Free books for children
Rotary is helping The Children's Reading Room in Guelph to collect books to be given to children 0-12 years for free. New and gently used books will be collected at the Eden Mills Writer's Festival on September 10, 2023.
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Sad News of the Passing of Beloved Rotarian Jan Jofriet We are sad to announce the passing of one of our long standing Rotarians, Jan Jofriet, who passed away on August 3rd, 2023 at the age of 93. Jan, as you may be aware, was battling health issues and has been absent from all club activities as a result. During the time that we had the pleasure Jan's fellowship, it was evident how much Rotary meant to him. He was very involved in the Rotary Forest and took great pride and pleasure in planning the annual Rotary tree planting campaign. Our club would not have been the same without his great dedication to it. To celebrate Jan’s life, a memorial visitation will be held on Friday, August 11, 2023, from 2 – 4 pm at the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 206 Norfolk St., Guelph. All are welcome. |
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Lobsterfest 2023
Join the fun at Rotary Lobsterfest on Saturday, September 30, 2023 at 6pm at the Italian Canadian Club, Guelph. Tickets $125 per person, with a $40 tax receipt sent to the purchaser.
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Rotary Back-To-School clothing and supplies drive
Our sister club, Rotary Club of Gueph Trillium, is running a BACK TO SCHOOL CLOTHING & SUPPLIES DRIVE to help vulnerable families get their children ready for school. Drop off donations at Stone Road Mall Guest Services from August 1 - August 31, 2023. Items will be donated to The Clothing Closet, 400 Victoria Street North, Guelph. |
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Message from Club President Nanita Mohan
Our club president for 2023-2024 says, "My two biggest goals for this club are to promote and increase equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of our club’s agenda and to increase membership engagement." Read Nanita's full message below. |
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Enjoy this free "Garden Crawl"
Join Food4Kids Guelph on Sunday July 9 from 1-4pm and visit 10 unique gardens in this FREE self-guided tour featuring rain gardens, upcycled pieces of Guelph history, local Master Gardeners, pollinator gardens and more! It's the perfect way to spend a sunny Sunday outdoors. |
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Canada Day Fireworks
Join us celebrating Canada Day on July 1st, 2023 with fireworks starting at 10pm at Riverside Park! Donations will be collected at the gates to support Rotary Club of Guelph's many important community projects.
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Remembering Ab Moore
Our dear friend and Rotary colleague, Ab Moore, passed away at hospice late on Sunday, June 25, 2023 in his 93rd year. A stalwart member of our club for 47 years, his expertise and thoughtful, consistent leadership will be greatly missed, especially his dedication to global projects. Watch these two videos from Nurse Sero and from two pastors in Cameroon. |
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The Ducks are coming to Ribfest!
These days, who wouldn’t love free groceries for a year?! We are thrilled to announce that tickets are now available online for the annual Got Duck race, back in quack-tion this year to race down the Speed River at Ribfest on August 27th to support Food4Kids Guelph. |
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The Moore Foundation established by Rotary Kumbo in Cameroon
The Rotary Club of Kumbo in Cameroon is heartbroken to hear of Ab Moore's final days (which Ab announced to them himself by email). They have established The Moore Foundation to ensure that Ab will always be remembered as their role model of making the world a better place. Watch these two videos from Nurse Sero and from two pastors in Cameroon.
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A living celebration of life for Ab MooreRotarians gathered at Hospice Wellington on Saturday morning, June 17, 2023 to honour our dear friend Ab Moore, a member of our club for 47 years since 1976. Ab's bed was wheeled out to the back patio where he was surprised by this sight, and the hearty singing of O Canada.  |
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Two Rotary-inspired charities recognized for Excellence
At the Guelph Awards of Excellence celebration on June 15th, 2023 hosted by the Guelph Chamber of Commerce, two Rotary-inspired programs were recognized - Food4Kids Guelph and The Grove Youth Wellness Hubs. |
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Rotary presents annual awards at local high schools
Once again this year, the Rotary Club of Guelph has presented achievement awards during the Commencements at our local secondary schools. |
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President Andrew's Farewell
Andrew Johnson chaired his last meeting of our Rotary club on Friday, June 16, 2023, having served as our club's 103rd president. Andrew thanked and recognized many Rotarians with Paul Harris Awards. We thank Andrew for his service! |
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Rotary Ribfest 2023
Guelphites are delighted to learn that Rotary Ribfest 2023 is "on" and takes place at Riverside Park from August 25-27. For information about volunteering during Ribfest, click here. The annual Rotary Duck Race will also coincide with Ribfest, on Sunday, August 27. |
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"Art for Aid" donations - many thanks!
Thanks to our club members for the generous donations of supplies and cash to support the "Art for Aid" project led by the Burlington North Club. This project provides art supplies to northern Indigenous communities. Your donations have been delivered and were very appreciated. Chi Miigwech. |
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ROTARY IN ACTION made The Grove Hubs possible
Friday, June 9th, 2023 was an exceptional day for Rotary and The Grove Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario - Wellington Guelph. The Rotary Club of Guelph's Charitable Foundation, the RGC Fund, donated $288,000 towards the building fund of the newest Hub under construction on Woolwich Street, due to open in Fall 2023. |
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Celebrate Sunrise!
Rotarian Ann Caine, our colleague from the Rotary Guelph South Club, and founder of the amazing Sunrise Therapeutic Riding and Learning Centre 41 years ago, invites everyone to the annual "Celebrate Sunrise" fundraising and awareness event at their Puslinch farm on June 25th. Tickets are available now. |
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Career Education Council honours Rotary
Rotary was awarded "Sponsor of the Year" award at CEC's annual breakfast at the ICC on May 26, 2023. The theme of “Honouring Our Roots and Shaping Our Future” highlighted Rotary’s re-engagement with an organization that Rotary helped initiate in 1990. |
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An insider view of RYLA
The 2023 Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) in our District had an extra-special participant in our youngest club member, Aiden Harris. Based on his great experience, Aidan is determined to champion RYLA in future and perhaps even volunteer as a RYLA facilitator as a way of giving back. |
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More memories of Jim Anderson |
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Guelph Dads raise funds and awareness
The Guelph Dads is a group where Dads in Guelph and the surrounding areas can connect and be part of a strong community support group. They are selling some fun merchandise in time for Father's Day on June 18, 2023. Take a look HERE and order soon! Matt Webster is part of this Dads group and gladly paid a $10 self-imposed 'fine' for promoting this fundraiser!  |
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Indigenous Youth Award presented by the Rotary Club of Guelph
May 11, 2023 The Rotary Club of Guelph has great pleasure in announcing Adison Evans as the winner of the 2023 Indigenous Youth Award. The Award Certificate was accompanied by a $500 prize from Rotary to help Adison further her education. |
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Hike for Hospice
Hike for Hospice will take place at Riverside Park in Guelph on Sunday, June 4, 2023 @ 10:00 AM-1:00 PM! Sign up as an individual or team, and help bring awareness and funds to Hospice Wellington while enjoying this amazing annual tradition. A great day of festivities, for the whole family... including the pooch! |
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Smart Serve Certification - Important Information
All volunteers in roles such as selling or serving alcohol need to have a current Smart Serve certificate. Changes to liquor licensing in Ontario will impact volunteers willing to help at some of our local Rotary-organized events coming up in July and August 2023. Full details about Smart Serve licensing can be found below and HERE. |
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Mother's Day Flowers4Mom
Food4Kids Guelph is once again offering beautiful hanging baskets as a gift for moms and special friends. 100 flower baskets are available in time for Mother's Day on Sunday, May 13th. Help this fundraiser by placing an order HERE. |
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Smile Cookies 2023 - Service Above Self opportunity
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Successful Rotary Forest tree planting 2023
Saturday, April 22, 2023 was a drizzly, cool day for Earth Day tree planting at the new Rotary Forest in Guelph's south end but the event always goes ahead, rain or shine. 400 eager tree planters, young and old, showed up to plant 1,400 trees and it was great fun ... mud and all. |
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Remembering Walter Zielonko
Dr. Walter Zielonko, a former member of our Rotary Club of Guelph for 33 years from 1971 to 2004, passed away on April 19, 2023 at the age of 91. He was well known and highly respected in Guelph as a psychiatrist, including over 20 years of service at Homewood and then in private practice until 2019. We send our condolences to his wife and family. |
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Daffodils on The Hanlon - our Rotary connection
On Hwy 6 (The Hanlon) near Speedvale and also between Laird and Kortright, many daffodils are in full bloom on the west embankments. They bring a special smile to those who know the Rotary connection. Learn how our former member, Charlie Whittaker, planted bulbs throughout Guelph. |
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Remembering Jim Anderson
With great sadness we have learned that Jim Anderson passed away on Saturday, April 15, 2023 with his family around him. Jim was an active and treasured member of our club for 31 years until his retirement in 2022. He was recently recognized by the Rotary Club of Guelph as an Honorary Member for Life.
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Rotary Fellowship, local and international
Fellowship provides opportunities for Rotarians to make lasting friendships inside and outside their own clubs. Members have wonderful opportunities available. |
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Remembering Hal Jackson
Hal Jackson, our fellow Rotarian for the past 40 years, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2023. He will be greatly missed. This story describes our esteemed friend and his nickname “Doc Doc” for having two PhD degrees. https://rotaryguelph.ca/stories/doc-doc |
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Science Fair inspires new generation
On April 11, 2023 the annual Waterloo Wellington Science & Engineering Fair was held for the 50th time. 170 students in Grades 7-12 displayed 142 projects, judged by a group of around 140 volunteer judges - all scientists or engineers. It was the 37th year that our Rotary Club sponsored this inspirational event, which even received a warm letter from the Prime Minister this year. |
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Rotary Friendship Exchange - Canada/Sweden
Sign up for an info session on April 23, 2023. Email to receive the zoom link. A group of Rotarians from Sweden will visit our area in August 2023 on a Rotary Friendship Exchange (RFE) and we are looking for Guelph hosts and helpers over 3 days. There is also the opportunity for local Rotarians to visit Sweden in September 2023. |
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Brunch at the Barn
Join the Rotary Club of Guelph South at their first annual "Brunch at the Barn" on Sunday, June 4th at the beautiful Barn Swallow Fields at Thatcher Farms in support of local & international charities. Enjoy a delicious brunch buffet, musical entertainment, live and silent auction, plus fun games. Order your tickets HERE by Sunday, May 14th. |
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District events coming up
Our club is one of over 40 Rotary Clubs and over 1400 members within Rotary District 7080 in Southwestern Ontario. We are lucky to belong to a District that provides so many resources and events for our collective benefit. Take a look at what is coming up ... |
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Rotary Reading Buddy Program
A local elementary school has asked our Rotary Club for volunteers to support reading activities with some of their youngest students once a week, to encourage their interest in learning and specifically in reading. We are starting a pilot program in Spring 2023. |
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Doctrine of Discovery repudiated |
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Movie Night with Speakers The Rotary Club of Guelph is hosting a wonderful evening at the BookShelf Cinema. We are incredibly excited to have both the star of the film, scientist Diana Beresford-Kroeger, and the visionary film director Jeff McKay, joining us after the film for a Q&A. Thursday, April 20th, 2023 Film Starts at 7:00 pm Doors Open at 6:30 pm No Reserved Seats - Pay What You Can Participants Automatically Entered to Win a Prize Basket of Environmentally-Friendly Goodies |
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A message from the Rotaract Club of Guelph
"Thank you all so much for your support! We hope you enjoyed the dinner, games, silent auction, and learning about Food & Friends! Our Gala on March 10, 2023 was a big success, and thanks to each and every one of you we were able to raise $3,000 for Food & Friends."
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Home for Good campaign
Friday, March 31, 2023 is the last day to have the City of Guelph match your donation to the Home for Good Campaign to help solve chronic homelessness in our community. |
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New members: Welcome Ramona Beattie and Patrick Grist
Our club was delighted to induct two new members on Friday, March 24, 2023: Patrick Grist, transferring from the East York Rotary Club (Toronto) and Ramune (Ramona) Beattie joining as a new Rotarian. Welcome to both! |
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Indigenous Youth-2-Youth program by HIP
Here is a shining example of what Indigenous Reconciliation can look like in practice - HIP's new Youth-2-Youth program bringing the next generation of Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth together to make real change happen. Read the press release below. |
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CEC volunteering - help the next generation
Rotarians have a lot to share with each other, with youth and with members of the wider community who can learn and benefit from their expertise. That's why we are calling for volunteers to help support the next generation at upcoming CEC events. |
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Fort McMurray Fires - a story of hope, love and community
The Rotary Club of Guelph Trillium is hosting an exceptional speaker via Zoom on Wednesday, April 5, 2023 at 8:00am to share a wonderful story about the mental health recovery film "Back Home Again" for children who experienced the trauma of the unthinkable Fort McMurray fires in May 2016. (Watch the trailer.)
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District Awards to Luisa and Chris
On March 17, 2023 Assistant District Governor for the Guelph Wellington Cluster, Tracey Curtis, presented District Recognition Awards to Luisa Del Rosario and Chris Vandergrift for their extraordinary service through our club, benefitting large numbers of people. |
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Guelph Tree Planting 2023
Rotary International is globally committed to supporting the environment, and the City of Guelph is determined to increase its tree canopy. Our club's Environment Committee is glad to share some of the wonderful opportunities to get involved locally. |
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New Member: Welcome Robert Turner
The Rotary Club of Guelph is delighted to welcome its newest member, Robert Turner, inducted on Friday, March 10th, 2023. An architect, he is now the sole owner of Fryett Turner Architects, Inc. having taken over the business from our former Rotarian, Jim Fryett. |
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Fundraiser by Rotary in Cambridge
Our friends at the Rotary Club of Cambridge Preston-Hespeler are holding their second annual CRYSTAL DROP GALA on Friday, March 31st to raise funds for the WATER FIRST program that is a favourite of our own club, too (read more). WATER FIRST addresses water challenges in Indigenous communities right here in Canada. Get Gala tickets HERE. |
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The Secret 3K run/walk in Guelph was great
Almost 200 people showed up to support Guelph's first ever "Secret 3K" walk/run on March 8th, 2023, creating a hive of happy activity on the trail behind the covered bridge. Rotary's support was evident!
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Science Fair judges are needed
Are You an Expert in Your Science or Engineering Field? Willing to help the next generation? Every year, over 140 judges from universities, colleges, businesses and industries volunteer their time to judge the projects and provide valuable feedback to the young students at the Waterloo Wellington Science & Engineering Fair (WWSEF). It's on April 11, 2023 and they need more volunteer judges. |
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International Women's Day - March 8, 2023
This year, Rotary International is proud to have its first ever female president, Jennifer Jones from Canada. But did you know that women were not permitted to join Rotary until 1987? Read the interesting history HERE. |
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HIP update webinar - March 21
On March 21, 2023 at 7pm, the Rotary Club of Guelph's Indigenous Awareness Committee will host a webinar with guest speaker John Lomax, for an update on the HIP organization (Honouring Indigenous Peoples). Register HERE to receive the link. |
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Rotarians helped raise funds for HOPE House
Guelph's 2023 "Coldest Night of The Year" walk on February 25th raised over $165,000 for HOPE House. Many Rotarians from our very own club played a part in this event, and we couldn't be prouder of Jaya James, Sean Yo and several club members who walked, volunteered and donated. |
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Rotary Walkers unite for a good cause
Join Rotarian Ben McCarl and the ROTARY WALKERS Team to walk 2km or 5km and raise awareness and funds for HOPE HOUSE in their annual "Coldest Night Of the Year" event on February 25, 2023. Sign up HERE |
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The Secret 3K run/walk is coming to Guelph
"There are places in the world where women cannot run. We run for them." The Secret 3K run/walk event will take place in Guelph for the first time on International Women's Day, March 8th, 2023 at 6.30pm. Secret 3K is supported by many Rotary Clubs across North America. Email Ashley to volunteer. Register to participate in the Guelph event HERE. |
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RYLA is back in person this year
Rotary Youth Leadership Academy is an intensive training program that brings together youth and young adults to further develop character and leadership skills and learn about Rotary. |
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Rotary Friendship Exchange - Canada/Sweden
A group of Rotarians from Sweden will visit our area in August 2023 on a Rotary Friendship Exchange (RFE) and we are looking for Guelph hosts and helpers over 3 days. There is also the opportunity for local Rotarians to visit Sweden in September 2023. |
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Rotaract's Annual Gala is back!
The Rotaract Club of Guelph is excited to announce this years charity gala! It's back IN PERSON at the University of Guelph and will be on March 10th, 2023 at 6pm. Sponsorships are available. Tickets are on sale now - purchase here! |
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Rotary taking action against slavery
Human trafficking is a bigger problem than most Canadians realize, and local Rotarians are pushing for more action against this, steering national efforts towards "the Canadian government to be the first in the world to pledge zero tolerance toward human trafficking and forced labour slavery." |
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ShelterBox UpdateAs official Project Partners in disaster relief, the Rotary Club of Guelph and ShelterBox work together to ensure no family is left without shelter after disasters strike. Watch this video update from Ukraine detailing the amazing work your support has made possible and the important work still ahead.
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Rotary South Pasta Dinner
One of Guelph's favourite Rotary events of the year is back ... the annual Pasta Dinner by our sister club, the Rotary Club of Guelph South. Details below. |
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Remembering Grant Gammie
Grant Gammie died peacefully on December 31, 2022 in his 101st year. He was a member of our Rotary Club for 43 years, from 1976 to 2019, and an active member delivering Service Above Self until he resigned due to health reasons one month shy of his 97th birthday.
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Remembering Donna Scott
On December 30, 2022, Donna Scott, wife of the late Bill Scott (former Rotarian), passed away at the age of 85. |
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Thanks to Trevor Lee for 21 years as club treasurerAt our club's AGM held on January 6, 2023 Dr Lawrie Jones (a club member for 50 years) thanked Trevor Lee for his 21 years of valued service as our club treasurer, and presented a special plaque to Trevor.  |
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Remembering Barry Cullen
We were sad to hear that Barry Cullen had passed away on December 16, 2022. Well known in Guelph and beyond, he was a Rotarian at our club for 37 years, from 1969 to 2006 and is well remembered as "What a great man" by so many who knew him. |
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The Proudfoot twins donate to Rotary and others ... again
Riverside Park sparkled with admiration on December 22, 2022 as fans of Kaylyn and Amber gathered at the park to celebrate another amazing year of fundraising and generosity by the special Proudfoot twins, who are now 21 years old. MPP Mike Schreiner also stopped by to add his praise to the twins and also to compliment Rotary on Sparkles in the Park. |
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Rotary Vocational Service Month - January
Vocational Service is a foundational value of Rotarians, to use our individual professional experience and expertise to help others. Read more on our website HERE and also sign up for a wonderful speaker series online in January, organized by our District 7080. Details are below. |
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Remembering Ron Newton
On December 20th, 2022, Rotarians proudly formed an Honour Guard at the celebration of life for Ron Newton, a Rotarian for 70 years, after his passing in his 97th year on December 16, 2022. We send our love and condolences to his family. |
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Three new members welcomed - Mark, Janette and Julie
On December 9th, 2022 our club was delighted to welcome and induct three new members: Janette Hogan, Julie Croskill and Mark Gilroy. |
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Our Online Christmas Market 2022
December 1st to December 14th Shop for unique gifts at the Rotary Club of Guelph's Online Christmas Market. Take a look and bid online HERE. You could find the perfect for family and friends, or even for your own enjoyment - right at your finger tips. |
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Remembering Shirley Rennie, wife of the late Dr. Clare Rennie
November 29, 2022. Word reached our club today that Shirley Rennie has passed away. Shirley was the wife of the late Dr. Clare Rennie, a beloved member and past president of our club (2005-2006), and initiator of Guelph's Rotary Forest project. Shirley was the love of Clare's life, and also much respected and loved in our club. We send our condolences to the family. |
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Newish members receive their proper Rotary welcome
Members who joined our club in the past 2-3 years had a hard time getting acquainted because it wasn't easy getting to know Rotary people and projects through online meetings. On November 21, 2022 these newish members attended a lovely Wine & Cheese IN PERSON to meet each other and several Rotary mentors. It was a great success!
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Ab Moore receives Rotary Foundation "double diamond" award
On November 18, 2022, longstanding Rotarian Ab Moore (with Alice by his side, as always) was presented with Rotary International Foundation's so-called "double diamond" pin for reaching Level 2 in the Major Donor category for generous contributions to Rotary's work in the world. |
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Back to normal for Sparkles in the Park 2022
Preparations for another sparkling year at Riverside Park are well in hand and this fabulous event is "back to normal" this year. Details are on the Sparkles website.  |
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Adopt-A-Family 2022 ... delivered!
Our Rotary Club was delighted to deliver this year's shopping to Adopt-A-Family 2022, with specially chosen gifts for 2 large families and 2 youth who are living independently. Liz Sandals (shown here) and Marguerite Campbell were our club's hard working Adopt-A-Family "elves" this year and we are grateful to them and the generosity of our club members who made donations.  |
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Helping people stay warm this winter
Some families arriving in Canada as refugees lack the right winter clothing. Our sister club, the Rotary Club of Guelph Trillium, is leading Rotary's Guelph campaign to collect gently used and new winter clothing. ‘Tis the season for giving. Be generous. |
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Club Assembly - WE NEED TO CHANGEWe hope you will attend our Club Assembly meeting at the ICC on Friday, November 18, 2022, to discuss the following. Our club is losing Member Equity every week due to low attendance at the Friday in-person meetings. Funds raised from events like Sparkles in the Park, Lobsterfest, Canada Day, etc. are dedicated to helping the communities we serve and cannot be used for the benefit of members. This means that we must be self-sufficient in paying our individual way for the operations of the club. Currently, with low attendance and prices we pay to be hosted by the ICC, we are losing money (Member Equity) weekly. This is a fact since we started meeting in person again. The Board has tasked the Club Service Team with coming up with solutions to this problem. We have a short period of time to do this as we would like to introduce a solution and perhaps a new model in January 2023 after the holiday break. This is an opportunity to address a number in inequities that are currently in place. For example, should members who attend in person subsidize members who do not attend in person? Should we adjust the number of in-person and online meetings so more members can participate in building our club and serving our community? How do we share costs across all members? We need to hear from everyone. Together there is an answer to this opportunity to become a better club. |
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Free family Christmas movie on November 26Rotarians continually make a difference in the community, and here's one more example. Our club member Georgia Lavarini and her colleagues have arranged this FREE CHRISTMAS MOVIE opportunity for families, along with a food drive to benefit those who need a little help. BRING YOUR CHRISTMAS CHEER AND WEAR YOUR CHRISTMAS GEAR Join a fun-filled movie morning on Saturday, November 26. Doors at Clair Road Galaxy Cinemas open at 9AM for a complimentary photo with Santa and breakfast snacks. Starting at 10AM, the favourite holiday move "ELF" will be shown. To be entered in the draw for Door Prizes, bring a non-perishable item that will be donated to the Guelph Food Bank on your behalf.  |
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New member Claire Davies
On November 11, 2022 our Rotary Club welcomed Claire Davies as a new member. It was an especially warm reception for the granddaughter of our past president, Eric Beauchamp. |
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Three new members welcomed
On October 28th, 2022 our Rotary Club proudly welcomed and inducted three new members: Ranjeet Shinde, Aidan Harris and Margaret Trainor, seen here with Michele Richardson (left) and president elect Nanita Mohan (right).
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RAGAS webinar - Freedom From Slavery
Rotary is paving the way to end human trafficking and forced labour slavery. On November 29, 2022 at 7pm join special guests to learn how to engage your community in the fight against modern day slavery. |
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Helping others at this time of year
Once again, the Rotary Club of Guelph will “Adopt-A-Family” for the Holiday Season, and we’re asking for donations to become the Secret Santa for families and youth in need. Our club volunteers do all the necessary organizing through the Children's Foundation, and you will receive a tax receipt for your donation. |
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WATER FIRST program's latest graduates
Celebrating the Graduates of the Georgian Bay Drinking Water Internship On September 23, 2022, community and family members, WATER FIRST staff and other supporters joined together to celebrate the next generation of Indigenous water treatment plant operators as they graduated from the Drinking Water Internship Program supported by Rotary. |
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Celebrating our environmental impact
In 2021, our club's Centennial Project was deemed by Rotary International to be one of the top 7 environmental projects of the year by Rotarians around the globe. The Environmental Sustainability Rotary Action Group (ESRAG) requested an update from us to inspire fellow Rotarians. Watch it HERE: https://youtu.be/TOdzjbInEnU. |
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Looking for volunteers to help kids with reading
Many children have fallen behind in their skills due to the lengthy school closures in the last couple of years. Brant Avenue Public School in Guelph is looking for volunteers who would be willing to come to the school and read with primary students (ages 5-9) once a week, to inspire and encourage the students. |
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Grant application window extended to December 15th
Our fall application “window” is now open. The current deadline to apply for funding from The Rotary Club of Guelph for worthy causes is December 15th, 2022, for grants that will be issued in the spring of 2023. The online application is on our website at RotaryGuelph.ca |
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End Polio flag raising ceremony
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Blood Donation challenge
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"Towards Truth" events in Guelph
September 30th, 2022 marks Canada's second National Day of Truth and Reconciliation (also recognized as Orange Shirt Day). Our club's Indigenous Awareness Committee invites the community to three "Towards Truth" events, on September 28th, 29th and 30th. |
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Youth Mental Health Forum a big success
On September 13, 2022 some 300 people attended the Youth Mental Health Forum at Linamar's Centre for Excellence, hosted by the Children's Foundation, The Grove Hubs, and CMHA-Waterloo Wellington. It was remarkable to see and hear the wish for community collaboration across all spheres. |
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Lobsterfest 2022 sadly cancelled
It is with deep regret that our Lobsterfest Committee has made the difficult decision to cancel The Rotary Club of Guelph’s 2022 Lobsterfest. |
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Official opening of Rotary Link TrailSeptember 9, 2022.  An uplifting and exciting moment to officially open the beautiful new ROTARY LINK TRAIL! Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate and walk/bike this fantastic new trail with us off Victoria Road in #Guelph
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Film Event
Rotary is hosting the film "Human Trafficking - Canada's Secret Shame" at the Bookshelf on September 22, 2022 at $6:30pm. Tickets are $10 in advance. |
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#GetReal campaign for mental health and wellness Fellow Rotarians, As partners and stakeholders of The Grove, I wanted to invite you to participate in an exiting new campaign. Together with CMHA Waterloo Wellington are launching the #GetReal campaign. A campaign dedicated to demanding action from elected officials and community representatives to ensure mental health and wellness is a priority in the upcoming municipal election. The #GetReal campaign encourages voters to leverage their vote to make sure mental health and wellness is on the ballot by signing letters of support and demanding action on the current mental health crisis in our community. We are sharing the #GetReal website with you in advance of our official launch on August 22nd, 2022. We will share a stakeholder package with content to encourage you to get involved on social media by amplifying the message that mental health matters. https://getrealguelph.ca If you have any questions please let us know. Thank you in advance for your support we are so very grateful to have you as partners and stakeholders. Warm regards, Cyndy Cyndy Moffat Forsyth 519-546-8411 Learn More at www.thegrovehubs.ca
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Grand opening of new trail supported by our clubYou are invited to attend the grand opening of the newest trail off Victoria Road with the GRCA/F and the City. This wonderful new trail was made possible due to 7 years of dedication from Club members who formed an incredible partnership worth celebrating!
Looking forward to seeing you! All the best, Carolyn Weatherson |
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The Rotary Grove at Guelph's Arboretum
The Rotary Grove at Guelph's Arboretum is a collection of over 130 trees comprising 33 varieties, chosen primarily for aesthetic reasons. Planted in five "Avenues of Service" it is well worth taking a walk in the park! |
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Raising awareness to eradicate human trafficking
July 30th is World Day Against Human Trafficking. On Friday, July 29th 2022, in partnership with Hammond Power Solutions and the City of Guelph, Rotary had its first Flag Raising Ceremony at City Hall. |
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Rotary Duck Race 2022 results
For the second year in a row, the Rotary Club of Guelph-Wellington donated their annual Duck Race proceeds to the Rotary-inspired charity, Food4Kids Guelph, to help ensure that over 400 local children don't go hungry in families that are struggling to make ends meet. |
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Rotary Forest update
Members of the Rotary Club of #Guelph joined Chris White, Chair of the Grand River Conservation Authority, to unveil a new trailhead kiosk at the Guelph Lake Rotary Forest, in July 2022. |
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Canada Day Weekend & Fireworks 2022
On July 1, 2 and 3, Rotary is running the beer tent at The Guelph Games event at Exhibition Park. There's a fabulous weekend program with fun for all - details below. And Rotary's traditional Canada Day Fireworks show is back again this year, at Riverside Park, at 10pm. Download the program. |
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Rotary Awards for exceptional youth
The Rotary Club of Guelph is pleased to announce the secondary school winners of annual awards recognizing exceptional youth. These awards include the:
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Rotary Duck Race - last few days for tickets!
The Virtual Duck Race fundraiser concludes on Canada Day, July 1, 2022. Only a couple of days left to get your tickets to help support Food4Kids. Go here. |
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The Grove Hub at UofG official opening
The official opening of The Grove Hub at University of Guelph was celebrated on June 21, 2022 - another milestone in this amazing Rotary-inspired mission to establish seven Youth Wellness centres in Guelph and Wellington County. |
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Guelph Legacy Award honours the late Martha Rogers
The Guelph Today "Legacy Award" honours an individual posthumously who has created lasting change and measurable difference in our community through commitment and perseverance. This award pays tribute to the individual’s leadership, vision and ongoing legacy, and was this week awarded in memory of Martha Rogers.
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Remembering Paul Pennock
Paul Pennock, passed away on June 10, 2022. He was a member of our Rotary Club for 29 years, and well known in our community for his 40 + year relationship with OVC, first as a student, then as a veterinarian and eventually as a veterinary radiologist and professor. Our sincere condolences to Paul's wife, Anne, a member of our club for 30 years, and a past president 2006-2007. |
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RYLA 2022 a big success
Our District 7080 offered this year's RYLA program (Rotary Youth Leadership Award) in an online format and was highly appreciated by participants.
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Canada Day 2022
The Rotary Club of Guelph's support of Canada Day is back (finally) with a fireworks show at Riverside Park on July 1, and a beer tent at Exhibition Park for the Guelph Games on July 1, 2 and 3. Join the fun! Volunteers are needed for both of these fundraisers, details below. |
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Upcoming speaker, Michael Cywink - June 17
June is National Indigenous History Month, an opportunity to celebrate and learn about the rich history and heritage of Indigenous peoples in Canada. On Friday, June 17, our club's guest speaker will be Michael 'Cy' Cywink, an acclaimed Indigenous Cultural Arts Educator, Curator, Artist, Author, Muralist and Storyteller. He will present "Art and Artifacts of the Odawa Anishinabe." All welcome. Event details here. |
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Changeover Celebration - June 23
Rotary Club of Guelph Changeover Celebration June 23, 2022 5:00 to 10:00 pm Dinner and Entertainment at The Arboretum |
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Join Rotary in helping clean-up the Bruce Trail
Three Rotary Districts (including ours) are partnering with the Bruce Trail Conservancy to help with litter clean-up on June 11-12, 2022 and throughout the summer, too. |
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100th Anniversary Lunch for Rotary Kitchener - June 27
Join Rotary Kitchener's 100th Anniversary luncheon on June 27, 2022 in Kitchener. This club was sponsored by the Rotary Club of Guelph back in 1922! |
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Martha Rogers - Celebration of Life
The Upper Grand District School Board is hosting a celebration of Martha's life on Wednesday, May 18 at 6:30pm, both in-person and online. We sorely miss Martha, a member of our Rotary club for over 30 years and head of UGDSB for 26. |
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New Guelph forest to be supported by Rotary
Our club has a wonderful history of tree planting. Next Earth Day, the Rotary Club of Guelph will be breaking ground on a new project that will see 6,000 trees and pollinators planted along Clair Road West in Guelph.
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Rotary Duck Race 2022
The annual Rotary Guelph Duck Race is back in virtual format for 2022, and has once again chosen Food4Kids Guelph as their main beneficiary. Get your tickets now! |
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Rain Barrel & Composter fundraiser |
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Rotary’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
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Rotary Treasure Trail on May 14
Garage Sales are back!! Host or visit the Rotary Treasure Trail on May 14 to help fundraise for our sister club, Rotary Guelph South. Proceeds will help support great causes.
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Paul Truex - Celebration of Life
On Thursday, April 21, 2022 at 1pm, join us online to celebrate the life of Paul Truex Sr. (May 17, 1938 - January 22, 2022). The link will be provided to club members in the weekly bulletin. |
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Polio Immunization Week 2022
During World Immunization Week, 24-30 April, let’s advocate for polio eradication and the importance of vaccines to the health and well-being of our communities. |
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Rotary Forest 2022 update
Tree planting in the Rotary Forest is now complete. Unfortunately, Covid restrictions over the past three years have prevented the annual Earth Day Celebrations and tree planting activities planned each April in the Rotary Forest at Guelph Lakes Conservation Area.
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Fourth Dose Available
COVID 19 fourth dose vaccinations for COVID 19 are now available at WDG Public Health. For eligibility please see information below.
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Member Advice for In-Person Meetings
We asked our fellow Rotary Member, Dr. Anne-Marie Zajdlik, for advice regarding our in-person meetings. The overriding question is, “How do we keep our members from getting or transmitting COVID-19 during our weekly meetings?”
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Grant Allocations 2022-2023 Rotary Year
Grant allocation for the 22-23 Rotary Year must be submitted by April 30th. Notice to all committees of the Rotary Club of Guelph, and to interested Rotarians and those with connections to charities in the community
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How do I login to ClubRunnerNew to the Club and never logged in to our website? Here how to.
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In person meetings are a GO!Rotary in person meetings at the ICC start April 8th |
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The Grove Fergus Youth Wellness Hub
"My visit to The Grove Youth Wellness Hub in Fergus absolutely exceeded every expectation," said Terrie Jarvis, "And I was already expecting a lot."
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RYLA 2022 Scholarships
RYLA is a Rotary-recognized global program for aspiring young adults aged 18-25 to develop character and leadership skills. Our club invites candidates to apply for sponsorship to attend this year's virtual program on May 13-15, 2022.
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Start2Finish Running & Reading Program needs volunteers
Rotary is seeking volunteers to spend about 2 hours once a week, helping at a Running & Reading Program after school, from late March to the end of May 2022. |
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ShelterBox responds for Ukraine
The Rotary Club of Guelph is a proud sponsor of ShelterBox. |
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Rotaract Guelph's Annual Gala
The Rotaract Club of Guelph Annual Gala will be virtual again this year and we are excited to get started at 7:00pm on March 11, 2022! Go here for tickets. Your $20 ticket gets you a night of Informative Speeches, Fun Games, Incredible Fellowship and a Silent Auction. (Tickets are free for students.) But wait – there’s more!! |
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The Grove Hub now open at UoG
We are thrilled to see the continued progress of the Rotary-inspired Grove Hubs for youth mental wellness in Guelph and Wellington. The latest site to open is at the University of Guelph, on February 28, 2022.
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Wishing for peace in UkraineFriday, February 25, 2022 It is a tragic and sad time for the people of Ukraine and the world. Our thoughts are with our fellow Rotary members and others in Ukraine coping with these tragic events. Rotary International will do everything in its power to bring aid, support and peace to the region. |
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Happy 102nd Birthday, Rotary Club of Guelph!
On February 23, 1920 twenty five Guelph businessmen held an organizational meeting to form a new Rotary Club led by Alex Stewart, a local pharmacist who became the club's first president. Our club's Charter Night took place on April 9, 1920. |
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1000 Survival Gardens Kit Project Report
In 2021 The Rotary Club of Guelph participated in the 1000 Survival Gardens Kit Project. Over 60 Rotary Clubs were involved in this project proving once again the Rotary Responds to needs around the world. Click on the link below to access the Project update report. |
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Against Traffick ... on the road to healing
Welcome... This newsletter is an initiative of the Guelph-Wellington Rotary Cluster, following our recent Speaker Series. The work on educating to eradicate human trafficking started with the Guelph South Club who joined forces with the other clubs in the area. Inside this issue:
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The Plus in PolioPlus
The eradication of polio is one of Rotary's longest-standing and most significant efforts, and we have helped our global partners to reduce polio cases by 99.9% worldwide. But as long as polio exists anywhere, it remains a threat everywhere. Rotary won't stop until we end the disease for good.
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The plus in PolioPlus
WATCH THIS SHORT VIDEO recognizing and thanking Rotary for its pioneering role in eradicating polio by uniting leaders and health organizations around the world, including UNICEF, the WHO and the GATES FOUNDATION. |
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Remembering Paul Truex, Guelph Rotarian
We are extremely sad to announce the passing of Paul Truex (May 17, 1938 - January 22, 2022), shown here with his beloved late wife, Jean. Both were legends in their lifetimes, who undoubtedly made the world a better place, and whose influences will live on. |
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Remarkable fundraising by the Proudfoot twins ... again
Riverside Park sparkled with admiration on December 23, 2021 as friends, family and fans of Kaylyn and Amber gathered at the park to celebrate another amazing year of fundraising and generosity by the special Proudfoot twins, who are now 20 years old.
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Remembering Martha Rogers, Guelph Rotarian
On December 6th, 2021 we received the very sad news that our remarkable colleague and friend, Martha Rogers, had unexpectedly passed away during the past weekend at her home in Elora. |
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Rotary Recognizes Local Students |
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Support Rotary's Local "Catch The Ace"
 Our friends at the Rotary Club of Guelph Trillium have joined an exciting fundraising initiative – a weekly, progressive raffle called “Catch the Ace.” |
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Annual Cheese Gift Bag Fundraiser November 9, 2021Our friends at the Rotary Club of Fergus-Elora have launched their popular, annual CHEESE GIFT BAG fundraiser. For just $40, you get a $45 value with:
TO ORDER: Online at www.ferguselorarotary.com, or Rotarian Jim Gibbons 519-843-3664, or Rotarian John Wheatley 519-831-2043 Proceeds go towards supporting their favourite charities, including Big Brothers Big Sisters Centre Wellington, the Food Bank, Community Resource Centre, Elora House, KidsAbility, The Grove Hub in Fergus, Tree Trust, Wellington Pregnancy Centre, and Groves Memorial Hospital. More evidence of how Rotary makes a difference in communities everywhere! |
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The Grove Hubs - an updateOctober 22, 2021 Here is a quick update on The Grove (formerly The Integrated Youth Services Network). These are very exciting times for our community. Very soon, two sites will open in Guelph.
In the month of September, the Wellington County sites saw over 740 youth (and this is with the restricted capacity because of Covid). Those Grove Hubs are on track to double that number in October. Here is a one minute video that explains The Grove exceptionally well. Feel free to share. https://vimeo.com/showcase/8776086 Cyndy Moffat Forsyth thanks the Rotary Club of Guelph for its support, saying "The Grove would still be a hope and dream if Rotary had not taken the lead in 2018." |
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Community Resilience Summit on Nov 9October 29, 2021  Raechelle Devereaux, a member of our Rotary Club of Guelph and CEO of the Guelph Community Health Centre, invites all interested to attend a free, online COMMUNITY RESILIENCE SUMMIT on Tuesday, November 9, 2021 from 9am-12noon. Register in advance here. It's a half-day of learning led by the ACEs coalition. (ACE stands for Adverse Childhood Experiences.) The summit will dig into the role each of us can play in building resilience into our communities, building partnerships across multiple sectors to make our communities stronger and more equitable. Resilience is much more than our personal capacity to overcome adversity. It is instead a reflection of how well individuals, families, employers and communities work together to create opportunities for people to navigate their way to the resources they need for well-being. When individuals, families, and neighbourhoods struggle, there are implications for all of us. Thriving communities happen when people come together to share ideas and collaborate on solutions ... exactly what Rotary aims for. |
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Guelph Rotaractors promote World Polio DayOctober 24, 2021 Each October 24th is WORLD POLIO DAY as international health experts and partners share the world's progress on the road to polio eradication. Around the globe, clubs find ways of promoting Rotary's remarkable End Polio campaign.  This year in Guelph, the Rotaract Club of Guelph members fulfilled a goal of every University of Guelph student ... to paint the cannon, at least once! Under cover of darkness on Saturday night, October 23, the Rotaractors painted "Old Jeremiah" purple with gold wheels. They spray-painted "World Polio Day 2021" on one side, and "Rotaract Club" on the other. The cannon is a British naval gun, rumoured to have been used in the War of 1812, and it stands in Branion Plaza across from the University Centre. It is a long-standing Guelph tradition for students to paint the cannon with messages in order to promote events and organizations. Well done, Rotaractors! We are so proud of you.
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Food4Kids Guelph Fundraiser - Halloween Movie Night The Rotary-inspired Food4Kids Guelph charity is finally getting back to the business of delivering actual FOOD BAGS again. After being shut out of schools due to Covid for 19 months, and mailing grocery gift cards to families instead, the program is resuming its weekend food bag deliveries this month. First deliveries go out to schools on Friday, October 22. The dedicated volunteers are very busy ramping up operations!Currently, Food4Kids Guelph supports over 300 children at 28 local elementary schools, and every week, new referrals from school principals come in. So the work continues, and so does the fundraising. A wonderful group of volunteers has arranged an unusual fundraiser … a Halloween Movie Night at the Mustang Drive-in on Thursday, Oct 28th. The next day is a PD day at local schools so it's hoped that kids might be able to stay out a little later that night. The movie will be THE ADDAMS FAMILY (2019 animated version). The volunteers are hoping for parents and grandparents to bring kids out for some Halloween fun at the drive-in. Tickets are on sale through the website Food4KidsGuelph.ca. |
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Volunteers needed for Guelph General Hospital TAP TO CARE campaign
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Rotarian Martha Rogers retires from UGSDBSeptember 22, 2021  Our Rotarian colleague, Martha Rogers, has been an active member of our club for over 30 years. At the beginning of this month, Martha retired from her 26-year role as Executive Director of the Upper Grand District School Board at the beginning of this month. Read this wonderful article about Martha on Guelph Today here or download a copy of the article here. Photo and news article by Anam Khan / Guelph Today |
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Join the next "Finding the Balance during Covid-19" session Here's a shortcut to the registration page: CLICK HERE By the way, did you see this wonderful news? Congratulations, Helen! Helen Fishburn, CEO of the Canadian Mental Health Waterloo Wellington received the 2021 Champions of Mental Health: Community Individual Award. Read about it on Guelph Today by clicking here. |
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Mystery Car Rally in support of Sunrise Therapeutic Centre Our friends at the Rotary Club of Guelph South encourage you to join this event - a wonderful fall activity to have fun while doing good and helping the Sunrise Therapeutic Riding & Learning Centre in Puslinch, Ontario. It's a Mystery Car Rally, limited to 40 cars ($50 per car). The Rally is on Sunday, October 3, 2021 Last date for registering is Tuesday, September 21, 2021 A picnic on the Sunrise grounds offers boxed refreshments and opportunities to see and be photographed with the horses. To add to the fun, there is even a competition for the best decorated car or best individual dressup costume. Download the registration and pledge form here. To register, email fiona@sunrise-therapuetic.ca or call 519-837-0558 x35. |
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Lobsterfest Guelph is on September 25, 2021 Hey #Guelph! Rotary’s annual LOBSTERFEST has been an annual highlight on the Guelph calendar since 1980. Still operating under Covid rules, we’re once again inviting you to treat yourself to a delicious take home meal for a great cause! Book your meal tickets here for Saturday, September 25, 2021, with pick-up at the ICC. Click here to watch our cool video! ON THE MENU THIS YEAR: A whole, freshly-cooked 1 1/4 pound lobster OR A full rack of savory barbeque ribs along with potato salad, creamy cabbage salad, dill spear, baked beans and Tiramisu for dessert EVENT DETAILS Date: Saturday, September 25, 2021 Time: Pick up between 5pm and 6pm Location: Italian Canadian Club (ICC), 135 Ferguson Street, Guelph Meal price: $90 each which includes a donation to Rotary (tax receipt for $40) Order by: Monday, September 20, 2021 … this is the last possible date to place orders BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE |
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IYSN is now THE GROVE HUBS, and more great news!July 22, 2021  The IYSN (Integrated Youth Services Network) finally has its proper name and will henceforth be known as THE GROVE Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario. See their new website here. The creation of these new youth hubs in Guelph Wellington has miraculously occurred in less than two years. Without the Rotary Club of Guelph's initiative in acting as a neutral facilitator, this incredible development would likely not have happened at all. Our club will forever link the names of our members Cyndy Forsyth and Paul Dredge to this endeavour, with deep gratitude for their tireless efforts and vision in pulling together existing community resources to support our youth in a new way. July 22, 2021 was a very special milestone. There was an official ground-breaking ceremony for the future home on Woolwich Street of CMHA-WW's 60,000 square foot Centre for Children's Mental Health and Development Services where The Grove will occupy 8,000 square feet.  Along with this groundbreaking came news of the incredible $50 million donation to CMHA-WW by Rotarian Robert Eiler's property development company, Vesperra. The full story in Guelph Today is a must-read. Robert has been a Rotarian for 19 years, the last 5 of which have been with the Rotary Club of Guelph.https://www.guelphtoday.com/local-news/local-developer-gives-50-million-donation-to-community-mental-health-project-3977889 The Rotary Club of Guelph's charitable foundation, RGC Fund, will provide funding of $250,000 towards The Grove hub on Woolwich Street to be distributed as follows: $200,000 plus up to an additional $50,000 in the matching of other donations dollar for dollar, by the time the facility opens in 2023. Donation details can be found here. https://www.rgcfund.ca/info/ways-to-give Of the seven planned youth hubs, the three in Wellington are already up and running, in Fergus, Erin and Palmerston. The four youth hubs planned for the city of Guelph (Woolwich Street, UoG, Shelldale and The Y) all require construction and will open at various times, in 2022 and 2023. |
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Rotary Duck Race 2021 donates $26,300 to Food4Kids Guelph!August 9, 2021 For over 30 years, the Rotary Club of Guelph Wellington ('the Monday night club') has entertained Guelphites and generously fundraised for the community with their annual Duck Race, traditionally held on Canada Day at Riverside Park and dropping almost 4,000 numbered yellow duckies into the Speed River, with great cheers and prizes. It's a sight to see!  This Covid year, for the second in a row, the Duck Race organizers ran a 'virtual' Duck Race. It ended up being a huge success.The astonished and grateful volunteers from Food4Kids Guelph (a Rotary-inspired charity) were thrilled to receive $26,300 from the 2021 Duck Race to help feed local children.  In thanking the Guelph Wellington Rotarians, Terrie Jarvis explained how Food4Kids is now supporting 360 Guelph children each and every week, as their families struggle to make ends meet and they often lack sufficient food at home. Each child is supported to the tune of $15 per week, so the program now costs the charity about $26,000 a month - a huge undertaking for its volunteers and fundraising. The welcome contribution from the Duck Race will support the program for an entire month - a very big deal and relief for this charity..jpg) Thank you, Duck Race Team and members of the Rotary Club of Guelph Wellington, and all their Duck Race sponsors and supporters! Service Above Self is the Rotary motto, well delivered here! |
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Rotary Ribfest on August 27-29 will be a drive-through eventPopular annual ribbers Billy Bones BBQ Canada, Silver Bullet BBQ, and Boss Hogs BBQ will serve up mouth watering BBQ.  Enjoy their delicious BBQ and help Rotary raise money for some incredibly hard-working charities.Details, menus, and directions are all online at It starts Friday Aug 27th at 4pm through the weekend to finish at 7pm Sunday Aug 29th - Centennial High School Parking Lot, 289 College Ave. W., Guelph Parking lot. Cars only, no foot traffic to ensure everyone’s safety. See the hours below. Help spread the word! |
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Duck Race 2021 Winners July 5, 2021GRAND PRIZE WINNER OF THE 2021 DUCK RACE The Grand Prize Draw for the 2021 Rotary Guelph Duck Race took place at 2pm on July 1st, and the winner of $500 worth of groceries per month for one year from Zehrs is Tricia Taylor – Winning Ticket # 101668. Congratulations, Tricia! Tricia's winning ticket was sold to her by one of the Beyond Borders students who helped promote this year's Duck Race as one of their group assignments. Several of the students attended the Rotary Club of Guelph Wellington's celebratory club meeting on Monday, July 5, 2021. This year's Duck Race, with excellent marketing support from The Letter M, ended up with fabulous results. The final tally is still being made to let the Rotary-inspired Food4Kids Guelph program know what donation is coming their way as beneficiary of this year's Duck Race.  EARLY BIRD DUCK RACE 2021 PRIZE WINNERS shown below |
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July 1 and the start of a new Rotary yearOn July 1, the Rotary Club of Guelph is normally busy hosting Canada Day In The Park for the Guelph community, an event it has taken full responsibility for organizing in the city for almost three decades, raising over $1 million to support good causes locally and abroad. But for the second year in a row, Guelph's Canada Day will be different this year. Read more here.   July 1 is a very special day for Rotary in another way, too. It marks the start of a new Rotary year, with every Rotary Club in the world welcoming a new club president beginning their one-year term of office.  The Rotary Club of Guelph warmly and proudly welcomes Mahmud Hassain as its new club president for 2021-2022. In this fun photo, he shows off the traditional Paul Harris Fellow medallion that is ceremoniously passed from one club president to the next. Read the lovely story behind this medallion here. |
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Ending Rotary year 2020-21 on a high noteJune 25, 2021  It's hard to believe that Tracey's year as club president for 2020-2021 ends in a few days' time ... with every single club meeting conducted online this whole year! And what a year it has been with all the Covid-19 restrictions. Never to be forgotten.Despite the many challenges, our club pulled through in fine style and good shape, adding new members, conducting some brand new fundraisers, and managing to conduct old fundraisers in new ways. In the worst of times, we experienced the best of Rotary.  Assistant District Governor Darlene Carpenter attended Tracey's "swan song" meeting to personally thank her and also the Rotary Club of Guelph.Plus ... Darlene is now handing over the role of Assistant District Governor to Tracey for the next three years. Read Darlene's beautiful speech below. |
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14 new Paul Harris Fellows, in memory of Charlie WhittakerJune 25, 2021 Today, our Rotary Club surprised 14 members by recognizing them as Paul Harris Fellows, primarily made possible through the legacy of our late club member, Charlie Whittaker, and his wife Maggie who gladly supported the suggestion of using Charlie's accumulated Rotary Foundation Points for this purpose.   Ab Moore explained how this came about, based on one of the Rotary Foundation's best kept secrets. |
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Charlie Whittaker's Rotary Legacy Lives OnJune 25, 2021  Any of our club members who joined before March 2017 will fondly remember our one and only fellow Rotarian, Charlie Whittaker, an active club member for 43 years and a highly memorable influence in and around the Guelph area. He passed away unexpectedly on March 28, 2017 at the age of 84. Charlie's memory lives on through several legacies, with another significant one added today: 14 Paul Harris Fellowships awarded to club members in his name. Read more in the separate story on our website here.  Charlie's daughter, Michele Richardson, a member of our club since 2011, today paid tribute to her late and great dad. |
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Canada Day 2021 in Guelph June 22, 2021The Rotary Club of Guelph has hosted Canada Day In The Park for almost three decades and through this initiative has raised over $1 Million to support good causes locally and abroad. For the second straight year, we are unable to host Canada Day In The Park, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still celebrate being Canadian. Here are a few things you can do:
We can’t wait to join our fellow citizens next year as we look to resume Canada Day In The Park and continue the good work of Rotary. |
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National Indigenous Peoples DayWith thanks to Crista Renner for sharing this information Today, June 21st, 2021 is the 25th anniversary of National Indigenous Peoples Day. It was a day created to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
After the discovery of 215 children in unmarked graves in Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Nation (and numerous sites since then), the regional chief of the B.C. Assembly of First Nations, Terry Teegee, is calling for a day of mourning and quiet contemplation. Please consider exploring these child-friendly resources with your family, check out Moccasin Identifier or support the Save the Evidence Campaign with a virtual tour of a residential school. |
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Rotary Duck Race 2021 - still time to winHelp make this a fabulous fundraiser for a good cause! Get your tickets now.  Guelph's famous annual Rotary Duck Race is virtual again in 2021 due to COVID-19. Tickets are still on sale HERE at GotDuck.ca.
Watch this SHORT VIDEO about this year's Duck Race and how it will help Food4Kids. And read here about how three generations of the Van Dam family from the Rotary Guelph Wellington Club are supporting the Duck Race. It's a great story reported by Guelph Today. The Rotary Club of Guelph-Wellington has organized the Guelph Duck Race since 1988, making it a fixture on the Speed River every Canada Day. Since 2007, it has been supported by Guelph's The Letter M Marketing and Rotary is grateful for their fantastic community support! |
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Celebration of Life - Jean Truex June 18, 2021Jean Truex passed away on Sunday, April 11, 2021. A Celebration of Life was held online on June 17, 2021, with Jean fondly remembered by family, friends and colleagues. It was utterly inspiring to hear about her remarkable life and contributions that made the world a better place. Here is a recording from the wonderful program. https://youtu.be/9OOes4TIX6o Also read about Jean in this previous article here. 18 remarkable years of the 1*2*3 GO! program |
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Supporting Shelldale's Family Fun-Raiser June 15, 2021Our club is delighted to be a Gold Sponsor of this month-long Family Fun-Raiser to engage family and friends. The Shelldale Family Gateway community is challenging neighbouring communities right across Guelph to get involved and make it a fun, unique, exciting and physically active time for all! Go to shelldale.ca for details and to register. |
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Congratulations to this great Rotarian June 14, 2021As reported in Guelph Today. Upper Grand School Board's Martha Rogers receives provincial award Award honours an active or retired member of the teaching profession for outstanding contribution to education in Ontario Read the article here. We could not be prouder of Martha who has been a member of our Rotary Club for 32 years. |
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Remembering Jim Stevens (1930-2021)June 14, 2021  Jim Stevens quietly passed away at home on Friday, June 11, 2021 in his 91st year. We are remembering what a great person, great scientist, great educator, great friend and great Rotarian Jim was; 43 years in Rotary, including serving as president of our Rotary club in 1998-99.For those who don't know Jim from earlier years, read about him here. He made the world a better place. We send our heartfelt condolences to Jim's wife Karin and their extended families. If you would like to attend the virtual service for Jim, it will held on June 25th at 2pm. Go to gilchristchapel.com, click on obituaries, then on Jim’s name and then click on https://www.oneroomstreaming@com/login Jim's detailed obituary follows below. |
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Rotary grieves with MuslimsJune 8, 2021 Rotary expresses its heartfelt condolences to Muslim communities everywhere in the wake of the deadly attack hit-and-run attack on an innocent family, in London Ontario on Sunday evening, June 6, 2021. Words fail us. Our friends at the Muslim Society of Guelph are planting a memorial garden to remember the London family, and also in support of all other victims of Islamaphobia. They welcome the donation of plants. Donations are also welcome for the MSOG's Antiracism Resource Fund to help combat racism and Islamophobia and maintain the memorial garden. Speaking on behalf of our Rotary Club's Peace Building Committee, our member Nisha Chandran said this: |
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Another successful Virtual Paint NightJune 8, 2021 Rotary organizer Gisella Gazzola and artist Ben McCarl ran their sixth Virtual Paint Night session on Sunday, June 6. It was thoroughly enjoyed by all the participants, who collectively donated $350 to Food4Kids Guelph, helping to feed a child for almost half a year through this Rotary-inspired charity.  |
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In Memory of the 215 Lost ChildrenJune 4, 2021 We would like to extend deep condolences and sympathies to the Tk'emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation on the discovery of 215 children on the site of a former residential school in Kamloops British Columbia. The discovery of these children is a powerful yet painful reminder of our history. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission research indicates that at least 3,213 children are reported to have died over 140 years of operation at over 150 Residential School locations. No words can describe the scale of pain and trauma that Indigenous Peoples (First Nations, Inuit, Métis) have suffered as a result of Canada’s Residential School system and continue to suffer from systemic racism. May we all keep this part of our history as a reminder and a beacon in front of us as we work with our Rotary ideals to bring peace and equality to all.  June is National Indigenous History Month, we ask that you support this national time of mourning to honour these children. HIP (Honouring Indigenous People) is asking everyone to wear orange. Let’s walk together and show our support.  PLEASE READ THIS BOOKLET ABOUT THE INDIAN RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL SYSTEM. |
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New Member: Welcome Jacqueline GrayMay 28, 2021  Jacqueline's smiling face has become familiar to us as a guest in recent weeks, and we couldn't be more delighted that she has decided to join our club as a member.Introduced today by Tim Mau, he said, "Jacqueline is a longstanding Guelph resident, having moved here from Toronto in 1977. She worked for ten years as a legal researcher for a corporate law firm in Toronto, has worked as a school librarian and occasional teacher in our school district, and is particularly drawn to support students who are medically fragile or challenged by disabilities. When she's not teaching or working at Shopper's Drugmart, she enjoys hiking, reading and hanging out with her adult daughter, Samantha." Jacqueline, we are really looking forward to getting to know you better. Welcome to the Rotary Club of Guelph! |
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New Member: Welcome Chidi Nwene May 28, 2021We are absolutely delighted to welcome Chidi as a new member of our club. He is president at the African Canadian Initiative, and also volunteers in a wide range of activities. He is best described as a Social Justice Advocate and Community Organizer. Chidi's extensive on-the-ground experience has developed a strong sense of justice for both local and global communities, and will enrich our club and our ability to deliver Service Above Self, something that is already exemplified in Chidi's life. In his own words, "Rotary Club is where great people do greater things, in order to achieve the greatest impact in our communities." Welcome, Chidi! |
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Mystery Car Rally in support of "Sunrise" - NEW DATEMay 27, 2021 NEWS FLASH! THIS EVENT WILL NOW TAKE PLACE ON SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2021 Here's a wonderful fall activity to have fun while doing good and helping the Sunrise Therapeutic Riding & Learning Centre in Puslinch, Ontario. This "Mystery Car Rally" has been postponed to Sunday, October 3, 2021 - details to follow. Email fiona@sunrise-therapeutic.ca or call 519-837-0558 ext 35.  |
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Another Rotary Paint Night "Summer Sunrise"May 21, 2021  Back by popular demand is our seventh virtual Rotary Paint Night, on Sunday evening, June 6, 2021 from 6pm to 8pm on zoom. Join Rotarian and artist Ben McCarl as he guides online participants step by step to paint this Summer Sunrise. Rotary’s virtual paint nights are open to everyone, all skill levels are welcome and free to attend. This month's paint night is in support of Food4Kids Guelph, a charity dedicated to closing the gap for families experiencing food insecurity. With your help, Food4Kids can continue providing grocery gift cards to families in need. This is a "pay what you can" event. Participants can register and/or donate by following the link below. A charitable receipt will be issued to those who donate. |
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New member: Welcome Dave IacoccaMay 19, 2021  The Rotary Club of Guelph welcomes Dave Iacocca as its newest member.Dave says, "Throughout my career, I have had a passion for helping people, organizations and communities understand the benefits of using sustainable and innovative technology solutions. I believe strongly that you can do good and do well. As an experienced business development professional I have worked to deliver products and services to the B2B North American marketplace." Currently, Dave is Director Of Sales, Parcel Services at Metroland Media Group (TorStar). |
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India and COVID ... Rotary Oxygen Concentrator InitiativeA struggle for oxygen - Delhi oxygen crisis deepens as more patients die. After consultation with the Chair of the India Rotary COVID Task Force, the most urgent need is for portable Oxygen Concentrators. Rotary is uniquely positioned to help through its strong presence and vast network of Rotary clubs across India. Rotary Districts and Clubs in Zone 28 and 32 are joining together for an urgent initiative to establish ROTARY OXYGEN BANKS. The Rotary Oxygen Bank would loan an Oxygen Concentrator to a patient in need, with the provision that after the immediate crisis is over, the concerned person would return the concentrator to the Oxygen Bank. Such a bank would be of help to a large number of people over a period of time. These units are portable and will save many lives in the coming weeks and months. Donations are urgently needed by May 24, 2021. Any amount is welcome: Time is of the essence. This is perhaps the worst humanitarian crisis in India in modern times and our fellow Rotarians need our help in action and in spirit. |
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Rotary Duck Race 2021 - tickets on sale now!Guelph's famous annual Rotary Duck Race is virtual again in 2021 due to COVID-19, but it's happening! Tickets are on sale HERE at GotDuck.ca. This year's Duck Race is themed around food, with fabulous prizes:
Watch this SHORT VIDEO about this year's Duck Race and how it will help Food4Kids! The Rotary Club of Guelph-Wellington has organized the Guelph Duck Race since 1988, making it a fixture on the Speed River every Canada Day. Since 2007, it has been supported by Guelph's The Letter M Marketing and Rotary is grateful for their fantastic community support! Help make this a fabulous fundraiser for a good cause! Get your tickets now. |
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Next session of "Finding the balance during Covid-19"April 28, 2021 The next (11th) webinar will be held on Tuesday, May 4, 2021 from 7pm to 8:15pm. Register here.  |
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Hike for Hospice WellingtonApril 17, 2021 Our wonderful Hospice Wellington invites the community to participate in their 17th Annual Hike for Hospice. Although virtual again this year, Hospice Wellington is committed to making this campaign as much fun as possible for family and friends, many of whom join to celebrate a loved one. This year's event will conclude on June 6, 2021. Our Rotary Club of Guelph president Tracey Curtis is forming a Rotary team to participate. Email Tracey here to join the team.  |
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The Seed - Grocery shopping with a purpose April 17, 2021The Seed is a Do-It-Together Food Movement in Guelph-Wellington, working towards a connected community where everyone has access to healthy food. The Seed is a proud project of the Guelph Community Health Centre. Read more about the many remarkable programs offered by The Seed here.
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Special Edition of Finding the Balance During #COVID19 With dire Covid-19 warnings and community anxiety running at a high level, the team has urgently scheduled a 10th webinar for next week, Tuesday, April 20, 2021 at 7pm.Helen Fishburn Huck and Anne-Marie Zajdlik will be joined by Dr. Nicola Mercer, our district medical officer of public health, to answer your questions about what the third wave of the pandemic means for our communities. As before, the session will be moderated by Marva Wisdom. |
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Environment Clean UpApril 13, 2021  Every year on April 22, "Earth Day" brings a special focus to environmental concerns. Many local events usually take place around the time of Earth Day, but this year's Covid-19 lockdown is either postponing or modifying things. Read more details below.
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Remembering Jean TruexApril 11, 2021 With profound sadness, we learned that Jean Truex passed away on Sunday, April 11, 2021. The entire Rotary family sends its deepest condolences to Paul and the Truex family. A Celebration of Life service will be held on June 17, 2021. July 31, 2020 18 remarkable years of the 1*2*3 GO! program Today our club paid warm tribute to Jean Truex, wife of our club member Paul Truex, for her 18 years of dedicated service in creating and running the Rotary-supported pre-school and early literacy program in Guelph called 1*2*3 GO! Brian Martin, chair of our club's Literacy & Numeracy Committee reported that the 1*2*3 GO! program would not be resuming when schools reopen next September because the program's operating space at the Tytler Public School is no longer available due to renovations. THANK YOU, Jean, on behalf of the hundreds of children whose lives you have improved. |
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Rotary District 7080 Virtual ConferenceApril 12, 2021  Calling all Rotarians, Rotaractors, and Interactors from around the District! On Saturday, May 29th, 2021, the Rotary District 7080 Conference is going virtual. We welcome you to join us for a packed morning of guest speakers, breakout sessions, and fellowship, surrounded by this year’s theme of “Take care of self, each other, and the planet”. Tune in from 9am - 12:30pm for fascinating and inspiring discussions about our theme with:
Registration is now open and will remain open until May 26th. REGISTER HERE. |
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New member: Welcome Raechelle Devereaux The Rotary Club of Guelph is delighted to welcome Raechelle Devereaux as its newest member.Raechelle is the CEO of the Guelph Community Health Centre where she has worked for the past 12 years, following several years working in child welfare. The Guelph CHC is an extraordinary asset in our community. It is committed to working with and meeting the needs of people who may find it hard to access health care. Through Raechelle, we look forward to learning more about community needs and solutions, and how Rotary can help. Raechelle's Twitter account @RaechelleDev describes her in a nutshell: Executive Director at the Guelph CHC. Health-barrier-buster. Believer that there is always a better way. Like us, Raechelle believes in the power of the collective, and she looks forward to working more closely with Rotary. Welcome, Raechelle!
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A Virtual Culinary Evening in support of KidsAbility April 10, 2021Our friends at KidsAbility invite you to join a fun and interactive three course gourmet cooking class in the comfort of your own home on Wednesday, April 21 from 5pm to 7:30pm. Any ability can join, no cook is left behind! Registration includes a donation to KidsAbility, plus receiving all the cooking ingredients and online instruction from experts. ONLINE REGISTRATION CLOSES ON MONDAY, APRIL 12 AT 12 NOON! DETAILS BELOW Well-known chefs Jody and Kirstie from The Culinary Studio in Waterloo Create will guide participants to create this delicious meal from scratch.  |
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Mother's Day Fundraiser helping Food4Kids GuelphApril 8, 2021  Food4Kids Guelph is excited that Royal City Nursery is offering a generous donation to the charity from the sale of beautiful hanging baskets in time for Mother's Day on May 9, 2021. What a great way to recognize and thank the Moms in your family, while also helping local children in need, and supporting a precious local business! Quantities are limited so order soon. Orders can be picked up from the Royal City Nursery parking lot on May 6th and 7th, in a safe COVID-19 style with Food4Kids volunteers bringing items right to your car. |
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Next webinar "Finding the balance during Covid-19"On April 6, 2021 at 7pm, join
as they talk about finding the physical and mental health balance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Funds raised support Bracelet of Hope and other local charities. |
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The Rotary Foundation (TRF), your donations and your PHF pointsMarch 27, 2021 There are three common acronyms at Rotary that are important to know:
Read on to learn more, also about an Honourary PHF, and how donors can track their overall donations online.
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New member: Welcome Dave MenegottoMarch 26, 2021  The Rotary Club of Guelph welcomes Dave Menegotto as its newest club member. Professionally, Dave has worked at Sutherland Insurance for the past 18 years where he is an accounts manager. In the community, Dave is a fan of the Guelph Storm, the Blue Jays, and he is a volunteer with the Stanley Stick Hockey Association in Guelph, an organization for youth that allows everyone to play and encourages a lifelong love for sports. We warmly welcome you and your family to our club, Dave! |
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Another Rotary Paint Night SuccessMarch 21, 2021 Once again, a happy crew of artists followed Ben McCarl's step-by-step instructions for another virtual paint night on Sunday evening on March 21. The subject this time was a sweet giraffe dreaming of spring. And what beautiful creations were produced! Well done, everyone. And thank you, Ben.  |
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Mystery Car Rally in support of "Sunrise"March 20, 2021 Here's a wonderful spring activity for your Covid "bubble" to have fun while doing good and helping the Sunrise Therapeutic Riding & Learning Centre in Puslinch, Ontario. This "Mystery Car Rally" on Sunday, May 16 is limited to 40 cars, so be quick to register if you'd like to participate! Email fiona@sunrise-therapeutic.ca or call 519-837-0558 ext 35.  |
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Have some laughs, and do some goodMarch 19, 2021  This hour-long online fundraiser is taking place on Saturday, April 10, 8.00 pm and tickets are $50 per household, including a $25 tax receipt. The funds raised will be used to support local charities and projects in the Guelph Wellington community through the Rotary Club of Guelph Trillium Foundation.You can purchase tickets at https://bit.ly/3vrlNo7 |
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International Women's Day 2021March 8, 2021 - UPDATE  To women everywhere - our thoughts are with you today on International Women's Day, March 8. IWD is an annual event recognized by the United Nations, for the 110th year in 2021. Here's a good summary to learn more (including an answer to the question - is there an International Men's Day?)Join us at Guelph Wellington's event today honouring four additional Women of Distinction in our community. February 27, 2021  This year's Guelph Y "Women of Distinction" recognition is a scaled back event but going ahead for the 25th year, in a new partnership with Innovation Guelph for a fabulous International Women's Day celebration on March 8, 2021. We could not be more proud of these Rotarians from our club who will be honoured during the virtual celebration.
Get your tickets here for $29 and receive access to the online marketplace of female entrepreneurs and a fabulous celebration of women in our community!
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Another Rotary Paint Night 'Dreaming of Spring'March 5, 2021  Join Rotarian Ben McCarl for another virtual paint night on Sunday evening, March 21, 2021 at 6pm. It's open to all, free to attend, and we suggest saying thank you to Paint Night volunteers by donating to the Integrated Youth Services Network (IYSN) to help local youth cope with tough times. Donate any amount through our Rotary Club of Guelph site on Canada Helps and designate "2021 Paint Night". Participants will supply their own materials (see list below) to paint this charming giraffe which is 'Dreaming Of Spring'. Space is limited, so register early. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Register at bit.ly/3qmWbF9. |
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Next webinar "Finding the balance during Covid-19"Register here for the next #COVID19 webinar on Tuesday, March 9 at 7pm. With a focus on young people, Anne-Marie Zajdlik and Helen Fishburn will speak with Justin Wisdom, a young entrepreneur, & Dr. Joanna Henderson, ED, Youth Wellness Hubs Ontario. REGISTRATION LINK:  |
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Shelldale Winter Warmup fundraiser - March 17 (St. Patrick's Day) March 4, 2021Shelldale's 8th Winter Warm Up Fundraiserthis year will be St. Patrick's Day style! What a great way to support one of our favourite charities. DINNER: For $30 per person you can enjoy an authentic three course Irish meal with your choice of Shepherd’s Pie or Corned Beef & Cabbage, ready for contactless pick-up at Shelldale Family Gateway. Order here by March 7th as dinner tickets are limited. SILENT AUCTION: It will run online from March 7 to March 17, but you can already preview the items here. ENTERTAINMENT: At 6pm on March 17, you can join the Shelldale Zoom Room to mix and mingle with special guests, and enjoy live music by guitarist and folk singer Bob MacLean. |
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New Member: Welcome Sue Wigston February 26, 2021When our club president Tracey Curtis finally got to meet Sue Wigston, the CEO of GIVESOME, they became 'best buds' within minutes. Very shortly, Tracey was saying, "Sue, you simply have to join Rotary." And here she was, happily being inducted as our newest member. Welcome to our club, Sue! Before introducing Sue, here's a little reminder that our club encourages donations and the paying of "Happy Bucks" to any of the four projects we have listed on the terrific Givesome app. Go here. |
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Rotary remains committed to fighting polio and responding to COVID-19 February 27, 2021This is amazing news. As Rotary members continue the fight against polio, they’re also responding to the COVID-19 health crisis by addressing the urgent needs of the communities it’s affecting worldwide. And now with the development of COVID-19 vaccines, Rotary is ready to use its expertise in distributing polio vaccine and communicating about vaccine efficacy to assist local health authorities in promoting and delivering COVID-19 vaccinations. |
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Happy Birthday, Rotary! February 23, 2021Rotary International and the Rotary Club of Guelph share a birthday, with different ages. Both were founded on February 23rd.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Take a 5-minute virtual tour of Rotary International Headquarters in Evanston, Illinois. |
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Spring "PICK ME UP" bags from Centre Wellington Rotary February 23, 2021We're delighted to give a shout-out to our sister club in Centre Wellington for their Spring "PICK ME UP" Bags Fundraiser. For just $25, each bag includes $38 worth of products from local vendors, including handmade soap, handmade scented candle, chocolates and a spring flower. What a treat to give a "pick me up" to someone special, or even yourself! To order and pre-pay: either e-transfer $25 to cwrotary05@gmail.com with name and email address, or drop off cash or cheque to Wilmot Financial Services (181 St. Andrew St. E., Unit 6 between 9am and 5pm Mon-Fr). Susanne@WilmotFinancial.ca Pick up the gift bags on Saturday, March 13 between 1pm and 4pm at the Fergus Community Centre (550 Belsyde Ave. E. Fergus). |
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Paint Night Success February 15, 2021A happy group of around 50 participants joined Ben McCarl at his fourth Paint Night and created individual masterpieces in about an hour a half. The next Paint Night will take place on March 21 - registration details to follow soon.
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The Rotary Grove at Guelph's ArboretumFebruary 14, 2021  Our wonderful Guelph Arboretum is open year-round, from dawn till dusk for walks and exercise ... even during Covid-19 lockdowns.The Arboretum's January 2021 newsletter had this eye-catching photo (by Justine Richardson) of their intriguing "Octopus Tree". It is a hackberry that was split apart by the 2013 ice storm but left in place, and now sprouts branches growing straight up that look like mini-hackberry trees. It is located in The Rotary Grove, a collection of over 130 trees comprising 33 varieties, chosen primarily for aesthetic reasons. This grove was established in 1980 to commemorate Rotary International’s 75th Anniversary and the Rotary Club of Guelph’s 60th Anniversary. The inaugural planting took place May 31, 1980 during a visit from Guelph's sister Rotary Club, Japan's Zushi District 259. Four trees were ceremoniously planted: Canada's national tree, the Sugar Maple and three Japanese Maples. Several years later, in May 1999, the Rotary Club of Guelph dedicated the Rotary Tree Grove to Roy Hammond, a long-time Rotary member and one of The Arboretum’s most dedicated supporters. It used to be an annual event for RCOG club members to visit the grove and provide maintenence by cutting grass, removing weeds and debris. Jim Anderson was the lead and funds were budgeted in the Environment Committee each year. Funds were paid to the University of Guelph for annual maintenance. |
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Guelph's Rotary Forest video - view and vote!February 13, 2021  A short video about Guelph's Rotary Forest project has been entered in a Rotary International contest. Please watch our video and vote for it! A cash prize would help us plant more trees, and the seven best videos in the contest (i.e. most votes) will be rewarded with a local zoom conference with Rotary International's president, Holger Knaack. It's an easy two-step process:
 Please share our Guelph pride story and invite others to watch and vote too!@RotaryGuelph #Guelph #IFixThePlanet #ESRAG Kudos to Carolyn Weatherson (past president, Rotary Club of Guelph, 2019-2020) for cleverly creating this video. |
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Bottle drive to support Guatemala projectsFebruary 12, 2021  Our Rotary club member, Domingo Bernal, grew up in Guatemala and a piece of heart will always belong there. Last November, when his birthland experienced devastating damage caused by back-to-back hurricanes Iota and Eta, just two weeks apart, it severely compounded local hardships already made harder by COVID-19. Now a businessman living in Guelph with his family, Domingo was heartbroken to hear from Guatemala contacts just how bad the situation and suffering was. So he decided to act. He jumped into fundraising mode and then travelled to Guatemala, spending four weeks helping to organize practical relief and connecting with aid agencies. His contribution and self-sacrifice was an exemplary example of Service Above Self. This has also laid the groundwork for future projects to help with the start-up of small enterprises in Guatemala to generate family income and improve quality of life for participants. Domingo is now chair of our club's World Service sub-committee for Latin America, and he has specific ideas on how Rotary can make a difference, in both Guatemala and Honduras, short term and long term. Domingo is our favourite kind of Rotarian ... a "make it happen" kind of person with vision, passion and huge empathy, so this story is likely to have many follow-up chapters! Meanwhile, Domingo's fundraising for Guatemala continues through an ongoing Bottle Drive collecting beer, wine and liquor bottles: http://www.videsa.org/bottle-drive/ and donations through www.videsa.org/donate. You can contact Domingo (through the Videsa website) to arrange pick up, or you can drop them off at location, or even return your bottles to stores to redeem the deposits and then make a donation to Videsa.  |
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National Flag of Canada Day - February 15th
Most of us know that the third Monday of February is a public holiday called FAMILY DAY in Ontario and four other provinces. This year, it falls on Monday, February 15. This holiday celebrates the importance of families and family life to people and their communities. Family Day is a public holiday where it is a day off for the general population, with schools and most businesses closed. But do you know that February 15 is also the NATIONAL FLAG OF CANADA DAY? At the stroke of noon on February 15, 1965, Canada’s red and white maple leaf flag was raised for the very first time on Parliament Hill. On the same date in 1996, National Flag of Canada Day was declared. Our national flag is a symbol that unites Canadians and reflects the common values we hold dear — equality, diversity and inclusion. You can read more interesting history about our flag on the government's website here. On February 15, 2021, let’s celebrate the #CanadianFlag! |
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The Rotary Club of All Nations February 6, 2021Today, some of our club members attended a 30-minute, Saturday morning Rotary meeting to hear Doug Vincent, former District Governor of our club's District 7080 and a Rotary representative at the United Nations, speak about Rotary's involvement with the UN. A fascinating story of how Rotary was a charter member of forming the United Nations, and is still a key player. (Read more here: https://www.rotary.org/en/history-rotary-and-united-nations) Attending this online meeting also introduced us to a very interesting group - a Rotary e-club that claims to be one of the newest, fastest- growing and most diverse Rotary clubs in the world: The Rotary Club of All Nations. (https://www.facebook.com/RotaryCAN/) This online club is not bound by the geographic location that usually determines club members, since the e-club members can connect from anywhere in the world, and they do. In fact, they meet on the first and third Saturday morning of each month, for a short, sharp 30 minutes with a guest speaker of note, and they livestream their meetings on Facebook. All are welcome to attend meetings and/or join their e-club. E-clubs are an interesting development as Rotary continues to evolve and find news ways of bringing people together.
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Valentine Silent AuctionFebruary 2, 2021 Here in Guelph, we are lucky have quite a number of Rotarians wanting to volunteer their time and service to help others - too many Rotarians for just one club, so the city of Guelph has FOUR Rotary Clubs, each meeting in a different part of the city and at different times. We also have Rotary clubs in nearby Fergus and Elora, as well as a Rotaract club (for younger people) at the University of Guelph. It's very easy for new members to find a local Rotary Club whose weekly meetings can fit into their schedule. http://rotaryofgw.ca The local Rotary clubs are best of friends, stay in close touch and support each others' activities.  The Rotary Club of Guelph South has just launched this wonderful fundraiser. Take a look at the great items on their silent auction running from February 1-12, 2021 and know that ALL funds raised will support good causes that help make the world a better place. ROTARY VALENTINE AUCTION 2021 |
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Black Heritage Month 2021 in Guelph and #ChangeStartsNow February 1, 2021This February, the Guelph Black Heritage Society (GBHS) calls on the community to help honour the past, celebrate today, and look toward the future, building goodwill and better friendships. Since 1995, February has been celebrated as Black History Month in Canada. In Guelph, the month of February has mostly highlighted past contributions by Black historical figures. From 2021, the Guelph Black Heritage Society and its partners (the University of Guelph’s Cultural Diversity Office and the Guelph Black Student’s Association) have decided to do things a little differently, by celebrating Black Heritage Month. “This month will commemorate past and present accomplishments within the Black community and set sights on our bright future ahead,” reads a press release from the GBHS. “While we will continue to acknowledge the resilience and bravery of those who came before us, we must recognize that Black history and experiences are much more than the narrative of slavery.” Several events in February will take place in support of the #ChangeStartsNow education initiative.
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Annual Green Square Campaign in CanadaJanuary 29, 2021  This week, you might have noticed people on TV and elsewhere wearing a green square. The annual "Green Square Campaign" was launched in 2020 as a reminder against the terrorist attack at a Quebec City mosque on January 29, 2017, when an Islamophobic white supremacist shot dead six Muslim men as they prayed. The Green Square Campaign now takes place in the week leading up to January 29 each year to remember the victims and survivors of this attack, and all who were devastated by this hateful act. The "Green Square" represents a symbol of solidarity and hope towards building goodwill and better friendships.
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Paint Night Winter Session - February 15, 2021Our Rotary Paint Nights, led by Ben McCarl, have become so popular that we've offered to run one in conjunction with the Canadian Mental Health Association of Waterloo Wellington, giving more people the chance to have some creative fun. The next Paint Night will be on Monday evening of Family Day, February 15, 2021 starting online at 6pm. It's open to all, free to attend, with donations welcomed by the Integrated Youth Services Network. Participants will paint the pretty winter scene shown below, supplying their own materials (see below). Space is limited, so register early. https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/paint-night-tickets-137997892411 The zoom link will be emailed to registered participants on the morning of February 15th.  |
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ART FOR AID PROJECT - a huge success January 2021In August 2020, our club helped seek art supplies and board games to send to elementary schools in remote Northern Indigenous communities, for ART FOR AID projects.  The project was a huge success! Organized by the Rotary Clubs of Oakville and Oakville-Trafalgar, they received welcome support and donations from Rotary Clubs in Mississauga, Burlington, Kitchener, Milton and Guelph, as well as Art Societies, community individual donors and volunteers. The organizing committee is shown in this photo.When we all work together, amazing things can happen. In October 2020, art supplies were shipped to 19 northern communities across Canada, boxes of wool to Iqaluit, books to Six Nations, paper to the Mississaugas of the New Credit, board games to Nibinamik and novels to Tyendinaga. Chi miigwetch!
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Land Acknowledgement A Land or Territorial Acknowledgement is a tradition that has dated back centuries for Indigenous people, but for many non-Indigenous Canadians, officially recognizing the territory or lands we stand on is a fairly new concept. Indigenous people say it marks a small but essential step toward reconciliation. Our Rotary Club of Guelph often uses the following Land Acknowledgement statement, developed by our Indigenous Awareness Committee, and similar to the one read before Guelph City Council meetings. As we gather, we are reminded that Guelph is situated on treaty land that is steeped in rich indigenous history and has been home to a variety of peoples over the millennia. Today, this area has become home to many First Nations, Métis and Inuit people. As a community, we have a responsibility for the stewardship of the land on which we live and work. Today, we acknowledge the historic Mississaugas of the Credit, the First Nation people who were the treaty signatories of the territory on which we are meeting. To learn more on this topic, see the background document prepared by our club's Indigenous Awareness Committee. Scroll down on Home Page to Download Files (on right hand side) and click on "Land and Territorial Acknowledgements."  Also take a few minutes to watch this video. https://vimeo.com/517181293 (5:40)This video started out as a University of Guelph student project interviewing a local elder, Jan Sherman, about Land Acknowledgements. It was later developed into a script with animation and music being added by Indigenous artists, and narrated by a local Indigenous leader, Bruce Weaver. |
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Rotary Global Grant for a Water Project in Ontario January 9, 2021Read the fascinating story of how a Rotary Global Grant was awarded for a water project in Ontario. This information is available as a PDF download. Scroll down on Home Page to Download Files (on right hand side) and click on "WATER FIRST Global Grant Project."
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Sparkles in the Park 2020 versionDecember 20, 2020 This year marks the 22nd year of Rotary bringing Sparkles in the Park to the Guelph community, and the first year in association with Downtown Guelph Business Association. Sparkles runs from December 19 to December 31, 2020 each evening at Riverside Park. When Covid-19 presented challenges about holding this annual event, the Rotary Club of Guelph couldn't bear the thought of disappointing our community, at a time when we all NEED some good cheer! So thinking caps went on, we conferred with our city officials, and a drive-through, socially distanced plan was devised. It needed some compromises. We had to forego fireworks on New Year's eve, and also cancel the free carousel rides for children, but what is left is still glorious ... with a couple of new twists such as Santa waving at passersby from a large bubble.  When you visit, remember that it's also a fundraiser for charity. Please donate what you can. This QR code links to our fundraising page for tax receiptable online donations here, but you can also donate with cash at the park, or by card with with tap-and-go near the park entrance. Our MPP Mike Schreiner and his wife Sandy volunteered at the very first shift of Sparkles, and posted these photos.  |
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'Twas the night before Christmas 2020 versionDecember 18, 2020  Each Christmas, our talented Rotarian, Murray Taylor, delights us with a newly penned Christmas poem, relevant to the times. Here is his Christmas 2020 version. HAPPY HOLIDAYS, EVERYONE! |
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Young Rotary volunteers honoured by Guelph mayorDecember 11, 2020 After volunteering at Rotary's Sparkles in the Park for the past three years by helping take down lights on New Year's Day to earn high school volunteer hours, teenagers Kaylyn and Amber Proudfoot became Friends of Rotary because they were so impressed by the many charitable causes that Rotary supports. Now 19 years old, the girls were diagnosed with autism and anxiety at a very young age. Through ongoing communications with Rotary member Terrie Jarvis, it became evident that the girls are passionate about many different causes, that they are driven by their heartfelt desire to make the world a better place, and that their fundraising abilities are astonishing. In the past 10 years, they've raised and donated some $30,000, with $3,000 of that being within this difficult Covid year.  On Friday, December 11, 2020, Mayor Cam Guthrie presented Kaylyn and Amber with a certificate of appreciation from the City of Guelph for their extraordinary community service, coinciding with their latest charitable donation to Rotary of $300.45 which was designated by them for specific programs and accepted on behalf of Rotary by Terrie.Kaylyn and Amber, we are so proud to have you as Friends of Rotary!  |
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John Valeriote: A retired Rotarian and his good deedsDecember 7, 2020 One of our club's former Rotarians, John Valeriote, was highlighted in this wonderful article in Guelph Today. The article is reproduced here in its entirety, with thanks to Guelph Today. Firstly, we join the community in congratulating John on receiving the prestigious Alexander Lincoln Award - richly deserved! Secondly, the article shares fascinating insights about some of the projects that John supported in Guelph during his amazing 45 years as a Rotarian. GUELPH TODAY ARTICLE - DECEMBER 3, 2020 John Valeriote recognized for his years of community service ‘I have been very fortunate,’ says John Valeriote about his community efforts and the people he's worked with Dec 3, 2020 10:00 AM By: Ariel Deutschmann  John Valeriote. Kenneth Armstrong/GuelphToday file photo |
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Rotary Paint Night - Christmas Edition November 24, 2020Join us for Rotary's Christmas Paint Night with Ben McCarl and create your own acrylic painting of this adorable Santa. This free virtual event will run from 6:00 to 8:00 pm on December 13 on Zoom. All you need is a canvas, paints (red, blue, yellow, black and white), brushes and a festive attitude. Let Ben know if you and your kids would like to join this fun session online. Click here for our registration page. |
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Our latest Rotary donations helping worthy programs November 20, 2020In this strange COVID year, with so many of Rotary's normal fundraising activities restricted, our intrepid members are being creative in finding new opportunities and adaptations to old ones. For example, our 40th annual Lobsterfest dinner-dance-auction fundraiser in September became a dinner take-out with our silent auction successfully conducted online. While less funds were raised than in a 'normal' year, the committee still surpassed its goal of raising $15,000 for charity. And now those net proceeds are being disbursed to worthy causes. Read on to see how HOPE House and Shelldale are amongst the latest programs receiving special support from our Rotary funding. And a big thank you to all our hard-working Rotary fund raisers!
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Finding the balance during COVID-19: Special Guest - Dr. Nicola Mercer *UPDATE*November 20, 2020  What started out as a one-time webinar to bring together physical and mental health experts for a community conversation about FINDING THE BALANCE IN COVID-19 has become a well-attended SERIES of talks, clearly demonstrating their value in both information and inspiration. Attendance is free and donations are welcomed by Bracelet of Hope, the charity started by Dr. Anne-Marie Zadjlik and currently chaired by Tracey Curtis. Be sure to tune in for the next webinar on December 14, 2020. Sign up here. Here is the recording of the webinar held on Thursday, November 19 with special guest, Dr. Nicola Mercer. It was excellent and attended by over a thousand viewers. Read about it on Guelph Today here. Shown in the screenshot, L to R, are: Our regular awesome panel:
 Special guest on November 19 was:
SEE DR. MERCER'S LETTER TO THE COMMUNITY, BELOW. |
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Hospice Wellington's 40th anniversary and Rotary Guelph's 100th In the Fall 2020 newsletter of Hospice Wellington, Executive Director Pat Stuart wrote this:"Our 40th anniversary was not about a big celebration but rather a tribute to what we accomplish together. Thanks to people like Judith Tresidder who sat at community tables so long ago, daring to dream of this facility. I also thank Tracey Curtis, President of the Rotary Club of Guelph. This year marks her club’s 100 years of service in Guelph, one of their projects being the deep support of Hospice Wellington. This Rotary Club and all the Rotary Clubs in Guelph and Wellington have been steadfast friends to Hospice Wellington. We are so proud to have your motto of 'Service Above Self' at work here." The photo shows Pat and Tracey outside the building on Scottsdale Drive. |
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A Christmas shout-out for good causes November 14, 2020At this time of year, there are many appeals for wonderful events and fundraisers. In good community spirit, here's a shout-out to some of them, with links where you can get more details. Support where you can, but mostly, help by 'spreading the word'. Details are below about:
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Remembrance Day and red poppies
Poppies were highlighted in the famous poem, In Flanders Fields, written on the 3rd of May 1915, by John McCrae, a soldier-poet-physician who came from Guelph. The City of Guelph feels a particular attachment to the poem and to the commemorative red poppies worn each November. |
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Rotary Guelph's 2020 Christmas will be TWICE as good as usual!November 5, 2020  We’ve got both SPARKLES and CHRISTMAS IN THE BAG! Great news from the Rotary Club of Guelph. The COVID Grinch is NOT stealing our Christmas 2020! In fact, we are DOUBLING our Christmas celebrations this year to bring enjoyment to the community and support for local charities with both Rotary Sparkles in the Park and Rotary Has Christmas In The Bag. [Read more] |
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Finding the balance during COVID-19: Free monthly talksUPDATE: THIS EVENT WAS QUICKLY "SOLD OUT" ON EVENTBRITE BUT A RECORDING IS AVAILABLE HERE ON THE FACEBOOK PAGE ESTABLISHED FOR THIS SERIES November 3, 2020 Coping with the ongoing COVID pandemic is proving to be quite a challenge for many of us. To help us find a balance, a monthly series of talks has been scheduled to take place this winter, hosted by Dr. Anne Marie Zajdlik and Helen Fishburn of the Canadian Mental Health Association-Waterloo Wellington, with sessions facilitated by Marva Wisdom. Both Anne Marie and Marva are members of the Rotary Club of Guelph. Each session will have a community leader as guest speaker. The next session on November 9 will feature Dr. Doug Friars, Guelph Family Health Team and Guelph COVID-19 Clinic Lead. To participate, you need to sign up in advance, here: findingthebalanceduringcovid19.eventbrite.ca Attending is free but donations will be gratefully received and shared with Bracelet of Hope and HOPE House.  |
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Integrated Youth Services Network Wellington/ Guelph November 2, 2020A grassroots community initiative is well underway, led by the Rotary Club of Guelph, to bring an integrated youth services model to Wellington County and the city of Guelph. Where youth (age 12 – 26) are at the centre of services that are available in our community, and youth have equal access to a continuum of services from employment to mental health and addiction services.  Our vision includes service providers working together to enhance the integration of services and build a system to better meet the needs of youth in our community. |
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Rotary Paint Night - Halloween SUCCESS!Sunday, October 25, 2020 Well THAT was fun for participants of all ages! Stay tuned for our next Virtual Paint Night with Ben.   |
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The Rotary Foundation (TRF)November is Rotary Foundation Month. The Rotary International Foundation transforms donations into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world. As the charitable arm of Rotary International, The Rotary Foundation (TRF) taps into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into Rotary priorities such as eradicating polio and promoting peace. Foundation grants empower Rotarians to approach challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, and malnutrition with sustainable solutions that leave a lasting impact. Strong financial oversight, a stellar charity rating, and a unique funding model mean that The Rotary Foundations makes the very most of all contributions. Donations to the End Polio Now campaign are matched 2-for-1 by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Give and become a part of Rotary’s life-changing work! |
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Update on our club's Centennial Legacy ProjectsOctober 23, 2020  Carolyn Weatherson, club past president 2019-2020, and Jim MacKenzie, chair of our club's centennial committee, provided the following update on our club's Centennial Legacy Projects with the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) and the City of Guelph.
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Rotary donates cheque and plaque to KidsAbility Guelph October 19, 2020The Rotary Club of Guelph has a long history of supporting children with special needs. In fact, one of the very earliest press clippings we found in our archives, while researching our hundred year history since 1920, was about this very topic. (Also well documented in our club's wonderful centennial book.) Today, the amazing KidsAbility organization serves thousands of children with special needs at locations in Guelph, Fergus, Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge. Our Rotary Club has been a supporter of KidsAbility for many years.  On October 19, 2020 we presented KidsAbility with a cheque for $2,000 as well as a plaque made to commemorate our long shared history in Guelph as part of our club's centennial. The plaque will be proudly displayed in the Guelph location. Pictured from left to right are: Elspeth Singh - daughter of Betty Raffan who is mentioned in the plaque; Tracey Curtis - president of the Rotary Club of Guelph 2019-2020; Linda Kenny - CEO of KidsAbility; Lisa Talbot - Executive Director of the KidsAbility Foundation. |
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Dr. Sylvia Whitlock: Rotary's first female president of a Rotary ClubOctober 16, 2020  Our Rotary Club was honoured to host Dr. Sylvia Whitlock as guest speaker, via Zoom from her home in California. What an entertaining and informative story she told about how women members were finally admitted to Rotary only after it actually became a 'civil rights issue' that went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court in 1987. The court ruled that Rotary did not meet the definition of a 'private club' and therefore could not exclude female members. While Rotary International lost its legal battle to remain a 'men's club' it proved fortuitous, as history shows. That same year, Sylvia became Rotary's first ever female president of a Rotary Club, thus breaking the glass ceiling for hundreds of thousands of women who have served in Rotary ever since. Sylvia also described how she is still a "Rotary Geek" serving humanitarian causes and encouraging absolutely everyone she meets to become Rotarian - as should we all.  Sylvia's personal and engaging story is on this video (36 minutes) where she is introduced by Jennifer Jones. Jennifer (a Canadian!) will become Rotary International's first ever female president in 2022-2023. Rotary has come a long way since its founding in 1905. www.youtube.com/watch?v=6HuYE6IbE4g&feature=youtu.be |
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Rotary Paint Night - Halloween EditionOctober 16, 2020 Our virtual paint night last August was so much fun, we’re doing it again on Sunday, October 25 from 6-8pm. We hope you'll join us with friends to enjoy two hours of stress-free, creative fun … a relaxing and rewarding break in these COVID-secluded times. And each $20 donation will help support Rotary projects, so you'll be doing good while having fun. Charitable tax receipts will be provided.  |
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Duck Race Winners!October 12, 2020 Many thanks to everyone who purchased ducks to support this Rotary fundraiser.  |
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Adopt-A-Family 2020 Campaign October 7, 2020Once again this year, the Rotary Club of Guelph will “Adopt-A-Family” for Christmas, and is asking for the usual generosity of club members and friends to become the Secret Santa for families in need. Liz Sandals, the club's campaign coordinator, says, "In 2019, our club supported five families, an increase over previous years (two families in 2017, three in 2018). How many families can we support this year? Let's make it a bumper year, because so many families are in need." Adopt-A-Family is a bit different for 2020, because of COVID
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Supporting the environment becomes a new area of Rotary International focusSeptember 27, 2020  With so much attention paid to COVID since March this year, this exciting announcement made on June 25, 2020 has received little recognition, but it's a big deal. Huge, in fact. "The Rotary Foundation Trustees and Rotary International Board of Directors have both unanimously approved adding a new area of focus: supporting the environment." Supporting the environment becomes Rotary's seventh area of focus, which are categories of service activities supported by global grants. It joins:
Global grant applications for projects will be accepted beginning on 1 July 2021. |
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Orange Shirt Day, September 30 September 30th is Canada's annual "Orange Shirt Day" in recognition of the harms done by the residential school system. It's a day when all Canadians should tune in and create bridges with each other for reconciliation. It's a day for survivors to be reaffirmed that they matter, as well as the many others who suffered effects. It's a day about self-esteem and well being. WEAR ORANGE on September 30 to show your support.The date, September 30, was chosen because that was the time of year the trucks and buses would enter Indigenous communities to “collect” the children and deliver them to their harsh new reality of cultural assimilation, abuse, shame and deprivation. A LEARNING OPPORTUNITY Many Canadians remain poorly informed about the history of residential schools and the generational after-effects, so here is a great chance to learn by attending a 1.5 hour webinar presented by the Rotary Club of Pickering and the Rotary-inspired HIP organization (Honouring Indigenous People). It's on September 30, 2020 from 4pm to 5.30pm. Details and pre-registration are here. ABOUT ORANGE SHIRT DAY... |
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Rotarians supporting Cameroon September 10, 2020For many years, our club has supported Rotary Global Grants in Cameroon, working in close contact with the Rotary Club of Kumbo. We have formed a strong bond with past president Ibrahim Yaouba of RC Kumbo, who oversees our Rotary projects there and who visited us in Guelph about 15 months ago. Ibrahim has updated us regarding the desperate humanitarian tragedy in Cameroon's NorthWest region where our projects are located. Local lives continue to be impacted by the effects of continuous displacement, confrontations between the military and non-state armed groups, as well as the threats posed by the COVID-19 outbreak. Rural hospitals and clinics in Cameroon are bare, dilapidated and totally rundown. Rotary is stepping up to send shipments of medical supplies but help is needed to cover the cost of shipping.
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A school named Hectorine Hectorine Villanovich, wife of our former club member Aldo, passed away on July 22, 2020 after a long illness. Her memory will live on through this couple's tireless Rotarian work in supporting poor communities in Guatemala. In fact, a school will be named after Hectorine. After relocating from Guelph to Burlington, Aldo joined the Rotary Club of Burlington Lakeshore, and that club is spearheading the next improvements to Hectorine's special school in Guatemala. Donations are welcomed.
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Celebrating Guelph Rotary in hundreds of ways
When Rotary reached its centennial in Guelph this year, the Rotary Club of Guelph-Trillium decided to celebrate 100 years of Guelph Rotary in hundreds of ways. RECOGNIZING VOLUNTEERS x 100 The call went out to nominate local non-Rotarian volunteers who make or have made a difference by helping others with their Service Above Self. 100 volunteers will be selected and recognized over the coming weeks, each one is being thanked during a weekly meetings of the Guelph-Trillium club. Each volunteer will also receive a letter of thanks, a certificate and $100 towards their chosen cause. Nominations are still being accepted. Email info@trilliumrotary.org for more information.
A goal was set to collect and donate 100 dozen eggs and 100 blocks of cheese for the Food Pantry at Chalmers Community Services. Since June, over 249 dozen eggs and 102 blocks of cheese have been collected for the Pantry! 100 cheers for the Rotary Club of Guelph-Trillium. We are so proud of you! |
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We are "This Close" to ending polio in the world!August 25, 2020 The World Health Organization has officially certified the Africa region to be free of wild poliovirus. This milestone comes four years after Nigeria — the last polio-endemic country in Africa — recorded its final case of wild polio. It’s a significant step forward in the fight to eradicate polio and protect the world’s children from this paralyzing disease.  |
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Up close and personal with Steve Dyck
Steve joined Rotary in October 2019 with the classification “Solar Energy.” He is the owner of Guelph Solar, a rapidly growing company headquartered in Guelph. Steve was the Green Party candidate in the last Federal Election. Steve's life story is fascinating, especially as he marvels at the changes that have occurred. What hasn't ever changed is his constant love of people, starting with his family, and living up to his lifelong value for decision-making: Will it be beneficial to all?
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DEVON CLUNIS, WINNIPEG POLICE CHIEF (Retired) Watch the video recording here. "This is why I come to Rotary," commented one member during this presentation This week's well-advertised meeting was attended by over 70 individuals, including many prominent guests. The very high expectations regarding our speaker were easily exceeded by his authentic presence and compelling story. He told about a little boy called Devon Clunis suddenly transplanted from Jamaica to Winnipeg at age 11, with the cultural shock and difficulties that ensued but overcome with help from special individuals in his life. All of which led him to a life of service helping others, and becoming the first Black Police Chief in Canada. What an uplifting story, and what a message of hope and inspiration about the POWER OF ONE that each of us can be if we just treat others with dignity and simply ask, "HOW CAN I HELP YOU?" Special tribute this week: Two of our longstanding members had anniversaries of note: Ron Newton, a Rotarian for 67 years, and Joe Valeriote, a Rotarian for 53 years! Congratulations, and thank you for your lifetime of Service Above Self.
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Rotary District Grant to help Food4Kids GuelphAugust 13, 2020  A Rotary District Matching Grant of US$8,000 is going to help Food4Kids Guelph with the purchase of grocery gift cards being mailed to families needing help during these Covid times. All four Rotary Clubs in Guelph are chipping in $1,000 each that will be matched by a Grant from our Rotary District 7080.
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Rotary online painting class a great successAugust 7, 2020 When Covid-19 struck in March 2020, and shutdowns suddenly occurred everywhere, even the university closed down, and most students returned home.  However, about 60 international students were stranded at the University of Guelph and could not get home for various reasons. Since then, life has been been difficult for these young students, isolated on campus in Guelph with little to do and far from home.So how did a bunch of them end up participating in a Rotary Online Painting Class, led by Ben McCarl from the Rotary Club of Guelph, learning to paint this Night Sky scene?
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Rotary International Grant for Indigenous youth "Water First" internships in OntarioAugust 7, 2020  Dianne Dance, Chair of our club's Indigenous Awareness Committee, shared wonderful news at our weekly meeting about successful grant applications that will enable three initiatives to proceed within Ontario. This is so inspiring!
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Weekly meeting August 7, 2020 Program:
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Rotary International will get its first woman President in 2022-23 August 6, 2020It is exciting news that Rotary International's president for 2022-23 will be a woman, and from Canada! Read the full story about Jennifer Jones below.
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18 remarkable years of the 1*2*3 GO! programJuly 31, 2020 Today our club paid warm tribute to Jean Truex, wife of our club member Paul Truex, for her 18 years of dedicated service in creating and running the Rotary-supported pre-school and early literacy program in Guelph called 1*2*3 GO! Brian Martin, chair of our club's Literacy & Numeracy Committee for two years, reported that the 1*2*3 GO! program would not be resuming when schools reopen next September because the program's operating space at the Tytler Public School is no longer available due to renovations. THANK YOU, Jean, on behalf of the hundreds of children whose lives you have improved. |
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Weekly meeting July 31, 2020 Program:
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Our centennial exhibit at the Guelph Civic MuseumJuly 28, 2020 NEWSFLASH: ROTARY'S CENTENNIAL EXHIBITION WILL REMAIN ON DISPLAY UNTIL NOVEMBER 1, 2020  On July 24, the Guelph Civic Museum finally re-opened to visitors after a long closure due to Covid-19, but you can't just drop in. You have to book a "timed admission ticket" online through their website. No worries - their booking system is pretty easy. Terrie Jarvis said, "I was very keen to visit the museum to see the Rotary Guelph Centennial exhibit created by our talented Rotarian, Ben McCarl." As a member of the Centennial Committee, Ben had brought both his creative and engineering skills to this wonderful Rotary display at the museum. Here are some pictures of our exhibit ... but seeing it in real-life is even better.
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Weekly meeting July 24, 2020
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Rotary Centennial Book - now availableJuly 27, 2020  Here is news we have all been waiting for. Our club’s Centennial Book (1920-2020) is finally available in print, and it is fantastic. Congratulations to Tom Funk and Justin Funk for producing this incredible record of Rotary's remarkable history in Guelph. It’s beautifully assembled, very informative and totally inspiring. This is a great opportunity to relive many great Rotary memories. Every Rotarian should have a copy on his/her coffee table. |
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Club updates from our weekly meeting July 17, 2020Another week, and another wonderful Rotary meeting with plenty of information for club members, including:
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New Member: Welcome Lucy Mutharia July 17, 2020 This week, our Rotary Club gained another awesome member, Dr. Lucy Mutharia, who was warmly introduced by Noma Vales. Lucy, we are all looking forward to getting to know you.
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Snippets Friday July 3rd 2020 NEW ROTARY PRESIDENT TRACEY CURTIS New Rotary President Tracey Curtis welcomed Rotarians to her inaugural meeting of the Club on July 3, 2020. She reminded everyone that she was wearing the 1957 vintage Rotary medal. Donated by member Ab Moore to Past President Carolyn Weatherson (2019-2020), it is worn as a symbol of office for the new president each year. To open the meeting, Tracey chose the beautiful trumpet music of Oh Canada by William Leathers of Mississauga, a 2020 graduate of the Juilliard School (of music) in New York City. (see You Tube for more details). |
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Handing over the club president medallion
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New Member: Welcome Felix ArndtJuly 3, 2020  Tom Funk introduced new member Felix Arndt who came to Guelph from Berlin, Germany and is the John F Wood Chair in Entrepreneurship in the Department of Management, in the Gordon S. Lang, School of Business and Economics at the University of Guelph. Felix also holds positions as a Research Fellow at the Center for Business and Sports of the Stockholm School of Economics, Sweden, and is a Visiting Professor at the University of Agder, Norway. He has purchased a home in Guelph and plans to be getting married soon. Felix is active in sports and gymnastics, and has been a coach and international judge for Dragon Boat racing. Welcome, Felix, as the newest member of the Rotary Club of Guelph. |
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Our amazing 2019-2020 Rotary year On Friday, June 26, 2020, the Rotary Club of Guelph's outgoing president, Carolyn Weatherson, summarised our club's amazing 2019-2020 year. It's a must-read!"Fellow Rotarians, this year you put your heart and soul into incredible projects that are uplifting our community, our country, and vulnerable people far beyond our borders. What all of you have accomplished this year is nothing short of inspiring. It has been such an honour and a privilege to serve you during this historic year. Please raise your glasses for a toast: TO TEAMWORK!" |
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Gary Tatum Youth Awards 2020June 2020 Our club extends warm congratulations to the following 2020 winners of the Gary Tatum Rotary Achievement Award:
The Public school award winners will be announced at their fall commencement ceremonies. |
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Rotary Program: David Akin - Chief Political Correspondent for Global NewsWe have a very special program lined up for this Friday. |
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Rotary Program: Jim Rooney - Guelph Sports Jim Rooney chatted with us on the theme of his podcast Teammates - Our Individual and Collective Journey Through Life. |
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Rotary Program: Shakiba Shayani - Guelph Chamber of CommerceWe were pleased to welcome Guelph Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Shakiba Shayani to our Club Zoom meeting. Shakiba shared her insights as her team and its members work to support our community during this pandemic, and beyond.
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Covid-19 closures impact on Rotary eventsMarch 29, 2020 President Carolyn Weatherson announces postponement of our Rotary Forest Day and Rotary Centennial Gala (April 25) and cancellation of Rotary Canada Day in the Park 2020 (June 30 / July 1), due to Covid-19. Link  |
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Club Members - Share your HAPPY BUCKS hereMarch 20, 2020 While our weekly club meetings are suspended due to COVID-19 closures, President Carolyn has a great idea: let's stay in touch by sharing our HAPPY BUCKS here. In true Rotary style, many of us are finding things to be grateful for in these trying times!  |
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Rotary Guelph's Centennial Project While celebrating our past, we look to the future and look to the sky. Our centennial project has four components and will leave a lasting legacy in Guelph.  PlanetariumLearn about the sky in the inflatable Planetarium at the new Guelph Lake Nature Centre. An awe-inspiring education tool for all ages! Look to the sky from a new observatory at Guelph Lake. With a retractable roof and three powerful telescopes, it is an ideal location for stargazing, where everyone can broaden their minds and be inspired by the wonder of the universe.  Year Round TrailsAccess the Observatory and Nature Centre using the new, fully accessible, year round Trails that link to Guelph’s trail network, running from Victoria Road around Guelph Lake and through the Rotary Forest. Nature Centre Rotary also contributed toward the Grand River Conservation authority’s new Nature Centre, a gathering place for park visitors to access information and experience the Planetarium. The Centre will have modern learning spaces for over 20,000 young people who will benefit each year from hands on programs. The Rotary Club of Guelph's Centennial Project is delivered with the support of:     |
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Ken Hammill, Guelph Icon and Rotarian February 7, 2020Yesterday, we received the sad news that Ken Hammill has passed away. He was 91. His legacy and impact on our Guelph community is immeasurable, with widespread agreement that "Ken Hammill made Guelph a better place." He was also a longstanding Rotarian at our club, leaving his valued imprint on our organization, too. Amongst his many, many achievements, Ken was a founding member of The Guelph Community Foundation so it was fitting for Chris Willard, our fellow Rotarian and current Executive Director of The Foundation, to provide a moving, personal tribute to the memory of Ken at our Rotary Club meeting. Click below to read Chris Willard's tribute. Also see the wonderful tributes to Ken in Guelph Today, the Guelph Mercury Tribune, and the Mayor's Statement. |
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Rotary Club of Guelph's 100 year history, in 30 minutes.png) January 31, 2020 Our fellow Rotarian, Tom Funk, has spent the past two years scouring our club archives and gathering information on various topics to produce a book about our club's first 100 years in Guelph. The book will be available for purchase in the next few months. This week at Rotary, Tom provided a fantastic 30-minute overview about our club's long history and amazing contributions. You could have heard a pin drop, and everyone left the meeting with smiles and a warm sense of Rotary pride. Tom's presentation was inspiring, prompting comments such as "If I wasn't already a Rotarian, I would definitely want to become one after hearing all that!" |
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Lucky Iron Fish January 24, 2020 One of the great things about our Club is the incredible quality of the inspiring speakers each week!
University of Guelph alumni, Gavin Armstrong, developed a product for malnourished people in developing nations that is helping 100's of thousands here at home too: The Lucky Iron Fish. I use it! You can get it at Danby here in Guelph. When you buy one they automatically give one to someone in need somewhere in the world. |
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Rotary Club of Guelph supports the Guelph Lake Nature Centre |
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Rotary Guelph supports Beyond Borders Charity Gala 2020January 18, 2020 The four Rotary Clubs of Guelph proudly came together as a Diamond Sponsor of the Beyond Borders Charity Gala for 2020. With Rotary celebrating 100 years in Guelph, it was a great opportunity to showcase Rotary in the Guelph community.  Beyond Borders is a unique one-semester program offered to Grade 12 students in Guelph. The program focuses on leadership development, business, math, and global development and sustainability. There is a strong emphasis on team-building, skill development, and experiential learning. This inspiring program is led each year by teacher Mike Parsons, in the Upper Grand District School Board.  This year, around 50 students participated in the Beyond Borders program, culminating with their Charity Gala at the River Run Centre on Saturday evening, January 18, 2020. All 750 show tickets were sold out, and they also had a wonderful silent auction with over 100 items, plus exceptional food treats for guests in the lobby. The students are only given about 6 weeks to prepare this huge Charity Gala event, and each year, the students do an amazing job. It's hard to imagine how each gala could possibly be better than the one before, but somehow they continue to raise the bar with their amazing effort and talent. The 2020 gala was called "Illuminate: Be The Light". And wow - these students shone in a big way, raising $114,500 for charity! |
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Why I love Rotary, by Carolyn Weatherson
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Centennial Pins now available
Celebrate 100 years of Service above Self by wearing the new Centennial Anniversary Pin. Lapel pins will be available to purchase ($10 per pin) at the club meeting January 3 and subsequent meetings. Wear the Centennial Pin and show the community you are a proud member of Rotary in Guelph. |
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Yes! There is a Santa ClausFive local families will wake up Christmas morning and know for a fact that the spirit of Santa Claus is alive and well, thanks to the generosity of the Rotary Club of Guelph members. Our club members donated $3,000 and with a corporate donation from Walmart of $1,000, 8 adults and 11 children will have presents under the tree for Christmas morning. These families are referred to the Adopt-A-Family program by social workers and community agencies who will also deliver the presents to the families.
The gifts we purchased for these families were largely items they NEED such as food gift cards, winter clothing, diapers, car seats, boots, bedding, etc. However we were able to also buy gifts on their WANT list, like lego, chromebooks, wagons, LOL dolls, electronic games, learning toys, jewellery kits, markers and art supplies. A sincere Thanks and WAY TO GO from the Children and Youth Committee Pictured above are Courtney McGillivray, Store Manager, Walmart, Guelph Stone Road store and on right is Rotarian Dianne Dance.
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Doc Doc
October 22, 2019 No one is going to win a prize for identifying the licence plates on a vehicle that is parked near 135 Ferguson Street in Guelph most Fridays. These special plates read DOC DOC and belong to non-other than Rotarian Dr. C. Harold “Hal” Jackson, a member of the Rotary Club of Guelph who holds two PhD degrees (Doc Doc) from the University of Western Ontario, now corporately branded as Western University since 2012. |
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2019-07-07 Feeding Program - Bamenda, CameroonAn update on use of our funding to Serophina & Prascilla
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2019-07-19 Bulletin |
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Henry Hank Valle 1920 - 2019Henry “Hank” Valle – Steel Wheels, Steam to Diesel and Beyond.  |
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May 24, 2019 Rotary Meeting - KidsAbilityRotary Club of Guelph offsite meeting at KidsAbility On Friday, May 24, 2019, our Rotary Club held its weekly meeting offsite at the new KidsAbility Guelph hub on Imperial Road. The purpose was to provide our members with an update on KidsAbility, and the opportunity to tour their new hub which was opened in 2018, allowing KidsAbility to bring their various services under one roof, in a space designed for their specific needs. It was a fabulous visit for us! Read more about their Guelph hub here. After brief welcomes by Linda Kenny, CEO of KidsAbility, and Lisa Talbot, Executive Director of the KidsAbility Foundation, the key presentation was by Erin, mother of six year old Walter, this year's KidsAbility Ambassador.   Erin explained how KidsAbility had come into her family's life around the time Walter turned one and was failing to reach normal milestones in his development. She gives credit to KidsAbility for helping Walter to reach his sixth birthday. He has Leigh's Syndrome, a severe and fatal neurological disorder. Walter stood by patiently while his mum spoke, sporting a fancy hairstyle for Crazy Hair Day at school!Read more about Walter's story here.  President Paul Dredge presented our Rotary Club's cheque for $4,000 to KidsAbility. Young Walter seems a bit unsure about the big guy standing alongside his mum! Also in the picture are Lisa Talbot, Linda Kenny, and Walter's sisters.Rotary has supported KidsAbility from its very start back in 1957, and continues to be a major supporter throughout Waterloo Region and Wellington County. KidsAbility extends their huge thanks to Rotary in this short video which can be viewed here. Please watch it! We are very grateful to KidsAbility for their remarkable help given to children and families needing specialized support in our communities. We also thank them for hosting our club's offsite meeting. It was great! _____________ |
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May 17, 2019 Rotary meeting - Induction & Classification
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A NEW INITIATIVE: Integrated Youth Services Network ModelMay 1, 2019 An Integrated Youth Services Network Model for Guelph and Wellington County Rotary has a long and proud history of helping to make good things happen in communities. The Rotary Club of Guelph is now facilitating a significant local project - to make youth services more accessible by providing youth with a centralized system to gain access to everything from employment counselling to mental health and addiction help. The Challenge We are fortunate to have many wonderful health and wellbeing services in our area, but they are spread out and independent from each other, making it difficult (often impossible) for individuals to find and access the right resources in a timely way when needed. This challenge is especially true for young people needing help, with mental health and related concerns topping the list. So … what if we could change this situation, and somehow make it easier for young people and their supporters to “navigate the system” and get friendly, knowledgeable, speedy help through a one-stop shop? A place that is attractive, warm and welcoming so youth want to be there? A grassroots community initiative towards this aim is well underway in Guelph-Wellington, led by the Rotary Club of Guelph. The Vision To establish an Integrated Youth Services Network for Wellington County and the city of Guelph, where youth (age 12 – 26) are at the centre of services that are available in our community, and youth have equal access to a continuum of services from employment to mental health and addiction services. Our vision includes service providers working together to enhance the integration of services and build a system to better meet the needs of youth in our community. |
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Indigenous Awareness Committee2019 Indigenous Youth Award presented by the Rotary Club of Guelph The Rotary Club of Guelph has great pleasure in announcing Alexis Hamilton as the winner of the 2019 Youth Award at the annual “Turtle Island Heritage Festival” in Wellington County. The Award Certificate was accompanied by a $500 cheque from Rotary to help Alexis further her education.  The annual Turtle Island Heritage Festival celebrates Indigenous history and culture. The event is hosted by the Wellington County Museum and Archives in coordination with the Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB), the Grand River Métis Council, and other representatives from the community. Each April, the museum invites both high school and elementary school groups to spend a day at the museum participating in interesting and informative workshops. With about 300 students attending per day, this year’s festival was attended by some 1,200 local students over a four-day period. 
Each year, the organizing committee of the Turtle Island Heritage Festival selects a student of Indigenous ancestry to receive Rotary’s annual Indigenous Youth Award for demonstrating leadership qualities in the community and in the promotion of Indigenous culture. Alexis Hamilton, this year’s Award Winner is 16 years old and a grade 11 student attending College Heights Secondary School (CHSS). Alexis is the daughter of a 60's Scoop survivor, and has become a key member of her Anishinaabe Community. She is a part of the Community Health Centre Indigenous Healing Advisory, the UGDSB First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) Council, and has attended many ceremonies with Nancy Rowe at the Kinomaagaye Learning Lodge. Last year she also helped orchestrate the Guelph Walkout in protest of Doug Ford's curriculum changes to Indigenous Curriculum. During this protest, Alexis made an impassioned speech addressing identity problems concerning Indigenous Youth. Alexis has also created presentations on the Indigenous Water Crisis, and Social Justice Issues in Indigenous Communities, and has presented to many different classes at CHSS. Alexis has participated in three Sweat Lodge ceremonies as well as the 13 Moon Teachings Ceremonies at the Kinomaagaye Learning Lodge. She attended the Pow Wow at Conestoga College. She has also attended many Indigenous Workshops at the Guelph Community Health centre, e.g. beading, moccasin making, and shaker making. The Rotary Club of Guelph is proud to honour exceptional students such as Alexis, and sincerely hopes she will one day become a Rotarian as she continues to live up to Rotary’s global motto of“Service Above Self”. |
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Rotary Forest 2019UPDATE TO THIS ARTICLE: Despite the weather turning out to be freezing cold with high winds on our Rotary Forest Day, about 400 volunteers still showed up and planted a whole bunch of trees! 12th annual tree planting at Guelph's Rotary Forest on Saturday, April 27, 2019 This year, a total of 6,800 trees will be planted by volunteers in the Rotary Forest at Guelph Lake Conservation Area April 22, 2019 by: GuelphToday Staff  Several Girl Guides and Sparks groups came out to plant during the 2018 tree-planting event at Rotary Forest at Guelph Lake Conservation Area. Tony Saxon/GuelphToday file photo Rain or shine, a total of 6,800 new trees will be planted this spring as part of the Rotary Club of Guelph’s legacy project that seeks to plant a total of 60,000 trees by 2020. The Rotary Club of Guelph is partnering with the Grand River Conservation Authority and Grand River Conservation Foundation for its Rotary Forest tree-planting event on April 27. “We are calling on environmentally-minded citizens to help transform a 40-hectare area, across from the Guelph Lake Nature Centre, into a wonderful new resource for our community, with trees that will clean our air and link nearby forest habitat to create a corridor for wildlife,” said the Rotary Club of Guelph in a press release. Now in its 12th year, the Rotary Forest tree-planting began as a legacy project to celebrate the Rotary Club of Guelph’s one-hundredth anniversary, which will occur in 2020. This year, participants will create a ‘pioneer species’ grove, which will include the planting of species that are traditionally first to populate abandoned fields or previously-forested areas destroyed by fire. The 28 species being planted this year will include white birch, trembling and largetooth aspen, eastern cottonwood and balsam poplar. A ceremonial white birch will be planted during the event. Rotary Club of Guelph notes the white birch is an iconic northern tree, used by Indigenous groups in the building of birch bark canoes, as well as a wide variety of other uses. The Rotary Forest is in the process of transforming a 40-hectare area across from the soon-to-be-built Guelph Lake Nature Centre into a new resource for the community. When it is completed in 2020, a total of 60,000 trees will have been planted. Participants are encouraged to wear boots and learn how to plant trees between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. while having fun with friends, family and neighbours. Parking is available at Lakeside Church on Conservation Drive, with a shuttle bus to drive participants to and from the planting site. A shuttle bus will also leave Guelph Central Station every hour on the hour from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. from platform 15. The downtown shuttle will make one stop at the corner of Woodlawn Road West and Victoria Road at 15 minutes past the hour. Refreshments and food will be available to purchase. Participants are asked to bring their own containers. Wild Ontario will be on site with demonstrations of birds of prey and musical entertainment will be provided by Terry Van Dreumel.  |
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What it means to be a RotarianOur member, Ruth Thatcher, shares these wonderful reminders that were sent to her by a Rotarian friend in Scotland. A ROTARIAN IS SOMEONE WHO, THROUGH THEIR EFFORTS: Digs wells from which they will never drink Restores eyesight for those they will never see Builds houses they will never live in Vaccinates children they will never meet Plants trees they will never sit under Educates children they will never know Feeds hungry people, regardless of colour, race, or politics Knows real Happiness Thanks for sharing, Ruth! |
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Remembering Bill WinegardOur beloved Rotarian friend and highly esteemed Guelphite, Dr. Bill Winegard, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2019 at the age of 94.  Our club dedicated the following Friday's weekly meeting to Remembering Bill, with m |
Although these groups share many similarities, they each have their own distinct heritages, languages, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs. 
February 15, 2021
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EGGS AND CHEESE x 100
Steve Dyck was our guest speaker this week with his Classification Talk which is now known in our club as an Up Close & Personal presentation. Our club loves these opportunities to get to know more about newer members!
Watch the video recording 
