A tremendous success, thanks to 28 volunteers contributing 250 hours. The result is badly needed revenue for our Community Service committee. 100% of the profits for all Rotary fundraisers go to the community. Thank you Niagara for helping Rotary help your community.

July 30 2020 meeting

July 30 2020

Wonderful conversation about what we do and what we are going to do as a Rotary Club.

Congratulations to our zoom visitor friend Darren Hands for becoming the President of his Rotary Club in Plympton UK. Visit Darren at

Full meeting video at sitepage/zoom-meetings

July 23 meeting

uly 23 2020

Mati Fuller Left us all with so much to think about. Her presentation of Racism, opened our perspective to the history, issues and even answered our questions on what we can do to address this social wrong. Thank you Mati, your intelligence and passion are a true example of the hope we see in our future.

To view the entire meeting go to sitepage/zoom-meetings

July 16 2020 meeting Essential Oils

We were all pleased that 2 missing members were able to joins this morning. Doug Fraser was finally able to convince his wife to help him getting on zoom; and Carrie Zeffiro now has two job and neither require her to be at work at 7:30 am.

Our speaker was a young entrepreneur, Karlene Markham. She had an excellent presentation on Essential Oils, Their use in history, the types of oils available and how she claims they are remedies for a lack of energy or vitality, Sleep issues, Chronic Pain, and Emotional struggles. After an energetic Q& A session, we promised to provide Karlene's email address if there were more Questions

karlenemarkham1@gmail.com

For a look at the entire meeting go to the Zoom meeting Page

June 4 2020 Meeting

Announcements:

Guests
- Darren and Graham from the United Kingdom
- Fred Batson from Buffalo (Our Honourary Member for the summer)
- Yolanda from NOTL (with Tabitha Foundation)
- Janne Ritskes (Our Speaker)
Dues will be Due July 1st. Notice will be sent shortly.
Bursary Update.... Still in Research stage

Our Speaker: Janne Ritskes (Founder of Tabitha Foundation)

In 1994, the Tabitha Foundation was founded in Canada to support aid efforts begun by Janne Ritskes. Their work focuses on the poorest of the poor in Cambodia, a country decimated by the Pol Pot regime in 1975-79 which promoted enforced starvation, mass executions and slave labour.

The name Tabitha refers to a disciple in the Bible who was “full of good works and acts of charity”.

Tabitha currently works with 38,000 people in 12 provinces of the country. Since 1994, Tabitha has lifted more than 4.6 million Cambodians out of poverty and despair, into lives of dignity, hope and active participation in their communities. Out of a population of 14 million, Tabitha’s impact on Cambodia is huge. [source: https://tabitha.ca/abouttabitha/ ]

Tabitha Foundation has a tremendous record of success with programs such as:

Savings Program
Wells
House Building
Cottage Industry
Building Schools
Women’s Hospital

All programs following the principles of our Rotary Foundation. Aide based on the principle of a “Hand up; rather than a Handout”. All Programs require recipient participation with planned sustainability.

The international Committee lead by Don Cruikshank has been a contribitor to The Tabitha Foundation for several years. Watch the presentation by Janne Ritskes to learn more about this tremendous organization that is a definition of the word "Charity".

go to Zoom Meeting Page for YouTube link

Rotary Meeting May 28 2020

May 28 2020

Getting your Opinions

Can you spot the visitors ???

Darren Hands; Plymouth UK
Viti from Baja, a small town on the Danube river in Hungary. ( a friend of Zoltan and Suzanna
Fred Batson; Our 'summer time member from Buffalo NY

After an introduction by our guests and announcements by Dale we had a very spirited discussion on a Scholarship proposal being considered for our 'Meeting' Funds. Dale said that the funds that we generate so far have paid for meals, and PPE for front line workers along with Tablets for Long Term Care facilities. He suggests that since students are unable to work this summer, 2 or 3 scholarships for 1st year students going into Colleges or Universities. Listen to the suggestions brought out by our members. If you have any additional ideas, email Dale Hall.

Connect with meeting video: sitepage/zoom-meetings

Rotary Zoom May 14

May 14 2020

Link to YouTube Meeting May 14, 2020 in Zoom Meeting Page

Following a spirited opening in which Dave again forgot to Mute everyone, Dale outlined some of the club efforts during this last week on the Pandemic.

Pizzas and Masks were delivered to both the Valley Park Lodge and The Queenston Place. Wyne expressed a heartful thank you from all.
All the Masks that were purchased have been distributed
We have had a good response from other Rotary club. To date 7 of the 9 tablets that are to be donated to Regional Long Term Care facilities. These are to be used by residences to communicate with there families during the Lockdown.

Happy Hour

Jenn is happy that her boat is in the water; Her Horse is healthy and Her son is well trained even though he wakes up at 3 PM
Chuck was delighted to receive the promised Hamberger and Fries (With milk Shake) from Jim.
Bob Smith has a great dinner delivered by his kids and enjoyed while participating during a Zoom 'Dinner'
Jim Sissions has reported that the p[lanned Golf tournament has been cancelled due to COVID 19. he said that this is disappointing but really is the best for the times.

Our Speaker today was our own Scott Wright. He provided us with a detailed explanation of how the pandemic has affected his business and it's operation. After a detailed description of the new processes to managing labour, Suppliers, Clients and Government Regulations, I heard a few members whisper "Thank God I've retired", Listen to this excellent presentation starting just after 19:40 of the YouTube tape go to The Zoom meeting Page:

Rotary Meeting May 7 2020

May 7, 2020

Full Meeting Video: sitepage/zoom-meetings

Good attendance to club meeting today. There were several notices

The club and the Past President group is sponsoring a meal for staff at the Centennial Retirement Center
Our TV auction is set for Dec 3rd weekend and after a Social media campaign pushing the idea of the community support Rotary provides. we will all start to canvas for product Donation
Our participation in the Niagara Region Cluster group, has proven successful. This is where 12 local Niagara Region clubs commit a $1,000 US to a single International Project selected from the group. In two years we have seen each club's $2,000 mushroom to over $200,000 via Rotary and Canadian Government grants. This all is supporting maternal and child health with water wells and community hygiene projects in Guatemala

After a spirited "Happy Fine" session we heard from Alysson Story , a very active Rotarian from Chatham. She is a third generation Rotarian and her enthusiasm for Rotary and her community was obvious.

April 30 2020 meeting

April 30 2020

Again we were pleased to welcome visitors:

Anna Antalfavi - Hungary
Elisa Lake - Caribbean Islands
Jason Cherry - Brantford Ontario
Tara McKendrick - Niagara falls ON

Anna was our Exchange Student for 2018-19. It was a pure pleasure to talk to her before the meeting. She too is doing her studies by Distance Ed, but right now is studying for one final exam and hopes to get into university for Sports Psychology. All the best to Anna.

Dale presented a report on the items that our club and contributed to assist in this crisis period. We have purchased 100 masks and will make available to members in need. The 'feed' the Hero" program has spend $1,484 to date, while the Community Kitchen received $1,350 for supplies to feed those in need. Jim Sissons gave a report on the Rotary North American Golf tournament. All looks good as far as organization is concerned, but the "Go-No go" date will be June 1st

Our presentor for this morning was Tara McKendrick, a director of the Canadian Mental Health Association of Niagara. Tara gave a wide ranging talk on the affects of the Pandemic on the CMHC and people in general. Their operation is now totally on line wirh most staff working on line from home. Their crisis line and community support systems are available but surprisingly they are, like police, EMT and ambulance, finding less demand. Tara feels that when concerns are directed towards survival issues and expect a 'rush' when the Physical Distancing is over. Note she is making a point to call this Physical and not Social Distancing. In truth this is what it is, while the word social leads to isolation and loneliness.

To see and hear the full meeting go to: Zoom Meeting Page

April 23 Meeting

April 23, 2020

It is amazing how we are all getting so use to the Zoom controls. We had 24 attending this weeks meeting, including 3 from "Far Away"

to see the entire meeting login and go to: Zoom Meeting Page

Interesting meeting. Dale and Dave brought us up to date on some activities of the club. Then Dave Sebele proposed a project to supply face masks through a lady in his church that is sewing them. The Board will discuss the idea on Monday

Tamara Bennett then presented a talk on what the United Way of Niagara is facing during this crisis. She spoke on who they are supporting, their greatest problems, how the government is helping. Of course their need is for Cash. They are supporting major shelters and food banks that are faced with large need for cash.

Rotary Tulips are Blooming

The Rotary Tulips are Blooming!

We are all enjoying the contributions we made to the Polio Fund.

April 16 Meeting with His Worship

We are very pleased that His Worship Jim Diodati attended our meeting this morning,

After introducing us all to his "companion", Jim spent his allotted 15 minutes (actually 35 minutes); telling us about the great gestures that he has seen from the community during this 'Global Pandemic". Starting with people sewing masks and donating Sanitizer to people in need, to major philanthropic donations that included a share of $250,000 to a shelter. food bank and community kitchen. He mentioned how the Hotel Industry is suffering yet is still helping out front line health care workers. Jim even looked into his crystal ball and told us how the future will change post pandemic. Thank you Mayor Jim for your time and enlighten view of the Niagara Falls community.

For all to see the meeting go to: Zoom Meeting Page

April 9th Meeting (Zoom)

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise is practicing Safe Distancing during this time of World Crisis. Our Regular meeting is now by Zoom.

Everyone was at home except Dave S., joined us while traveling to Simcoe for emergency repair to some vital equipment.

The entire meeting can be watched on YouTube with this link:Zoom Page for YouTube Recording

It was fascinating to hear that our club is still practicing “Service Above Self” for the Niagara Falls Community. We are supporting two major organizations in Niagara Falls, Project Share and the Niagara Falls Community Outreach Kitchen. President Elect Dale has also organized to provide meals to the ‘front-line’ workers of this crisis. We are all contributing the money we would normally spend on our breakfast meeting to help these saviours.

We were also very pleased to have Suzanna and Soltan tell us about them selves in a "Who's Who". The Maros joined the club this past winter. They are both partners in producing TV shows for the Omni network in their native Hungarian. Go to the YouTube link to hear the rest of their fascinating background.

If you want to join our meeting on April 16th at 7:30 AM click on https://zoom.us/j/187716566

Notice Meeting Cancellation

In light of the recent global pandemic outbreak of COVID-19, Rotary International is advising all clubs to examine and evaluate whether to cancel meetings and/or events within each club.

Our board has decided, as a precaution, it is in the best interest of our members, to cancel the next 2 club meetings at Bettys, scheduled for March 19th & March 26th.

We will continue to evaluate the local situation and determine whether the April 2nd meeting will be cancelled or not.

The board meeting scheduled for March 23rd will become a virtual meeting via Zoom. Dave Berry will send an invite link with easy connection instructions for all to virtually attend.

For up to date information about other cancellations within our district 7090, please click the link below:

https://www.rotary.org/en/rotary-monitors-coronavirus-outbreak

Please stay safe & if you need assistance, do not hesitate to reach out for help.

Carling Wright Meeting Mar 12 2020

Brilliant presentation by Carling Wright, another potential future Rotarian.

Carling was representing the new group in Niagara Falls called GROW, a Community Food Literacy Centre. Their vision is to provide healthy and accessible food for people with low income. Their plan is to use the old Scout building on 4th Street for programs such as the following to provide:

Community Lunch and Dinners
Community Fresh Market and Pantry
Community Gardens
Cooking Classes

This project promises to be a tremendous advantage to Niagara Falls.

PH winners 2020

A Paul Harris Fellowship is granted by both of the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise and the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls, in recognition of the contributions that recipients has given to their community. These are awards that we feel are worthy of people that give, as our motto says, "Service Above Self"!

The 2020 recipients above are

Captain Dayman Perry
Ann Mantini-Celima
Sue Forcier
Jessica Gale-Friesen
Jim Craig
Robert Smith

Meeting Feb 13 2020

Today's meeting was relocated to the New City of Niagara Falls Office building. What a great renovation of the old Police Station. The Building now holds the Business Development Dept, The IT Department and City Facility Offices. After being in the basement of City Halls, all are happy with this bright, spacious and welcoming space.

Michael Warchala, the Small Business Consultant spoke on the services provided by the City including

Business Startup
Business Plans
Marketing Advice
Budgeting
Registration and Licensing

Including One on One consulting, Mentoring and a great Innovation Space.

Meeting 02 06 2020

Feb 6th. Very busy meeting! Introducing new and future Members!

We welcome Zoltan and Suzanna Maros as new members of the Niagara Falls Sunrise club. From what we understand they both are experienced volunteers and will make great contributions to our community.

An ideal topic presented by our speaker. Our own Justina Castrilli gave an excellent presentation on Volunteering. She spoke eloquently and professionally, demonstrating a skill that most of us would envy. She will have no problem doing well at the final presentation she has to make at her school.

We also took the opportunity to recognize the dedication and commitment that Dennis Gilmore has given to this club and his community. His generosity has been recognized by RI with a second Paul Harris pin. (One should recognize that at minimum wage, the amount of time Dennis spends working for this club would have easily gained him three more!)

Outreach for the NF Community Outreach

Posted on Dec 01, 2019

Members, Family and Friends all helped out the Niagara Falls Community Outreach Soup Kitchen by unloading the Bus after their community Food Drive. Even those with a broken leg were put to work. Without a doubt..... Rotary is Family, Fun and Service above Self.

President's Picnic 2019

Scott and Karen Wright generously offered their beautiful home for our annual President's "Picnic".

The ceremony included the award of a Paul Harris to our wonderful Past President BJ Romans. So important did we all feel that this award as deserving; that we invited the District Governor to present it. Thank you BJ for your great service to this Club.

above: BJ, Harry and DG Bob Artis

Our second ceremony was to present a very deserving "Hero Award" to Nancy and Scott. These two have steered our annual Ribfest through rain and shine for the last 15 years. Over $500,000 has been raised because of their "Service Above Self" attitude. Thank you Scott and Nancy for your contribution to our community.

Scott and Nancy...... Super Heros

See Photo Album for more pictures

Horse Racing 101

What a fascinating speaker. Elisa Blowe grew up in a horse racing family and has continue the legacy having moved to Fort Erie to help run the Race Track there. Every member listened intensely as she explained the behind the scenes details of the industry. Thank you Elisa, your excitement and lovefor this industry was obvious. We all learned so much.

President Nancy T with Elisa Blowe

Once upon a Time!!!!

Once upon a Time (1:50 min)

(click on Picture )

In Recognition

Bob Artis, District 7090's Governor, visited our club this week. Prior to his inspiring speech, he presented to Michael Brown and Carrie Zaffiro recognition that their service to the club and District has been true "Service Above Self". Congratulations; and well deserved!

Chuck's Gift

Scott Wright receives a cheque from "birthday boy" Chuck Hodgson for $900 made out to the Rotary Foundation. That's $10 for every year..... Chuck said he was taken to Las Vegas by his family. He said he enjoyed himself but we all know, "What Happens in Las Vegas; Stays in Las Vegas!"

Thank you Chuck. Your contribution to the foundation will make a difference to your community.

Rotary Medallists 2019

Posted on Jun 08, 2019

Congratulations to our 2019 Rotary Medallists.

From Left to right

Riley Manels - Stamford Collegiate
Daniel Kesseler – St. Michael Catholic HS
Julia DeLuca – St. Michael Catholic HS
Chole Morgan Van Hemmen – Stamford Collegiate

We wish them well in their future studies and careers.

Rotary Story Walk Pathway

From "My City" publication by City of Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls Rotary Clubs, Foundation and Sunrise, presented Council with two cheques totaling $75,000 in contribution to section five of the Millennium Recreational Trail, which will now be known as the Rotary StoryWalk® Pathway. Sixteen StoryWalk® boards will be constructed along the trail to help promote the Niagara Falls Public Library's literacy initiatives.

City Proclamation of Pathway Naming

Alois Brought his Mom and Dad to a Meeting

Alois, 2018-19 Exchange Student from France, was proud to introduce his Parents. Next to Mom and Dad is Mary Margaret Murphy of Baby's Breath Canada, and of course our President BJ Romans.

Baby's Breath Canada has for over 40 years, been Canada’s only national foundation focused on SIDS, and more recently also dedicated to supporting families and encouraging research aimed at reducing all sudden and unexpected infant deaths including stillbirths.

New Members for Our Club

Sponsor Dale Hall and President BJ Romans welcome 3 new members to the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise. Sang Nyugen, Taylor Wright and Josh Rabe. The meeting was a great opportunity for members to really meet our new members. Follow the induction Josh gave a tremendous "Who's Who"! The test will be next week when he asks random members to pronounce his last name... (Hint: It's German not Italian)

ParaSport Ontario

Joe Millage and Jeff Tieseen of the ParaSport of Ontario are welcomed by President BJ to our morning meeting. Both gentlemen spoke about a tremendous organization of ParaSport Ontario. Their mission is to provide support to all members of the disability community – regardless of age or stage in life – to find, connect with, and participate in competitive and recreational sport programs and activities of their choice to enhance physical function and quality of life. see https://www.parasportontario.ca for details.

ParaSport Ontario is presenting the ParaSport Festival at the Scotiabank Convention Center this April 11th and 12th. They need volunteers so please contact Nancy T for details.

kevin Gibson

Kevin Gibson (center) of ReMax Reality presented an excellent review of where house sale and prices are in the Niagara Falls Market. All members showed a selfish interest. "What will my place sell for?"

Jim Sissons and Dennis Gilmore kept Keven after the meeting to get more particular information.

Thank you Kevin. Well presented! (Of course he was invited to join Rotary!

)

Rotary Christmas 2018

No one was spared the wit of Santa's helpers this year.

Click on the picture to get an example. (4 minute video)

https://youtu.be/z6uAQmeGwkE

Dave Weeks

Dave Weeks, the speaker we have at a meeting several weeks ago, was granted a small amount of money from our International Budget for two scholarships in the Guatemala town that assists him during his rescue efforts earlier this year. Wearing our Rotary Shirt he presented the scholarship to two children and reports the following:.....................

Hello Don and club,

That is overwhelming news. I expect to see Yasmin Albano Garcia and Ariel Lazaro Martinez tomorrow, we are going back to the community tomorrow for a free medical clinic in the school, this will be a first time collaboration between HeliSOS the Air Ambulance/Search and Rescue company, and Power at Work. Both kids should be there and I may meet their parents and many siblings.

I have met Elsa and hope to get a picture with her. Elsa is third year high school and in bilingual secretary program.

Both Yasmin and Ariel have been high performing students, Yasmin top of her class since kindergarten. She wants to be a teacher and he wants to be a lawyer. Ariel a very good student and best goalkeeper for many miles around.

Thank you again, this has been very exciting.

Dave

Alois' s Presentation

At our Oct 25th meeting, our Exchange student Alois Coupry presented some details about his life back in Bordeaux France. School in France is not the same as it is here, with classes from 8 am to 9 pm. But Alois makes up for this with an active interest is rugby, fishing and time at the beach. He has 1 sister and 2 brothers. His dad is a banker and mom teaches little ones. When asked he said that after high school he might go to college for Business. We were all so pleased to to have Alosi join us. He is a wonderful young man.

Catch the Ace Proceeds to Pathstone

We were all please to present a cheque to the Pathstone Foundation to be used for Rotary House here in Niagara Falls

As a result of this last Catch the Ace lottery done by the Niagara Falls Club and the Niagara Falls Sunrise club, we presented to Kim Rossi, the Director of Philanthropy for Pathstone, a cheque for $3,721.

Above Harry Walker, Kim Rossi, David Berry Ron Lyons, and John Corfield

Niagara Region Sexual Assault Centre

Nancy, Donna Christe and Carrie

At our Sept 6th meeting, we were honoured to have Donna Christe of the Niagara Regional Sexual Assault Centre enlighten us about the Centre's accomplishments. The NRSAC provides counselling though out the region for Women and men that have experienced sexual assault at any time in their lives. There is such a demand for these services that Donna has to sometimes tell desperate inquiries that there will be a 6 month wait. Her many volunteers assist in such programs as a 24 hour Crisis Support phone line and a Hospital Response Program. The Niagara organization was the first Canadian group to initiate CAPP. This is a Child Assault Prevention Program designed for giving school children 'Lifetime strategies" in dealing with assault.

Brian Kon's Metis Heritage Presentation

Our own Brian Kon presented a fascinating talk this morning on his proud Metis Heritage. Did you know that there are only 400,000 Metis in Canada? The aboriginal Nations of Canada consist of the First Nation, Inuit and Metis nations. These three groups are enshrined in the Canadian Constitution (1982). It's too bad we only had 20 minutes. There was so much more that Brian could have explained, to us all. Thank you Brian for helping us understand our "Canadian Heritage Moment".

2018 Rotary Medalists

The 2018 Rotary medalist Emily Hilborn, Braden Sargeson, Silvana Nguyen and Hunter Murdoch. All surrounded by the people that shaped their lives and their future...... their parents!

Tree Planting at Fernwood Park

It was a beautiful Day to Plant 40 trees in Fernwood Park. Our club not only contributed $1,000 to wards the 40 trees but also put in Sweat Equity.

The Ace is Caught

The Ace Is Caught:

Rotarian Jennifer Schoenhals presents the cheque to the Catch the Ace winner Leonard Belanger of Niagara Falls. Leonard selected lucky envelope number 7 when his ticket was drawn. It contained the Ace of Spades, so Leonard now has a $1,634. Based on the number of tickets and the 50 cards left, the odds of this happening was 1 out of 15,800.

Congratulations to Leonard.

The committee has agreed that the entire proceeds or $1,234 will be donated to the Rotary House for youth. Thank you all for helping. Next Catch the Ace will hopefully go beyond 3 weeds!

2017 Mega Auction Results

Under the watchful eye of President Harry Walker, Dennis Gilmore and Jim Sissons (Center) present a cheque for over $23,000 from the 2017 Mega TV Auction to Treasurer Bob Smith. This was the first year that the auction used the internet based auction and Dennis was pleased to report that our 'yield' was up this year, even though the total bid Value was down slightly. Next year, because we are using the internet that is accessible to all households, the effort will be to increase both values.

Santa's Elves at Sunrise Dec 2017

World Polio Day at Falls

WOW!!!!

Tabitha Cambodia - Rotary goes MAD (Making A Difference)

email to Don Cruikshank Chair International Committee

Don,

Please find attached photos of the 7 field wells that your Rotary Club’s donation has made possible. These families will now be able to generate an income year round, having water for irrigation.. An income they never thought possible. On behalf of Tabitha Foundation Canada I would like to thank your club for your very generous donation, one that will continue to go on giving.

Kind regards,

Yolanda Henry

Sept 28 2017 Jasmine Yaromich

The Presence and Power of youth was again demonstrated this morning though our speaker Jasmine Yaromich. In 17 years, this young lady has accomplished so much to demonstrate the leader she will be in the future. Her speech started by explaining the drive she had even as a four year old to help others and do what was right. If that was not enough to convince us of her powers, she completed her speech by giving us the TED Talk she presented at her school. For those not present it is a 'must see' on Youtube... https://youtu.be/4jf-Lgnd__k Jasmine is a victim of sexual abuse. Her speech explained how through therapy, friends, faith and family she was able to recognize that this was not her fault; that she was a victim, that could become a victor.

We were all impressed with this young lady. She has demonstrated her leadership in the community, her church, and her school. She has received a differed admission to the University of Waterloo, for a Bachelor of Social Work, because next year she will be in Australia doing leadership training and then hopefully will travel to Thailand for missionary work.

What a great candidate for a membership in a Rotaract Club when she returns.

Jasmine Yaromich, flanked by her proud mother Tracy (left) and aunt Rotarian Linda Booth

Sept 28 2017 Mike's discovery

Michael Brown reported that he discovered a new fundraiser while traveling through the Guelph area. No members at the meeting believed that he would buy just one and bring it to the club unopened.

Dave's Dream

Proud Rotary Member Dave Sebel, had a dream to get back to flying. As a teen and a member of the Air Cadets, Dave got his gliding and VFR licenses. It was a passion that gave him hundreds of hours in the air and pleasure. Now a few decades later, he has requalified and is back in the air. Thank you Dave for sharing your excitment.

Anna Kecskemet, our New Exchange Student

Welcome Anna!

Welcome to our Family..... Anna Antalfalvi, our exchange student is from Kecskemet, Hungary. She is a self proclaimed extrovert, happy and sometimes loud person. She loves the outdoors. Her mother is a University professor and father is an Environmental expert. She has a half brother and two half sisters. Anna is looking forward to being a new member of our Rotary family.

BENCH DEDICATION FOR KEN SMITH

Two weeks ago, The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise honoured the memory of long-time Rotarian, Rev. Dr. Ken Smith with a plaque at Patrick Cummings Park. Pictured here are Ken's widow Rose, his daughter Fiona and her husband Ted.

HOTEL DIEU SHAVER DONATION

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise was happy to donate $2,000 to The Hotel Dieu Shaver. Our donation was used to purchase this piece of equipment that will help patients, like our own Wayne Gilmore, on their road to recovery.

BENCH DEDICATION FOR KEN SMITH

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise honoured the memory of long-time Rotarian, Rev. Dr. Ken Smith by dedicating a bench plaque to him at Patrick Cummings Park. Pictured here are Ken's widow Rose, his daughter Fiona and her husband Ted.

PAUL HARRIS AWARDS NIGHT

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise and The Niagara Falls Rotary Club hosted a gala evening to present The Paul Harris Award to Rotarians and members of the community that have made an outstanding contribution to their community. It is the highest honour in Rotary.

ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE STUDENT

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise is proud to announce that James Maina has been chosen as our Youth Exchange student. James will be leaving for France later this summer.

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS IN ROTARY

Congratulations TO Chuck Hodgson 50 years of Rotary Service! We are proud to have you at our Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise. It was so nice to see your family celebrating us you this morning. All the best!

DONATING TO THE ONE FOUNDATION

On February 23/17, The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls was proud to present the ONE FOUNDATION with a cheque for $3500 for the purchase of a laser for urology at the GNGH site.

WELCOMING A VERY SPECIAL GUEST

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise was privileged to have welcomed Ayman Krait, a Syrian refugee who now proudly calls Niagara Falls and Canada home to our Breakfast Meeting. Pictured with Ayman is BJ Romans, Vice President & Membership.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the club was joined by Oksana Fisher, CEO of The Niagara Children's Centre. The Niagara Children’s Centre is a children’s rehabilitation centre serving children and youth with physical, developmental and/or communicative disabilities. The NCC's primary services include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech language pathology and social work. At the end of Ms. Fisher's presentation, we were shown an incredibly moving video of the wonderful work that this organization does.

Pictured here are Rotary legend Carrie Zeffiro and Oksana Fisher

HOTEL DIEU SHAVER DONATION

ROTARY CHRISTMAS PARTY

On December 20/16. the two Niagara Falls Rotary Club's came together for fellowship, fine dining, and holiday cheer. The view of the falls was breathtaking especially with the lights shining on them. Elements was an incredible venue as the food was outstanding. We were treated to some Christmas entertainment by a local bell-ringing choir. And most of all, we were graced by the presence of legendary Rotarian, Wayne Gilmore.

CHRISTMAS ELVES VISIT

At our last meeting of 2016, Santa sent his two best elves to spread holiday cheer and distribute presents to all of the good boys and girls of Rotary. For more photos you can visit the Gallery section on the website.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKERS

Last week the Club was joined by Executive Director, Betty Ann Baker and Program Coordinator, Dave Young from Niagara Peninsula Homes. The agency works to empower people within communities to help themselves through a process of training, planning and evaluation. Their training and certificate programs and employment assistance are designed to help in the development of education programs in the business, construction and food industry sectors. Their goal is to link a skilled and motivated workforce with various community projects in need of assistance.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

CHRISTMAS PARTY: Ron Lyons of the other club and they would like a single cheque to cover all our attendees brought to the event, so please bring your cheque ($45 per) made out to our club (Rotary club of NF Sunrise) to Thursday's meeting. The dinner will be held on December 20, 2016 (Elements at Table Rock). Social at 6:00 PM Dinner at 7:00 PM

EXTRA CHANGE When you come to Thursday's meeting, please bring a little extra change for the servers at Betty's that take such good care of us during the year.

PAUL HARRIS AWARDS: An email was sent out earlier this week re: nominations for the Paul Harris Awards. The deadline for nominations is January 31, 2016. The potential recipient must be present to receive the award. The email will be sent out a few more times as a reminder. Contact President-Elect Harry Walker: harry@onestopfireplaceshop.com.

SANTA AND HIS ELVES: Since Santa hasn't read any of his daily briefings he totally forgot about tomorrow's meeting. In his stead he will be sending his sassy elves to spread goodwill and holiday cheer.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the Club was joined by Frank Adamson of KwikFit Niagara who took part in The Peleton Challenge from Toronto to Miami. The Peleton Challenge brings together a group of cyclists who take part in a 7 day 24 hour relay ride from Toronto to Miami, in support of Wellspring Niagara. Since inception the Wellspring Peloton Challenge has raised over $2 million to help Wellspring continue to provide vital cancer support programs, at no cost, to people living with cancer and those who care for them.

TV Auction Action

PhotoAlbums/tv-auction-2016

ROTARY ROUNDUP

CHRISTMAS PARTY: If you are interested in attending this year's Christmas Party, please login in on our homepage and then go to the left-hand side of the screen. You'll find a section called UPCOMING EVENTS. Deadline to register is DECEMBER 10TH!

BOARD STRUCTURE: President David Berry has emailed the proposed new Board Structure for the 2017-18 Board. Please take a look at it and be prepared to share any comments or concerns you may have about it at tomorrow's meeting.

TV AUCTION: Thank you to everyone who volunteered to make the 2016 TV Auction a big success. There is a collection of photos from the event on our homepage in the Gallery section at the top of the screen.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the Club was joined by Dave Martineau, Director of Sales for The Business Link Newspaper and their series of other publications. However, Dave came to tell us all about his recent foray into the world of acting. He told us about the audition process, on knowing that he got a part or when he knew when he didn't. It was very interesting to hear about just what happens behind the scenes in the entertainment business. Dave has an put together an impressive list of credits including movie and television roles.

A Thank You from Autism Ontario

Diane,

I have attached a brief report on our 2016 Summer Camp Program which was supported by The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise. The attached report on our Summer Camp and testimonials from parents demonstrate how important contributors such as your service club are to the success of the program. You will see that the Club was recognized as a contributor and hear from parents about the impact Summer Camp makes on the quality of their children’s lives during the unstructured weeks of the summer. It also shows how much family life is impacted when a family member with autism is engaged and given the necessary supports to succeed and be active in the community. On behalf of the families who participated in Summer Camp, thank you.

Fran Chesney

Chapter Manager

Autism Ontario - Niagara Region Chapter

ROTARY ROUNDUP

Unfortunately our guest speaker, Melisa Schrok who was scheduled to discuss her international Rotary experience in Africa, was unable to make it as she had to tend to an important family matter.

You can now register online for the Club Visionary Session: November 16, 2016 (5:30-8:30pm) at Johnny Rocco's and/or the Christmas Party on December 20, 2016 (Elements at Table Rock) Social at 6:00 PM Dinner at 7:00 PM $45

MENU:

Choice of Soup of the Day or Mixed Niagara Greens Salad

Choice of

Herb Crusted Chicken Supreme
Roast Prime Rib of Beef Au jus 8 oz
Pacific Rock Fish
Wild Mushroom Ravioli
Seasonal Dessert

Sign in on our homepage and then go to the left-hand side of the screen. You'll find a section called UPCOMING EVENTS. Click on CREATE A VISION FOR ROTARY as well as CHRISTMAS PARTY. And while you're there, you can click on TV AUCTION VOLUNTEERS WANTED to sign up for the days and times you are free to volunteer.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

FINAL CALL: The Rotary Foundation Grant Management Seminar. Nov 19, 2016 at 08:15 AM - 02:15 PM. $10.00. Americana Conference Resort and Spa. 8444 Lundy's Lane, Niagara Falls, ON. Pre-Registration required, including ONLINE payment in full. To register, please go to the District 7090 web site, scroll down the left hand side to this event to complete the registration.

VISION MEETING: By now you should have all received an invitation in the mail containing information about our Club Visioning session. We will be holding our meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 16,2016 from 5:30-8:30pm at Johnny Rocco's (Lundy's Lane/Dorchester). Cost: $20 and cash bar. The morning meeting for the week has been cancelled. To register, please visit or website and click on the Upcoming Event (left hand side): 'Create a Vision for Rotary." Select "Members" to register online. You can also email David Berry at dberry@cogeco.ca.

THE FLASH: Congrats to Peter Feren for completing The Niagara Falls International Marathon. Next up the Summer Olympics in Tokyo in 2020!

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the club welcomed Shirley Cordiner, Executive Director for the Niagara Safety Village. The NSN creates a safe and controlled environment in which to provide safety education to the residents of the Niagara Region, with our priority being the school-aged children of our communities. We work in partnership with the Niagara Regional Police Service, Regional Fire Services and Niagara Emergency Medical Services.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

TV AUCTION: all items must be entered into the wizard by Friday Oct 28th. If you do get a late item before Friday you can still enter it into the wizard and include it in the auction. If you are having troubles entering the items into the wizard please contact Scott Glover.

This past weekend David Berry, Nancy Tkachuk, and Scott and Karen Wright attended The District Conference in Batavia, NY.Food Packages: The Club purchased 100 packages and will donate them to Project Share. The conference made around 30,000 packages. Since the start of this initiative through a couple of Rotarians, over 400 Million packages have been made and distributed.

We will be joining The Niagara Falls Rotary Club at Elements on the Falls (Table Rock). It will be held Tuesday, December 20, 2016. More information will be coming soon and a sign-up sheet will be made available.

Minutes from previous Board meetings are posted on the right hand side of our home page. I usually enter them a week after each meeting.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the Club was joined by City Councillor Carolynn Ioannoni who discussed her two week World Vision mission to Tanzania (Africa). World Vision is a child-sponsorship program that teams with a sponsored child’s community to help bring essential needs to strengthen the child’s whole community: education, literacy courses, clean water, health care, sanitation, and infrastructure, such as building bridges and roads. During her visit, Carolynn was witness to many heart wrenching scenes as well as some of the positive strides that the people of Tanzania have made.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

Tomorrow is the deadline for submitting items for the auction is tomorrow, Oct 20th and the Wizard is closed Oct 28th.

David Berry is looking for anyone that can help Wayne Gilmore get to his rehab programs. He needs a ride twice a week for the month of November from his house on Riall St. to Shaver's Rehab centre opposite Brock University

Mondays at 11:45 am for a 12:30 to 1:30 appointment
Wednesdays at 12:30 for a 1:15 to 2:15 appointment

Wayne says that you can use his van because is easier for him to get into. He insists that he will pay the parking. All you need to contribute is a 2 1/2 hours and a book to read for the hour.

The dates are Mondays Nov 7, 14, 21, & 28 and Wednesdays Nov 9, 16, 23, & 30

Please email Wayne at wgilmore@cogeco.ca or phone 905-354-9014. If you have contacted Wayne, please copy David Berry so he knows that there is a response.

The club has been given 6 complimentary tickets to the 10th anniversary performance of the Momentum Choir on Nov 13th (3pm) If you ate interested please contact David Berry: dberry@cogeco.ca.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week Club member David Sebele introduced us to three young international students from Vietnam, Kazakhstan, and Denmark. The trio are all taking part in the Niagara College International student homestay experience It was quite interesting to hear their opinions on life in Canada especially in comparison to their own cultures. And as members of Rotary International and as global citizens, it provides us with a better appreciation for other countries, their people, and customs

Pictured below are the students from Vietnam, Kazakhstan, and Denmark as well as Canada's Ambassador to Kazakhstan Borat Sebele.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

CHRISTMAS PARTY: Last week it was announced that we have been invited to join the Niagara Falls Rotary Club at their party which will be held at Elements (Table Rock) on December 20, 2016. Cost will be in the $45 range. We need to see who's interested soon as we need to let our fellow NF Rotarians know if we will be joining them.

TV AUCTION: Just a reminder that October 28/16 is the cutoff date for your donations for the auction. We have the potential to make this year's Auction the biggest and best one yet. Deadline for donations is Oct. 28th

MOMENTUM CHOIR: The club has been given 6 complimentary tickets to the 10th anniversary performance of the Momentum Choir on Nov 13th (3pm). This is a group that our club has supported in the past and the donated tickets are in recognition for this. They are an excellent entertaining professional choir of very special people. If you are interested contact David Berry: dberry@cogeco.ca

I would like to apologize for comments that I made a couple of years ago on the way to a Rotary event with Billy Bush. It was just innocent "locker room talk".

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week The Club was regaled by the remarkable life story of our own Doug Frazer. Doug's involvement in countless entrepreneurial and charity endeavours has led to some richly deserved honours from his business peers and community leaders.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

TV AUCTION: Just a reminder that October 28/16 is the cutoff date for your donations for the auction. We have the potential to make this year's Auction the biggest and best one yet.

CHRISTMAS PARTY: Last week it was announced that we have been invited to join the Niagara Falls Rotary Club at their party which will be held at Elements (Table Rock) on December 20, 2016. More information about the event will be sent out shortly and membership will have an opportunity to voice their opinions.

The Board is looking to finalize plans for a Strategic Planning Meeting/Dinner in mid-November (location, cost, etc.). Details to be made available soon.

Tomorrow The Club will welcome Doug Frazer as our guest speaker. VIP Meet and Greet Packages are now available.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week The Club welcomed Angela Arsenio, Executive Director for Victim Services Niagara. VSN works to ensure that all victims of crime and tragedy receive the emotional support and practical assistance. they need. This includes: On-site early intervention and crisis intervention, Safety planning, Referrals to community services, Provision of cellular telephones for eligible victims and System navigation for vulnerable victims.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

TV AUCTION: Just a reminder that October 28/16 is the cutoff date for your donations for the auction. We have the potential to make this year's Auction the biggest and best one yet.

Information about our 2016 Christmas Party will be made available very shortly. it will include location, cost, menu, etc.

We received an email from The Rotary Club of Ancaster A.M. looking to see if anyone has any connections for delivering the following to the Dominican Republic: 10 boxes, averaging 40lbs each and measuring 24"-24"-16" consisting of mostly backpacks, and some paper, binders, calculators, pencils too. if anyone has any connections to get these donations to the Dominican Republic contact Jack DiSalvia from The Ancaster A.M. Club.

RIBFEST 2016

Congrats to The Niagara Falls Rotary Club Sunrise Ribest Committee for raising $48,000 ($3,000 will go to the Rotary Foundation) at this year's event. Pictured here from left to right are Committee member Chris Ross, Club President David Berry, along with Ribfest Co-Chairs Nancy Tkachuk and Scott Wright.

RIBFEST 2016

Congrats to The Niagara Falls Rotary Club Sunrise Ribest Committee for raising $48,000 ($3,000 will go to the Rotary Foundation) at this year's event. Pictured here from left to right are Committee member Chris Ross, Club President David Berry, and Ribfest Co-Chairs Nancy Tkachuk and Scott Wright.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

TV AUCTION: Just a reminder that October 28/16 is the cutoff date for your donations for the auction. We have the potential to make this year's Auction the biggest and best one yet.

The story about our visit to Wayne Gilmore at Hotel Dieu Shaver was posted in the September 2016 District Newsletter. I will work on having content to send them for the monthly newsletters.

At tomorrow morning's meeting, Ribfest Co-Chair Scott Wright will be sharing the details from this year's very successful event.

Information re: Visioning Committee/Strategic Planning meeting will be made available shortly. We are looking at November 16 or 17 at the Optimist Club.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week The Club was joined by our own Michael Brown, Area District Governor, who discussed the state of Area 8 and its member clubs. Currently the District is hoping to encourage more cooperation between clubs in order to garner more publicity and attract new members. This would also include having members attending meetings of other clubs to help foster better relationships and communication within the District.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

TV AUCTION: We encourage to keep looking for donations for the annual TV Auction. David Berry has forwarded a letter that can be used to approach local businesses in search of donations.

DISTRICT CONFERENCE: Just a reminder that The 2016 District Conference is fast approaching. The event runs from Oct. 21-23 in Batavia, NY. Select registration dates are available at a reduced rate. http://www.districtconference7090.org/ for more information.

STRATEGIC PLANNING: We are looking to hold a strategic planning session in mid November. We' are hoping to have Anne Birmingham who has a wealth of experience when it comes to strategic planning for organizations. We need a set time and place, and to have a robust turnout of members. David Berry will need 2 people to help him organize the session.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week The Club was joined by District Youth Exchange Chair, Mike Taylor. Mike has extensive experience with the Rotary Youth Exchange program and shared both the challenges and successes of the program. As our club looks to get involved in the Youth Exchange Program once again, we look forward to having Mike's experience and knowledge as a resource.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

TV Auction: keep working on getting donations for the TV Auction. Our deadline to submit items is Oct 28. The Auction will be held on December 1st. President David Berry has sent out a sponsorship letter to assist you in approaching potential donors.

David Berry has reached out to the Chair of the District Visioning Committee re: Strategic Planning. He would like to hold the event in mid Nov and has recruited Anne Birmingham, an ‎Organizational Development Consultant and Rotarian who would be excellent in this endeavor. We need a couple of people to help put this together and David is looking for volunteers to help. By the looks of this all we need is a set time and place, and get all members there. We need 2 people to help out or else this event will not happen. Contact David Berry ASAP if interested.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week The Club was joined by our very own Don Cruikshank who discussed his trip to Ireland. During his visit to the Emerald Isle, Don was able to gain a greater appreciation for the country's rich cultural and historical significance. Don was able to learn more about his family history and he may have even partaken in a little golf while he was there.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

There is only one table left available for the Niagara Falls Rotary Club's Lobster Fest Contact Ron Lyons ASAP! shrinerron@gmail.com

TV Auction: keep working on getting donations for the TV Auction. Our deadline to submit items is Oct 28. The Auction will be held on December 1st.

Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI): Saturday, September 24, 2016. Hillfield Strathallan College. Hamilton ON. REGISTER NOW (registration closes September 16, 2016) The cost for each part is $75.00 per attendee. http://www.rotary7090.org.

VISIT TO SHAVER HOSPITAL

Last week The Club paid a visit to Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre to tour the facility and see our dear friend Wayne Gilmore. A $2000 donation was made to Shaver for taking such great care of Wayne and the other patients currently residing there.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

SHAVER HOSPITAL VISIT

On August 25th, The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise made a visit to Hotel Dieu Shaver Health and Rehabilitation Centre. The Club got a tour of the facilities and most importantly got to visit our good friend Wayne Gilmore whose presence at our meetings has been missed.. A $2000 donation was made to Shaver for taking such great care of Wayne and the other patients currently residing there.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week The Club was joined by Emily Berry who discussed her experience teaching in the Bearskin Lake community. Emily was able to acclimatize to her surroundings following the inevitable culture shock that came with living in a remote part of Canada. It is important that we continue to pay heed to the triumphs and tragedies of our Indigenous peoples so that they are never forgotten about.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

The Rotary Foundation Grant Management Seminar. September 17, 2016 at 08:15 AM - 02:15 PM. $10.00. Buffalo, NY. An email has been sent out to membership. David Berry has signed up and we are looking for one more member to join him.

Dave Berry has set up a sub page on the Club web site (www.niagarfallsrotary.com ) Go to home page, sign in and click on TV Auction on home Page Menu. As mentioned during last weeks meeting we are looking for a "Plus 3" effort this year. Three more donors from all members could mean an additional $9,000 to the club.

District Conference 2016: Batavia Downs Gaming. Oct 21, 2016 12:00 PM – Oct 23, 2016 12:00 PM. www.districtconference7090.org for more details.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

Pictures of Sunday's festivities are on the homepage of our website in the Gallery section. When it comes to Pictionary, don't mess with Diane Kon!

Scott Glover will be coordinating our efforts with the main TV Auction Committee, but we need someone to step up and help coordinate our club efforts. Please volunteer!

PRESIDENT'S PICNIC 2016

This past Sunday, membership gathered for the annual President's Picnic. It was a wonderful afternoon filled with great food, drinks, games, and fellowship. Thank you to John and Joyce Morocco for being such gracious hosts. And kudos to the Committee that put the entire event together (Olya Makerweich, Tawnya Hartford, Dave Sebele, and Dan Mazur).

ROTARY ROUNDUP

President's Picnic: This Sunday, August 14/16. Festivities begin at 2PM. Cost: $30 (pay at the event). Dinner, drinks, games, fellowship, prizes, and possibly a shirtless Justin Trudeau. The event will take place at Joyce & John Morocco's home 4721 Lyon's Pkwy Niagara Falls ON. An email will be sent out very soon where you can sign up.

Please note that there will NOT be a meeting tomorrow at Betty's due to the President's Picnic.

Last week we received our TV Auction sponsorship packages from Scott Glover. If you did not receive one, please contact Scott: scott.glover@meridiancu.ca. We're still looking for someone to step up and help coordinate our club efforts. If interested, please contact President David Berry.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week The Club was joined by Remax Real Estate Agent, Kevin Gibson. Kevin provided us with his intricate knowledge of the local real estate market. We were also privy to the eye-opening numbers associated with the current boom in home sales in Niagara.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

President's Picnic 2016: Information re: menu, time, and theme of the picnic will be made available to The Club very soon. A signup sheet will be distributed at the Breakfast meeting tomorrow. You can also message Olya Makerweich: olyac@hotmail.com

Reminder: There will be no Breakfast meeting next Thursday.

From President David Berry: We will be receiving the TV Auction 'packages' within the week. These will include letters to remind past donors that we need them to contribute again. It's time to go after more! Scott Glover will be coordinating our efforts with the main auction committee, but we need someone to step up and help coordinate our club efforts. Please volunteer.

Just a reminder for Ribfest Committee Members, there will be a meeting Wednesday, August 10^th at 5:30 pm at Scott Wright's office.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week The Club was joined by Marlee Diehl, Rotary District 7090 Governor. Marlee shared her vision for Rotary International and the District for the upcoming year. She also discussed the various successes and challenges that face other clubs throughout the District. More information about the District Conference in October was provided for club members as well. www.districtconference7090.org

ROTARY ROUNDUP

The link for The District Conference is WWW.DISTRICTCONFERENCE7090.ORG. Register now and save $25.

Just a reminder that Ross Durdan and Dan Mazur have new email addresses. Ross' new email is ross@durdanlaw.com. Dan's new email is dmazur@myfastcom.ca. Both email addresses have been updated on ClubRunner.

The Planning Committee for The President's Picnic met on Tuesday night and are close to finalizing the menu and theme for the gathering. The event will take place on Sunday, August 14th at the Morocco's. More information will be made available shortly. The cost is $30/person. A sign-up sheet will be made available at the Breakfast Meeting and on ClubRunner as well.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week The Club was joined by Melisa Schrok, District Conference 2016 Chair. The Conference will be held at Batavia Downs (Batavia, NY) October 21-23. for a fun filled Rotary weekend packed with great guest speakers and educational breakout sessions. The District has added very unique "engagement" opportunities for Rotarians. For the first time ever, The District will be working side by side, packaging 50,000 meals which will be donated back to local food banks in their area.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

President David Berry recently sent an email out to membership re: The TV Auction.We need a few good people to help Scott Glover. Scott will continue his position as the liaison with the main Multi-club TV Auction committee. We need someone to help and support the members of our Club to increase our return from the Auction.

President's Picnic: Sunday, August 14/16 at Joyce Morocco's. Details coming soon.

If you are unsure as to which POD you are a member of, just go to our homepage and click on POD Place.

Let's continue to build upon the momentum of a highly-successful Ribfest and the general good will of The Club by making this our biggest and best year ever. As Melania Trump once said, “Friendship is a natural and willing servant. There is no reason why the great power of friendship should not be harnessed to do its part in the world’s work.” Or maybe it was Paul Harris.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week, The Club was joined by Tina Saleh, a previous Rotary Exchange student (France). Tina spoke highly of the Exchange program and how about the impact it made it on her life. Tina is looking to use the incredible experience she had as an exchange student in her academic and professional careers.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

The President's Picnic will be held on Sunday, August 14/16 at John & Joyce Morocco's home. More information will be made available soon.

An email was sent by President David Berry recently regarding PODs for the coming year. The PDF contains all the information about what POD you are in, the theme for the month, and the POD Coordinators. If you misplaced the email or have problems accessing it, just go to Clubrunner and under the menu on the left side of the members' home page is a section called "POD Place". A list of upcoming speakers for the remainder of July will be added shortly.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKERS

Last week the Club was joined by Carling Wright and Carly Milani who discussed their RYLA experience - The enthusiasm of the two young ladies was palpable as they raved about the variety of fun and challenging activities they took part in as well the instant bond they felt with their fellow participants.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

Save the Date: "The Rotary President Picnic" will be held on Sunday, August 14th at John and Joyce Morocco's home. More information will be coming soon.

The minutes from the previous Board meetings (dating back to November 2014) have been updated on the homepage and can be found in the right-hand corner. Pictures from the 2016 Ribfest have also been added to the Photo Albums section on the same side of the screen.

Dues: Please get your membership dues for the upcoming year in to Bob Smith ASAP. Dues will remain at $195 (letter and reminder email to be sent soon)

CLUB ASSEMBLY

Last week we welcomed the new Board of Directors for 2016/17. Incoming President David Berry discussed his vision for the Club during his presidency. David introduced a number of initiatives that he would like to see brought to fruition this coming year. Thanks again to Peter Feren for his commendable job as President.

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Tomorrow morning we will be holding our Club Assembly as Peter Feren closes out his year as President of the Club. The incoming 2016-2017 Board will also be announced. Congratulations to Peter on a fantastic year as President. Next month we enter.... ..The David Berry Era!

Membership recently received The District Newsletter for the month of June. Please take a look at the list of upcoming Rotary events on the left-hand side. Included are a RLI in Hamilton (Sept. 24/16) and a District Conference in Batavia, NY (Oct. 21 and 23)

Don't forget to Like and Share our Facebook page with your friends: Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise District 7090

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the Club was joined by Tom Rankin, Chief Executive Officer of Rankin Construction Inc. Tom shared the story of his humble beginnings, his years of hard work and dedication. As a professional engineer, Tom spent many years in highway and municipal engineering before becoming the co-founder of the company. Tom is also a big supporter of the community as his company is very involved many causes, including community sports teams, fundraising for area health care, the Rankin Cancer Run, United Way and Hospice Niagara.

RIBFEST 2016

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise held its 12th Annual Ribfest during the weekend of June 17-19. Attendance was estimated to be well over 25,000 for the 3 day event. Beer, cooler and water sales were stellar all weekend, and ribbers reported one of the busiest Ribfests ever.

RIBFEST! RIBFEST! RIBFEST!

This past weekend we held our 12th Annual RibFest and it was a smashing success! It was an amazing weekend highlighted by beautiful weather, a great crowd, fantastic food and beverages, lively music, and a dedicated team of volunteers who worked long hours in the blazing heat. Congratulations to Nancy Tkachuk and Scott Wright for organizing another fantastic event!

On our Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise District 7090 Facebook page you will find an article on the event by The Niagara Falls Review. TV Cogeco also covered the event and interviewed Peter Feren and Lindsay Dressel. The story has been featured on Cogeco throughout the weekend and this week.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the Club was joined by Diana Ferguson, Administrative Director for CrimeStoppers Niagara. Diana discussed the history of the CrimeStoppers organization and provided us with some useful information on the process involved in reporting a crime. All tips are anonymous, are sent to the authorities, and if leads to an arrest, can result in a financial reward for a dutiful citizen.

ROTARY MEDALISTS

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise is proud to announce our Rotary Medalists for 2016. Each of the recipients are being rewarded for their academic excellence and dedicated volunteerism in the community. Representing Saint Michael High School are Amber Zupan and Kyle Lunn. Representing Stamford Collegiate are Rachel Dickinson and Garrick Phimister.

ORLANDO

Dear Rotarians,

As Rotarians we stand for peace. We stand for compassion. We believe in the power of good, and we believe that no need should go unmet. We stand together as the global leaders of humanitarian service. We come from diverse cultures. We speak different languages. But we don’t see our differences as a hindrance to what can be accomplished when we harness our differences to accomplish one goal - to serve others.

There is no dignity in violence. There is no harmony in hate. There is no humanity in bloodshed.

Through service, the Rotarians of the world continue to stand together for peace and understanding, abhorring violence wherever and whenever it takes place.

Courtesy: Evan Burrell, Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise District 7090 Facebook page

ROTARY MEDALISTS

ROTARY ROUNDUP

RIBFEST! RIBFEST! RIBFEST!

Set up for Ribfest 2016 is 1 week away! Dave Berry has sent an up-to-date list of volunteers via email. He will be distributing a sign-up sheet at tomorrow's morning. We're going to need a lot of volunteers so talk to your friends, family, and colleagues about helping out with the event. Sign up online or sign up at a meeting.

PRESENTATION OF SCHOOL AWARDS:

Tomorrow we will be honouring students from Saint Michael’s High School and Stamford Collegiate.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week, the Club was joined by the OPG’s Steve Repergel who discussed some of the facilities that have been part of the community for decades, like the Sir Adam Beck I Generating Station (GS), which has been in operation since 1922. As a proud and engaged community partner, the OPG strives to make a difference and help improve the well-being of the communities that host its operations. The OPG remains committed to providing clean, renewable power on demand and when it is needed most.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the Club was joined by plucky young upstart and social media guru Tawnya Hartford. Tawnya also serves as the Club's Communications and Public Image Chair. Tawnya discussed the importance of social media and demonstrated how it can be used for personal and professional purposes. Using social media (Facebook, Twitter, et al.) to promote your businesses, non-profit organizations, and upcoming events is not the future. It's right now.

RIBFEST! RIBFEST! RIBFEST!

Set up for Ribfest 2016 is 2 weeks away! Dave Berry has sent an up-to-date list of volunteers via email. He will be distributing a sign-up sheet at tomorrow's morning. We're going to need a lot of volunteers so talk to your friends, family, and colleagues about helping out with the the event. Sign up online or sign up at the meeting.

RIBFEST

RIBFEST 2016: We are a month away from Ribfest and need volunteers to help fill the various positions and timeslots we have available. The signup process is quite simple. Log into Clubrunner. Go to the homepage and click on Upcoming Events on the left-hand side. Click Ribfest. You will then see the layout for the jobs and times we need to fill from Thursday-Monday (including set up, tear down, and clean up). Choose the time and job that you want and sign up. If you are having problems logging in or signing up, don't hesitate to contact David Berry at dberry@cogeco.ca.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the Club was joined by Peter Papp, President of The Welland Rotary Club, joined us to discuss his club's involvement in donating a fire truck to the community of Bearskin Lake in Northern Ontario following a tragic fire. The people of Bearskin Lake had outdated equipment, a lack of fire hydrants, and an insufficient amount of fire alarms. Peter has also kindly agreed to provide our Club with assistance with the group of Bearskin Lake students who will be visiting Niagara Falls and Toronto in June.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

Ribfest 2016 is quickly approaching. We'll need all hands on deck for our biggest event of the year. Please go to our website and sign up to volunteer today!

Tomorrow we will be joined by members of The Mississauga Credit Valley AM Rotary Club for our meeting tomorrow. Let's give our fellow Rotarians a warm and friendly Niagara reception.

An email has been sent out by Dave Berry looking for help on Sunday, June 5th. Dave is looking for someone who has a van or can rent one to help pick up students (from Bearskin Lake School) and their luggage at the airport and bring them to Toronto on June 8. For more information please email Dave at dberry@cogeco.ca

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the Club was joined by Dr. Suzanne Johnston, President of the - talking about the future of the Niagara Health System and healthcare in the Niagara Region. Dr. Johnston discussed the importance of building relationships and trust within the NHS and with the people of Niagara as well.

ABROUR DAY 2016

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise participated in the Arbour Day event last week with the City of Niagara Falls at the Millennium Recreational Trail – Niagara Falls Lions Legacy Pathway today. The Club contributed 25 Silver Maple trees in honour of our 25 year anniversary.

WELCOME TO ROTARY RENEE AND DOUG!

On Thursday, April 28/16, Major Renee Clarke and Doug Frazer were officially welcomed as members of The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise.

ARBOUR DAY 2016

The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise participated in an Arbour Day event with the City of Niagara Falls at the Millennium Recreational Trail – Niagara Falls Lions Legacy Pathway on April 29/16. Trees were donated and planted by Club members. From right to left: David Berry, Dennis Gilmore, Diane Kon, and Don Cruikshank.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

Tomorrow morning we officially (and finally) welcome Renee Clarke and Doug Frazer as members of The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise.

David Berry has sent out an email re: volunteering for RibFest. Please sign up and help make the event another big success.

Peter Feren is looking to put together a team for Pelham's Mudfest Challenge. The event takes place May 14. Please RSVP by April 28th.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the Club welcomed Liz Palmieri from The Niagara Community Foundation as she discussed The Centre of Excellence in Non-Profit Governance. Launched earlier this year, the Centre's mission is to provide Niagara with a stronger non-profit sector. The Foundation hopes that by creating the COE that they will better be able to assist agencies in the non-profit sector who don't have the time, expertise, or financial wherewithal to address their governance issues.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

The Arbour Day Ceremony will be held on Friday, April 29th at 10 am with the tree planting being held at 10:20 am. The event is rain or shine and will be held at the Niagara Falls Lions Legacy Parkway. RSVP by April 26th if you are interested in participating.

Our friends at The Welland Rotary Club are hosting The Annual Paul Harris Awards & Farewell Dinner on Tuesday, June 21, 2016. Cocktails are at 5:30 with dinner being served at 6pm. Tickets are $50. Tables of 8-10 are available. To RSVP please contact info@wellandrotaryclub.com.

Volunteer sign-up sheets for RibFest will be made available soon. We need all hands on deck for our marquee event. This year's event runs from June 17-19.

LIFE OF BRIAN

Congratulations to Brian Kon for being awarded The Paul Harris Award. It is a well-deserved honour as Brian contributions to Rotary and his community are boundless. It was a banner day for Brian as The Supreme Court of Canada legally recognized the Métis and non-status Indians as "Indians" protected under the Constitution. The Métis people are now entitled to Constitutional rights to which they had long been denied.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

We hope to see a good turnout for tomorrow's meeting as we present Brian Kon with his Paul Harris Fellowship Award. We will also officially be inducting Renee Clarke and Doug Frazer as members of our Club.

The Christmas by the Falls Committee presented the Club with a cheque for over $2000. It was also announced that last year's CBF would be the last. A new event is being discussed as a potential replacement..

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the Club was joined by Laura Ip, Resource & Development Coordinator for the YWCA. The YWCA Niagara provides shelter, food and assistance to homeless women in poverty while trying to break the cycle of poverty. The YWCA's goal is to help homeless women transition from temporary, emergency programs to permanent housing while providing integral life skills training. It is so easy for society to blame the victim for their misfortunes until one day, it happens to them.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

Annual Golf Tourney for Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Canada: We received an invite for our members to join the NF Rotary Club on June 29, 2016 at Grand Niagara Golf Club. $175/golfer which includes golf, lunch, and dinner. I believe membership received the PDF attachment, if not let me know and I can resend it.

A reminder has just been sent out with all of the pertinent information about the Niagara Joint Rotary Luncheon. Deadline: March 31 to RSVP.

Attached please find the link to my children's EBook "Just a Girl". The moral of the story is that girls can do anything boys can including being a superhero. The story features a young Tawnya Hartford as the main character with a cameo by Dave Berry. https://www.storyjumper.com/book/index/23369108

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the club had the pleasure of being joined by Chris Watling from Niagara Falls Community Outreach. The "Soup Kitchen" is made up of volunteers from all walks of life who are dedicated to providing nourishing meals to anyone in need, no questions asked. Community Outreach also works diligently to help find temporary accommodations for those who have been displaced and need a warm, safe place to call "home." The organization is reliant upon the generosity of local churches, businesses, social clubs, the community, and through a series of fundraisers.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

NIAGARA'S JOINT ROTARY LUNCHEON REMINDER: Thursday, April 14/16, Registration: 11-11:45 a.m. Meeting 12-1:30 p.m., Guest Speaker: Former NHLer Steve Ludzik $25/person. We will also be awarding Brian Kon with the Paul Harris Award. The flyer for the event has been sent out with all the pertinent information. RSVP by March 31st!

If you missed Tawnya's Social Media webinar, here's the link: https://vimeo.com/159293814…

We have a new email address: nfrotarysunrise@gmail.com. Please use this email as the contact information for sponsorship letters and other materials. Club Secretary Dan Mazur will check the account for messages on a regular basis.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the club was joined by Lezlie Harper-Wells who shared some heartbreaking stories about those who made the harrowing journey to The Underground Railway. Lezlie was able to provide us with a real and unfiltered account of the barbaric slave trade and not the sanitized, revisionist version that we have been exposed to in school and through books. There is far more to this narrative than we could ever fathom.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

Just a reminder that if you're interested in attending Niagara's Joint Rotary Luncheon in St. Catharines on April 14, 2016, to please contact Peter Feren. The flyer will be sent out with the rest of the event information. RSVP by March 31/16.

If you have a Facebook account and haven't liked the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise District 7090 page, please do so. The page features a lot of insightful information about the great work that Rotarians do with some excellent videos and postings. Like the page and invite your friends to like it as well. Currently there is a great video about the Shelter Box program where you can see just how vital this program is to those in crisis.

Our very own Tanya Hartford will be presenting a webinar on Social Media tonight at 7:30 pm. . The presentation will focus on Facebook and how your club can effectively use this social media tool to promote events and attract new members. To register please visit: http://rotary7090.org/ , click on the Get Ready To Grow link which will be found under the UPCOMING EVENTS listing on the left side of the main page.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the club was joined by Nikki Anderson who is a Youth Outreach Worker for the YMCA of Niagara's Youth Gambling Awareness Program. The Youth Gambling Awareness Program is a free service is designed to provide educational prevention programs and to raise youth awareness with regards to gambling, healthy and active living, and making informed decisions. Nikki discussed what's involved in her presentations to children include odds, probability, skill vs. chance, internet/online safety, dealing with peer pressure, media literacy, and harm reduction strategies. She deals with groups aged 8-18. Ironically Nikki won the 50/50 draw before informing us about the dangers of gambling. She donated the money to the Rotary Foundation.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the club was joined by Susan Hunwick from The Canadian Red Cross. We learned about how the organization was founded by Swiss businessman, Jean-Henri Dunant who was shocked and saddened by the sight of mortally and fatally wounded soldiers while on a trip to Italy (1859). At the time there were no humanitarian relief organizations to deal with such horrors. Since then the Red Cross has grown to the point where it has affiliates worldwide. The Red Cross deals with crises locally, nationally, and globally.

ROTARY CLUB OF WILLIAMSVILLE ANNUAL CELEBRATION

On April 9th, 2016, The Rotary Club of Williamsville will be holding our Annual Celebration at the Park Country Club in Williamsville, NY at 7 PM.

Featuring Wonderful, Select, Wines from Premier Wines & Spirits and Food Prepared by the Park Country Club Kitchen Staff, our Annual Event is a Popular and Wonderful Evening.

I personally am convinced the Evening, for $45.00 is an incredible value. You get a nice Party Atmosphere at a beautiful and exclusive Country Club's Main Hall, Live Music by Party of Nine, as well as wonderful wine and food, all inclusive.

Tickets for this event can be Purchased via the web:

http://www.WilliamsvilleRotary.eventbee.com

or Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/events/1699512760327208/

We are also Raffling off $5000.00 in Grocery Gift Cards (Store of your choice). You get a 1-in-300 Chance of Winning for $35.00

These Raffle Tickets are also available online and Facebook at above URLs.

If you want to Attend but want to Purchase Tickets Old-School, please call me at 716-818-5054 or email me at gary@QLS.com

Thank you for your consideration and I hope to see you on April 9th at Park Country Club.

Yours in Rotary

Gary J. Skalyo, Rotary Club of Williamsville

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the Club was joined by recent Paul Harris Award winner, Stacey Allegro,‎ Outreach Nurse at Niagara Region Public Health. Stacey informed the club about the great need for public outreach when it comes to food, clothing, and medical care for the forgotten members of our city and society. Her work encompasses everything from dealing with those battling addictions to providing a warm meal and a hug to those in need. Thank you to the everyone who brought in donations of warm clothing and other necessities to support Stacey's work.

NIAGARA'S JOINT ROTARY LUNCHEON

The Rotary Club of St. Catharines Lakeshore has invited their fellow Rotarians (and guests) from 9 other clubs to join them for their luncheon on Thursday, April 14, 2016. Registration: 11-11:45 am w/ cash bar. Meeting: 12-1:30pm. Location: Holiday Inn & Conference Centre, 327 Ontario St., St. Catharines. Ticket Cost: $25 (inclusive). Guest Speaker: Former NHL player and coach Steve Ludzik. RSVP to Peter Feren if you are interested. I will send the PDF as a separate attachment.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, PAUL HARRIS!

This past Saturday The Paul Harris Fellowship Award was bestowed upon some richly deserving members of our community. We also celebrated one of own as Jim Sissons was honoured for his many years of dedicated service to The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise and his tireless fundraising endeavours. Congratulations Jim!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROTARY!

Scam Warning

Recently membership received this warning from the District regarding a scam email that has been circulating.

"A new email purporting to be from Rotary Foundation Trustee Chair Ray Klinginsmith is targeting Rotary members. The email falsely claims that members can become End Polio Now ambassadors if they email club information to a Gmail address within 48 hours. The fraudulent email has the subject line “BECOME AN END POLIO AMBASSADOR” and is sent from a fake email address. This is a scam. Avoid being the victim of scams by deleting any email that appears suspicious."

That Russian "model" I've been sending money to is real though, right?

Last Week's Guest Speaker

Last week the Club welcomed our dear friend, Rose Smith who joined us to discuss ShelterBox. The program provides emergency disaster relief across the globe, delivering aid and shelter to those who need it most. Founded in England, the program has quickly become the largest Rotary Club project in the world.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the Club was joined by Peter Warrack, Director, Risk Intelligence for BMO (Bank of Montreal). Peter has been a proponent of joint / law enforcement investigations and is actively involved with law enforcement in the legal sharing of information and best practices, which has resulted in numerous arrests and the interdiction of crime.

ROTARY ROUNDUP

Scott Glover has provided our final auction results: Net proceeds from the auction were $21,789!!! Fantastic work by everyone involved with the Rotary Auction this past December.

Don't forget that Paul Harris Night will be held on Saturday, February 20, 2016 at The Best Western Cairn Croft Hotel (6400 Lundy's Lane). Tickets are $50/person. Cocktails are 6:30 with the welcoming address and dinner beginning at 7:30. Dress is business casual. For tickets please contact Tawnya Hartford at tawnsph@gmail.com or 905.2f96.8903.

We are requesting that club members bring in warm clothing for donation in support of Stacey Allegro's work for Outreach in Niagara. Stacey is a Paul Harris Award recipient this year as well. We will be collecting donations throughout the month of February with Stacey scheduled to join us as our guest speaker on February 25.

Previous Guest Speaker

Two weeks ago, the club was joined by Phil Ritchie, Founder of Keefer Developments Ltd. KDL lead the private sector revitalization of downtown Thorold sites including; The Keefer Mansion Inn, Welland Mills and Book Depot. In 2010, KDL became active in the revitalization of downtown Niagara Falls. This role increased in 2012 with the acquisition of the Historic Niagara Development Inc portfolio. Phil is very passionate about preserving the heritage of Niagara while instilling a sense of community throughout the region.

25th Anniversary Gala

This past Saturday, The Niagara Falls Rotary Club Sunrise celebrated our 25th anniversary in grand style. Held at The Niagara Falls History Museum, the event was a first-class affair that brought together Rotarians from the past and present to celebrate the wonderful work we do, the friendships that have been made, and our continued dedication to "Service Above Self". Kudos to Brian Kon, Olya Makerewich, and Tawnya Hartford for all of their hard work in organizing this amazing evening.

DONATIONS FOR FEBRUARY NEEDED

We are requesting that club members bring in warm clothing for donation in support of Stacey Allegro's work for Outreach in Niagara. We will be collecting donations throughout the month of February with Stacey scheduled to join us as our guest speaker on February 25.

ROTARY AWARENESS MONTH

January is Rotary Awareness Month as we celebrate the work of Rotary International both locally and globally. Here are a few facts about Rotary:

-Official Rotary International theme for this current Rotary year is "Be a Gift to the World"

-Paul P. Harris formed the first Rotary club on February 23, 1905

-Founded in Chicago. IL
-How many countries are represented in Rotary International? 160 countries on 6 continents

-Approximately how many Rotarians are there worldwide? 1.2 million

-The gearwheel symbol of Rotary International is a trademark recognized around the world. Created 1912 – the keyway was added in 1923, 6 spokes, 24 cogs Symbolizing civilization and movement

-There are approximately 30,000 Rotary Clubs worldwide

-Largest Rotary club in the world is in Seattle, WA with 642 members

-World Headquarters of Rotary International is in Evanston, IL

-Rotary is the World’s first service club organization

-Women were able to officially become Rotarians in 1989

-The first Rotary service project was Public Comfort Stations – Public Toilets

-Current President of Rotary International is K.R. Ravindon “Ravi”. The RI President-Elect is John Germ.

Thank you to Nancy Tkachuk for the wealth of information.

LAST WEEK'S GUEST SPEAKER

Last week the Club was pleased to be joined by Joe Miszk, owner of Betty's Restaurant, home to our weekly Breakfast Meetings. Joe's family has owned the restaurant since 1967 and has seen Betty's go from 21 seats to a seating capacity of 500. Despite his many professional successes, his greatest source of pride comes from his involvement in coaching cross-country and track and field as well as his devotion to para-sports and the Special Olympics..

25th Anniversay Gala

On Saturday, January 23, 2016, The Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise will be celebrating our 25th Anniversary. You are all invited to attend the event which will be held at The Niagara Falls History Museum, 5810 Ferry Street in Niagara Falls. The event will run from 7-10pm and will feature food stations, drinks, live music, and fellowship. Tickets are $65/person. Friends and family are more than welcome to join us. For more information please refer to the email that Brian Kon sent to membership back in December. To RSVP, email Brian, kon@sterlingfrazier.com or call 905.358.0746.

A "Blue" Christmas

At our annual Christmas Breakfasting Meeting, the Club was joined by two of Santa's saucy helpers who doled out gifts to members, both naughty and nice. It was a fun morning as everyone enjoyed our final get together of 2015. Let's make 2016 even better for the Club and the world around us!

Santa's Elves come to Rotaryt (2015)

Santa was very busy, so she appointed two of her elves to come to the Meeting and pass out the gifts.

See Gallery for all pictures!

Santa's Visit

We will collecting gifts for Project SHARE at our Christmas Meeting tomorrow. We usually collect gifts for teens, either girl or boy. Gifts should be unwrapped because of how they are distributed to clients You can receive a tax receipt if you put the bills in an envelope that has your name and address. If you would prefer to simply make a donation, please put it in an envelope with contact information so you can receive a receipt.

Our next breakfast meeting will not take place until January 7, 2016.

From all of us at The Rotary Club Sunrise Newsletter team, I'd like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Last Week's Guest Speaker

Last week the Club welcomed Mike Farrell, Philanthropy Coach and Counsel, who discussed “Donor Fatigue, Over-Giving and Other Useful Maladies”- Michael talked to the Club about the causes and cures for these afflictions as well as philanthropy’s place in our lives and our communities.

Thank You!

A very special thank you to all of the Club members who took part in The Rotary TV Auction and/or Christmas by the Falls. A lot of hard work went into planning and executing both events.Your many hours of volunteer service and selfless dedication to the Club and the community are sincerely appreciated.

Last Week's Guest Speaker

Mary Sergenese, Director of Community Outreach of the Niagara Health System Foundation, provided us with an overview of what's happening with the NHSF. We were also proud to present a cheque for $2000 to the NHS's One Foundation. Pictured here are Mary Sergenese, President, Peter Feren and Community Services Chair, Diane Kon.

Cheque Presentation to Niagara Health System Foundation

Mary Sergenese, Director of Community Outreach of the Niagara Health System Foundation was on hand for our December 3, 2015 Breakfast Meeting to accept a cheque for $2000 from our Club. Presenting the cheque to Ms. Sergenese are President, Peter Feren and Community Services Chair, Diane Kon.

In Case You Missed It......

It was an eventful meeting last week to say the least. Dave Berry conducted an open forum based on notes from the District in which we discussed some of the ways we can improve the club, how to recruit and retain new members, types of memberships, and much more. This was the just the first of many more opportunities for membership to have their voices heard. We don't need to reinvent the Rotary wheel but we have to be open to new and bold ideas.

Charles Wood, President of The Niagara Falls Rotary Club, was on hand for a presentation in which we were honoured by the District for our contributions to the efforts of Rotary to eradicate Polio.

Peter received a letter from Thijs which he shared with the Club. He's doing quite well at school and has also secured a good job. The big news is that he will be returning to the Falls from December 18-29. Peter will be looking to plan a get together for Thijs and his Rotary family.

If you haven't signed up to volunteer for the TV Auction or Christmas by the Falls please consider helping out with these important events.

CBF Volunteers Needed

The Christmas by the Falls event is need of some volunteers. We need help setting up, working the event, and helping with tear down. Dave Berry previously emailed a link for membership to sign up to volunteer. If you were having difficulties signing in, another message will be sent shortly to assist you with the process. A sign-up sheet will also be made available at Thursday's breakfast meeting. The event runs on December 5th and 6th. We will need help with setup on the 4th (Friday).

Last Week's Guest Speakers

Last week the Club was joined by Tina Myers and Brian Ceschin from the OPG Winter Festival of Lights. They told of us about the many changes and exciting new displays and events that are being held during this year's festival. Their slideshow looked spectacular and I'd recommend that everyone in the Club take a drive down the Falls and take in the brilliant lights display. The Festival runs from November 21, 2015 - January 31, 2016.

Je Suis Paris

With the wounds from the Paris attacks still fresh in our memory, I think it is important that we continue to hold true to our core Rotarian values.

"We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory will swell when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature.” - Abraham Lincoln

Last Week's Guest Speaker

Last week the Club welcomed Laura Shtern, Manager of Community Development and Programming and Chief Librarian at the Niagara Falls Public Library. Laura informed us about the many programs and services that the library provides to our community. The library is so much more than just a collection of books. It has evolved over the years and continues to be a vital service for young and old alike.

In Flander's Field

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

- John McCrae

Last Week's Guest Speaker

Last week, the Club welcomed Shari Crickmore KidsSport of the Niagara region's organization. KidSport helps to raise money for grants that allows for kids to actively participate in sports without having to worry about the heavy financial burden that comes with registration fees, equipment, etc. An active child is a healthy and happy child.

Help Spread the Word!

We have two big events running concurrently during the first week of December. The TV Auction runs December 3, 4, and 5 while Christmas by the Falls runs December 5 and 6. Sign up to volunteer or help promote these events to friends, family, and coworkers through word of mouth or by sharing information on social media. Let's tell the community about all of the great work that we do!

Last Week's Guest Speaker

Last week the Club was joined by Sara Fen-Thomas from The Escape Room in downtown Niagara Falls. The escape room is an interactive, live game where you’re a main character. You and your group discover puzzles, challenges, access secret areas and crack codes to unlock the final door and escape.

Busy December

Please keep in mind that we'll need volunteers for the TV Auction Thursday, Friday, & Saturday December 3, 4 & 5 as well as for Christmas By The Falls which runs on Saturday and Sunday, December 5 & 6. We will also be requiring help with set-up and teardown for CBT. Volunteer sign-up sheets will be made available soon.

Last Week's Guest Speaker

Last week, the Club was joined by Gem Munro, Director of the Amarok Society which provides educational programs to some of the poorest regions of Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Nigeria. We learned that despite living in a world largely devoid of hope and dignity, that the brave women who choose to pursue an education are not just surviving but they are thriving. They are a true inspiration to us all.

A Special Honour

It was announced by President Peter Feren that long-time supporter and Rotary friend Fred Batson would become an Honourary member of the Rotary Club of Niagara Falls Sunrise. We are planning on sending a few members from our Club to attend a meeting in Buffalo to bestow the honour upon Fred in person.

RibFest a Success!

Last week, RibFest Co-chairs, Scott Wright and Nancy Tkachuk announced that the 2015 RibFest raised $35,000. Congrats to the RibFest chairs, committee, and all of the members who showed up to make this event a big success.

RibFest 2015 Cheque Presentation

.This year's RibFest cheque presentation. Pictured here are RibFest Co=chairs Scott Wright and Nancy Tkachuk presenting a cheque for $35,000 to President Peter Feren and Carrie Zeffiro, representing Pathstone Mental Health.

25th Anniversary Festivities

Last week Brain Kon announced that our 25th Anniversary celebration will be held at the Niagara Falls History Museum in January of 2016. More details will be made available soon.

Last Week's Guest Speaker

Last week's guest speaker was Christina Riley, Emergency Management Program Specialist for the Niagara Region. Despite our best efforts, we were unable to guess the occupation of Wayne Gilmore's mystery speaker. Christina deals with a wide variety of emergencies in the Region ranging from power outages to floods.

Last Week's Guest Speaker

Last week, the Club was visited by a familiar face as Rich Merlino joined as our guest speaker. Rich is currently involved in trying to bring the Niagara Zip Line Attraction to Niagara Falls. The project will also consist of other adventure-based attractions that would run seasonally in Niagara Falls.

Your Chance to Promote at the District Conference

Promote your Company, Club, Project or Fundraiser with an Advertisement in the District Conference Booklet. You will be seen by Rotarians and their guests from across WNY and Southern Ontario. We have over 350 people registered for the conference and more are registering every day! So if you want your company, your club, a service project or upcoming fund raising event to be seen, here's your chance!

https://www.dropbox.com/s/za2hi3bsdfzrg5r/DC2015%20Conference%20Booklet%20Ad%20Info.pdf?dl=0

G'Day Jeff!

Tomorrow we will be welcoming Jeff Neale, a Rotarian visiting from Australia. He is from the Rotary Club of Campbelltown which is in Adelaide, South Australia. He's here visiting Niagara and was interested in joining us for our Breakfast Meeting.

Last Week's Guest Speakers

Last week, the Club was joined by Jessica Potts and Paul Tappay from The Pearl Gloves Charity Boxing Event. Jessica is one of the organizers of the event while Paul will be stepping into the squared circle on Friday, November 27, 2015 at The White Oaks Resort. The event has grown bigger and bigger with each passing year. All proceeds going to the MS Society Niagara Chapter of Hope. https://pearlgloves.ca/.

Think Locally, Act Globally

In times of horrific human tragedy such as the Syrian refugee crisis, I take great pride in being involved in an organization that strives to not only better the community, but the lives of those who are struggling half-way across the world. The slogan "Service Above Self" knows no borders.

Last Week's Guest Speaker

Last week the Club welcomed Steven Megannety who enlightened us on the process and of the frustration that comes with lobbying. It is much more complex than just seeking out a local politician and trying to solve the problem at hand. We were also joined by special guest star, Chuck Hodgson's granddaughter London.

FINAL CALL: Grant Management Seminar

We still need 1 more member to sign up for the seminar as we are required to have 2 representatives in attendance.

FINAL CALL

DEADLINE TO REGISTER - SEPTEMBER 18, 2015

	The Rotary Foundation -- Grant Management Seminar
	Oct 03, 2015 at 08:15 AM - 02:15 PM
	$10.00
	Ramada Jordan Beacon Harbourside Hotel
	2793 Beacon Blvd. Jordan , ON L0R1S0
	October 3, 2015 8.15 AM - 2.15 PM $10.00/person - Pre-Registration Required with ONLINE payment in full.

Last Week's Guest Speaker

Last week the Club was privileged to welcome District Governor, Kevin Crosby. Kevin promoted the District Conference, which is to be held in Ellicottville, NY this coming October. You can view his humourous and creative video for the conference at: https://vimeo.com/107083306.

The Pieman Cometh!

Last week, Chuck Hodgson auctioned off one of his world famous apple pies to membership. Peter Feren took home the pie with his winning bid of $100.

Last Week's Guest Speakers

Last week the Club received an update from Public Relations Chair, Tawnya Hartford regarding the different social media strategies being used in order to promote Rotary. Tawnya also designed a new 25th Anniversary logo that we will be using on all of our correspondence. Dan Mazur also read his article from Niagarabuzz.ca about his first year as a Rotarian.

My First Year as a Rotarian.......

I recently wrote an article for a local news website, www.niagarabuzz.ca, about my first year as a Rotarian. It has been a very enjoyable and educational experience for me. I'd like to thank everyone for their encouragement and friendship this past year. Here is the link for the article: My First Year of Being a Rotarian…http://www.niagarabuzz.ca/2015/08/26/local-buzz/my-first-year-of-being-a-rotarian/

Last Week's Guest Speaker

Last week, the Club welcomed George Bailey who shared some stories about his new career as a Travel Writer. George has visited many exotic and unique locales during his lifetime. While he was with the Niagara Parks Commission, George got to spend time with Princess Diana and her sons William and Harry.

How we put the Sunshine in Early Morning Meetings!

Our Guest Speaker this week was Robert Jackiewicz, the co-founder of the Brew Box Co.

Yes this is 8:00 A.M.! but as a young entrepreneur, Robert demonstrated that knowing your product and it's market is critical to the success of any good idea. Robert explained the Craft Brew Industry complete from History to present day politics in Ontario.

Go to https://www.thebrewbox.co/ to see details of his company

PODs

There have been some changes made to the PODs. Please refer to the email that BJ Romans, POD Chair,. sent to membership to see what POD you are a member of and what your duties will be. As always, keep your eyes and ears open for someone that you think would make for an interesting guest to address our Club.

Last Week's Guest Speaker

Quintin Wilcox returned from his year in Japan to talk about his unique cultural experience. He learned quite a bit about Japanese customs, the language, and the people during his stay. Despite being in a small, isolated Japanese village, Quintin was able to learn the language and gain a new appreciation for Japanese culture.

The Dirty Dozen!

Yes we all survived the Pelham Mudfest!

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Busy Meeting Aug 20 2014

Our Rotary Exchange Students. president Brian Kon (The only one with facial hair) and Michelle Zappitelli greet our two exchange Students. Quintin Powell (left) is on his way to Japan for a almost a year. Under the guidance of Michelle and BJ Romans, Quentin is prepared for it all. To his left is Thijs Schiebroek from the Netherlands. Thijs will be going to Stamford Collegiate for the year and will be staying with 3 or 4 different Rotarians throughout his stay. best of luck to both students on their exciting adventure.

All Sunrise Rotarians welcome our newest member, Dan Muzur. Beside Dan is his sponsor Nancy Tkachuk. Dan was initiated into the club by District Governor Jack Amico and Club President Brian Kon

The message to the club was given by District Governor Jack Amico. Jack impressed on the membership the critical importance of the Theme presented by RI President Gary Huang ..... "Light Up Rotary".

The message is simple;

Tell your friends ......

Tell your neighbours.....

Tell your Community....

Build Rotary's Image

Past Presidents

20 Reasons to Join Rotary

Posted by David Berry on Sep 29, 2013

Here are 5....

1. Friendship: In an increasingly complex world, Rotary provides one of the most basic human needs: the need for friendship and fellowship. It is one of two reasons why Rotary began in 1905.

2. Business Development: The second original reason for Rotary's beginning is business development. Everyone needs to network. Rotary consists of a cross section of every business community. Its members come from all walks of life. Rotarians help each other and collectively help others.

3. Personal Growth and Development: Membership in Rotary continues one’s growth and education in human relations and personal development.

4. Leadership Development: Rotary is an organization of leaders and successful people. Serving in Rotary positions is like a college education. Leadership: - learning how to motivate, influence, and lead leaders.

5. Citizenship in the Community: Membership in a Rotary club makes one a better community citizen. The average Rotary club consists of the most active citizens of any community.

read the rest ....

Quote of the Week - Who Said It?

Posted by David Berry on Aug 16, 2012

We could never learn to be brave and patient, if there were only joy in the world.

Thought for the Week - Who Said It?

Posted by David Berry on Aug 16, 2012

An optimist is the human personification of spring.

Mark Your Calendars!

Posted by David Berry on Aug 16, 2012

Here you can post little tidbits of information, reminders, or anything else!

Security and Integrity of Your Data

Posted by David Berry

ClubRunner secures all your private information using the latest security technologies. Hosted in a world class data centre with redundant power, Internet backbones and 24/7 security and monitoring, you can rest assured that your club data is safe and protected. Your members' contact information is secured behind unique logins and passwords. Access to information is also restricted, for example, a member can only view the list of members, but can modify his or her own personal information.

Data on the server is protected by TCP/IP filtering, firewall and anti-virus software that protect against any unauthorized intrusion. Backups of data are made daily and stored off-site.

Integrated eBulletin for Easier Communication

Posted by David Berry

ClubRunner makes it easy to publish your weekly Club eBulletin, and send to all members and friends of the club, by incorporating home page stories and events with the push of a button.