As an RCNS Regular Member, did you know that almost all of the information found on your home-based, Club Runner (CR) desk-top computer access, can be found on your cell phone?
All you need to do is download the CR App from any App Store and install it on your phone. To download the CR App from the Apple App Store or from Google Play, simply type in 'ClubRunner' in the search bar.
The enclosed, ~1 minute, video provides for some information and instructional assistance.
Once installed, your phone will then provide you with easy access to data from our RCNS records such as;
links our club and district websites;
regular club member personal contact information (phone numbers, addresses etc);
an up-to-date schedule of events and speakers; and
recent stories.
Those who have it on their phones use it frequently - if you don't have it yet, why not give it a try!
Do You Have the Club Runner (CR) App on Your Mobile Device?
On Tuesday morning, 20 June 2023, Gail Bouw welcomed Kim Dziegiel as our Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, she spoke to us about assisting with the existing municipal permitting process and the role her shop (The Permit Shoppe) can play in such concerns.
In consideration of Kim's corporate experience as an employee on the Norfolk County staff as well as her skill at navigating the municipal permitting processes as a private consultant, we were treated to a detailed look into a very bureaucratic and difficult situation. The briefing proved to be most informative and was followed by many questions.
More information about Kim may be found by going to the "Read more ...' tab.
On behalf of the Club, President John concluded with an expression of appreciation to Kim for a well-prepared presentation - too bad that such a need exists but so great that such consultative services are present to guide the way.
Following six, successfully-concluded licences of our ever-popular Catch the Ace (CTA) fundraiser, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, with the support of the Port Dover Legion Branch 158, restarted the contest on Friday, 09; this our seventh licence - it will conclude once the Ace of Spade is finally drawn.
Once a licence is concluded, a summary of the results is generated. This summary information is then shared with the local print media and can also be found on this web-site - ie see our FUNdraiser Tab at the top of this website to see the results and winners of our sixth licence.
For those who follow the CTA game on a more regular basis, the best way to stay abreast of the current results is to visit our FaceBook site. You may find an image of our FB Page as a panel on this web-page or you may wish to visit our FB Page by clicking on this link. Alternatively, the results are also posted to our weekly RCNS Bulletin (the 'Sunriser'). Normally, it is released to our members and friends on a weekly basis. If you are not a subscriber and you might wish to join the mailing list, please see the 'RCNS Bulletin Subscribe' panel as given at this website.
Just before his passing, our first club president, Keith Flexman organized a car rally - it was one of the very last things he contributed to the club. To honour all that Keith meant to us, we have continued with that event ... it's fun, it brings us together and it helps the community.
So, we are now ready for our fourth annual Flex's Road Rally - it will start at 1pm on Sunday 29 Oct and will start at the St Williams Community Centre - it's now time to sign up!
Go to the 'Read more ..' tab for more details and a copy of the event poster.
On Tuesday morning, 19 Sept 2023, we welcomed our own Dave Nicolle as our Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, he spoke to us about his recent trip to Southern Africa.
In his very entertaining and informative presentation, Dave noted that this long-planned trip this past April, had been intended as a motorcycle adventure and a family reunion. In respect of his 14 day, 10 bike, 18 rider, 3000km motorcycle tour (see the 'Read more ..' tab), Dave noted that he passed through 5 countries, witnessed many wildlife and nature parks, saw some unique & exceptional scenery and made friends with a terrific international group. He filled-out his one-month adventure by describing how good it was to reconnect with his family in that part of our world.
Dave's most excellent presentation was followed by as many questions as time permitted, as well as a note of Club gratitude from Gail Catherwood who recounted her own similar travel experience.
More information about the Dave's motorcycle tour may be found by clicking on this link.
On an absolutely beautiful Saturday morning, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise was hosted to a tour of Suncrest Orchards by the owners Hayden & Amanda Dooney.
This morning-out was so informative. There is no doubt that the fruit industry is such a central part of the local economy; indeed life of Norfolk County and Hayden and Amanda provided so many glimpses into why this is so. Fascinating to learn the rewards, risks and complexities of running such an operation. So great to meet a group of the visiting workers who are essential to getting the job done.
We are indebted to have County citizens such as the Dooneys and grateful for their hospitality and willingness to share their stories.
Additional photos from the day are given at the 'Read more ...' tab. Well done to Dave Douglas for planning and setting up the tour.
Once again members of the RCNS were out in force, this time making floral arrangements for the 2023 Run for the Cure fashion show. The beautiful arrangements will be given away as door prizes at the end of the show. In true Rotary fashion food was also featured as we lunched on a potluck chili, corn bread and lots of sweets.
In attendance were RCNS members Gail Catherwood, Carol Mummery, Pam Shantz, Linda Muir, Bettyann Carty, Michele Langedyk and Joanne Kiefer. Joining in with the fun were Lyndsey (Dave King's daughter at whose location the event was held prepping flowers for us), and Dana (from the Run for the Cure committee).
Ever wanted to know a bit more about Rotary and what's going on with our service club??
Just for YOU, our Membership Committee is organizing an introduction/orientation to Rotary. Everyone (new member, interested friend, curious bystander??) is welcomed to attend Venture Norfolk at 7pm on Tuesday, 26 September.
The only thing you need to bring are your questions!
On Tuesday morning, 26 Sept 2023 we will welcome Kim Dziegiel as our Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, she will speak to us about improving the municipal permitting process and the role her shop (The Permit Shoppe) can play in such concerns.
More information about the Kim may be found by going to the "Read more ...' tab.
We encourage open attendance by all of those who are interested in this topic. If you would like to join in (either in-person at R83, or by hybrid zoom link), please contact our RCNS meeting coordinator at your earliest opportunity at this email link.
On Tuesday morning, 19 Sept 2023 we will welcome our own Dave Nicolle as our first Guest Speaker of the new season. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, he will speak to us about his recent trip to South Africa.
We encourage open attendance by all of those who are interested in this topic. If you would like to join in (either in-person at R83, or by hybrid zoom link), please contact our RCNS meeting coordinator at your earliest opportunity at this email link.
Guest Speaker 19 Sept '23 - Dave Nicolle - Adventures in South Africa
They are back from their Ukrainian homeland; safe in Canada and they are most grateful for this great personal turn of events.
Alex, Yuliia & Yeva, having lived in Canada before (Yullia is a past-member of our RCNS Club), returning to their native Ukraine at the onset of the current conflict. Now, they are living an opportunity to restart their lives in Canada and have been the recipients of Canadian hospitality and generosity. Indeed, our RCNS has offered much moral, materiel and financial support and has been active in getting them settled into their new community in St Thomas. Not to be outdone, the Rotary Club of St Thomas has stepped up and is offering terrific support as well.
In any event, we were glad to welcome them back at our recent 'Welcome Back BBQ' and to reset our support relationships. In turn, Yuliia offered a glimpse of her Ukrainian kindness and appreciation by presenting President John Wallace with several gifts representing Ukrainian heritage - a Cossack Bulava (battle mace), two Tulkas (smoking pipes), several packs of chocolate (from Pres Zelensky's own factory) and a bottle of horilka (Topijika Freedom Edition vodka). John's first Board meeting should be an interesting one!
We all welcome Alex, Yuliia and Yeva back to their second home - Canada!
Photo shows (left to right) James Kristos, Rudi Atkinson, President John Wallace (menacingly holding onto the bulava), Yuliia, Yeva & Alex. Several additional photos are show at the 'Read more ...' tab.
Meet Macarena (Maca) Gimeno! She hails from Valencia, in Spain, is our newest inbound exchange student and has been with us for two weeks now. She's busy making friends and even has her first day in school and attendance at her first Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise (RCNS) event under her belt! Interesting to add that our own Sophie Mummery has now made it to Sweden and has successfully started her own part of this international exchange adventure.
Maca's RCNS councillor is Rudi Atkinson and her first home hosts are Adam Woolley & Kareena Martin from Simcoe. They are the first of three host families who will care for Maca over the course of her one-year Rotary exchange in Norfolk County.
We all join in welcoming Maca and wishing her a great year with us. Speaking of home hosts, if you have any interest in this great RCNS program (Rotary member, friend of Rotary, interested on-looker?), do not hesitate to contact Rudi for information and/or advice.
Photo shows Adam, Maca and Rudi at our recent RCNS Welcome Back BBQ.
Notwithstanding a summer break to recharge our batteries, some 16 Club members (incl family and friends) were able to join together on Saturday 19 August, to attend a fundraising, 'Down-by-the-Wharf', dinner at the Port Dover Yacht Club; all in support of the local Sailing School.
The event included a surf-and-turf feast, creative decorations, an auction, live music and great fellowship. BZ.
Go to the "Read more ..." tab for a few additional photos of the evening.
Following a long (and continuing) planning process, the Ontario-based team selected to attend the bi-annual, Canada-to-Scotland, Rotary International curling exchange has been finalized - Keith Jones has been chosen to be the representative from our own Norfolk Sunrise Club. John Vallee has been selected from the Simcoe Club.
This news follows a very successful Scotland-to-Canada trip in 2022 and precedes the November 2024 trip where Keith and John will travel throughout Scotland, visiting many curling clubs and enjoying tremendous Scottish hospitality (yes; lots of haggis and scotch!). These two lucky curlers follow a long line of previous Rotarians (most recently, Jim Simpson & Margaret Bancroft) who have participated in this high-profile Canada-Scotland exchange event. Congratulations to both Keith & John.
For those who follow this RI exchange, the "Read more ..." tab shows the composition of the entire 2024 Canadian Team.
Mzuzu Hospital has recently accepted the optical instruments that the RCNS provided under our Global Grant. They are currently being trained on the equipment and are awaiting the third shipment of optical supplies to complete the project. Click on the 'Read more ...' tab for a note/photos from Operation Eyesight staff member Blessings Banda on this happy event.
Here's some 'food for thought' about our Rotary 'brand' - one interpretation of the symbology behind the cogged wheel, along with a timeline of its change over the years. Note the authorized Rotary Wheel logo is all gold now, the blue/gold version is past history
Video Game from a recent Rotary PI Conference. It's fun to watch but the 'One Voice, Every Club' idea is an important message RI is sending out these days.
On Thursday, July 13 a group of Rotarian ladies headed to Long Point to visit friend-of-the-club, Joyce Flexman. Joyce has always been a part of the Rotary family and she was thrilled to host this afternoon visit at her lovely home. Food and drink were provided but best of all some great fellowship was shared as everyone chatted and laughed. The picture of everyone shows just how much fun was had. Shown left to right are Bettyann Carty, Joanne Kiefer, Joyce Flexman, Linda Muir, Gail Catherwood, Gail Bouw, Andrea Matecsa, Louise Schebesch, and Tina Millea - missing from the photo were Pam Shantz, photographer and Yvonne Dipietro who thought the deck was a safer spot.A big thanks to Joyce for hosting.
An estimated 350 golfers teed off at the Greens of Renton Charity Golf Tournament on Tuesday, July 11. RCNS was one of 27 charities represented at the tournament. Our contribution was to host golfers to the Red 7 hole. Volunteers from RCNS manned that assigned hole in 3 hour shifts from 830 am until 730 pm when the rain stormed in. See the "Read more .." tab for additional information about the prizes related to our hole and the big winner!
Kudos to the Greensatrenton.com fore (pun intended) initiating such a great idea and thanks to all the great Rotarians for either golfing or stepping up once again to volunteer their time for such a worthy community support event.
As Rotarians, we believe in the 4-way test. By extension, we support the RI focus on Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI).
Our own Club approach has been to follow the RI lead, to strengthen our legacy policies, to set in place new initiatives to ensure compliance, to inform our members as appropriate and to appoint a Club Counsellor.
As a result, every active member of our Club has been afforded the opportunity to read into & understand the issues. Moreover, we have benefitted from a presentation on the same issues as provided at our meeting on 06 June; a presentation given by Emma Brown, one of our members with legal training, qualifications and experience. The key documents are as follows;
Significantly, we have been blessed with a volunteer who has come forward to act as our Club Counsellor. As a Club, we welcome Andrea Matecsa into this role. All are invited to click on the "Read more ..." tab to learn about what is involved with being a Club Counsellor and how she sees her appointment within the Club.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise (RCNS) donated $4,000 to the Port Dover Senior Centre (PDSC) from Catch the Ace funds and challenged the Port Dover Lions (PDL) to match this donation. As a result, the two organizations were able to jointly present $8,000 to the PDSC. Sue Finnie, President of PDSC is “extremely grateful for the generous donation from the RCNS and the PDL. As a new Centre, we are still in the building stage. We started with very little and are currently operating on mostly donated supplies and the good will of our volunteer facilitators and paid instructors.” The money received from the two service clubs will be used to furnish a rented room that has been relatively bare at the PDSC. This will provide a welcoming and comfortable environment for seniors and will be open for members to drop in for coffee, provide relaxed seating for workshops, and a place to store equipment for presentations. The PDSC is a volunteer based, community oriented, incorporated non profit organization. The Center seeks to enhance the lives of Seniors living in the Port Dover and surrounding area, by providing opportunities for personal growth, healthy lifestyles, community involvement and social connections, in a safe and inclusive environment.
Shown in the photo; from the PDL, Rick Weatherill & Brian Jamieson; from the PDSC, Lee Garrett & Sue Finnie and from the RCNS, Dave Nicolle, Mary Mercato & George Cornfield.
Newly minted President John Wallace joined the Canada Day celebration at Abel Enterprises for staff and volunteers.
With his 'Invasion of the Dragons' success behind him, Captain Canada aka Scott Williams prepares Dragon juice for our new President; a stiffener John appreciated as he takes on his newfound role!
Following the 2022-2023 activity year, it was time to enjoy ourselves at the Waterford Legion and to conclude some essential Club business before our summer break. It was planned as a great social moment to reflect on that which we have accomplished, to recognize our most recent Paul Harris recipients (see two accompanying stories), to induct our new Board for 2023-2024, to offer our thanks and respect to our Outgoing President Louise Schebesch and to welcome in our Incoming President John Wallace. Moreover, we were able to offer our gratitude to Outgoing District 7090 Governor Lisa Bishop for the role she has played in our Rotary lives over the past year.
Go to the 'Read more ...' tab to read more and/or to see selected photos from each of these events. Click on this link to see all of the photos of this event as kept on Club Runner.
Thanks to Club Services Chair, Gail Bouw for organizing the evening, the Waterford Legion for the wonderful meal and facility, Ross Gowan who lead us in prayer, as well as Keith Jones & Ross Gowan who provided emcee guidance through all of this.
Following the tragic events unfolding in The Ukraine, it happened that a Ukrainian family, fleeing the war, came to Norfolk County, more specifically to Port Dover. They had, only themselves. It became a community challenge to open arms and offer help to this family. It was an opportunity that Jennifer Rodger fully accepted.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise (RCNS) now recognizes Jennifer for the genuinely positive effect she has had on our community, the refugee situation in general and the specific plight of the Karida family. Go to the 'Read more ...' tab to be introduced to the Karida family and for the Paul Harris Award citation describing Jennifer's contributions. After the presentation, Jennifer addressed the group citing some additional background and offering her sincere gratitude to the RCNS for the help they (and many others) have provided. As the night had unfolded, she noted that a few people had asked about additional help requirements and that some had even enquired about private (anonymous) donations. To such an end, the following links are offered for the consideration of those with such an interest - the Norfolk Support for Ukrainian Refugees page at this link, as well as the Norfolk Catholic Parish page at this link,
Well done, Jennifer - you exemplify the Rotary credo - 'Service above Self'.
One of the three ways that a Paul Harris Fellowship may be awarded is for an individual to make a substantial personal financial contribution(s) to the Rotary Foundation.
As a result, in 2023 the Rotary Foundation has once again recognized Ross Gowan with a Paul Harris Fellowship for his ongoing donations to the Foundation. The Five-Sapphire(!) pin was presented by D7090 Assistant Governor Keith Jones at our 2023 Changeover Celebration at the Waterford Legion on 27 June.
A donation to the Rotary Foundation by Rotarians such as Ross, is the lifeblood of our corporate body, supporting projects around the world such as polio eradication, clean water, youth development and providing grant money back to Clubs for their local projects. We are so proud of our selfless RCNS leaders such as Ross.
On Tuesday morning, 20 June 2023, Andy Kooistra welcomed Ryan Elliot, Director of Structural Engineering at Vallee Engineering as our Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, he spoke to us about the history, re-construction and future plans for developing the Cst John Verral Bridge on the Queensway in Simcoe.
It was clear to all of us that Ryan's passion for his community is expressed in so many ways; not least of which is his work in ensuring that such examples of engineering support offer a link to the past and a connection to our community today. He explained the design allowed for a varying selection of art to be displayed beneath the bridge on the abutment walls and sought continuing support from our Club to bring this vision to fruition. The presentation was most informative. It was followed by questions as time permitted and a note of Club gratitude from both John Wallace and Ross Gowan.
More information about the this project may be found by clicking on this link. Additional photos related to the bridge are at the 'Read more ..' tab.
More information about our speaker may be found at the 'Read more ...' tab below.
At our morning meeting on 20 June, we were pleased to be able to make a donation to the ongoing development work going on in Port Dover as concerns the Silver Lake Revitalization Project.
Presenting the cheque on behalf of our Club were Community Service members Dave Nicolle and Jim Peters - accepting on behalf of the Port Dover Waterfront Preservation Association were Jim Dover and Jack Lavery from the Silver Lake team.
The donation goes towards funding some early signage along the lake - copies of the three 'story boards' we have funded are shown by clicking on the 'Read More ...' tab below.
Following the cheque presentation, Jim Dover expressed the team's gratitude and gave us a brief update on the progress being made - there's a long path in front but optimism along the way.
Following an earlier presentation by one of the Jr RYLA organizers (Aisley Ellis - see story below), the high school representative from Norfolk County at this years camp at Canterbury Hills in Ancaster gave us a full account of her excellent adventure. Avaia Bergan packed the short time allowed with a clear summary of what she experienced, why it was such a great opportunity for her and what she hops to exploit from her time as a Jr RYLA participant. See a few more photos at the 'Read more ...' tab.
It is so great hearing from these young people who take so much from the opportunities that come their way; so great to hear the change Rotary is making in their lives. Well done, Avaia!
Jim and Marjorie Dawson were recently in Pikangikum, a northern Ontario First Nation to provide canoe training for the Grade 7 class and the outdoor education class. After a number of recent tragedies in the community Cindy Spence the Principal of the EBS school asked Jim and Marjorie if they could come and provide a much needed distraction for the students who had recently lost a member of their class. They were able to get all three Grade 7 classes out for six hours of canoeing as they split the class into three sections and that allowed them to provide canoe training, and lots of fun for the students, most of whom had never been in a canoe before. Jim said it is amazing to see students with no experience quickly being able to handle a canoe even in windy conditions.
This is proving to be a terrific cancer support event for us; and the community - we are so pleased with our participants, our partners, our sponsors, our volunteers and everyone involved in getting the Dragons into Norfolk County - now, as long as the weather cooperates, we're looking forward to a wonderful weekend.
It was President Louise's aim that we all gather to hear an RCNS recap of the year; to listen to a summary from each of the committee leaders as related to their committee service over the past year.
So much to report on! So much activity on so many fronts. So good that we could have this kind of impact on the communities in which we live.
Given the nature of the meeting, it seemed only right that we gather for a group photo. Whilst not everyone could be present, we were still able to account for 38 of our present-day active membership of 47.
"Rotary in Service"
The source photo for the enhanced picture (shown to the left) is given at the "Read more ..." tab.
It has been several years since our Club has had a place to really call home; a place that corresponds with our aims and addresses our meeting place needs. As time has unfolded, it was becoming clear that our relationship with Church Out Serving as well as our support of the Food Hub (at R83) might meet all of our hopes and needs.
During the R83 development period, our Club has been hosted by Church Out Serving on many occasions - as often as it made sense to do so. Now that the development period is nearing the end, we see ourselves as being one of the many beneficiaries of that group's vision and work. This morning, we were treated to a sample of what the Food Hub can offer us; what it is to become and it is now quite evident that we have a great place to have our meetings as well as to join in with social fellowship thereafterwards.
Thank you Church Out Serving - what a blessing you are upon our community.
Perhaps as an aside to those who couldn't make it - the brekkie goodies were awesome!
A few additional photos of our first day of real fellowship as hosted by the Church Out Serving group are shown at the 'Read more ...' tab.
At our meeting on 30 May, Andi Matecsa welcomed back Aisley Ellis, a former Rotary student, who returned to speak to us about her experiences with the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA). Most recently, Aisley has been quite involved in the RYLA Junior camp (ie for High School aged youth), conducted at Canterbury Hills in the Ancaster vicinity. Aisley did a great job explaining her journey along the RYLA path as well as the values and benefits derived from this very valuable Rotary youth leadership program.
RYLA - a Path Towards Community Leadership - Part 1
On Tuesday morning, 30 May 2023 and on our collective behalves, David Douglas welcomed Kate Graham, Curator of the Port Dover Harbour Museum as our Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, she spoke to us about the history, development and various programs offered at this Norfolk County museum. In a very entertaining way, Kate regaled us with several stories/anecdotes related to personalities, artifacts, shipwrecks and the town. Along the way, she also touched upon the Museum's current exhibit entitled Cantelon: The Life and Work of William Edgar Cantelon.
All-in-all, it was a great presentation followed by questions as time permitted and a note of Club gratitude from Pam Shantz.
More information about the the Port Dover Harbour Museum may be found byclicking on this link. Additional content from the presentation at R83 is at the 'Read more ..' tab.
On Tuesday morning, 16 May 2023 and on our collective behalf, David Douglas welcomed Glen Gilvesy, owner/operator of Otter Creek Farms Ltd and Chair of the Ontario Ginseng Growers Assn (OGGA) as our Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, he spoke to us about a variety of issues related to a unique product that is increasingly important to Norfolk County. Representing a group of 160 Ontario-based, ginseng growers, Glen noted ginseng's history and the current impact that his export product generates. He commented on the roles of the OGGA in respect of representing the growers, supporting related research and promoting the international marketing of what amounts to millions of dollars of annual, agricultural sales to the far east.
All-in-all, it was a most enlightening presentation followed by many questions and a note of Club gratitude from Steve Malo.
More information about the OGGA may be found by clicking on this link. Additional content from the presentation at R83 is at the 'Read more ..' tab.
A small group of Rotarians and guests met Fisheries & Oceans rep Gary Caron for a fascinating and informative hour on Big Creek to see a Sea Lamprey control facility. Sea lamprey moved into the Great Lakes by means of the Welland Canal and are now in all the Great Lakes. The first detected in Lake Erie was in 1921. Gary catches up to 150 every day starting in April and ends in June. He weighs, documents the numbers and records the sex. A few are tagged and returned near the mouth of Big Creek to determine where they travel. Most are caught again in the trap within a few days. There is a demand in many parts of the world for Sea Lamprey where they are considered a delicacy. In Great Britain the Sea Lamprey is a protected species. I found it interesting that the Sea Lamprey caught at this site are disposed of in a wood lot where they are eaten by such things as coyotes and raccoons. The lamprey attach to the side of a soft scaled fish and pierce into the fish and suck out the nutrients until the fish dies. The lamprey numbers are also controlled by the application of a lampricide into the water. Thanks to the efforts of Gary we have an understanding of the Sea Lamprey.
Go to the 'Read more ...' tab for several additional photos taken during a most informative visit.
Licence #6 is a wrap - at least from a prize-winner perspective, the excitement came to a close several weeks ago and since then, we have been dispensing the proceeds. The weekly prizes have all been awarded and the Grand Prize winner has been announced - the scene is now set for another Licence #7 (planned to start on 09 June). In terms of the proceedings, a significant amount of the cash raised goes right back into the local community in accordance with AGCO and County policies and guidelines. The enclosed poster gives a reflection on the twelve community causes that our Club has supported with Licence #6 proceeds. We are proud to support this selection of community groups - they make us proud to be members of Norfolk County. Well done to the Community Service Committee for the work that goes into managing these donations. BZ.
An evening to remember at the Lynwood Art Centre ...
Surrounded by the talent of local artist Bruce Steinhoff, we celebrated our 27th birthday in style - chartered on 16 May 1996 and still going strong.
To mark the occasion, it was decided to focus on our own; in particular long-serving members as well as those making such a difference as they continue to offer 'Service before Self'.
Following a brief introduction to the evening's events, Gail Catherwood entertained us with several 'mini-wheat' presentations.
Assistant Governor Keith Jones recognized Lionel Ulrich, Rudi Atkinson and John Wallace for their continuing generosity to the Rotary Foundation, as did District Governor Lisa Bishop in respect of Keith Jones' own support. Jim Simpson presented a Paul Harris award to our own Joanne Kiefer. See the two separate, companion stories for details about these Paul Harris awards.
President Louise recognized Charter Members Peter Wheatley, Jim Peters and John Wallace for their long-term and continuing service.
With the member recognition concluded, Pres Louise stepped up to present a donation to Kim Shippey representing the Lynnwood Arts Centre; funds sufficient to help send 20 children to art camp this summer.
After all of that, it was time to eat, so Lynn Cornfield did the honours, cut the birthday cake and served up a small feast of celebration.
Addition information about the event as well as a collection of photos from the evening may be found at the 'Read more ..' tab below.
A more complete collection of photos may be found at our Club Runner site - click here.
One of the three ways that a Paul Harris Fellowship may be awarded is for the parent club to use its Foundation contribution points to nominate a particular member of its own club or the community at large.
At our 02 May 2023, Birthday Party at the Lynnwood Art Centre, Chair of the PI Cttee, Jim Simpson announced that Joanne Kiefer was to be recognized as a PHF for her ongoing and selfless contributions to our Club and the general community.In the presentation to Joanne, she was described as one of our strongest members, quietly serving in leadership roles, project/fundraising initiatives, membership concerns and public speaking roles/duties. Over the years, Joanne has capably lead several of our club committees (Club Services (18/19), Ways & Means (14/15) & Membership (10/11)) but her strong suit was said to be taking on community work that just needs to be done. Joanne has taken over and improved upon our Salvation Army festive-season collection programs. She has initiated the work that needed to be done to re-kit our new or older club members with new Rotary clothing. Joanne led the charge in our ‘Action’ series by organizing our collection and re-distribution of hygiene products for those in need. She has been a continuing & dedicated author of our ecards for club members in need. As a very active member of the PI Cttee Joanne has learned how to deal with the Print & Radio media and has had a very positive effect on getting great exposure for us. Being active in the local community also means that Joanne is an enthusiastic supporter and volunteer in the local ‘Strong Start’ program designed to help children age 5-7 years who are struggling with reading skills. Clearly, Joanne exemplifies 'service above self'.
Well done, Joanne - BZ. As a Club, we are all thankful for what you do to support the RCNS and are very proud of what you bring to our community presence.
One of the three ways that a Paul Harris Fellowship may be awarded is for an individual to make a substantial personal financial contribution(s) to the Rotary Foundation.
As a result, in 2023 the Rotary Foundation has once again recognized Lionel Ulrich, Rudi Atkinson, John Wallace and Keith Jones with Paul Harris Fellowships for their ongoing donations to the Foundation. The awards were presented by D7090 Assistant Governor Keith Jones and Governor Lisa Bishop at our birthday party at the Lynnwood Arts Centre on 2 May.
Donations to the Rotary Foundation by Rotarians such as these four, are the lifeblood of our corporate body, supporting projects around the world such as polio eradication, clean water and providing grant money back to Clubs for their local projects. We are so proud of these selfless RCNS leaders.
Photos of the four presentations to Lionel Ulrich, Rudi Atkinson, John Wallace and Keith Jones are shown at the 'Read more ...' tab below
On Tuesday, 25 April 2023 and on our behalves, Gail Bouw welcomed Rita-Marie Hadley, Executive Director of Lansdowne Children’s Centre (and Rotarian); Jennifer Huxley, Director of Client Services, Lansdowne Children’s Centre; Susan Battin, Autism Clinical Supervisor/Manager, Lansdowne Children’s Centre; and Sue Bailey, Family Service Coordinator, Haldimand Norfolk, HN REACH as our special guests. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, the team spoke to us about ideas regarding Children's Autism as they have experienced that condition at Lansdowne. More information about the Lansdowne Children Centre may be found by clicking on this link.
The Lansdowne team fielded several questions after which Bettyann Carty offered our appreciation for a most informative presentation of a very real issue being lived out by so many in our community - well done to our special guests.
RCNS had a good turnout to the District 7090 Conference on Saturday; Louise Schebesch, Keith Jones, Sophie Mummery (outbound exchange student), Andi Matecsa, Wolf Lindemann, Gail Bouw. District Governor Lisa Bishop & her partner Lionel were part of the contingent travelling to New York from Norfolk.
In the picture to the left; Wolf Lindemann presented the bell from The Rotary Club of Delhi for use at future Conferences of District 7090 - the bell is in memory of Karen Oakes. Now, whenever a Conference of District 7090 begins, the bell will ring and Karen will be in attendance in spirit. Seen in the picture from left - Past District Governors Frank Adamson and Melisa Schrock, Wolf Lindemann with the bell, and District Governor Lisa Bishop.
Go to the 'Read more ...' tab for a note on the student exchange participation at this successful conference.
Rotarians from four clubs got together to work with the Native Women’s Centre to celebrate the 7090 District Conference and to clean their yard and prepare garden beds for planting. Members of Rotary Clubs of Welland, Fort Erie, Niagara on the Lake and Norfolk Sunrise joined with Native Women's Centre members on Sunday Apr 16 to work on the garden. The first step was clearing a lot of brush and tree branches from the site- enough to fill a 30ft dumpster which was provided free of charge for the project by Walker Industries to dispose of organic waste.
The existing sandbox area was re-made into a garden with the addition of soil donated by the Rotarians and a raised garden bed was built with help from the Fort Erie Rotarians who came back on Wednesday to complete the raised bed garden.
Pictured are organisers (R-L) Jim and Marjorie Dawson, Lorne White of Fort Erie Rotary, Christine Pritchard and two helpers from the women’s centre.
.... one thinks about the story of the boy on the beach throwing starfish back into the surf ... when questioned about the futility of his efforts he noted that he made a difference to 'that one' ...
Mary Mercato writes in;
"I have had the pleasure to present many cheques to various organizations but a recent visit to the Norfolk Community Help Centre afforded me the opportunity to meet and speak with some of the young moms attending the Centre. Their experience was life changing, having graduated with an OSSD or in the process of completing the required credits. One mom expressed a goal of becoming a PSW while another is interested in accounting. These were distant goals if a goal at all until just recently. Nancy Hilderbrand, Executive Director passed along the following message: “A huge thank you to the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise for all they have done to support the Norfolk Community Help Centre.” The picture is of Room 41, required for the expanded programming made possible by the donation. “Room 41 (see photo at Read more...) has truly become a community multi-purpose room”. A partnership with the Salvation Army Tillsonburg has allowed the expansion of the food bank items, assisting 19 families so far and another partnership with Fanshawe College Employment Services to offer free supports and services to our community (resume writing, job searches, skills upgrading, jab placements) are being provided. Evening courses have started March 20 on Quick Books and more will be added. Fifteen people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures completed the course utilizing the 15 laptops donated by Fanshawe and the Grand Erie District School Board. Seven people (staff, volunteers and participants received First Aid & CPR training. A highlight for the Centre was the hosting of a Tea Party for the Moms & Tots program in the Room 41, with MPP Bobbi Ann Brady and the Director of Education were in attendance to hear about the program and services offered at NCHC. The MPP spoke about the program at the Legislature. Mrs. Hilderbrand concluded in saying “None of this could be possible without the support of the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise!”"
On Tuesday evening at 7:00pm, 18 April 2023, we will welcome TRF Trustee Dean Rohr as our Guest Speaker. At Venture Norfolk, she will speak to us about The Impact of Our Rotary Foundation through the world.
More information about the the Rotary Foundation may be found by clicking on this link.
We encourage open attendance by all of those who are interested in this topic. If you would like to join in, please contact our RCNS meeting coordinator at your earliest opportunity at this email link.
Our own, Jim & Marjorie Dawson (on the right side of the photo) just had a wonderful and inspiring week at the National Youth to Youth Truth and Reconciliation program in Winnipeg as chaperones for the 5 youth from our area. The program involved 25 Indigenous and 25 Non-indigenous outstanding youth leaders from all over the country. Each day opened with ceremony at Turtle Lodge. We skinned rabbits and made rabbit stew, filleted fish, built tipis, played indigenous games, lit fires, visited the Canadian Centre for Human Rights and much much more. The event showcased the incredible talent of our students and how motivated the students are to make reconciliation a reality. With students from all across Turtle Island, it was a great chance to meet other student leaders, share their knowledge and the realisation that they are going to lead in reconciliation in their communities. It was a fabulous time!
On the heels of the most-successful membership drive our Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise has experienced in recent memory, our ever-creative Membership Committee still has time to toss some brain candy in our direction. Have fun ...
As we have over the development period of the Church Out Serving 'Food Hub' facility at Riversyde 83, our Club added to our offerings with a donation towards needed building improvements. We feel more than welcomed in our new meeting place and are proud that we can be a supporter of such a wonderful community support group.
The photo captures President Louise presenting the cheque to Church Out Serving Board member Virginia Lucas.
Community Service in Continuing Help at Riversyde 83
On Tuesday morning, 21 March 2023, Chair of Club Services, Gail Bouw welcomed Karen Matthews as our Guest Speaker. At Riversyde 83, she spoke to us about the Simcoe & District Chamber of Commerce as she sees it from her new vantage point as the recently appointed (4 days in the job!) Executive Director. Karen energized the room and entertained all of us as she spoke of her career adventures, her 'return to town' and her intentions, hopes and dreams for the Chamber.
More information about the Chamber may be found by going to the 'Read more ...' tab as given below..
Steve Malo added a special note of congratulations and Gail Catherwood thanked Karen for her great message. On behalf of all of us, she wished Karen well as she works towards an ever-developing business network and a better Norfolk.
On Tuesday morning, 07 March 2023, Pres Louise welcomed Governor Lisa Bishop, Rotary District 7090 to our hybrid meeting at R83, as our Guest Speaker. Governor Lisa spoke to us about the symbolism, and RCNS applications, of the '22-'23 'Imagine Rotary' Theme. Rounding out her presentation were updates on the 2023 versions of the Rotary International Conference in Melbourne (27-31 May), the upcoming District 7090 Conference in the USA (15-22 Apr) and the Club Changeover Training Assembly (14-23 Apr '23).
More information about District 7090 and our part in it, may be found by clicking on this link.
Pres Louise thanked Governor Lisa for her most positive and heart-felt message and underlined the upbeat theme by reading out several notes of appreciation from community groups/members the RCNS has helped in recent weeks.
Guest Speaker 07 Mar '23 - Governor Lisa Bishop - District 7090 Overview/Update
Dave Nicolle, Chair of our Community Service Cttee writes in that; "This evening I presented a cheque on behalf of RCNS to the Waterford Tricenturena Skating Club to support their April 1st Carnival which will feature about 175 skaters from age 2 in their Me & My Parent Canskate Program to their Adult Starskate figure skating group. The money will go towards costs for lighting, ice rental, costumes, decorations and props. Accepting the cheque is Maddie Bard, one of the Skating Club's Coaches".
On 24/25 June, we'll be paddling to fight cancer in Norfolk County and we want you to help out. You can just be aware of this initiative, you might make a donation to a great cause. or you could even assemble a team and challenge for the cause.
On 28 Feb '23, and on our behalves, Dave Douglas welcomed OPP officers Ed Sanchuk & Brad Wiersma as our Guest Speakers. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, they provided us with a great overview presentation about fraud prevention, the OPP fraud unit and community safety services that have gone a step further by creating an in-person anti-fraud program. Particular attention was given to the red flags and preventative tips surrounding romantic fraud, emergency fraud, CRA fraud, bank fraud, spoofing and delayed disconnect fraud. The contents of the presentation along with a selection of photos may be found by goining to the "Read more ..." section and/or clicking on this link.
Both officers fielded several questions after which Gail Catherwood offered our appreciation for a most informative (yet scary!) presentation of a very real issue pervading our entire community - well done to Brad and Ed.
We did it again. Our RCNS members along with many friends of the Club, came together on the Sunrise Trail to walk and support Youth Unlimited YFC Norfolk who in turn is fighting hunger, hurt and homelessness right here in Norfolk County. With only 12 registered walkers on RCNS Team Brrr, we raised over $11,000 and our own Chris Kindy exceeded his shirtless goal coming in at $5,100. Everyone went above and beyond in their fundraising.
Thank you to all but we also want to offer a particular gesture of appreciation to Cathy Harrop who organized us and energized the team to this success for the second straight year. Well done Cathy - you make us look good.
See you again next year.
More photos from the walk as well as a link to the CNOY event page is shown by clicking on the "Read more ..." tab below.
On week #38 out of a possible 40, on 17 February 2023 at the Port Dover Legion, our weekly RCNS Catch the Ace draw was held. Winner Rob Cuerrier not only won the weekly prize of $500, but with envelope #1, he also found the Ace of Spades and so won the accumulated jackpot of $28,500. Congratulations Rob! In the picture, Rob receives his prizes from RCNS member Gail Bouw and from our partner, the Port Dover Legion, Judy Buck. Missing from the picture is RCNS member Gail Catherwood. Click on 'Read more ..." for a listing of each of past winners from this CTA Licence.
Stay tuned to this site for information concerning the start of our next licensed draw.
On the occasion of our evening 'New Members' information session, it seemed like a good time to pose a word picture of our Club given its relatively large, new membership numbers.
At this writing, our club is comprised of 48 active and/or business members. Of the total, we have 27 females (56%) and 21 males (44%). Of the 48, 10 are new members within the last year.
The average age of our group is 66 years; quite a bit lower as a result of our recent recruitment. With all aboard, we have 576 years of Rotary experience; on the average 12 years per member.
At our morning meeting on 31 Jan '23 at R83, we took the opportunity to formally 'pin' and welcome Annette Jacobs into our ranks as the newest regular member of the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise.
District Governor Lisa Bishop welcomed Annette with the Rotary induction preamble, noting her new-found responsibilities as a Rotarian. Annette's sponsor, Pres Louise Schebesch 'pinned' Annette and presented her with her Rotary membership certificate after which Lisa lead all of us through the Rotary four-way test and provided Annette with a Rotary induction kit.
Annette has already proven her interest in, and value to, our community-minded group - we wish her a long and satisfying membership within her new Rotary family. Some extra photos of the occasion may be found at the 'Read more ...' tab.
It's that time again ... our walk in support of the Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) is set for Saturday 25 February 2023. Last year, RCNS raised an amazing amount to support Youth Unlimited (YFC) Norfolk - over $10,000. This year, we will be starting at Simcoe's Memorial Park (at the end of Owen St) at 1:00pm but there are few restrictions to your support or contribution ... we've had donations from afar and walkers on a Mexican beach! Hot chocolate will be on offer and this year some Baileys for those so-inclined. We have 11 Team Brrr members signed up and one of them is going gang busters with fund raising! For those that raise at least $150, CNOY will give you a pretty nice hat. Last year it was yellow but this year it is black & grey - see the story on YFC's Dan Avey and his visit to us on 31 Jan.
To register as a team member of to pledge your donation support, please click on this page
If you have any questions about how you might support our team, please click here to get a response.
The Closer it Gets, the Colder its Becoming - Please Help
On Tuesday, 31 Jan 2023, and on our behalves, Gail Bouw welcomed Dan Avey (sporting his new CNOY toque!) as our morning Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (live+zoom) meeting at R83, he provided an update (from his visit last year) to inform us about developments at Youth Unlimited in Simcoe as well as his progress with the Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) fundraiser. He described the programs he was able to continue with (and in some cases expand upon) as well as the challenges faced by the disadvantaged sector of youth of our community. In a very heart-felt way, he acknowledged the value of our RCNS interests/fundraising over the past months. Dan fielded several questions after which Joanne Kiefer offered our appreciation for the essential work Dan and his staff are doing with our youth - so needed and so well done.
Please go to the 'Read more ...' tab to find out more about this speaker. Information about Youth Unlimited may be found by clicking here.
If not, you'll be interested to know that we've added some club identity to the Trail with improved signage that helps to recognize the recent priority we've placed on beautifying the Trail with trees, daffodils, brush clearance and general cleanup.
As you enter the Norfolk Sunrise Trail at Davis St you are greeted with a portal to our real-world Trail which also includes the club QR code as a portal to our digital-world website.
On Tuesday, 24 Jan '23, and on our behalves, Pres Louise welcomed our own Andy Kooistra as our morning Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (live+zoom) meeting at R83, his aim was to update us on the great work being done to develop the Waterford Heritage Trail.
Andy offered a well-prepared pictorial overview of the Trail in general and, more specifically, the historical changes that have unfolded over the years. Of some interest was the group's appreciation for the financial and moral support received from our club in recent years. Questions followed but the main feedback was the appreciation the community has for the improvements that this work has brought to the Waterford community and the County - well done.
Please go to the 'Read more ...' tab to find out more about this speaker and the topic discussed.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise is proudly partnering with the Cancer Support & Resource Program of Norfolk to bring the dragon boats back to Shadow Lake for 2023! Mark 24/25 June on your calendars and watch for registration details.
Details are being developed as you read this but are available by clicking on this link. If you have any early questions, or wish to contribute in any way, you may contact our event coordinator by email - click on this link.
On Tuesday, 17 Jan '23, and on our behalves, Gail Bouw welcomed Port Dover's own Carrie Sinkowski as our Guest Speaker. At our morning meeting at R83, her aim was to discuss general trends with respect to poverty being seen in Norfolk as well as the opening up the warming centre with Church Out Serving and other community partners.
See the "Read more ..." tab for additional information about Carrie.
Carrie offered a very well-prepared overview of the Brant, Haldimand & Norfolk Community Legal Clinic in general and, more specifically, the issues being faced by those in need within our own community. More information about the Legal Clinic may be found by clicking on this link.
Following several questions about the address, Paul Zorad thanked Carrie for an excellent, albeit sobering presentation about one aspect of our community.
At our morning meeting on 17 Jan '23 at R83, we took the opportunity to formally 'pin' and welcome David Rusling into our ranks as the newest regular member of the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise.
Ross Gowan welcomed David with the Rotary induction preamble, whilst Past-Pres Gail Catherwood 'pinned' David and presented him with his Rotary membership certificate. David's sponsor, Dave Bradshaw proudly looked on from his Zoom position; unable to be with us at the meeting.
David has already proven his interest in, and value to, our community-minded group - we wish him a long and satisfying membership within his new-found Rotary family. Some extra photos may be found at the 'Read more ...' tab.
Port Dover and Norfolk County have shown compassion and generosity this holiday season. The Karida family from Ukraine have made our area their new home. Zhenya and Liliya together with their 9 and 5 year old daughters, Afina and Yuna escaped unimaginable horror in their home country and by chance are now living in Dover. Befriended by their neighbour Jenn Roger, a Facebook group was organized to assist this family who came here with the clothes on their backs and very little else. A pressing need was for a vehicle so Zhenya could get to his job as a farm labourer. A chance meeting with Doug Dykstra lead to a deal on a very good used van. Funds for the purchase plus all transfer costs, taxes, insurance, vehicle safety, plates, winter tires and rims and even gas cards all came together within two weeks. Well done all in making this a special and safe Christmas for this very warm, caring and deserving family. Thank you to the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, Rotary Club of Simcoe, Grace United Church, the Port Dover Lions Club, Dykstra Automotive and Kelly Fulsome of Dover Kia. This could not have happened without the determination and drive of Jim & Marjorie Dawson, Keith Jones and the Karida family`s guardian angel, Jennifer Roger.
It's such a wonderful, festive-season event and once again, our club has contributed more-than-its-fair share to the Salvation Army Kettle program. Once again, our organizer (Joanne Kiefer - see the frozen version at the photo!) worked with the Salvation Army coordinator (Doug Montgomery) to get us all involved at the collection points in Simcoe and Port Dover. She writes in the following note as results from our contributions;
Neither rain, nor snow, nor blizzard like conditions shall keep a Rotarian from their appointed kettle shift. And what a crazy four weeks of weather it was, particularly the last couple of days. This season our club covered approximately 44 shifts for a total of 88 hours of volunteer service. These hours assisted the Salvation Army in the preliminary total of $280,000 (as of Dec 22 – a few more kettles to add in and maybe some mail in or drop off donations yet to come). While the goal of $310.000 may not be met this year the drive was very successful considering the blizzard like conditions that hampered the last couple days of giving. Strangely, Doug Montgomery Kettle Coordinator stated while the Pandemic did not have many upsides, charities saw an increase in giving during the past few years. I would like to thank all Rotarians for the giving of your time during a very busy personal season for all of you. In addition, I pass on from Doug the following message, “Hats off to your club, all the best in 2023.” I look forward to the ringing of bells with all of you again next year!
After the excitement of the Christmas period, there is always a chance for a pause in festive-season spirits - but not with Bettyann Carty!
Again this year, Bettyann coordinated our outreach to Indwell in the form of New Year's Eve meal contributions to the residents of Hambleton Hall and Dogwood Suites. With generous funding support from our own club (RCNS accounts & members), and several community donors (Gloria Walpole & Lynn Cornfield), as well as the assistance of the local Swiss Chalet owner (John MacDonald), manager (Connie Grubb) and staff (Tianna & Sukhjinder), we gathered up 87 complete meal packs and delivered them to the very grateful residents living in both Indwell facilities (see the 'Read more ...' tab). As an added gesture of support, each of the 87 residents received a $50 Food Basics gift card.
For everyone involved, it was a great way to end the old year and usher in a promising new one.
BZ to Bettyann and those who contributed to make her passion so worthwhile - Happy New Year everyone.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise (RCNS) recognized Peerless Cleaners on two fronts this past Tuesday. The company was presented with a recognition plaque at the plant for their assistance with the Coats for Kids program run by the club each year. Many Rotarians came to the plant to show their support of this honour. This program helps to ensure kids have warm coats and accessories each winter. Peerless Cleaners, free of charge cleans all the donated items. This year the program was expanded to include coats for adults as well as kids and Peerless Cleaners cleaned in excess of 1200 coats that were dispersed within our community. Peerless Cleaners organized drop off spots with their various outlets, cleaned the coats and delivered them to the distribution area. Peerless Cleaners was purchased by the McInally family in 1948 by “Old Walt” as he was affectionally known and has remained in the family since that time. The current owner, Chuck McInally, a lifetime Norfolk resident was presented with a Paul Harris Fellow, the highest recognition offered by Rotary International for his community minded generosity. The awards were presented by RCNS member, Bettyann Carty who coordinates the Coats for Kids program for the club. Following the presentation of the awards those in attendance were given a tour of the plant and its operations.
Go to the 'Read more ...' tab for more photos from the day. On behalf of The RCNS we extend our heartfelt thanks to the employees of Peerless Cleaners and the McInally family.
This past year, 2022, has been such an eventful period for us ... and in spite of everything we have remained strong and are proud of our year of many successes.
So, we felt it was worth celebrating our year and with the organizing talent of Gail Bouw and her team, the generosity of our hosts Steve & Jane Malo and the culinary skills of our own caterer Tracy Winkworth along with her talented team of Jane Moore and Michelle Arsenault (see adjoining photo); we celebrated in style. Pres Louise noted our thankfulness for the evening and all those who made it possible.
What a great way the enter the festive season - such a terrific night of feasting and Rotary fellowship!!
Go to our RCNS photo album for several other shots taken during the evening.
After much anticipation, we held our first Club meeting in the newly-minted, Riversyde 83, Food Hub facility - what a great meeting in an absolutely tremendous community facility. The facility proved to be an excellent venue for our meetings - the Church Out Serving group can be more-than-pleased with the outcome of their labours.
Moreover, with Ross Gowan's skill, we conducted our first-ever 'hybrid' (ie live & digital together) session.
As the meeting unfolded, the following events were introduced by Pres Louise;
Welcome to R83, the Food Hub - we were welcomed and hosted by the very proud Board members of Church Out Serving, Eric Haverkamp and Virginia Lucas. They noted that over the 4 years of R83 construction, 15 RCNS members have helped, with a total of 2274.25 volunteer hours provided;
Welcome to our New Members (see individual story) - we welcomed Linda Muir, Carol Mummery and Wes Wilson as our newest, new members;
Rotary Corporate Awards (see associated story) - RCNS was presented with performance awards from Distr 7090 based on the work we have done in 2021-22;
RI Foundation Awards (see individual story) - RCNS was presented with recognition awards from RI based on the $$ contributions we have made in 2021-22;
Foundation Benefactor Award (see associated story) - George Cornfield was recognized as a new 'Benefactor' to the Foundation; and
Paul Harris Awards (see individual stories) - Nancy Sherwin & Gail Bouw were celebrated for their ongoing and impressive support of our communities.
More detailed stories concerning these presentations can be found on the website (see stories below) or at www.norfolksunrise.org.
One of the three ways that a Paul Harris Fellowship may be awarded is for the parent club to use its Foundation contribution points to nominate a particular member of its own club or the community at large.
At our 2022 inaugural face-to-face club meeting at R83 the Food Hub, President Louise announced that a special member of her leadership team was to be recognized as a PHF for her ongoing and selfless contributions to our Club and the general community; Gail Bouw. In the presentation to Gail, she was described as a significant organizing force and of assistance to everyone in the Club whether it be for meetings, events, fundraising or other projects - she's everywhere! She exudes 'service above self'. In true fashion, Gail had to be interrupted from her meeting support tasks (she was serving cake!) to be surprised with her Paul Harris award but the club members were on their feet and making much noise to recognize her.
Well done, Gail. As a Club, we are all thankful for what you do to support our Club and are very proud of what you bring to our community presence.
At the most recent RCNS weekly meeting congregated at R83 the Food Hub, Distr Gov Lisa Bishop welcomed/inducted three new members to our morning Club; Linda Muir, Carol Mummery and Wesley Wilson. Go to the 'Read more ...' tab for more details/photos.
How great it is to have new blood, new energy, new ideas - each of us offers a warm welcome to you all.
It has been a very good year for us as we continue to grow and develop. In addition to the nine (9) new members we have attracted during the course of 2022, we are also set to accept even more new members to our Club in 2023, as the Delhi Rotary Club sun is about to set on a most successful club with a community contribution one can be so proud of - more details to follow.
At our most recent morning meeting at R83, the Food Hub, Distr Gov 7090 Lisa Bishop awarded our own George Cornfield as a 'Benefactor' to the RI Foundation.
The Trustees of the Rotary Foundation and all of the people who benefit from the Foundation's educational and charitable programs appreciate George's selfless commitment and generous support.
The RCNS is a Club that is growing; a Club focussed on Rotary ideals and an aggressive contribution to the communities in which we live. As a result, we oftentimes get noticed for the work we enjoy; the fun we have.
So it was that Distr Gov Lisa Bishop, Past Distr Gov Anne Bermingham and Asst Distr Gov Keith Jones gathered with us to present us with a rather welcomed group of awards for our successes over the past year.
On Tuesday, 29 Nov 2022 we welcomed Daryl Granger, from RoseLe Studios here in Simcoe as our Guest Speaker via Zoom. Gail Bouw introduced Daryl, a certified advanced drone pilot. He gave us an interesting and informative talk on the work he does for construction companies and farmers using drones and associated software. Judging from the many questions, he had us all intrigued by the opportunities with this technology. Dave Douglas thanked Daryl for his overview of the uses of drones.
On Tuesday, 22 Nov 2022, Leah Logan & Jean Montgomery from Indwell, welcomed us to their new facility (Dogwood Suites). Introduced by Joanne Kiefer, Leah & Jean provided for a great update on the progress that they are making with the Dogwood initiative. Moreover, they had coordinated with the Dogwood residents to provide us with early morning refreshments/snacks as well as to break our group into two for a revealing tour of the new facility. What a great way to start the day!
Shown in the photo in front of the breakfast nook with our morning feast is (left to right) - RCNS Members Linda Muir & Bettyann Carty, RCNS Pres Louise Schebesch, Indwell Residents Lara Waite & Michelle Ruskinko, Indwell Staff Jean Montgomery, Indwell Resident Kurtis Swartzentruber and Indwell Manager Leah Logan.
Go to the 'Read more ...' tab below for more information on Indwell as well as a selection of other photos from the morning visit.
The Indwell development is nothing but a remarkable community success story; one that the Indwell staff can be so proud of; one that the community can be most satisfied with. How thankful are we all, to have this project undertaken in our community!
In a continuing role to provide for public & member information about important issues of the day, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise hosted a 4-part, Zoom-based speaker series on Climate Change. The speaker series included four speakers speaking to us about four different aspects of the climate change we are experiencing.
The speaker series proceeds of $1,510 will be donated to the Long Point Biosphere Reserve Foundation.
Details concerning the four speakers as well as a listing of the links to their presentations may be found at the 'Read more ...' tab below.
The Club extends its appreciation to the group who made this event the success that it was. Lead by Jim & Marjorie Dawson, the group included Mary Mercato, Nancy Sherwin, Ross Gowan, Peter Wheatley, John Wallace, Gail Catherwood, Steve Malo, Sue Finney and of course our $-manager George Cornfield. Well done to all.
With so many new members, it was clear to Joanne Kiefer and Mary Mercato that it was time to have an RCNS fashion show; to provide for a Rotary fashion statement. Working with a local supplier, they brought together a range of Rotary wear for all to consider - jackets, polos, hoodies, t-shirts and sweaters. They are gathering their wear at Venture Norfolk for club members to see and try on these items and they will be available in all sizes. Final pricing will be available at that time and purchasing any item is optional. Please drop in and see them on Nov 16, 4-5pm or Nov 17, 1-2pm - at Venture Norfolk
If these dates don't work, the items will be at Mary's house until Nov 23.
Shown at the photo is charter member Jim Peters convincing newest member Andi Matecsa of how good it would be for her to be sporting new Sunrise wear/kit.
In 2018, Rotarians Margaret Bancroft (RCS) & Jim Simpson (RCNS) were privileged to spend a month in Scotland, curling at 12 different locations as a part of a long-standing Rotary exchange program. Four years later, 16 Scot Rotarians travelled to Canada to curl at 12 different locations; one of which was Norfolk County. While beinge 'wined & dined' by a wonderful group of local Rotary hosts, they were definitely looking forward to the bonspiel and righting the results of the previous visit.
In the end, the curling was great, and, in the main, the games were close, with the Norfolk County teams edging out the Scotland teams with a small aggregate advantage.
A compilation of collected photos from the day's events may be found at our CR Photo Album - go to this link. A smaller selection of photos from the spiel may be found by going to the 'Read more...' tab below.
A huge expression of gratitude goes to the Simcoe Curling Club and its staff and volunteers for their support of this high-profile, Rotary International event.
The two local 'seeded' clubs will each have an opportunity to place two curlers on the 2024 Tour list - Keith Jones (RCNS) & John Vallee (RCS) can scarcely wait! Good curling.
Recognizing the special occasion of a visiting Rotary Team of Scottish curlers to Norfolk County on 10 Nov '22, it was decided to have a joint gathering of our two clubs; the RCS and the RCNS.
Following a terrific lunch of perch at the Erie Bach and a great afternoon of curling, the group convened at the Simcoe Legion for an evening of fellowship, dining and entertainment ... all of this in the company of our 16 Scottish visitors. It was, indeed, a memorable night.
Added details about the evening's events as well as a selection of photos from the banquet may be found by going to the 'Read more...' tab below. A more complete assortment of photos from the day's events may be found at our CR Photo Album - go to this link.
As the Scottish curlers moved on to London (one of the other 12 stops on their '22 Tour), we were left to be grateful for chance to get together as sister-clubs, for the friends we had made, for our success in creating a memory for our visitors and for the pivotal part the special guests, curlers, hosts and partners played in it all.
On Saturday, 04 November 2022, President Louise Schebesch and Past-President Steve Malo awarded Paul Harris awards to Dave Bradshaw, Andy Kooistra & Dave Nicolle for their hard work to achieve the paving of the Trail, north of Waterford.
What better place to do this than right on the Trail and in the middle of a ceremony recognizing the growth and importance of that local Trail. Well done to all three Sunrisers.
It was a SPOOKtacular day for Haley Wilson, G.I.R.L.S. Power Camp Coordinator, and Ali Huszczo, a member of the Camp. An RCNS cheque was presented by Sue Finnie, Community Service Committee member of the RCNS. The G.I.R.L.S. Power Camp is a three day camp program for girls in grade 8 from the Haldimand and Norfolk area. The program is co-ordinated by staff at the Haldimand and Norfolk Women’s Services and is facilitated by young community volunteers, ages 16 through 25 years. The camp focus is to prepare the grade 8 students for high school by covering topics such as self esteem and confidence building, healthy relationships, healthy bodies and feminine hygiene, personal safety, coping with mental health, and connecting to community resources. Campers and facilitators participate in a self-defence course, a high ropes course, yoga, and more! It is a weekend that enhances personal connections, empowerment, and girl power! This year, the Camp will be offered 2-4 December at Camp Trillium in Waterford. The monetary donation from the RCNS will be utilized for the high ropes activity, which has been a staple activity at power camp. The Camp operates annually by depending on donations, grants, sponsorships, and fundraising efforts.
Pictured left to right: Haley Wilson (Camp Coordinator), Alie Huszczo (Camp Member) and Sue Finnie (RCNS)
Our contact with Indwell, Bettyann Carty writes-in;
This new RCNS event for Indwell Dogwood Estates took place on October 27 as a “welcome to the neighbourhood” casual coffee hour. I would estimate that 2/3 of the residents came down and enjoyed a coffee, tea and/or donuts and muffins. They sat and chatted with us and mixed and mingled with each other. They were all very polite and mentioned how appreciative they were to us for visiting. The building is beautiful and the staff is really engaged with the residents as they move around the facility. I came away with a feel good feeling for “paying it forward” in a simple way and appreciate my Rotary Sunrise helpers for assisting me.
See the 'Read more...' tab for several additional photos.
The annual Coats for Kids & Adults event was held on October 29 at First Baptist Church with resounding success. Our community partner, Peerless Cleaners cleaned and washed over 1200 coats. Another partner, the Langton Knitters group donated 200 pairs of mittens and hats. Over 500 various items of warm winter wear were chosen by many visitors. The remainder of the coats and mittens were then bagged and distributed through several churches and thrift shops, the Salvation Army, the Pregnancy Centre and the Women’s Shelter.
Norfolk County residents will be a little bit warmer this winter, thanks to the generosity of citizens who donated coats. The RCNS wants to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to the Rotarians, family and friends who helped with unloading the trucks, setting up on Friday, welcoming and assisting guests on Saturday and distributing the overflow to the various centres this week. This event could not happen without you.The RCNS also needs to highlight the equivalence of the monetary donation that Peerless Cleaners has made over the past few years. We are so thankful for their support.
Shown in the photo is the RCNS organizing team - left to right; Linda Muir, Louise Schebesch, Sue Finnie, Gail Bouw, John Wallace, Bettyann Carty, Jim Peters, Pam Shantz and Yvonne DiPietro. BZ to Bettyann Carty for continuing to be the energy behind this outstanding community event.
On Sunday, 30 October, we gathered on an absolutely perfect fall day, to celebrate Halloween, our Rotary friend Keith Flexman, to learn more about our beautiful County and to practice our road rally skills. What a great day ... we had 48 signed up to participate in the actual rally (for a total of 15 cars) .. we had 57 take part in dinner at the Waterford Legion (that includes the 7 take out dinners from those that couldn't make it).
Here's guessing that no one will ever think of the Cockshutt the same way ever again.
The RCNS offers sincere thanks to those local businesses that participated by giving out little bonuses along the way ie Sam's Place, Chambers Maple Syrup and Perks of Norfolk. Given a chance, please thank them for their community spirit! Our thanks also go out to the RCNS organizing team (led by Pres Louise Schebesch and master event organizer Cathy Harrop); the group shown in the enclosed photo.
Go to the 'Read more ..' tab to see who won as well as for a selection of other photos from a terrific day.
On Tuesday, 01 November 2022, and on our behalves, Dave Douglas welcomed Waterford Lions Club members, Mike Jarvis & Matt Suckel, from the Waterford Pumkinfest as our Guest Speakers. Via Zoom, they spoke to us about the history, status of, and experiences related to, the recently completed 2022 Pumkinfest. Matt offered a very well-prepared overview of the Fest in general and, more specifically, the success they achieved this year. It was particularly interesting to note the past relationship we, as a Club, have had with this great community event.
Following several questions about the address, Marjorie Dawson noted the 'trip down memory lane' and went on to thank both for attending and Matt for a truly engaging presentation.
Guest Speaker 01 November - Mike Jarvis & Matt Suckel - Waterford Pumpkinfest
Today, polio is no longer a pandemic nor even endemic in the world….but this virus stubbornly remains a threat. Go to the 'Read more ..' section to read an article penned by Keith Jones, an article to help you learn more about the Rotary Fight against Polio. To celebrate World Polio Day 2022, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise (RCNS) and other local Rotary Clubs raised $2000. The 2-1 matching funds from the Gates Foundation grows this fundraiser to $6000. Since 2019, the RCNS has raised and donated $11,371 to the End Polio Now Campaign. With the generosity of the Gates Foundation these dollars have multiplied to over $33,000. A fine example of local Rotarians who practice Service Above Self
On Tuesday, 25 October 2022,and on our behalves, Cathy Harrop welcomed Angela Hogeveen, General Manager of the Norfolk County Fair and Horse Show as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, she spoke to us about the status of, and experiences related to, the recently completed 2022 County Fair. Angela offered a very well-prepared overview of the Fair, in general and, more specifically, the success they achieved this year. So well done for a major event described as being at the very 'soul' of our community.
On a beautiful, October 22nd, Fall-day, RCNS members Andy Kooistra, Keith Jones and Dave Nicolle joined a group of Brantford Sunrise Rotarians for a wonderful bicycle ride from Waterford to Port Dover in an effort to raise funds towards Rotary’s polio eradication efforts - over $2000 were raised! When the team got to our RCNS daffodil and redbud plantings in Simcoe they were greeted by Gail Catherwood with her delectable fresh-baked cookies as well as by District Governor Lisa Bishop.
Go to the 'Read more ...' tab to see a few additional photos from the day.
On Friday 21 Oct, evening and on behalf of RCNS, Dave Nicolle, Chair of Community Services, presented a cheque to the Port Dover Legion to assist in their kitchen renovation project. The Legion is a wonderful partner for our Club in hosting our weekly Catch the Ace major fundraiser. Accepting the cheque is the Legion's VP, Gary Cryer.
Recently, the Club made a financial donation to the Norfolk Community Help Centre (NCHC); this a further gesture of support to those previously offered over many years. In this case, a portion of our Catch the Ace revenues was approved to be used as the NCHC develops additional support space required for their programs.
Additional information about the NCHC may be found by going to the "Read more ..." tab. The NCHC website may be accessed by clicking on this Link".
Presenting the RCNS donation is Dave Nicolle, Chair, Community Service Cttee, RCNS. Accepting is Nancy Hilderbrand, Executive Director, NCHC. Onlooking is Mary Mercato, also from the Community Service Cttee.
Once again, our club is working with Peerless Cleaners and preparing for the annual collection of coats and other cold-weather clothing that will be useful for the less-privileged in our community.
The event this year is scheduled for Saturday 29 October at the First Baptist Church, with the collection period ending on 26 October.
See the 'Read more ...' tab below to look at the poster and discover other details. Get in touch with Bettyann Carty, the event organizer, if you need any more information.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise donated Norfolk County Fair tickets to the residents and their children currently living at The Haldimand Norfolk Women’s Services. Accepting the tickets is Natalie, Counsellor at the Women’s Service.
Whether you're a curler or not, you'll want to mark your calendar for this!
For over 60 years, Canada and Scotland have enjoyed a biannual exchange of Rotary members who want to promote fellowship and engage in a curling friendly. This year, 17 Scots have formed a team and will be touring Ontario in November. The third stop on the tour will be here in Norfolk on 10 November. To mark the occasion, there will be an afternoon bonspiel at the Simcoe Curling Club and a special joint meeting of the two local Rotary Clubs (RCNS+ RCS) at the Simcoe Legion in the evening (event details to follow).
Whilst the bonspiel will be a particular attraction for the Rotary curling community, the special joint meeting will be open to all Rotary members and their families.
Mark your calendars - get in touch with the coordinator to sign up - once again, we are getting 'on the road again' to celebrate the life of our Rotary friend Keith Flexman and to have some serious fun.
This event is open to everyone; Rotary members, their families, friends, acquaintances and those who might wish to learn a little bit about us. Details about the event are available at the 'Read more ...' tab as below.
On Tuesday, 27 September 2022 and on our behalves, Gail Catherwood welcomed Jane Scheel as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, she spoke to us about the H&N Women's Service. Jane offered a very informative overview of the history, programs, resources and challenges faced by that essential community support agency.
More information concerning the H&N Women's Service may be found by clicking on this link.
Following several questions about the address, Gail Catherwood noted the great work being done by the Women's Service and thanked Jane for an excellent presentation.
Guest Speaker 27 September - Jane Scheel - H&N Women's Service
One of the three ways that a Paul Harris Fellowship may be awarded is for the parent club to use its Foundation contribution points to nominate a particular member of its own club or the community at large.
At our 2022 Welcome Back BBQ at the Waterford Legion, Joanne Kiefer announced that two of those in attendance were to be recognized as PHFs for their ongoing and selfless contributions to the community;
Keith Catherwood. In a Paul Harris presentation to Keith, he was described as an unsung hero, humble, always flying under the radar but always illuminating service above self. He’s the roadie setting up and taking down events, he’s the volunteer driver taking friends and family to appointments and he’s the guy picking up auction items. Keith is the guy you call who you know you can depend on. In true fashion Keith was taken aback and surprised at his Paul Harris award but the club members were on their feet and making much noise to recognize him; and
Louise Schebesch. Our esteemed club President Louise was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow last evening that many club members would say was long overdue. Louise is a long term member of the club and in addition to serving her second year as President this term, she previously was club treasurer for several years. Louise has been instrumental in many of the clubs fundraisers, chaperoned a trip to welshpool for high school students and has hosted an international student. Louise has a passion for literacy and has also volunteered in this area. Louise is a compassionate, kind and inclusive individual and the RCNS group stood and cheered at her presentation to show their gratitude for her service.
Well done, Keith and Louise. You all exemplify what it means to be a Rotarian. As a Club, we are all proud of what you bring to our community presence.
A very energetic RCNS crew assembled this morning to spruce up the Harriett Peters Parkette. With clippers in hand, chainsaw for some, the trees and shrubs shed their overgrowth. Several bags of weeds were pulled followed by some raking.
If you are in that area feel free to rest a bit on the two lovely benches.
Thanks to Dave Bradshaw who supplied his truck. It goes without saying that after any job, Gail Catherwood will always have a treat and this morning was no exception. Thank you Gail. Also joining us were, Dave Nicolle, Jim Peters, Randy Halmo, Andy Matecsa and Mary Mercato.
Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise will be hosting a virtual (ZOOM) Speaker Series this fall : Climate Change - Taking Action. Talks will be alternate Wednesday evenings at 7pm starting October 5 with Dr Samantha Green of the University of Toronto speaking on "The Climate Emergency - our greatest Health Threat".
On October 19, Dr Maria Strack, a Member of the University of Waterloo Interdisciplinary Centre for Climate Change, will speak on Nature-based Climate Solutions.
On November 2 Lawrence Solomon of Energy Probe will speak on "Woke vs Non-Woke Solutions to Energy Sustainability".
On November 16 Glenn McGillivray of The Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction will present "Building Resilient Communities".
Registration will be by donation, with a recommended minimum of $40 for the series. Net proceeds will be donated to Long Point Biosphere Reserve Foundation. CLICK ON "Read more" to see on-line registration details.
I saw this video a few years ago but I am not sure it was ever shown or available to RCNS members. Anyway, we are listed at the end of the video as a sponsor and thought maybe we should have a spot on our website for it. We should probably note that it is a bit out of date - for example the community now has grid power.
Cathy Harrop writes in: "What a couple of days! And, we did it! In spades! If you ever get a chance to go on a Rotary Friendship Exchange, you now have an idea of how wonderful the experience can be. Tiring, but wonderful!
Go to the "Read more ..." tab for more of Cathy's visit details and photos.
Ed Note; ... and to our ever-ready, 'can-do' Club coordinator Cathy Harrop; the Club offers you our sincerest gratitude for all you do to make these sort of events as successful as they are. BZ.
During the pandemic, we celebrated our 25th Anniversary as a Club.
As a marker to that event, we planted a Copper Beech tree along our portion of the Sunrise Trail (click here to see more photos of the planting) but this was done in respect of the Covid restrictions at the time.
Now, we are back together (meeting like a 'new normal') and as Sunrisers, we gathered for a morning Sunrise group photo to mark the event.
Recently, our Club was recognized by myFM as their Community Partner for the month of June. They've generously provided continuing airtime for us to get a short promotional message out to Norfolk listeners for the entire month of June.
A part of the Community Partner recognition is that Domino's Norfolk is the myFM sponsor, helping the radio station to showcase awesome local non-profit groups. To lend a hand even further, Domino's Norfolk (ie their stores in Simcoe and Delhi) is offering a special to their customers during the last week of June. With each purchase of 2 x Medium 3-Topping Pizza’s and a Cheesy Bread (for just $25.00 + HST), $5 from each order will go to the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise - it's a great deal for everyone; just use the coupon code MYFM.
This terrific Domino's offer will be valid from Monday 20 June, to Sunday 26 June inclusive .... so, go ahead get a couple of pizzas and help us out ... better yet, get your family and friends (and their kids!) to help out as well.
In a surprise announcement at this morning's Club meeting, President Louise announced that the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise had been selected as the myFM and Domino's Norfolk Community Partner for the month of June 2022.
A better description of this award in given at the letter shown at the 'Read more ...' tab.
It is a great thing to receive this kind of community recognition for the community service work we are engaged in - it's all 'Service Above Self'!
On Tuesday, 31 May 2022 and on our behalves, Dave Nicolle welcomed Mike McDonnell as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, he spoke to us about Railways in Waterford. Mike offered a very informative overview of the rails history and development, in and around Waterford. For many in the zoom group, Mike's historical notes allowed for some very pleasant reminiscences from their own past and experiences with rail travel in Norfolk.
More information concerning the Waterford & Townsend Historical Society (Ontario) may be found by clicking on this link.
Following several questions about the address, Dave Douglas noted the great work being done by the Historical Society and thanked Mike for an excellent presentation.
Guest Speaker 31 May - Mike McDonnell - Rails in Waterford
On Tuesday, 17 May 2022 and on our behalves, Dave Douglas welcomed Ken Forth, assisted by Gary Cooper, as our Guest Speakers. Via Zoom, they spoke to us about 'F.A.R.M.S' and all of the associated impacts that International works have on our (and their) communities.
Ken (from his farm in Lynden) and Gary (from his farm in Norfolk) offered a very informative overview of the history and current circumstance surrounding the international workers support program the is so essential to the aim of maintaining the food supply that we are so dependent upon.
See the "Read more ..." tab for additional information about Ken and the F.A.R.M.S. program. The 'Read more..." tab also includes a link to "Heartbeat"; a great video on their work; "A Celebration of International Farm Workers'.
Following quite a few questions about the program, Steve Malo thanked both speakers for the success of the program as they have managed it and expressed the gratitude we all have for their passion and their commitment to farm support in our communities.
The fifth approved licencing of our ever-popular community fundraiser concluded on Friday 21 January 2022 - what an adventure that series of draws proved to be - congratulations to all winners but in particular to John Lloy our $15K Grand Prize Winner!
As a result of the continuing interest in this draw, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, with the support of the Port Dover Legion Branch 158, has secured a sixth AGCO/County license and intends to recommence the game on Friday 03 June 2022 - stay tuned for additional details.
See our Fundraiser Tab at the top of this website home page to see the details concerning this very popular game of chance.
CTA Licence#6 - It's Back! - We're Returning on 03 June
Following a very successful venture in 2020 (right in the middle of the pandemic!), we decided it was important to try collecting hygiene products for those in need, once again. Our aim was to partner with community vendors (incl two employers) to collect feminine hygiene products for distribution to our local Norfolk County food banks (five of them), the woman’s shelter, St Vincent de Paul and the Salvation Army.
After securing the support of eleven retail outlets/collection points in four of our Norfolk communities, we were able to bring the total collection together and produce 3-5 boxes of product for each recipient location. Between 15-20 volunteers participated in this very worthy service project with representation from each of the three local Rotary Clubs. With Area Co-ordinator Bob Stevenson's oversight, Joanne Kiefer and Mary Mercato (both from RCNS) organized and ensured that the event would be as successful as possible. They would like to thank all those who participated and helped out in any way to bring this project to fruition. Menstrual health supports girls/young women’s mental and social well being. Plan International Canada reported in 2019 that 34% of women/ girls had to occasionally or often make budgetary sacrifices to afford menstrual products and that 63% missed an activity regularly or occasionally because they were menstruating and had concern for access to product or proper sanitation facilities.
We would like to think that we made a modest difference in the face of this very difficult community issue.
The number one way that Rotarians find out information about their clubs and communicate with each other is provided for by Club Runner.
In order to be well-informed, it is important to be introduced to Club Runner and know how to use it to your best advantage. The more responsibility you have in the club the more important that becomes.
Club Runner has a very effective way of providing introductory and advanced packages of information and training. This year, this training is now available on line and may be seen/accessed by clicking on this link.
Rudi Atkinson writes in: You are invited to visit the local Rotary Sunrise Trail running north off of Davis St in Simcoe.
In two plantings, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, Simcoe Rotary Club, Delhi Rotary Club, and Norfolk Rotaract Club have planted over 10K daffodil bulbs and multiple Redbud Trees.
The blooms are beginning to adorn the trail with their colours. Daffodils represent hope, rebirth, and new beginnings. We await the spring-time beauty of our RedBud plantings!
More photos at the "Read more ..." tab below.
Enjoy!! We did it for you, our beautiful community.
We are dedicated to enhancing your Rotary experience by supporting what is important to you, our members. You have consistently told us that you want Rotary to be a place that celebrates diversity, that fully represents our communities, and that offers all members equitable opportunities to thrive.
You also recognize that embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) will allow us to do more meaningful work while engaging with people who know they’ll be valued for the qualities that make them unique. These sentiments were reinforced last year by the more than 31,000 members around the world who responded to our first DEI survey.
To ensure that the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion are ingrained in everything we do, the RI Board of Directors, guided by the DEI Task Force, has strengthened our commitment to DEI and is taking action in response to the survey findings.
Our DEI Code of Conduct
What we say and how we behave matter. Although free expression is important, we must take responsibility for how our words and actions may affect others. The Board has approved a new DEI Code of Conduct to help Rotary members create and maintain an environment that is collaborative, positive, and healthy for everyone.
Simply put, the DEI Code of Conduct asks you to:
Use respectful language
Be supportive
Foster a welcoming and inclusive environment
Celebrate diversity
All Rotary leaders, from club presidents and district governors to directors and trustees, are expected to apply the DEI Code of Conduct uniformly to help members recognize the impact that their words and actions can have on other people.
If you experience behavior that does not align with the DEI Code of Conduct, you have ways to respond:
If the situation can be resolved through discussion, please talk to the person directly. Often, the person who said something or acted in a way that made others feel excluded, marginalized, or targeted did not do so intentionally. Although there might be mistakes, missteps, and uncomfortable conversations along the way, having this dialogue will lead to a better and stronger Rotary.
If a discussion is not possible or the situation involves someone in a leadership role or another club, contact Rotary’s Club and District Support staff, who will review the information and follow up appropriately.
If you are in danger or your safety is in doubt, contact local law enforcement officers and notify Club and District Support staff.
As an organization, we are stronger when we embrace the diversity found in our clubs and communities. We are more effective when we offer a valuable, inclusive experience that provides equitable opportunities for people to serve, to lead, and to participate with us. To grow Rotary and become a more dynamic organization, we must take DEI seriously. And with your support, we are doing that.
Sincerely,
Shekhar Mehta, RI President and the 2021-22 RI Board of Directors
Rotary's aim was as simple as it was important - to work with others in the community to help with a cleanup of our local waterways - this as a part of a greater Rotary initiative to do something useful across the entire Great Lakes area, during this years Environmental Week.
With District 7090 vision, local Rotary Club coordination (so many thanks to Bob Stevenson and Jim Dawson) and Norfolk County help and cooperation (thanks to Mark Boerkamp; friend of Rotary), we gathered on a beautiful April morning (Happy Easter!) and spread ourselves out to several locations to retrieve everything from steel barrels to baby seats to pandemic masks to concrete blocks to tires from our local waterways.
Part of the aim was to bring community members together - here we brought together the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, the Rotary Club of Simcoe, the Rotary Club of Delhi, Lions Club Simcoe, Lions Club Port Dover, the Haldimand-Norfolk Geo-Cachers, Norfolk Youth Unlimited and several other civic-minded individuals - quite a gathering of over 90 participants.
Part of the aim was to clean-up our local waterways - here we worked at locations at Alligator Park Simcoe, Wellington Park Simcoe, Quance Dam Delhi, Port Dover, Turkey Point and Long Point.
A small selection of group pictures from the day may be found by going to the 'Read more ...' tab shown below. A much wider selection of photos may be found by clicking here to go to the Photo Directory.
It was a great day (of action!) - our gratitude goes out to all who participated.
Our first Rotary initiative to help those in need in our community was so successful, and so appreciated, we have felt the need to try it again...
So, we are asking everyone to help us to gather up a variety of hygiene products to help the less-fortunate in Norfolk.
We have identified 12 locations in 4 key communities who are willing to partner with the three locally-based Rotary Clubs (Simcoe, Delhi and Norfolk Sunrise). Together, and until 04 May, we hope to collect hygiene-related products to help the less fortunate women in our County.
See the poster - look for the signs - visit these 12 stores!
Tell your friends and contribute as you can. It's definitely for the betterment of our own community and those who live here with us.
Rotary Clubs (Canadian and American) around all of the Great Lakes are sponsoring a watershed clean-up in celebration of Earth week.
Here in Norfolk County, the three area Rotary clubs – Norfolk Sunrise, Simcoe and Delhi Rotary Clubs are doing the clean-up on Apr 16 from 9am to 12noon on rivers, waterfronts and trails in the community. This is a community-wide event with the Port Dover Lions responsible for cleaning areas in Port Dover, The Lynn Valley Trail Association cleaning the Lynn Valley Trail, and the three Rotary Clubs (along with other clubs such as Youth in Christ) doing clean-ups at two locations in Simcoe (Alligator Park and Lions Park) as well as at Long Point, Turkey Point and Delhi.
While we have many local clubs involved, volunteers are always welcomed to attend at any of the locations. If you, your friends or your group would like to participate, please contact the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise coordinator at 519-583-3328 or send us an email by clicking on this linkfor more information. Volunteers should be prepared to wear hiking or wet gear boots and bring gloves or other desired protective kit - pick-up bags will be provided. As an aside - apparently, this is the year of the barrel - we have located 8 barrels, along with steel posts, some tire rims and three shopping carts that are on our list to remove from the Lynn River so it should make for a fun, important much needed cleaning of the river.
On Tuesday, 05 Apr 2022 and on our behalves, Gail Bouw welcomed County Archivist Joshua Klar as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, he spoke to us about the background, ongoing development and use of the local Archives. For more details about Joshua and the County Archives please go to the the "Read more ..." tab..
Joshua offered a most informative presentation, noting all the ways that our community benefits from the work of the Archives staff and the physical/digital holdings collected and maintained. He concluded by seeking even more community participation and suggesting the availability of volunteer opportunities for those so-inclined.
Following quite a few questions about the program, Gail Catherwood thanked Joshua for his commitment to the important archivist role as well as for his interesting talk.
Following the morning presentation, arrangements were made to establish our club with the Archives digital collection - see this link for details.
One of the three ways that a Paul Harris Fellowship may be awarded is for an individual to make substantial personal financial contributions to the Rotary Foundation.
As a result, in 2022 the Rotary Foundation has once again recognized Rudi Atkinson with a Paul Harris Fellowship for her ongoing donations to the Foundation. The award was presented by D7090 Governor-Elect Lisa Bishop and our own Past President Keith Jones.
Donations to the Rotary Foundation by Rotarians such as Rudi are the lifeblood of our body, supporting projects around the world such as polio eradication, clean water and providing grant money back to Clubs for their local projects. We are so proud of these selfless RCNS leaders.
At our evening meeting on 29 March at Abel Enterprises, we were "Abel" to formally 'pin' and welcome Chris Kindy into our ranks as a regular member of the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise.
John Wallace enthralled us with the induction preamble, Peter Wheatley added his own welcome and pinned Chris, and Pres Louise Schebesch presented Chris with his membership certificate.
Chris has already proven his interest in, and value to, our community-minded group - we wish him a long and satisfying membership within his new-found Rotary family.
Additional information about Chris, as well as some extra photos may be found at the 'Read more ...' tab.
RCNS International Service Committee (ICS) has sponsored the music program in the remote First Nation Pikangikum for many years and this year we had an unusual request - since one of the electric keyboards we donated many years ago has been so well used that it has worn out, would the ICS consider getting an upright piano? Well, the ICS was able to find a great piano in Winnipeg for $500 and with the ice road still available to ship large items, the new piano was delivered to EBS school in Pikangikum this week with help from the school with the shipping. The music program has blossomed over the years and there are so many acts that the Christmas concert had to be scheduled over 3 days- so it is a very important and successful service project! Morris Ellington, the music teacher said "I finally got the piano today, many thanks to you and your organization for your invaluable support towards the music program. Your help is greatly appreciated. The piano is a very beautiful instrument. Many thanks again to you."
On Tuesday, 22 March 2022 and on our behalves, Rudi Atkinson welcomed Rotarian Rosanne Field as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, she spoke to us about Rotary's approach to a New Generations Service Exchange (NGSE) program. See the "Read more ..." tab for additional information.
Rosanne offered a rather passionate description of the NGSE program, noting that it benefitted from fewer rules than other such programs, that the target group (18-30 yrs) was a great group to work with and help, that the theme was 'vocation' rather than 'vacation'. She described the responsibilities involved, and cited quite a few personal examples. She concluded by suggesting that these sort of initiatives brought us together and helped to build the Rotary family.
Following quite a few questions about the program, Dave Nichol thanked Rosanne for her amazing commitment to help young people in our communities and for her most interesting and informative talk.
Following a very successful virtual dining-in event conducted several months ago, it was decided to follow that social event with a similar approach to wine tasting.
Cathy Harrop (no stranger to the Burning Kiln Winery in Norfolk County) took it upon herself, with considerable help from Nancy Sherwin, to coordinate this social event for the club. As it turned-out, over 30 members and friends joined-in to make the evening of wine, cheese and goodies such a great succss.
We want to thank Burning Kiln Wineries for being so supportive in getting the event set-up. In particular, we want to especially thank Burning Kiln's Dan Barker (master wine-taster extraordinaire who talked us through the offerings), as well as Karen Matthews (who joined in to offer interesting commentary concerning the winery and the wine selection).
See the 'Read more ...' tab for additional detail about the wines we experienced.
Well done to Cathy and Nancy for setting this up - a much appreciated break from the norm.
Should you be interested in the Rotary International position in respect of the Ukraine Conflict, please read it at the 'Read more ...'.
If you are interested in the Rotary District 7090 position concerning the Ukraine Conflict, as well as to find out how to offer your personal support, please go to the 'Read more ...' tab.
For our part, and as members of the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise;
in general, we offer our heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the people of the Ukraine for the struggle they have been forced to bear; and
on a more personal note, we reflect on our Rotary friend Yuliia Postil and her family as they live through this monstrous invasion of the country they so-cherish. May God be with you.
Rotary aims to connect with, remain relevant to, and do good in the community. Our morning club in Norfolk County believes in this and has a great history of community support and involvement.
Most recently, we were attracted to the needs of the local Youth Unlimited group and their need to raise funds with their Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) walk.
In the end, Rotary did very well (Rotary topped all Corporate & Community Challengers) and as a Club we did great (we were among the three leading Rotary teams in Canada) see the overall CNOY results by clicking on this link.
Whilst walking, we created this new and enclosed YouTube video which adds yet another dimension to the earlier story on this project (see below and/or click on this link) - this short video clip communicates a typical story in our Rotary Club lives and adds a sub-story about why we joined and/or stayed with our Rotary Club - ie on that particular cold weekend walk for the local needy; why Rotary is so cool to us!
Strengthening Rotary Campaign '22 - Step #2 - Rotary is So Cool
On 28 February 2023 we will welcome Ed Sanchuk & Brad Wiersma as our Guest Speakers. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, they will inform us about fraud prevention, the OPP fraud unit and community safety services that have gone a step further by creating an in-person anti-fraud program. More information about the this topic may be found bygone to the "Read more ..." section and/or clicking on this link.
We encourage open attendance by all of those who are interested in this topic.
If you would like to join in (either in-person at R83, or by hybrid zoom link), please contact our RCNS meeting coordinator at your earliest opportunity at this email link.
On Tuesday, 29 March 2022, we travelled to Abel Enterprises for a rare 7pm, on-site, face-to-face(!), Club meeting to hear about the community support programs being offered by that group. Pres Louise introduced our own Scott Williams (in the company of the Abel Board Chair, John Ford and Admin Asst Michele Langedyk), all of whom hosted us to an array of great drinks/snacks as well as their facility and then acted as our Guest Speakers.
Scott presented a most interesting & professional report about the history, the struggles and the work of his group, highlighting the positive outcomes being enjoyed by his 20 partners and their clients ... such encouraging work in support of those in need in our community.
Go to the "Read more ..." tab for additional information, evening photos and an excellent video clip summarizing the community good being offered.
Along the way, we found time to welcome a new member, to present a Paul Harris award and to note the new District logo/theme for the new year - see companion stories.
Pres Louise closed out a wonderful meeting and offered our sincere thanks to Scott (and John) for the hosted evening and the great presentation.
On Tuesday, 01 March 2022 and on our behalves, Cathy Harrop welcomed Cory Armstrong-Smith as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, he spoke to us about common home fire causes, how to prevent home fires, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and finally about radon gas.
See the "Read more ..." tab for additional information.
Following quite a few questions about the various fire risks we live with in our homes, Paul Zorad thanked Cory for his most interesting and informative talk. It was said that we were all off to check our home alarms after the meeting!
On Tuesday morning, 15 February, and on behalf of the RCNS, Jim Simpson welcomed Virginia Lucas to our Zoom meeting to speak to us about Church Out Serving (COS) programs in our community. Click on this link to obtain more information about the general nature of this topic.
Inasmuch as our Rotary Club has been a booster of the COS's initiatives, Virginia concentrated on giving us updates on those aspects of COS work that were of most interest to us. In so doing, she covered a variety of Food Programs, the Community Gardens, the Donation Station, the Out of the Cold initiative and the progress being made on the Food Hub at Riversyde 83. Virginia then addressed multiple comments/enquiries from the group. Copies of certain slides used during the presentation are at the 'Read more...' tab below.
Ross Gowan thanked Virginia for her most-informative update, noting her inspirational work as a kind of 'community glue' needed to help those in need.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, in partnership with area Rotary Clubs are going to participate in the Great Lakes Watershed Clean-up where clubs all around the Great Lakes will be cleaning waterways during Earth week Apr 16-22. In addition to Rotary Clubs, local Lions Clubs and other organisations are all going to pitch in to clean waterways in Norfolk County.
With the uncertainty surrounding the risk of COVID-19, this event is for club members who sign up in advance so we can plan for each volunteer and prevent too many people gathering in one place. While we have contacted many local organisations, if your group would like to participate contact Jim Dawson at 519-583-3328 or send us an email by clicking on this linkfor more information.
Mark your calendars - let's taste some wine together!
A Burning Kiln wine tasting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 9 at 7:30 pm via ZOOM. What could be better than a wine tasting where you don't have to worry about driving home afterward? You will be tasting 9 different wines with 2 of them not even available to the public yet. We have special dispensation from the wine maker to share these with you. Our host for the tasting is Dan Barker; a wine tasting host extraordinaire. The cost for the evening is $35 per person. This includes 9 tastings (over 20 ounces of wine each) and a cheese box to share (Cathy created) to munch on. There is zero profit in this. It's just for us to have a little fun together.
Please respond to cathyharrop13@gmail.com with the number of people in your tasting party. Invite your friends to sign up too. RSVP no later than March 1 with your participation (but honestly, sooner is better because we need to special order bottles)
Please remit your money totreasurer.rcns1@gmail.com. The link for the Zoom meeting will be sent out much closer to the night.
The goal of this new District-initiated campaign is to have as many Rotaract and Rotary clubs as possible posting new or different content that answers "What is Rotary?" and "What do Rotaracters and Rotarians do to make our communities better places".
This week, the first of the campaign, there are three video clips that help to understand Rotary. You are encouraged to share these links with your family, friends, neighbours, acquaintances - anyone who would benefit from understanding Rotary better.
Video Clip 1 - What is Rotary - 30 seconds; quick and to the point. It tells about what we do. Focus is upon us being the original social network. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFryy_dY0tg
Go to the 'Read more ...' tab to see two additional video clips on the same topic.
Our Rotary Norfolk Sunrise Brrrr Team proved to be pretty cool!
Dan Avey of Youth Unlimited Norfolk welcomed us when we started our walk Saturday at the Waterford Trail with huge thanks. Our team had three people who raised more than $1000: our newest member Chris, team captain Cathy and Gail Bouw. Our Club was second highest Rotary fundraiser in Canada with more than $10,000 raised, which helped push Youth Unlimited past even their stretch goal of $30,000. As Dan said, this will help young people in our community come in from the cold with food and positive activities.
We had a great turnout, including three canine friends. Andy guided us for walks of 5km and 2km, both of which featured the Bridges of Waterford Ponds (they should make a movie!) We all had a great time visiting and getting exercise, and appreciating how cold it can be when the wind blows on a frosty February day. Thanks to Captain Cathy for tailgate hot chocolate and Gail Catherwood for cookies after the walk. Click on 'Read more ...' to see more pictures of our walk.
In the end, Rotary did very well (Rotary topped all Corporate & Community Challengers) and as a Club we did great (we were among the three leading Rotary teams in Canada) see the overall CNOY results by clicking on this link. This was a tremendous community success story and we thank Cathy Harrop for providing the leadership, time and energy to bring us together for such a great event.
On Tuesday morning, 01 February, and on behalf of the RCNS, Rudi Atkinson welcomed Stuart Mackenzie to our Zoom meeting to speak to us about his work with Birds Canada and the Long Pint Bird Observatory - see the "Read more ..." tab for additional information and click on Birds Canada to see more about his professional interests.
Stuart's fact-filled presentation provided for an overview of the ongoing research, development and work at the Long Point Bird Observatory. Of particular note was his work associated with the Motus equipment, data collection and analysis as well as the scope of his bird-banding task; work which recently resulted in the passing of the one million birdsbanded achievement. Several representative slides from Stuart's briefing pack are shown at the "Read more ..." tab.
Stuart summarized with a quote fro Tennyson (1842) that;
'Here about the beach I wander'd, nourishing a youth sublime.
With the fairy tales of science and the long result of Time."
Marjorie Dawson thanked Stuart for his presentation, noting the number of 'closet birders' he had prompted from within the group and wishing him well with his future work at Long Point.
Hello Rotary Walkers, I am proposing we do our Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) walk on Saturday, February 26. It is the date on which all the walks are taking place. This gives us about a month to drum up some financial support for Youth Unlimited Norfolk. I have registered our team with Coldest Night of the Year as Rotary Norfolk Sunrise Brrrr Team. Please go to https://cnoy.org/register. After you’ve registered under our team name, you will be given the opportunity to create a link that you can then email and/or post on Face Book or Instagram where people can just click and then make a donation attributed to your name. If you don’t want to make the link, just ask people to go to the Coldest Night of the Year 2022 website https://cnoy.org/home and search for your name and/or our team name to donate/sponsor you. I have set a team goal of $2000. Based on the number of people who indicated an interest in walking, we have at least 13 people on the team. I am hoping we can recruit more. Your family and friends are more than welcome to join our Rotary team and walk with us in person or do a virtual walk and join us in spirit.
The annual District 7090 sponsored (Virtual) Gala in support of the Rotary Foundation is organized and scheduled to be conducted on Wednesday, 23 February from 7:00-9:30pm.
The detail of the evening events may be seen by clicking here. It promises to be an evening of information, development and fun - all in the name of supporting the Rotary Foundation. Why not sign-up? You don't even have to leave home.
Our RCNS coordinator is Keith Jones - you may contact him by clicking here if you have any questions.
It finally happened - on 21 Jan '22, at the Port Dover Legion, the Ace was caught after several breaks due to the pandemic. It was week #20 and John Lloy pictured envelope #12 - inside was the Ace of Spades! John received $500.00 for the ticket pulled and he received $15,000.00 for finding the Ace of Spades. Congratulations to John! In the photo, Gail Bouw of the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise is presenting the cheque to winner John Lloy. Standing by is Judy Buck from the PD Legion.
Gail Bouw writes in that; "When we did the draw, I phoned John that his ticket was pulled and could he come down to the Legion to pick up a cheque. John lives a couple of blocks away from the Legion - he walked into pick up his $500 cheque (his ticket was pulled). We presented John with $500.00. Then I turned to him and announced that he found the Ace of Spades - he broke down with tears and so very happy. This week he had a car accident (not his fault) and the insurance company wrote off his car. So he was worried that he did not have a car. Now he can buy a car."
Have a look at the "Read more ..." tab for additional detail and a list of the Licence#5 winners.
We want to recognize our new platinum-level sponsors; Gail Bouw Real Estate, Malo Family Dentistry, MHN Lawyers, Unilever Canada (see other sections at our website for details) as well as to, more generally, thank everyone involved for the support needed to bring this, our fifth licence to such a successful close.
On Tuesday morning, 25 Jan, and on behalf of the RCNS, Jim Peters welcomed Daniel Avey to our Zoom meeting to speak to us about his work with Youth Unlimited Norfolk County - see the "Read more ..." tab for additional information on Dan and click on YFC Norfolk to see more about his group..
Dan's message covered so many aspects of the volunteer work that he is involved in. Starting with an overview of his background and the Youth Unlimited organization in Simcoe, Dan moved on to describe several of his more notable success stories with the 10-19 year group he is working with. He discussed certain of his community events and the 'Coldest Night of the Year' fundraiser he has planned for 26 Feb '22. Following a plea for help from the community, Dan found that we were instantly on-board to help out and that Cathy Harrop had volunteered to organize us into a team that would be part of Dan's virtual walk fundraiser - the power of a compelling presentation! Dan also addressed several questions from the group.
Peter Wheatley offered an eloquent message of appreciation to Dan for his excellent presentation, noting the scope of the issue and the value in Dan's considerable efforts to find solutions. As a token of our appreciation for the presentation, Dan was advised that we had restored the sight of a senior in India, as a part of our support of Op EyeSight.
Again this year, with all of the pandemic restrictions that we live with, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise found a way of making the year end on a positive note. Again this year, Bettyann Carty took to organizing a fun and nutritious meal for the residents at the Indwell Hambleton Hall accommodation in Simcoe.
Bettyann writes in that; "We provided 45 dinners from Swiss Chalet, $50 gift cards and goodie bags to 39 men and 6 ladies. It was well received and appreciated. As was quoted in their thank you note, “Our gift demonstrates that our Rotary Club has shown the tenants love and acceptance into our Norfolk Community”. I want to thank Gail Bouw, Jim and Lynda Simpson and Louise Schebesch for your help with putting the bags together and picking up the dinners at Swiss Chalet. Also, a big appreciation to the monetary donations which enabled us to “pay it forward” with this event. Happy New Year."
As 2021 closes, we are reminded of the kindness and generosity of corporate citizens such as Swiss Chalet as well as certain individual donors, the essential community support offered by the likes of Indwell and the continuing community roles played by service organizations such as our own.
Pictured at the delivery of the meals and holiday goodies is a group of Indwell residents, Indwell staff and RCNS members (left to right) -Kenneth Lucas, Dan Micucci, Simon Livingstone, Debra Vandermeer, Leah Logan, Gail Bouw, Jessica Van de Hoef, Bettyann Carty, Lynda Simpson
Go to the 'Read more ...' tab to see some additional photographs taken that date.
Santa visited the PR&C Cttee just before Christmas and left gifts for the Club!
See our new signage - promotional material needed as a result of old product deterioration and a requirement to adopt the official Rotary branding ideas.
With the blessing of the Board, and some excellent productive work by Stripe Art, we have acquired a new sign at our Argyle St location, new club parking signs for our original sandwich boards and a new 'feather flag' that may be used to attract attention to our gatherings. Club members are encouraged to use these signs as we organize social and fundraising events into the new year.
Getting onto the festive giving arrangements were members of the PR&C Cttee; Jim Simpson, Joanne Kiefer and Nancy Sherwin (well - OK; as the Club Secty, she's not really a PR&C Cttee member but she is a gift to our meetings!)
Go to the 'Read more...' tab to see some 'before & after' photos.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise spread some warmth this past Saturday evening by donating hot chocolate to patrons visiting Simcoe’s Christmas Panorama. More than 300 people took advantage of this festive treat and over $400 was donated back by the generous visitors. Rotarians Gail Catherwood, Louise Schebesch, Tina Millea, and (our newest member!) Yuliia Postil were on hand to serve up the hot chocolate. On hand to also help were friends of Rotary Pat Tebbs, Jill Ormsbee and President Louise’s nephew Kyle Otterman. Pictured are Pat Tebbs, Gail Catherwood and Yuliia Postil.
Over the past several years, our Club has been an ongoing supporter of the First Nation's peoples at Pikangikum. Donations of time, talent and funds have been coordinated by Jim & Marjorie Dawson. Jim writes in that ...
"Here are some pictures from the Pikangikum Christmas concert. We have been supporting the School music program for many years with guitars, keyboards, drums and performance equipment such as speakers. This years event was spread over three days because of all of the various musical programs and has become a major production. Our friend and guitar player Trav Peters even stayed at the school for three days because someone in his home was in quarantine and he was helping to set up the sound systems."
Go to the 'Read more ...' tab to see a few additional pictures of the concert incl a photo of Trav with music teacher Morris.
Our latest club latest donation to the music program was for music and music theory books. We also helped them get a Music Counts grant for instruments last year.
It's Christmas and the Sunrisers are busy on the kettles again, helping the Salvation Army with their good work in community support.
As organized by Joanne Kiefer, our Club, friends and family are contributing almost 100 hours in this kind of community sweat-equity support. The photo shows Nancy Sherwin during her balmy shift Saturday before the storm kicked in.
Thanks go to the following RCNS members and friends who are putting in the hours:
Simcoe - LCBO; Cathy Harrop, Mary Mercato, Bettyann Carty, Kate Stratford, Gail Catherwood, Lucine McKay, Tina Millea, Louise Schebesch, Ross Gowan, Rudi Atkinson, Gail Bouw, Dave Douglas, Steve & Jane Malo, and Joanne & Martin Kiefer - Loblaws; George & Lynn Cornfield, and;
Port Dover - LCBO; Dave & Brenda Bradshaw, Keith Jones, Jim & Marjorie Dawson, Nancy Sherwin, Jim & Lynda Simpson, along with friends of our Club, Heather & Scott Furtney and Craig & Olivia Mustonen.
One of the three ways that a Paul Harris Fellowship may be awarded is for an individual to make a substantial personal financial contributions to the Rotary Foundation.
As a result, in 2021 the Rotary Foundation has recognized Keith Jones, Lucine McKay and Dave Nicolle with Paul Harris Fellows for their ongoing donations to the Foundation. All awards presented by D7090 Governor-Elect Lisa Bishop and our own President Louise Schebesch.
Donations to the Rotary Foundation by Rotarians such as these Norfolk Sunrise members are the lifeblood of our body, supporting projects around the world such as polio eradication, clean water and providing grant money back to Clubs for their local projects. We are so proud of these selfless RCNS leaders.
One of the three ways that a Paul Harris Fellowship may be awarded is for the parent club to use its Foundation contribution points to nominate a particular member of its own club or the community at large.
At our 2021 Christmas Party, the Chair of our Presidents Advisory Committee,Steve Malo announced three RCNS members recognized as PHFs for their ongoing contributions;
Tracy Winkworth. Tracy was instrumental in establishing our Virtual Trivia Night last fall. She organized the food and format for the first in our continuing series of Car Rallys (in honour of our Founding President Keith Flexman) at a time of great uncertainty with the acceptable format associated with covid. Tracy has graciously catered the last two Rotary Christmas parties donating her skills, time and energy. She invoiced for the food only.
John Wallace. In addition to his tireless fundraising for, and numerous travels with, Operation Eyesight, John has provided our Club with great expertise and the supply of many Redbuds which we continue to plant along our Sunrise Trail in Simcoe. It is estimated that this contribution far exceeds 100 trees at this time; and
Andy Kooistra. Andy was instrumental in fund raising over $120K for the purchase of the bridge for the Waterford Trail. This was undertaken only after waiting for 7 years with 3 different mayors who each promised to provide a bridge, without result. He arranged for Morris Construction to level the west side of the Sunrise trail and remove the overgrowth of sumac. When our Club planted the trees and the daffodils, he arranged for the equipment to be donated by The Equipment Center including the auger, which made our work lighter and more effective. Andy also arranged for a huge tree wacker to cut down the overgrowth of sumac. When we removed the fence he arranged for the donation of the dumpster.
Well done, Tracy, John and Andy. You all exemplify what it means to be a Rotarian. As a Club, we are all proud of what you bring to our community presence.
At our 2021 Christmas Party, Santa (D7090 Governor-Elect Lisa Bishop), brought us some recognition gifts in response to our $$ gifts to the Foundation!
As a result of the way in which the members of our Club support the Rotary Foundation, we were awarded two separate penants for the year 2020/2021 - distinguished membership into the 'Every Rotarian Every Year Club' as well as the '100% Foundation Giving Club'.
As we have been in the past, we can continue to be proud of this RCNS support to our Foundation.
At our Christmas Party 2021, the RCNS announced its most recent member - Yuliia Postil.
Yuliia certainly has an interesting background and will bring much value to our Club. So indicative of her interest in our cause, that she was attracted to our developments along the Sunrise Trail and felt that she had to join in - first just to get the job done and then with a full membership to our Club.
Go to the 'Read more .." tab to get a glimpse into Yuliia's life and to see some photos from our welcoming ceremony.
We welcome you Yuliia - you're a great addition to our Club; what we do and what we stand for.
It has been such a curious year - so many ways we've had to adapt our ways of providing a service to our community ... and in spite of everything we have remained strong and are proud of our year of success.
So, we felt it was worth celebrating our year and with the organizing talent of Gail Bouw and her team, the generosity of our hosts Steve & Jane Malo and the culinary skills of our own caterer Tracy Winkworth; we celebrated in style.
It was a great way to close out our year - six members installed as Paul Harris Fellows (Tracy Winkworth, John Wallace, Andy Kooistra, Keith Jones, Lucine McKay and Dave Nicolle) ; six of our founding members so-recognized (Jim Peters, Peter Wheatley, Keith Jones, Steve Malo, Joyce Flexman (for Keith) and John Wallace); our trivia king so-annointed (Alan Plater) and a new member welcomed (Yuliia Postil). What a great night!!
Have a look at the 'Read more ...' tab to have a look at a few photos of the evening's highlights.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, along with Grace United Church in Port Dover hosted an Indigenous Speaker Series featuring 4 indigenous speakers with topics ranging from Residential Schools, the Indian Act, the Truth & Reconciliation Commission and wrapping up with a Six Nations Elder speaking on "Living in Two Worlds". The four zoom sessions were well-attended with over 70 participants and the series raised $3000 for the Mohawk Village Memorial Park, a project to provide a healing place for Residential School survivors.
Shown in the photo are (left to right) RCNS Members Jim Dawson, Louise Schebesch, Marjorie Dawson; Survivors John Elliot, Roberta Hill, Dawn Hill; and Executive Director of the Memorial Park Foundation, Virginia Ninham.
Once again, and in adapting to the pandemic realities, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise is holding our annual spring Fundraiser, Bargains, Bling and Blarney auction on-line. Our plan is to collect donated gently used or new items from all of those who are reorganizing or down-sizing their homes.
Information about our auctioneer (Illieston Auctions & Estates), as well as how your items might be donated, can be found at this link.
On Tuesday, 30 Nov, we will welcome Anne and Dolf Wynnia as our Guest Speakers. Via Zoom, the will speak to us about their work to recover land and increase the forested area in our County - click on this tab for their connection to Canadian Geographic and additional project information.
We encourage open attendance by all of those who are interested in this topic.
If you would like to join in, please contact our RCNS meeting coordinator at your earliest opportunity at this email link.
Guest Speaker - Anne & Dolf Wynnia - Trees to the Rescue
One of the main issues the RCNS has tried to promote and/or assist with over the years has been related to the improvement of literacy skills. The ways in which we have pursued this aim have been quite varied but our most recent donation to the Norfolk County Public Library (NCPL) has been unique and particularly satisfying.
As a part of the NPL fundraising initiative, the RCNS donated funds to buy additional books for each of the five NCPL locations. In recognition of that support, the library has named the Simcoe upper-floor youth activity area as the 'Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise Children's Reading Centre'. We are honoured with this recognition and proud to continue with our support of literacy programs in the County. We cannot think of a better place for our RCNS logo to be than in this particular room and in support of such children's learning.
Well done to Mary Mercato and the RCNS Community Services Committee for coordinating this with Heather King and the NCPL Board and Library leadership.
Shown in the picture are (left to right), Heather King (NCPL Librarian), Steve Malo (Past Pres RCNS), Adam Veri (Chair NPL Board), Louise Schebesch (Pres RCNS), Mary Mercato (Chair RCNS Community Service) and Jennifer Carrier (NCPL Support).
Go to the 'Read more ..' tab to see additional photos.
RCNS recently donated towards the St Vincent de Paul Society’s food programs. The Christmas hamper program assists local families experiencing food insecurities during the holidays. The Society has reported an increase in emergency food requests in 2021 over previous years as well as increase in the number of people relying on the Soup Kitchen. As at October 31, 837 food deliveries had been made. The Soup Kitchen is serving approximately 250 meals per week. Accepting the donation from our Community Service chair Mary Mercato, is Ed Gascoine, President of the Society. He indicates “our thanks to Rotary for the generosity demonstrated toward our mission to help the needy of our community.”
The RCNS has a long history of working internationally and with other partners, in the service of Operation EyeSight fundraising. Our Fall 2021 campaign is now well-under-way.
Our International Service Committee has put together a short 5 minute update on the progress of our three Global Grant projects including our newest project in Mzuzu, Malawi in Africa. See how you are making a huge difference in people's lives with the amazing gift of sight.
On Tuesday, 23 November, and on our behalves, Louise Schebesch welcomed Samantha Devereaux as our Guest Speaker; noting her previous experience with us as a Welshpool exchange student 10 years ago! Via Zoom, Sam helped us to learn more about issues related to personal wellness and more particularly about her developing business Laka Wellness. Additional information concerning this topic is available at the 'Read more ...' tab shown below.
In appreciation for Sam's clear and informative presentation, Gail Catherwood offered our warm thanks and noted that we had donated additional funds in her name to the Operation EyeSight project, this to restore the vision of a senior in India.
On Tuesday morning, 16 Nov, Cathy Harrop welcomed Adam Shoalts, 'Explorer-in-Residence' at the Canadian Geographic Society, as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, he spoke to us about his adventures and exploration trips in the Canadian wilderness. In particular, he discussed the background surrounding the publishing of his most recent book and entertained us about his attempts to unravel the mysteries of Labrador. There were many questions - members were clearly intrigued! If there's further interest, more information may be found at his website or hisFacebook page.
In appreciation for Adam's excellent presentation to us, Jim Dawson offered our thanks for an informative talk and noted that we had contributed funds in his name, to our Operation EyeSight project; this to restore the vision of a senior in India.
Guest Speaker 16 Nov - Adam Shoalts - Canadian Writer & Adventurer
We are very proud of our local Trail; the 4 kilometres of Rotary Sunrise Trail going right through Simcoe - we especially know how much the local community uses and appreciates that outdoor facility.
As part of our developing environmental push, and along with Norfolk County support and a wide variety of community partners the RCNS has put a particular push on improving the Sunrise Trail over the past several months.
You may wish to go to the 'Read more..' tab below to see several photos and to read more about what we've been up to and some of those who have been involved.
On Tuesday, 30 November, and on our behalves, John Wallace welcomed Anne & Dolf Wynia as our Guest Speakers. Via Zoom, they helped us to learn more about their reforestation project in Norfolk County; an initiative conceived as a part fo the federal governments Project Forest 2020.
To get a full perspective into the topic they presented, plse click on this link. Reference was also made to Dolf's un-published book, 'As Luck Would Have It', where additional detail can be found.
In appreciation for Dolf's informative presentation, Steve Malo offered our warm thanks and noted that we had donated additional funds in their name to the Operation EyeSight project, this to restore the vision of a senior in India.
Guest Speaker 30 Nov - Anne & Dolf Wynia - Trees to the Rescue
The First Nations, Inuit and Métis of Canada have a long and proud tradition of military service to our country.
The First World War raged from 1914 to 1918 and more than 4,000 Indigenous people served in uniform during the conflict earning at least 50 decorations for bravery.
Many of these soldiers become successful snipers (military sharpshooters) and reconnaissance scouts (men who stealthily gathered information on enemy positions). Indigenous soldiers earned at least 50 decorations for bravery during the war. Henry Louis Norwest, a Métis from Alberta and one of the most famous snipers of the entire Canadian Corps, held a divisional sniping record of 115 fatal shots and was awarded the Military Medal and bar for his courage under fire.
Of the 4,000 Indigenous men and women who enlisted in WWI, none were provided the post-war benefits available to non-Indigenous veterans – land, loans, education.
When the Second World War erupted over 3,000 First Nations members, as well as an unknown number of Métis, Inuit and other Indigenous recruits, had served in uniform.
Tommy Prince, an Ojibwa from Manitoba was second-in-command of a rifle platoon that subsequently was awarded the United States Presidential Unit Citation for its distinguished service.
First Nations veterans received a one-time pay out of less than half what non-Indigenous veterans were able to access.
To add insult to injury some reserves even had land appropriated by the government to give to returning non-Indigenous veterans.
Further, following World War II, some Indigenous veterans returned from the war to discover they had lost their ‘status’ as a result of being absent from their reserves for more than four years, a provision of the Indian Act at that time.
Following our initial success with the RCNS Take a Bite Out of Norfolk (TaBooN), we were encouraged to take a 'second bite'; so, we took on a Fall '21 edition of this popular community support event. We kept the original aim to organize a fundraiser that promoted our County and offered a wide and interesting selection of Norfolk food and products.
Following a dreary start to the distribution day, the sun came out for our sunrise club (apropos) and we all enjoyed a great, covid-friendly, drive-thru morning. In the end, we sold 147 product packages; each stuffed with 14 different items from our County. What a wonderful way to partner with our local Norfolk businesses to showcase our bountiful County and raise funds to put back into the same community. We could not have done this as well as we did without a great facility to carry it out so we (once again) offer a huge thankyou to Kristine Carey and Venture Norfolk. Congratulations to our RCNS organizing committee - Gail Catherwood, Gail Bouw, Mary Mercato, Cathy Harrop, Joanne Kiefer and our Club Pres Louise Schebesch. They want everyone to know that all of this was done without shovels - 😂inside club joke!
Go to the 'Read more ...' tab to have a look at several added pictures from the day as well as to see a listing of those Norfolk businesses who contributed so significantly to the product bags. We thank you all.
At Tuesday's meeting of the RCNS, Joanne Kiefer noted her close family connection to the great Canadian, Russ Jackson and informed us of the most recent honour the Hamiltonian has received. Our connection may be somewhat distant but, through Joanne, we applaud the long-overdue recognition that this most deserving Canadian is receiving. BZ.
Photo shot shows Joanne with her Uncle Russ and Aunt Lois.
The very best kind of community service is when the effort is collaborative. So it is with our continuing Coats for Kids program.
Coordinated by Bettyann Carty and her RCNS team (see the photo), we bring together Peerless Cleaners, First Baptist Church in Simcoe, the Langton Knitters, and our media support team of Second Ave printers, myFM 98.6 & Oldies 99.7 to provide for a variety of clothing intended to help our less fortunate kids stay warm this winter season.
The RCNS sincerely thanks everyone who donated their time and products to help keep our community warm during the coming winter months.
Results from the day and more photos are shown at the 'Read more ...' tab. Shown in this photo is the RCNS team Sue Finnie, Dave Nicolle, Bettyann Carty, Lisa Carty, Nancy Sherwin, Jim and Marjorie Dawson, Donna Raytrowski, Peter Wheatley & our President Louise Schebesch.
The sun came out on Thursday morning as RCNS put together their crew to spruce up our Panorama Gingerbread House display.
Helping to put a fresh stain on the house were: Joanne, Kate, Gail C and Keith J. General maintenance was handled by Jim P and Ray Mercato. Scott Williams and his colleague Lyn Smith stopped in to replace some broken pieces of wood on the house and lend some support to the roof. Of course we were all treated to Gail’s baking which was enjoyed by all.
As always Rotary made it all look easy and in 3 hours our job was complete. A few plans are still in place to provide some fresh decorations to the house along with some lights and music. Our tallest order will be figuring out how to transport it to the park as the trailer hitch has gone missing …. Stay tuned.
Go to the 'Read more...' tab to see several added photos.
On Tuesday, 02 Nov, Mary Mercato welcomed Jim Dover as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, he spoke to us about the community work he and his group are undertaking as related to the Port Dover Waterfront Preservation initiatives - see the "Read more ..." tab for additional information. Photos may be seen by Clicking Here.
In appreciation for Jim's presentation to us, Marjorie Dawson offered our thanks for an informative presentation and noted that we had contributed funds in his name, to our Operation EyeSight project; this to restore the vision of a senior in India.
To celebrate the onset of the annual District 7090 Conference, several local Area 1 members assembled to get ready.
Mary Mercato writes-in that; Following the Day of Action on September 25, when the Rotary Clubs of Norfolk Sunrise, Simcoe and Delhi planted 6,000 daffodil bulbs along the Trail, a social was held on October 22 at the Erie Beach. Attending were AG Bob Stevenson and DG Elect Lisa Bishop who welcomed everyone and took a moment to toast and acknowledge Karen Oakes. Karen’s passing is felt throughout the District and our Rotary family. Those in attendance enjoyed a fabulous meal and much needed comradery.
Owing to the pandemic, we are 'in-between' our exchange students at the moment. Nonetheless, we remember our great connections from the past and look forward to the program restarting as soon as it is safe to do so.
Yvonne Plater writes-in about our most recent student; "As many of you will know, Minori returned to Japan in July 2020. She completed her high school courses and was later accepted into a university three hours north of her home. She mentioned that when she was interviewed by the university they were very interested in her knowledge of English and that she had been an exchange student in Canada. She has just started her second year in a nursing program. Her warmth, compassion and caring nature will make her an amazing nurse. Though her 20th birthday was in May 2021, because of covid, the traditional celebration of this coming of age occurred last weekend. Her parents gave her the gift of this beautiful kimono. We miss her and she says she misses everyone at our Rotary club too."
This month, Rotary recoconizes its continuing work to eradicate polio from the world.
On Tuesday morning, 19 October 2021, we dedicated our meeting to this aim.
We started with Jim Dawson giving us an update on the status of RI's global work - go to the "Read more ..." tab below to see the details.
Marjorie Dawson thenwelcomed Lynne Hagen, a local Port Dover survivor of the polio plague, as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, she spoke to us about the nature of the disease and her own personal experience as a survivor; covering her life as a child, as an adolescent; into marriage and career and as a mother of four. What an uplifting story of great human spirit!! In appreciation for Lynne's presentation to us, Dave Nicolle offered our thanks for an inspirational presentation and noted that we had contributed funds in her name, to our Operation EyeSight project; this to restore the vision of a senior in Zambia; Irene.
On 16 May '96. we were chartered as the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise; a new Club within District 7090 of Rotary International.
On 18 May '21, with the restrictions of a pandemic upon us, we celebrated our 25th Anniversary with a special 'zoom' gathering of our members, all being entertained with stories and anecdotes about the club and its beginnings, as told by the founding members still with us.
On 09 Oct '21, we concluded our anniversary celebrations with the planting of a copper beech tree at the Rotary Sunrise parkette along our Sunrise Trail at Argyle St. A special stone was dragged into place and a suitable commemorative plaque was positioned to mark the occasion.
We continue to be proud of our contributions to our community; it is great to give back especially when it can be done having fun and making new friends; all at the same time.
Shown are Past Pres Steve Malo, Jim Peters and RCNS Pres Louise Schebesch. See the 'Read more...' tab below for additional pictures and a short description of the Copper Beech tree.
Earlier, the RCNS installed the first three of our Little Lending Libraries in Port Dover and Waterford.
Following the positive reviews received and with the encouragement of the Church Out Serving leaders (Eric Haverkamp & Virginia Lucas), we have now added our newest LLL at Riversyde 83 in Simcoe.
Thanks to Abel Enterprizes (Scott Williams et al) for constructing the units and congratulations to the Community Service Committee (Mary Mercato as Chair) for coordinating this great community literacy-support program
On Saturday, 02 Oct '21, Rotary District 7090 organized a 'Pedal for Polio' bicycle tour in support of our common Rotary aim to eradicate polio. Blessed with great weather, RCNS embraced the chance to support this Rotary fundraiser and to help draw attention to this great cause.
One of our participants, Dave Nicolle, writes in that - "Here are some pictures from today's great Pedal for Polio bicycle ride around Niagara-on-the-Lake hosted by that town's Rotary Club. Participants from RCNS were: Al & Yvonne Plater with daughter Emma, Steve & Jane Malo, Pete Wheatley and Dave Nicolle. The final # for funds raised are still being counted but many thanks to ALL who contributed to this great cause to help eradicate polio!"
Go to the 'Read more...' tab to see a selection of other pictures of our RCNS participants.
It was a wonderful day - Rotary 'work' seems like so much 'fun'.
Last year, we planted 4,200 ... this year, we added another 6,000 daffodil bulbs to further enhance our Rotary Sunrise Trail for those who enjoy its beauty.
Rudi Atkinson sent us this report on a fantastic fall day spent on the Sunrise Trail.
"Thank you. Thank you. Thank you for perfect weather, a great team of volunteers, new recruits from the playground, and for the bulbs to arrive in the nick of time. Whew!! April, 2022 will be offering a gorgeous display of three flower colors on our Sunrise Trail thanks to the efforts of Area 1 Rotary Clubs from District 7090 who banded together on a Day of Action to plant 6K daffodil bulbs the morning of 9.25.21.
Some of our trail users passing by were really excited to see what we were doing in anticipation of the beautiful display we will be seeing next spring. Daffodils represent new beginnings and rebirth and are a welcome site in the spring each year. #rotaryatwork #rotarynorfolksunrise #peopleofaction #rotarydistrict7090 #LoveRotary"
Go to the 'Read more ....' tab to see extra picture from the day.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise continues to demonstrate its commitment to basic education and literacy, one of the seven pillars of Rotary. The installation of the Little Lending Library (LLL) throughout the community will provide books for readers of all ages for free. The guidelines are few and simple. Anyone may take a book, read it and return it and/or donate a book. “I have always loved reading and through reading I am able to be transported to exoric places, learn of interesting events and fantasize about the characters in the story”. It’s this passion for reading that enticed me to take on this project with the help of Yvonne Plater. We now have a LLL in Port Dover at the Lions Park in front of the water fountain and at Roulston’s on Main Street. Waterford residents can enjoy a LLL in the front lawn of the Old Town Hall. Coming soon will be one at Church Out Serving, Simcoe. More locations will be announced at a later date. Our thanks to the Port Dover Lions, The Old Town Hall Association, Steve Flexman and Roulston Pharmacies for their co-operation and support.
Go to the 'Read more...' tab to see additional photos.
Our summer has passed - fall weather is upon us - so, once again, we have begun to think about keeping our kids warm for the upcoming winter months.
Please look into your closets and storage space and try to find some of your surplus winter coats that could be donated and would be so welcomed by our less fortunate community kids.
Thanks to Peerless Cleaners for their continuing support of this great Rotary community service work.
On Tuesday morning, 28 September, Gail Bouw welcomed (her daughter!) Jordana Botting, Director of Business Development for Viking River & Ocean Cruises, as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, she spoke to us about many of the issues the cruise industry is currently facing.
In particular, she focussed on the relative safety associated with Viking Cruises; new procedures to ensure our pandemic safety and an update on Viking ships, itineraries and technologies.
In appreciation for Jordana's presentation to us, Kate Stratford offered our thanks for a great presentation and noted that we had contributed funds in her name, to our Operation EyeSight project; this to restore the vision of a senior in India.
On January 21, 2022 at the Port Dover Legion Catch the Ace Winner John Lloy picked #12. It was the Ace of Spades. Congratulations to John! He received $500.00 for the ticket pulled. He also received $15,000.00 for finding the Ace of Spades.
Presenting these winnings to John are Port Dover Legion member Judy Buck (left) and RCNS member Gail Bouw.
Please click on the "Read more ..." tab below for previous winners.
What more could we have asked for in this FUNd-raiser to honour our founding, past-president Keith Flexman? ... terrific weather, scenic county routes, a park-like home-setting for Jane and Steve Malo to host us to Kaley-cooked goodies after the rally...
So thought the 21 participating teams (68 route participants with 12 more joining in for the social), mostly from the local area but with some from Stoney Creek and Brantford, not to mention several non-Rotarians from the local area. We were honoured that Joyce and Kelly Flexman could also join us to help out and enjoy our tribute to Flex.
A selection of photos taken during the day are at the 'Read more...' tab below. Others may be found at our Club Runner photo album site.
The grand prize of donated spirits etc was sought by 62 participants with Gail Bouw holding the key to happiness; at least for some of her business clients!
Individual team results are given under the 'Read more...' tab below. Check out how you did!!
Our appreciation goes out to our hard-working Ways & Means group; with a particular thanks to the event organizers Keith Jones, Tina Millea and Louise Schebesch. Special gratitude to Steve and Jane Malo for being our hosts and opening their home for our most welcomed get-together.
Flex would have been so pleased with the day, not to mention proud of us for keeping his idea alive!
Early this year and in the midst of the pandemic, the RCNS initiated a virtual FUNd-raiser to support our community, to promote local businesses and to offer a variety of local produce within Norfolk.
This project was so popular, we had to establish limits on the orders!! As a result, we're doing it again and we are now set up to let everyone know the details and consider purchasing our uniquely curated bags of local Norfolk goodies!!
Everything you need to know, as well as the procedures for purchasing a bag are given at this link. Click on it and proceed!
It would be great if you could share the information on this website (www.norfolksunrise.org) with your friends - ultimately, the community will be grateful for that.
Take a Bite Out of Norfolk - We're Open for Business
On Wednesday, 10 November, at 7pm, we will welcome Elder Renee Thomas-Hill as the fourth and last of our Guest Speakers in the Indigenous Voices Speaker Series. Via Zoom, she will help us to learn more about Living in Two Worlds - go to the 'Read more...' tab at the bottom to learn a little more about Renee.
We encourage open attendance by all of those who are interested in this topic.
If you would like to join in, it will be necessary to pre-register and pre-pay in order to receive the needed Zoom link. More details can be found byclicking on this link.
On Wednesday, 27 October, at 7pm, we will welcome Steven Greyeyes as the third of our Guest Speakers in the Indigenous Voices Speaker Series. Via Zoom, he will help us to learn more about Residential Schools - go to the 'Read more...' tab at the bottom to learn a little more about Steven.
We encourage open attendance by all of those who are interested in this topic.
If you would like to join in, it will be necessary to pre-register and pre-pay in order to receive the needed Zoom link. More details can be found byclicking on this link.
On Wednesday, 13 October, at 7pm, we will welcome Bryant Peters as the second of our Guest Speakers in the Indigenous Voices Speaker Series. Via Zoom, he will help us to learn more about the Indian Act - go to the 'Read more...' tab at the bottom of this story to learn a little more about Bryant.
We encourage open attendance by all of those who are interested in this topic.
If you would like to join in, it will be necessary to pre-register and pre-pay in order to receive the needed Zoom link. More details can be found byclicking on this link.
On Wednesday, 29 September, at 7pm, we will welcome Amos Key Jr as the first of our Guest Speakers in the Indigenous Voices Speaker Series. Via Zoom, he will help us to learn more about Building Respectful Relations and Understanding - go to the 'Read more...' tab at the bottom to learn a little more about Amos.
We encourage open attendance by all of those who are interested in this topic.
If you would like to join in, it will be necessary to pre-register and pre-pay in order to receive the needed Zoom link. More details can be found byclicking on this link.
Mark your calendars for a unique series of presentations set out to inform and educate all of us in respect of a variety of First Nation issues we are confronted with.
Jim & Marjorie Dawson (Co-Chairs of the District 7090 HIP Cttee) are co-ordinating a joint initiative between Grace United Church in Port Dover and our own Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, to bring us four informed speakers who will add some objectivity to four special topics. For information about pre-registering and pre-paying for this Zoom on-line, speaker series, please follow this link.
Click on the 'Read more...' tab to see the speakers as currently scheduled.
Additional details are at this link but you may wish to set aside some Zoom-time at 7-8 pm on 29 Sept, 13 Oct, 27 Oct and 10 Nov.
The event will be widely opened to the public - all are welcomed.
On Tuesday, 31 August, we welcomed Sherry Shrubb as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, she helped us to learn more about how we can help pollinators and help food security in our community; all in our own backyard.
In particular, she described the challenges associated with the promotion of native species and the need to control invasive species plants (eg garlic mustard - see side photo) so prevalent in our backyards and neighbourhoods.
Sherry noted the value in citizens joining into the David Suzuki Foundation Butterfly Project if they were looking for an entrance-way to help
Following many questions from our more-than-interested Club members (go to the Read more ... tab for a variety of responses), Mary Mercato thanked Sherry for her presentation and the passion with which she was pursuing this important initiative. She also noted that we had contributed funds in Sherry's name, to our Operation EyeSight project; this to restore the vision of a senior in India.
On Tuesday, 24 August, we welcomed three high-school students who had been selected as recent Slapshot participants and our Guest Speakers. Rudi Atkinson noted the context for the Rotary SlapShot program selection and provided for student introductions.
In turn, each student spoke of the value that they took from the virtual leadership experience. In each case, they were surprised by the benefits the program offered, in particular as related to their leadership growth and their need to cope with modern teen stress.
Click on this link to find out some background information about SlapShot as a Rotary 7090 program.
John Wallace commented on the impact these Rotary youth programs were/are having on individual lives and Nancy Sherwin offered our gratitude for these presentations. She noted that the RCNS had contributed funds in their names, to our Operation EyeSight project; this to restore the vision of a senior in India.
Guest Speaker 24 Aug - SlapShot Students - Student Experiences
After a pandemic period defined by social gathering restrictions and a summer break from our Rotary activities, President Louise welcomed over 45 of us to the first hosted event of her leadership year. It was a great night in an open-air facility, chosen for its safety and we all felt more than comfortable getting together in this way to see each other after such a long break.
Go to the Read more ... tab to see some photos from the BBQ part of the evening.
Following the meal, Andy Kooistra guided some of us on a walking tour through the Shadow Lake Trails; a portion of which we had recently contributed to with RCNS funding. Along the way, the walkers paused for a group photo.
The evening afforded us a chance to offer best wishes to several of our members who were celebrating personal events in their lives. Go to the Read more ... tab to see who these folks were!
All in all, it was a great way to kick off our new RCNS year; one that will be filled with great opportunities in our communities.
After many years in the making, our idea to add some mural artwork to the downtown community is finally taking form.
Last year, we came to an agreement with the group that is transforming the old LCBO building into a new community support centre. It turned out that our desire for artwork merged perfectly with the need that Church Out Serving (CoS) had for the rebranding of the facility into their new Riversyde 83 centre. With RCNS encouragement and funding, CoS proceeded with their art plan, acquiring additional partners along the way. They developed a jointly-agreed-upon theme (food and good nutrition) and then acquired a great, young street artist - meet Meaghan Kehoe - more of her work at this link.
The RCNS/CoS connection was great and is now bearing fruit - the work on the south face of the building started on 12 July. Next time you're in the Simcoe city centre area, drop around to see the progress; perhaps to meet and chat with Meaghan.
Ross & Joyce Gowan and Jim & Lynda Simpson (and Andy Kooistra since January) have been delivering Emergency Meals for Church Out Serving since last summer. Over the year they have put in 540 hours of sweat equity for this pandemic response program. Moreover, construction has continued when possible at Riversyde 83. Ross Gowan and Jim Simpson have been regulars, with Andy Kooistra and Keith Jones adding to the labour force when available. Together these Sunrisers put in 478 hours of sweat equity. This is on top of 581 hours that 12 volunteers put in during 2019-20. If you do the math, that's 1059 hours provided to Riversyde 83 construction. Well done! When you include all the hard work done for our fall Day of Action and our fundraisers this past year, the Club has put in 1553 hours of volunteer work this year. Pat yourselves on the back!
One of the three ways that a Paul Harris Fellowship may be awarded is for an individual to make a substantial personal financial contributions to the Rotary Foundation.
As a result, in 2021 the Rotary Foundation has recognized Marjorie Dawson, Jim Dawson, Nancy Sherwin, and Rudi Atkinson with Paul Harris Fellows for their ongoing donations to the Foundation. Earlier in the year Keith Flexman had been so-recognized and soon, Don Emerson will be publicly honoured.
Donations to the Rotary Foundation by Rotarians such as these Norfolk Sunrise members are the lifeblood of our body, supporting projects around the world such as polio eradication, clean water and providing grant money back to Clubs for their local projects.
One of the three ways that a Paul Harris Fellowship may be awarded is for the parent club to use its Foundation contribution points to nominate a particular member of its own club or the community at large.
At our 'zoom' changeover, the Chair of our Presidents Advisory Committee, Rudi Atkinson announced two RCNS members recognized as PHFs for their ongoing contributions;
Mary Mercato has been a Club member since 2017 and a leader on our Board since 2019. She has lead the PR&C function and currently chairs the Community Service committee. If there is a fundraiser such as Take a Bite out of Norfolk or Bargains, Bling and Blarney on the go, you are certain to find Mary in the heat of the action. Mary is active in many volunteer activities in the community including St Vincent DePaul food basket delivery, a member of various community boards and a church volunteer. Mary’s generosity with her time to help others is admirable and works within the ideals of Rotary.
Jim Simpson has been a Club member since 2015 and a leader on our Board since 2016. He has lead the Community Service Committee and currently looks after the PR&C function. Jim Simpson has been a powerhouse in redesigning the clubs website and overseeing everything public relations. Volunteering his time in the community has included the ongoing renovations within Riversyde 83, as a church volunteer, as a Community Volunteer Income Tax team member as well as at support groups such as Habitat for Humanity. Jim is our club rep for the RI Can-Scot Curling Exchange program.
Well done, Mary and Jim. You both exemplify what it means to be a Rotarian. As a Club, we are all proud of what you bring to our community presence.
On Tuesday, 22 June, the RCNS gathered by zoom to have en evening of fun, to present several Paul Harris awards and to effect the changeover in our leadership positions before our summer break. Hosted by our Club Service chair, Gail Bouw and MC'd by Ross Gowan, 28 club members enjoyed a great night.
The meeting started with a primer on the Paul Harris Fellowship followed by the awarding of PH pins to Rudi Atkinson, Nancy Sherwin, Jim Dawson and Marjorie Dawson for their generous support of the Rotary Foundation. After those awards, Mary Mercato and Jim Simpson were surprised with PH pins resulting from our own Club considerations. There will be more information on these awards as time unfolds.
We then went about passing the gavel from our outgoing President Steve Malo to our incoming President Louise Schebesch. A leading tribute by John Wallace was followed by several comments about outgoing Steve, who then reflected on our very unusual year and the way in which we met our challenge(s) in such a typically 'Sunriser' fashion. We were lucky to have Steve steer us through such a curious and unique year. Steve then passed the gavel to incoming Louise who promptly explained certain environmentally-focused changes in our club structure and announced the new Board; acknowledging those who had agreed to stay on, thanking those who were moving on, welcoming those moving in ... (see the Leadership tab at the top of the www.norfolksunrise.org page). Louise stressed how much she was looking forward to working with the new team. After a short run-down on several of the initiatives Louise was planning for our next Rotary Sunrise year, she returned the meeting to the host who closed out the meeting with a number of randomly chosen 'zoom' break-out sessions to allow for some much needed social interaction between our 'cabin-fevered' club members!
Mark your calendars and sign-up for our next Flex's Road Rally for Rotary followed by a genuine face-to-face, social BBQ; all this fun being planned by our hardworking ways and means group, for Sunday 19 September 2021.
It'll be .. zoom-zoom .. in a very different way than we've been used to! Note even more of the event details at the 'Read more ...' tab
Click on Flex's Road Rally for Rotary for information concerning event details, registration and payment ...
This is an event open to the public, so why not pass this link along to your family and friends to create and team and join in the fun.
Our most recent donation in support of the Waterford Heritage Trail has now been spent - the work is complete and yet more trail has been opened up for the enjoyment of the Norfolk community and its neighbours.
Andy Kooistra provides us with some photos and writes - 'The trail upgrade work has been completed. Thank you Rotary!!
In response, Past-President Steve Malo writes - 'Great photos. The transformation is incredible. We as well as your trail association are so very fortunate having you as the front man. Great work.'
The original story (as posted on 11 June) as well as some general information about the Waterford Trails is given below at the 'Read more ...' tab.
More fun from our ever-caring Membership Cttee - focussing on issues of current interest in our Club as it gets ready to change presidency from Steve Malo to Louise Schebesch on 22 June.
It finally happened - the Ace was caught after 50 draws! #38 was the lucky envelope and the winner is Bev Wood. Event photo shows Gail Bouw (RCNS), Judy Buck (RCL) and Bev; our happy winner.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise in partnership with the Port Dover Royal Canadian Legion Branch #158, started this draw on 02 Jan, 2020. Owing to the pandemic, it had to be stopped it twice and was eventiually restarted under very controlled, county-approved procedures - in the end, it proved to be worth the time and effort it took finally find this ace.
Over $20,000 was given out to weekly winners; $ 30,000 was given to the grand prize winner (in this case Bev Wood) and and the remaining$50,000 collected will be put back into the community for the benefit of selected Norfolk County recipients - with the help of the RCNS, everyone is a winner in this authorized game-of-chance contest. Have a look at the "Read more ..." tab to see a list of the lucky winners.
We want to thank everyone involved for the support needed to bring this, our fourth licence to such a dramatic and successful close.
On the occasion of our 25th Anniversary, the RCNS has decided to mark the occasion with a suitable tree planting along our Sunrise Trail - more to follow on this event at a later time.
This puzzler focusses on trees as we get ready to plant!
The fourth approved licencing of our ever-popular community fundraiser concluded on Friday 04 June 2021 - what an adventure that series of draws proved to be - congratulations to all winners but in particular to Bev Wood our $30K Grand Prize Winner!
As a result of the continuing interest in this draw, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, with the support of the Port Dover Legion Branch 158, will secure a fifth AGCO/County license and intends to recommence the game on Friday 10 September - stay tuned over the summer for additional details.
See our Fundraiser Tab at the top of this website home page to see the details concerning this very popular game of chance.
What a ride it's been this time ... can you believe it??
Week #40 is upon us and one way or another, the WILL be selected this Friday, 04 June at the Port Dover Legion. When the is found, it will be worth $30,000. Only the first ticket pulled will receive the $500 prize. If the is not found, we will continue pulling tickets until we find it and the grand prize winner is identified.
The RCNS team will be broadcasting the draw LIVE on FaceBook starting at 7:15pm.
Thank you to everyone who has supported this great RCNS fundraiser; it has been such a continuing success for our community.
On Tuesday morning, 31 currently active members 'zoomed' in to celebrate our 25th Anniversary as a Club and to recognize our founding members, in particular, those who remain as active members.
Originating from the very active days of the Rotary Club of Simcoe in the 1990's, we split away and were founded on 16 May 1996. Planned by a recognized Steering Committee and set out with the blessings of Rotary International and our parent Simcoe Club, our first group of 52 held their Assemblies at Mindon Manor under the leadership of our founding President, Keith Flexman (very recently departed - may he RIP in Rotary heaven!). In the photo, see Pres Keith being so-pinned at the first club assembly by first Club Secretary Terry Kristman.
If you go to the 'Read more ...' tab, you will find recognition of the Steering Committee, the first leadership team and the full list of our 52 founding members.
During our anniversary meeting, the remaining, active members of the founding group, each provided us with one or more memories/reflections related to the inauguration and/or history of our club. Go to the 'Read more ...' tab to see a summary of their ideas. How grateful we are for the work this group has done over the years as well as the example they continue to contribute as we look forward to our bright future as a service club.
On Tuesday morning, our own Norfolk Sunrise Club (with several guests from the Simcoe and Delhi Clubs) welcomed Brian Carmichael and Gail Catherwood who lead a discussion re our interest in Rotary Satellite clubs. In opening the session, Brian provided a brief overview of Rotary as it is today, noting more members were leaving than joining and that average ages were creeping up. Nonetheless, Rotary International is considering a more efficient structure (a Canadian Zone), new Clubs (48) are being formed and progress is being made in our new high-tech circumstances. In the context of Passport Clubs, Rotaract Clubs, E-Clubs and the like, the speaker focused on the merits of forming Satellite Clubs; an initiative that might work well in the current Norfolk situation. See the "Read more ..." tab below, for a primer that provides everything (and more!) that you need to know about the topic. A wide-ranging discussion followed this excellent and most informative briefing. Several local initiatives are to be considered. Well-done, Brian!
On Easter Sunday afternoon, 04 April, a member of our club arrived at Meika Matthews home in Port Dover with a secret surprise; a Paul Harris Fellowship!
Performing the honour on behalf of the Club was Rudi Atkinson who backed up the award with remarks that may be read by clicking on the 'Read more ...' tab just below.
With the coming of spring there are a lot of Sunrise Trail activities planned.
First up is the continuing tree planting on the “John Wallace” Rotary Grove on the RC Norfolk Sunrise trail North of Davis Drive. The plan is to continue the planting of redbuds on both sides of the trail on the straight section going north from Davis St. We have a skeleton crew signed up to plant on Apr16 (9-12am); with COVID restrictions we are limited to 5 people. In preparation for the tree planting we will clear some brush so will have a crew on Apr 9 (9am) to do this work - this is a bit heavier work with loppers, saws and brush hogs are needed to take out heavier brush. Along with the Redbud planting this spring, the RCNS is working with Norfolk County on continuing the tree planting effort. Going north of the Rotary grove, we will be planting a mix of trees on the east side of the trail with the goal of reaching the 14th Concession. It is expected that this planting project will be scheduled for the Fall '21.
Speaking of the Fall, rumour has it that past president Rudi is hatching a plan to continue the planting of daffodils in the Rotary grove - stay tuned for further developments!
This week it was announced that the $10,000 Band Aid Program Grant from Musicounts has been approved to provide instruments for the proposed string ensemble program at Pikangikum First Nation. This is a competitive process available to all schools across Canada so it is a really exciting development!
Jim & Marjorie Dawson, along with financial contributions from RCNS, have been working with Pikangikum First Nations on developing the school music program for about 8 years. Last fall they worked with music teacher Morris George-Ellington on an application to the Band Aid program which supports at risk youth music programs.
Club members gathered together on Sunday afternoon, 28 March, to carry-out a socially-distant drive-past Cathy Harrop's home in Simcoe.
Little did she know that the purpose of this drive-past was to surprise her as our most recent inductee to the Paul Harris Fellowship!
Performing the honour on behalf of the Club was Peter Wheatley who added a generous expression of lightness and humour to the moment. These remarks may be read by clicking on the 'Read more ...' tab just below.
Well done, Cathy - you are a fundraiser extraordinaire and true leader in our Club - this is a a PHF so very well deserved.
The Little Lending Library (LLL) is a free book sharing/lending tool, increasing access to books for readers of all ages. Currently over 100 countries around the world have established over 100,000 LLL, exchanging millions of books.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise is in the process of establishing its first free Little Lending Library in Simcoe and is planning on establishing additional sites within Norfolk County.
Lead for this District 7090 conceived initiative is with Mary Mercato with support form Alan/Yvonne Plater ... all in support of literacy and promoting the love of reading.
This Tuesday at our weekly 7am, Zoom gathering, Marjorie Dawson welcomed our Guest Speaker, Dawn Lavell-Harvard, Director of the Trent University First Peoples House of Learning. Dawn was joined by her assistant Lorelei Wilkinson. More details on the guest speaker and her initiative may be found by going to the "Read more ..." tab as given below.
With her eloquence and her impassioned reflection on so many of the issues facing our indigenous peoples, Dawn completely captured our attention. For a brief moment in our time, she became the "spirit of the hummingbird". Hers was a message we will not soon forget; a message drawing out many reflections from several of our Club members with many more going felt, but unstated.
Following the speech and the discussion, Gail Catherwood thanked Dawn (and Lorelei) for joining us so early in the morning. She commented on a connection between what we had been left thinking about and the upcoming Mothers Day noting that in appreciation for the message, we had restored the vision of someone in India as a art of our Operation EyeSight program.
This Tuesday at our weekly 7am, Zoom gathering, we welcomed our Guest Speaker, Edith Gelbard. Edith was introduced by her son, Richard Gelbard (a local Norfolk resident) and spoke about her family and personal experiences during World War II and immediately thereafter; quite a story of life, courage and an indomitable spirit. Gelbard survived the Holocaust by living as a ‘hidden’ Jewish girl in France. More details on Edith may be found by going to the "Read more ..." tab as given below.
On behalf of the Club, Dave Douglas thanked Edith (and Richard) for a most thought-provoking talk; a presentation that one could not consider without contrasting it to our present day circumstances. On Edith's behalf, it was noted that the sight of an elderly man in India had been restored as part of our Op EyeSight program.
At our weekly 7am, Zoom gathering, Marjorie Dawson introduced our Guest Speakers, Lucy Bonanno, President and CEO of the Norfolk General Hospital, she in the company of Aaron Gautreau, responsible for hospital communications. Lucy gave us a very enthusiastic overview of the NGH and its operations, specifically discussing her experiences in running a critical health care facility in a difficult time. A selection of slides from her presentation as well as a few more details on our guest speaker (as taken from a 2020 edition of the Simcoe Reformer) may be found by going to the "Read more ..." tab as given below.
On behalf of the Club, Joanne Keifer (a retired hospital professional), thanked Lucy and Aaron, seeking to pass along our regards and appreciation to every one of the health care workers who are working so hard to keep us healthy.As part of our Op EyeSight program, we have restored the sight of one more person in India in Lucy's name.
On Tuesday 30 March, at our weekly 7am, Zoom gathering, Gail Bouw welcomed our Guest Speakers, Jim and Marjorie Dawson, leaders in our Club and Co-Chairs of the District 7090 Rotary HIP Committee.
Marjorie and Jim led us through an interesting trivia game related to Canada and our indigenous peoples and then gave us a very interesting and thought-provoking presentation on the background related to the need for, and current status of, HIP; Rotary's response to the cause of the First People's.
More details concerning Rotary's initiative, Jim & Marjorie's work as well as a selection of slides from their presentation may be found by going to the "Read more ..." tab as given below.
Following a number of questions which established our keen interest in the ongoing work, our President, Steve Malo thanked the Dawson's for their most useful, and needed, work in this cause. We certainly wish them well.
This Tuesday at our weekly 7am, Zoom gathering, Gail Bouw welcomed our Guest Speakers, Neil Unwin and Aimee Bernardo for the local CrimeStoppers group. Both shared details concerning the local group, their effect on the community and the success they have had over the years. More details on the presentation may be found by going to the "Read more ..." tab as given below.
On behalf of the Club, John Wallace thanked Neil and Aimee for their work in the community as well as their presentation to us. It was noted that in addition to the financial support we have previously donated to them, that the sight of a 73 year old Zambian man had been restored as part of our Op EyeSight program.
We have approval to recommence our favourite card draw - get your tickets for the 09 April return of Catch the Ace sponsored by our club and hosted by the Port Dover Legion.
Go to our RCNS FaceBook Page (see link available at this site) for weekly updates related to the current situation, winners, prizes etc, See our Fundraiser Tab at the top of the website home page to see the previous winners from this, our fourth approved licence to conduct this very popular game of chance.
On Tuesday at our weekly 7am, Zoom gathering, Lisa Bishop welcomed our Guest Speaker, Kevin Crosby, friend of our Club, past-Governor of District 7090 and currentlyAssistant Zone Coordinator for Zone 28 (ie 21 Districts). Go to the 'Read more ...' tab to learn more about Kevin.
Kevin provided a very though-provoking presentation on the District 7090 initiative to promote Healthy Communities - his presentation slides are shown at the Read more ...' tab.
Following several questions concerning the applicability of the initiative to our Area and/or to our Club; Dave Nicolle suggested that a good and heathy seed had been planted and then noted that we had used the occasion to restore the eyesight health of a needy individual as part of our Op EyeSight program.
On Tuesday at our weekly 7am, Zoom gathering, Rudi Atkinson welcomed our Guest Speaker, Kriti Agarwal, friend of our Club and 2006-2007 inbound exchange student from India.
Kriti entertained us by explaining her experience as a Rotary Exchange student; how her life was shaped as she moved from Preyagrai India, to Norfolk County, and eventually onto Albuqueque as a young adult; how her exchange experience shaped her development and success as a person. She commented that such life-changing, exchange experiences allowed her to see life as the uniquely-talented person that she is (a snowflake!!) and how Rotary brought out the very best in her. Kriti is now living in Albuquerque, and works as an engineer at Intel Corp. You can read more about her life by going the the 'Read more ...' tab below.
Of course, many in our community were glad to see Kriti return to share her life and professional experiences with us; none moreso that those who counselled her and provided the needed family support. In that sense, Kriti recognized Stella Barker as her year-long RCNS Counsellor as well as (the late) John and Janet Kazakevicius, Rudi Atkinson and James Kristof (along with Kelsey and Tasha) and Brian and Jen Gedye as her three Norfolk host families.
On behalf of our Club, Stella Barker expressed our appreciation for Kriti's morning presentation as well as the regard with which we hold Kriti; an excellent role model for the Rotary Exchange Student program(s).
Rotary Sunrise puzzle teasers to peak your interest in, or knowledge of, our active club ... both courtesy of our creative Membership Committee ... Happy Family Day.
On Tuesday, 16 March, Rudi Atkinson gave a 'blessed' welcome to our Guest Speaker, Kelsey Blake friend of our Club and previous outbound, RCNS exchange student.
Kelsey focussed her presentation on her experiences in Hungary (2005-2006), and how the Rotary youth exchange program has shaped her life to date. Clearly, her success follows the opportunities Rotary has offered her, as she lead us thought the developments in her life - Rotary youth exchange, Rotary youth leadership, post-secondary education in Toronto, Quinn, corporate risk-taking and success and her passion for women-focussed, documentary photography and videography .... so many BHAGs!
Several of the slides in her presentation as well as certain details on Kelsey's professional success may be found by going to the "Read more ..." tab as given below.
Following several questions, Dave Nicolle congratulated Kelsey on her success and offered up the thought that her success was very much a reward to everyone in the club who have invested in the success of our Youth and Exchange programs over the years.
On Tuesday at our weekly 7am Zoom gathering, Marjorie Dawson welcomed our Guest Speaker, Heather King, a very busy CEO for the five branches of the Norfolk County Public Library.
Heather covered a very wide range of topics related to the library; history, governance, themes, programs, opportunities and fundraising as well as the myriad of challenges facing the Library in these pandemic difficult days. As she described it. the library is certainly "More than Books"!
Following such a great briefing on this essential community service, Rudi Atkinson offered up our gratitude, not only for the presentation but also for the phenomenal array of ways in which the library is supporting Norfolk County. As part of our Op EyeSight program, we have restored the sight of one person in Heather's name.
At our Tuesday morning Club 'zoom' get-together, Gail Catherwood welcomed our guest speaker Hadley Jackson.
Hadley, an active member and past president of our sister club, the Rotary Club of Simcoe, grew up in Simcoe and now hails from Port Dover. Following his career with the Cooperators, Hadley has been a participant/leader in all forms of sailing; in particular youth sail training programs, and has been very involved in the growth of the Lighthouse Festival Theatre in Port Dover. He was perfectly suited to entertain us with his recollections of life in Simcoe in the 1940s. His reminiscences covered many topics about his life as a youngster growing up in a much more affluent centre. Even so, he could only recall how much simpler life was 'in the day'.
At the end of Hadley's entertaining talk, Paul Zorad from our club thanked him, noting that a gift of eyesight had been provided to someone in need, as a part of our work with Op Eyesight.
Here, in this photo, we see Hadley in his early years. At the 'Read more ....' tab, you can see how one grows following a lifetime of sailing!
At our morning 'zoom' meeting of 19 Jan '21, Mary Mercato welcomed our guest speaker Heather Lennie, who provided us with an overview of the Free Reading Program (FRP), a program whose mission is to 'deliver free, on-line literacy programs to children around the world'. Heather, a past member of Rotaract and current member of the Scarborough Rotary Club is the FRP Board Chair (and working out of Viet Nam!). She actively promotes program initiatives, develops and advances programs and connects like-minded individuals who are eager to enhance global on-line education.
Heather noted that this very progressive program is supported by many other Rotary clubs. She noted that the FRP is being used by over 350K users, in over 185 countries. Morover, she has communicated the program to over 300 Rotary clubs. See the Scarborough Rotary Club page (upper right corner) as an example - Scarborough Site.
As the presentation unfolded, Heather encouraged us to consider the merit of the FRP as it might apply to our own communities. In his summary remarks, educator, researcher and rotarian Don Emerson thanked Heather for advising us on an "awesome, awesome" initiative. Click on the 'Read more ...' box for more information.
We recently lost an outstanding member of our Norfolk community and a truly amazing Rotarian. His life was the definition of 'Service before Self' and we will truly miss him
On the last day of 2020, and so as to dispatch a curious year in a most Rotary way, several of our RCNS club members represented us proudly by making a most useful donation to the 47 Indwell residents living at Hambleton Hall.
Using donations gathered following the initial idea, we were able to purchase festive season Swiss Chalet meal cards, Food Basic grocery cards and collect up 'goodie bags' of useful items such as socks for every one of the most grateful residents.
Shown in the picture are (left to right) Mary Mercato, Gail Catherwood, Bettyanne Carty & Gail Bouw from our club, and Leah Logan & Debra Vandermeer, both staff members at Indwell.
... a great way to start a New Year filled with hope for better things to come!!
With continuing RCNS volunteer and financial support, Church Out Serving remains committed to helping the disadvantaged with a variety of drop-in and delivered, food support programs; even (or may it be said, especially) during the festive season break.
Joyce & Ross Gowan along with Lynda & Jim Simpson continue to offer up RCNS volunteer support to the emergency meal hamper program, one of the COS programs delivering food support to over 150 families all over Norfolk County.
In the photo, we see Lynda Simpson along with COS volunteers Pat and Lauren (the observant might notice a clear resemblance to Lucine McKay; Lauren's proud Rotarian grandmother!) loading up a delivery destined for the Langton area of the County. If you go to the "Read more ..." section, you can get an idea of a typical hamper delivery prepared for one of the needy families in that area.
Rotary Sunrise puzzle teasers to peak your holiday break interest in, or knowledge of, our active club ... both courtesy of our creative Membership Committee.
As part of our community program to assist with the nutritional needs in our county, our Norfolk Sunrise Club recently gave a cheque to the First Baptist Church in Simcoe to help cover their costs in being the host kitchen for the Church Out Serving feeding program. In the picture holding our cheque is Nancy Carroll from the Church. She says “the money will be put to good use as we continue to support this important ministry. I'm excited that Church Out Serving will be serving a take-out meal on Christmas Day to people who are in need. Thank you Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise!
On Tuesday morning, Dave Douglas from our club (yes Dave - 'Who Knew?!"), welcomed Carolyn Hyslop, CEO of the Canadian Canoe Museum located in Peterborough Ontario.
Carolyn has been with the museum since 2002 in roles including Education Co-ordinator, Public Programs Manager, Interim General Manager, and Director of Operations. She is devoted to outdoor education, and has active memberships with the Ontario College of Teachers and the Ontario Recreational Canoeing and Kayaking Association (instructor level). More information about the Canadian Canoe Museum can be found by clicking HERE.
Carolyn gave us an outstanding presentation covering the beginnings of the venture, the aims and current status of the museum as well as the projections for a future site of the facility; all the while highlighting their ongoing collaborations and connection to people, native culture & story-telling themes.
On behalf of the RCNS, Dave thanked Carolyn for a great presentation.
Our own Dave Douglas, presenting an RCNS donation to the local Special Olympics team. Dave (in the rear) is joined by Shirley Shaw, Amanda Shaw and Korissa Hammond; all members of the Special Olympics and all grateful for the support that Rotary has provided this year, as well as over the past several years.
The donation will go a long way to helping support the swim program.
On behalf of the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, Lucine McKay is pleased to present a donation to Church Out Serving- Emergency Food Response - 'First Serving' program.
This fresh meal program is served Mondays and Fridays as a takeout at lunchtime. Accepting is Eric Haverkamp of Church Out Serving.
On Tuesday morning, Dave Douglas from our Club, welcomed Scott Petrie to speak to 35 of us in attendance, about his work and passion for the Delta Waterfowl group. Scott who now lives in Bismarck ND and is the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Scientist at Delta Waterfowl. He is a past resident of Norfolk County with a family that has participated in and supported our own Youth and Education programs. He was accompanied by Aaron Everingham from the Delta Waterfowl Long Point office.
Delta Waterfowl is a leading conservation group founded at the famed Delta Marsh in Manitoba, with its US Headquarters in Bismarck, North Dakota. They work to produce ducks through intensive management programs and conservation of breeding duck habitat. Scott gave an excellent overview of the groups history, plans, initiatives and issues as they apply to wetlands and waterfowl conservation - very eye-opening. In particular, Scott revealed their work to increase the group's impact in the Great Lakes area. For more information, click HERE.
On behalf of the RCNS, Emma Brown thanked Scott for a fascinating talk on a little-understood environmental issue.
On Tuesday, 17 November the Salvation Army coordinator, Hal Whitcomb briefed us on the new look of their 'Covid and the Kettles' campaign. He encouraged our continuing support of this vital program, a campaign during a pandemic made all the more important in light of the information given by our other morning guest, Heidy Van Dyk. The SA target this year is $100K and the campaign will run from 20 Nov until 24 Dec 2020.
This year, our RCNS volunteer participation will be coordinated by Joanne Keifer.
Additional information can be found at the 'Read More ....' tab or from Joanne or Hal (Ph 519-909-9421 or Email).
On Tuesday morning, 17 November, and on behalf of the RCNS, Gail Catherwood welcomed Heidy Van Dyk to our Zoom meeting to speak to us about issues in her portfolio as Director of the Social Services and Housing Department for Haldimand-Norfolk.
Heidy's message was that with a Covid layer now covering the already present crises in the County, they continue to do the good work needed to support those more unfortunate in the County. Necessarily, they have adopted altered procedures and distant approaches to service delivery. She gave updates on the challenges in Child Services, the multiple changes in Ontario Works and the issues being dealt with his Housing. Of particular note, would be the success (and continuing needs) associated with the Emergency Services (Housing, Meals) programs and the fact that throughout the pandemic, they have yet to experience their first case of Covid19.
Marjorie Dawson thanked Heidy for her update, noting the amazing work being done and the unbelievably positive results being achieved.
See the 'Read More ..." section for background information that resulted from an 98.9 myFM interview with Heidy in July this year.
Our International Service Committee is now planning to breathe new life into the success already achieved with the Rotary Operation EyeSight Universal (OEU) Project. Look forward to OEU progress in Mzuzu, Malawi. Soon they will be initiating a renewed campaign to contact donors who have, or are interested in supporting this worthwhile cause. As our project coordinator say, this is Rotary work that 'is making a huge difference in many peoples lives'.
In the event, if you clickHERE(Op EyeSight Update), you will be connected to a YouTube video that will provide you with an interesting and useful update.
How best to enjoy an evening at home with your friends and contribute to the good going on in the community at the same time??
Why not try our 'Virtual Trivia Night' as organized by our Ways and Means committee? This is an initiative that we tried several months ago and was quite popular ... we feel that the onset of the longer nights and colder weather will make it even more successful.
ANYONE (ie you don't have to be a Rotarian) can sign up as an individual, or better yet, form a team. Register at the Email address given at the poster and take it from there ... each Thursday night for the four weeks in November.
See the "Read more ..." section for the rules that will apply to this fun game.
Help us in our aim to raise funds for the good of the community.
On Tuesday morning, our Rotary friend Brian Carmichael joined us by Zoom to provide a current report on the status of the Rotary Foundation. Introduced by Nancy Sherwin, Brian summarized the status, issues, benefits and needs surrounding the fund, all done in an entertaining and thought-provoking way. Go to "Read more ..." for a short video on the Rotary Foundation.
Along the way, Brian noted the work of three 'People of Action' each of whom are examples he uses for describing the reason for the Foundation's relative health - Deb Walters, Doug Leighton and our very own John Wallace. He then remarked on the very positive manner in which we as a Club, have supported the Foundation - by all accounts we are a top club in the District and should be proud of the continuing effectiveness with which we provide our financial support.
After several comments and questions, and on behalf of the Club, Peter Wheatley thanked Brian for a great briefing - well done and much appreciated.
It being a Zoom session, the entire meeting was recorded and will be available to members afterwards for further review.
Our President, Steve Malo reports from the Ride for Polio scene...
Alan completed his ride for polio today at Niagara Falls
The ride which took place on both sides of the boarder raised over $50K all of which will be put toward our continued drive to eliminate this dreaded disease. Since Rotary initiated our drive in 1985 we have raised over $2B. We have made great strides and have experienced great success reducing the incidence by 99.9% The reality remains that until we attain 100% the goal however elusive has not been reached.
If it were not for Rotary's bold initiative, this disease would not be on the cusp of being eliminated.
I would like to thank those who have supported Alan for this event. Alan presented a cheque to our district governor for over $1.5K at the onset of his ride. I would also like to thank Alan for representing our club and serving as our ambassador. Job well done.
Due to COVID Restrictions and safety issues, the Pedal for Polio Committee has decided to start and end the two rides at the Rainbow Bridge in Niagara Falls, NY, and Niagara Falls, Canada.
CA ROUTE: On the Canadian side of Niagara Falls the cycling venture will begin and end at the Rainbow Bridge in the Duty Free parking lot. There will be a staggered start with the first group starting at 10:30 am and the second group starting at 11:00 am. The riders will be greeted by a Past District Governor at the Queenston Heights Park in Queenston for a proclamation from Lord Mayor and Rotarian Betty Disero and June Mergl. The Niagara on the Lake and Fonthill Rotary Clubs will be providing snacks.
TO REGISTER TO RIDE AND/OR TO DONATE, CLICK HERE, THEN CLICK ON DR. RON MERGL PARTICIPATE FOR POLIO PLUS LINK.
OUR CLUB RIDER IS ALAN PLATER> YOU CAN SUPPORT HIM BY GOING TO THE DONATION BUTTON AT THE TOP OF THIS WEB_PAGE>
On Tuesday morning, 06 Oct, 26 of our RCNS members ‘zoomed-in’ to welcome our guest speaker. As introduced by Dave Douglas, we greeted Josefa Michaelson, an Eastern Region Engagement Advisor for outreach programs of the Canadian Assn of Petroleum Producers, not to mention a long-haul survivor of the Covid virus. Josefa summarized the impact that the oil and gas industry has had, and continues to have, on Canada. In a very well-prepared presentation, she went on to describe the essential nature of that sector as well as the degree to which they are coordinating operations, innovations, initiative and plans with those who lead environmental imperatives. Josefa was asked to comment on her Covid experience and related the challenge she faced, the awful nature of it and the residual effects that she still experiences even today, 6 months later, as a ‘long-hauler” ... a very thought-provoking story. On behalf fo the club, Andy Kooistra, thanked Josefa for the great presentation giving us a bit of a reality-check into the industry, wished her the very best in her continuing recovery from the virus, and presented her with a club momento whereby we’ve restored the vision of a person in India in her name.
On 03 October; a bright Saturday morning, about 30 masked Rotarians gathered outside in the Salvation Army parking lot to complete their third annual Rotary Day of Action.
The Rotary Day of Action is an annual community event where our three local Rotary Clubs (Norfolk Sunrise, Simcoe and Delhi) come together in support of a pre-selected, local community need. This year, a year full of pandemic considerations, we chose to conduct a community donation drive to collect a variety of personal hygiene products for women in need.
After a two week collection period, we were more than pleasantly surprised with the amount of products that we were able to repack and send out for local community distribution. From 11 collection points in 5 communities, we gathered up no less than an estimated $7,000 - $8,000 worth of product for passage onto 7 different distribution points. Click on the "Read More" button to learn more about what we gathered and who our partners were.
What a great day we had! Mindful of the pandemic limitations, we felt safe in our work and very satisfied with the success of our outcome. We even had our District Governor, Frank Adamson, drive down from Fonthill to be with us and to help with our aim to 'Act' in the community.
Kudos to the many who helped out but a particular shout-out might go to Mary Mercato of the Norfolk Sunrise Club who performed the lion's share of the needed coordination. Well done to all.
Once again this year, Dave Nicolle and Bettyann Carty from our Club are leading us in our community drive to collect winter coats for the needy children of Norfolk County.
Through to Wednesday 28 October, coats and other appropriate winter clothing items may be dropped off at any of 9 collection points in 6 local community centres (see the poster). Following the collection period, RCNS volunteers will gather at the First Baptist Church in Simcoe to ensure a fair distribution of all that was gathered.
More information will follow but if you have any questions reach out to Dave and/or Bettyann. In the meantime, start looking for winter clothing items that you might donate!
Early on Tuesday morning, 29 September, we welcomed Mark Boerkamp back to the Club; this time as our 'Zoom' guest speaker. Gail Catherwood introduced Mark as a very active yet previous member of the RCNS, a Paul Harris Fellow and a Past President of our Club.
Mark offered a very entertaining talk on his responsibilities as the Norfolk County, Superintendent of Trails and Cemeteries. During the session, Mark discussed the development, and status, of the 45 km of walking trails we have a joint interest in, the issues and little-known aspects of the 45 (19 of which are active) cemeteries that Norfolk County is responsible for, as well as some updated information concerning certain bridges and dams in our County. Of course, Mark couldn't conclude without an 'Environmental Moment'; this one related to the challenge of waste plastics in our world. All in all, a great presentation, drawing much interest and many questions.
On behalf of the RCNS, Joanne Keifer offered our appreciation for such an informative and entertaining perspective. BZ.
On Tuesday, 15 October, our club welcomed Amelia Verlint to a club zoom gathering to tell us about her recent outbound exchange visit to CafeLandia, Sao Paolo, Brazil.
In Sept 2019, Amelia ventured off to Brazil and returned in March the following year. Hers was an experience somewhat different that the traditional exchange inasmuch as the trip was shortened due to the pandemic. Nonetheless, her presentation highlighted what could only be described as a unique and life-building experience. Amelia proved to be a fine representative of her family, friends, Rotary and Canada.
On behalf of the our Club, Gail Catherwood thanked Amelia for a great picture-laden presentation of a truly wonderful life experience, noting that Amelia had clearly focussed on people over places as a priority during her Rotary exchange.
Earlier picture showing Amelia flanked on the left by Gary MacMillan (Simcoe Club) and on the right by Cheryl Peck (Norfolk Sunrise Club).
On Tuesday, 01 September, Gail Catherwood welcomed the General Manager of Venture Norfolk, Kristine Carey as a guest speaker to our club. Kristine is well-known as a supporter of our Club inasmuch as Venture Norfolk has frequently and generously provided a home for our meetings when needed. On top of that, early in the meeting, she established herself as 'the smartest Rotarian this week' as a result of her prowess with our President's weekly trivia contest!
Kristine spoke well of the background, aims and activities of Venture Norfolk, explaining the main roles they play n our Norfolk Community ie entrepreneur loans, business consultation and community project support.It is more than clear, that VN has had a most positive impact on the community over the years.
More information concerning the impact that Venture Norfolk has on our community can be found at www.venturenorfolk.ca
On behalf of the club, Dave Bradshaw offered his appreciation for the 'Norfolk adventures at Venture Norfolk' and thanked Kristine for a great talk.
Our Rotary Wheel Car Rally is only about 3 weeks away. This is a social event for Rotarians, Friends and Family on Sunday, September 20th at 12:30 PM until 4:30 PM and then a tailgate party at President Steve Malo’s farm. The cost to attend this social is $20 per person.
As with all events, there has been a lot of planning ongoing with the Covid rules and bringing 100 or more participants together for a tailgate party. Our planning committee needs some commitments from you. We are working on our food menu now to comply with Covid rules. Food will be provided.
ARE YOU COMING?HOW MANY ARE COMING WITH YOU?CAN YOU START @ 12 or 1 PM?
We need to know by SEPT 10th for food commitments and logistical set up. Please reply to: Keith Flexman (jkflexman@gmail.com) 519-586-7128 or Bettyann Carty (bettyann7@eastlink.ca) 519-428-5392. We are operating in an unusual time of Covid, masks, bubbles and social distancing.Please express any questions or concerns you have, to Bettyann or Keith.
Starting at the Vittoria & District Community Centre. Followed by a Tail Gate Party at Steve Malo's
Hosting a Rotary International exchange student is a unique and rewarding experience. Differences in language, culture and personalities creates a welcome challenge for both the student and the host family. Day by day, as this challenge is addressed, a bond develops that inevitably leads to a lifelong relationship. The year 2020 has added a new twist to the exchange: COVID 19. Some students were sent home as a result of decisions made by District, some students returned home at the request of their parents while other students returned home concerned with uncertainty of COVID. Our Japanese student, Minori Kubode stayed in Canada for the entire exchange.
Some of our RCNS members are also a part of a County-wide program to provide for food support across Norfolk County during the pandemic. This ongoing nutrition program is being coordinated at Riversyde 83 and brings many support agencies together to help the needy during these difficult pandemic days. Here we see Ross and Joyce helping to organize the food gathering part of the program as well as Jim and Lynda assisting with the delivery of the food boxes around the County. Also shown in the photo is CoS coordinator Virginia Lucas.
Diane Luke is a lady of action and commitment to her community. Recently nominated for a Paul Harris Fellow Award for her many projects in the community. Diane is a charter member of the Twilight Quilters Guild and a member of the Norfolk Quilters Guild. Early in the Covid pandemic, Diane became aware that the Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit was in need of personal protective equipment and the skills of the Guilds were quickly put to good use.
At our recent Changeover meeting, Past-Pres Keith Jones presented Gail Catherwood with a 2-sapphire Paul Harris Fellow pin for her hard work for the Club and the community, especially noting Catch the Ace (now in its 4th license) and the Panorama Christmas Farm Market initiative.
The Garlic Mustard Control Patrol. Norfolk Sunrise Rotarians gathered at Lions Park on Saturday May 30, 2020 to pull an invasive weed species that is quickly gaining dominance on the Norfolk Sunrise Trail. We split into 3 work crews, with 5 people per crew, and pulled garlic mustard along several hundred metres of the Norfolk Sunrise Trail. Notice the fashion statement 2020, worn by the crew, respecting social distancing. After our hard work, we were treated to a selection of baked goodies by Gail Catherwood.
We feel so grateful for the dedicated work performed by our health care workers, especially during this pandemic emergency. While most of us are required to stay home in order to be safe, our health care workers are required to go to the front lines where it is inherently unsafe. That's not a bit fair, but that's what our local health care workers do, because they care, and because they care for people.
RCNS is more than happy to contribute to and support the ambitious, community-driven initiative to refurbish the Todd Eaton Memorial Track in Port Dover. The Port Dover community has energized itself in response to this need and is well on the way to raising the $250K of funding needed to replace and maintain the existing track with a new, high-performance facility. In photo below Jim Simpson is presenting a cheque to the ‘Back on Track’ Community Fundraising Chair Simon Joynes.
Congratulations to week 24 winner Patti Powless of Port Dover who won the $500 draw on October 4 AND chose envelope #10 containing the Ace of Spades, winning the $18000 jackpot. Well done!
Click on "Read More" to see the full list of winners.
RCNS Out and About at Norfolk Association for Community Living (NACL)
Recently, we had an opportunity to provide a bit of ’sweat equity’ support for people in their homes that are supported by NACL in Simcoe. At two of these sites. we tackled general clean-up jobs and undertook the start of a garden reconstruction. We met some great people and had a wonderful time as evidenced by the following assortment of photos taken.
Thanks to the people who live at each location and their staff from NACL who made this day such a great experience for us.
Rotarian Helga Stuermer presents a donation to United Way staff member Judy Tomczak for the Stuff the Bus campaign to assist students with the supplies they need to start the school year.
Helga wrote; “Judy explained to me that they were able to help the 600 children. 29 Schools applied for help and received it. It was a successful Stuff the Bus Campaign. I felt proud that in a small way we were able to help that many children to start the new school-year with the supplies they need”.
This is our Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise money going to a great cause.
The trip by Jim and Marjorie Dawson of RC Norfolk Sunrise to teach canoeing in Pikangikum this year was slightly different than planned. Their usual canoe certification training and subsequent canoe trip was postponed due to a significant fire and community evacuation at the start of June. They were asked to help with a bike camp and to run a canoe camp at the start of July and went to the community July 3. They helped deliver a short bike camp and the initiation of a hugely successful summer long bike program run by local youth with support from the RC of Cataraqui - Kingston, New Hope Bikes, and the OPP.
As preparation for the canoe camp and the signing of parental permission forms was under way, a second much larger fire threatened the community and a full evacuation was called. Jim and Marjorie were recruited to help mobilise the full community evacuation. The Rotarians helped by providing coffee, tea, water and food preparation, feeding over 300 people per day as they waited to be evacuated by air for six days until they themselves were evacuated by float plane. The canoe program was picked up by some of their enthusiastic canoe students in late July as the community returned from evacuation. While not what they planned, Jim and Marjorie got to meet a lot of the community and develop the relationship further by working with the community during this trying time.
Cheryl Peck received a Paul Harris Award from Past-President Keith Jones for her amazing work leading up to and during the 2019 Welshpool Student Exchange. Well deserved Cheryl!
Two outstanding women were featured at this Rotary Norfolk Sunrise meeting. Sydney Buis had returned from her year-long Rotary exchange to Belgium and eloquently described her amazing experience there. And Lisa Buis, Syd's mom, was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship for her impressive service hosting 3 Rotary exchange students and 4 Lions exchange students. What a duo! What service!
Check out the article below posted on social media by Dan Reardon about his daughter Hannah.
Hannah Reardon was sponsored by our club for her exchange to Argentina several years ago and her parents were also active members of our club some years back. The Reardons hosted several exchange students, giving back to the program. The Reardons clearly remain impacted through Hannah and her life adventures. Well done Hannah!
Over the past several weeks, we’ve had a great chance to help our friends at Church Out Serving as they tackle the work needed to transform an old liquour store into a community support centre. On several occasions, we’ve been able to get into destructo-mode and leave our sweat behind as we helped to clear out the place, tear down a rugged suspended ceiling and generally help out around the construction site.
This was not the kind of thing that everyone could participate in owing to the nature of the work but we offered up many volunteers; all making short work of it. Those able to help out included Peter Wheatley, Jim Dawson, Andy Kooistra, Jim Simpson, Ross Gowan, Dave Nicolle, Alan Plater, Keith Jones, Keith Catherwood and Gail Catherwood. Eric assures us there will be more chances to help out, before he’s finished with the reconstruction work in the fall.
A couple of the more interesting shots are shown below.
Presidents Leading from the Front!
While Pres Keith certainly knows a lot about dumpster diving, Past-Pres Gail makes a better fashion statementon a construction site; she makes such great cookies too!!
In recent articles about the good we are trying to accomplish with our money, you will have noted a few photos that resulted from our modest donations to the Norfolk Community Help Centre. Herein, is an unsolicited letter received from the NCHC Director, indicating the gratitude they feel and the impact that our donations have. Yes, our gifts may be small in value but as you can read, they are relatively large in resultant impact. Sometimes, the sincerest appreciation comes from the most unassuming of sources.
On Apr 11, 2019, at 17:02, Frank <nchc@kwic.com> wrote:
Hello Jim,
It seems that soon after our Moms and Tots program wraps up each year - as it did last week - we are eager to share the successes we have experienced. The first people we want to inform are those who have helped us get here - like the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise. We were disappointed with the challenging news this year that as a result of some policy changes, a substantial amount of funding we have received in the past for Moms and Tots will no longer be available. We were inspired that people in organizations like RCNS find ways to reach out and offer their assistance.
Providing two hundred dollars which allowed us to purchase tights for our Moms may seem like a small gesture of generosity, but the impact was more widespread than one might have thought. Most of our Moms not only continued to wear them regularly, but some (and this is not really their nature) went out of their way to mention how grateful they were to have received them. As you know, the Moms and Tots program is offered free of charge and is available Tuesday through Thursday from October to April. While they are learning, children are provided with a pre-school and school readiness programs in addition to lunch and snacks each day.
The two thousand dollars in support we received from the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise through the AGCO “Catch the Ace” proceeds was key to helping us provide transportation subsidies for Moms to get to the program, covering the costs for hot meals, as well as rent and learning materials for the children’s programs. At this time last year we were excited that two of our Moms were graduating with their high school diploma. As we approach June of this year we are elated as several of our Moms are set to graduate!
Please extend our thanks for the financial and moral support which came from RCNS. Just as importantly though, thank you for the interest you have showed in what we do by taking the time to come out and see us, asking the questions and getting to know more about the programs. As we continue to find ways to face our challenges it is heartening to know there are thoughtful, generous, and supportive organizations like RCNS which contain people who are interested in hearing of our successes.
Sincerely,
Frank O’Connor; Program Director, Norfolk Community Help Centre
Neither snow, nor rain, nor heat, nor dark of night kept three Norfolk Sunrise Rotarians from traveling to the remote northern community of Pikangikum to deliver much needed supplies and offer basketball clinics.Jim and Marjorie Dawson, along with Pete Wheatley drove 4,400 km over six days, pulling a trailer which included mountain bikes for the bike program, 25 basketballs courtesy of the Toronto Raptors, instruments for the music program, over 100 skates, and 75 boots that were donated by generous local groups, businesses, and individuals.
Lisa reported on her amazing international service trip to Belize to provide occupational therapy to residents of a care facility in Belize. Lisa is President of the Norfolk Rotaract Club, and represented our community and Norfolk Rotaract with pride and real accomplishment while in Belize. The photo illustrates how Keith is impressed!
With the Dynamic Duo of Jenni Mudge-Winters and Tracy Winkworth leading the charge in 2019, there's no doubt this event will be hotter than ever. Lots of changes in store with a reboot to an event that has been the club's largest fundraiser for most years in its 20-year history. Yes, that's close to $500,000 raised and pumped into our local and international community as the event has morphed from CigarNight to its current Hot Havana Night theme. Even the venue and catering will be refreshed this year as the event moves to The Greens at Renton with Devlin's catering. The date is June 13th.
You've heard of the Halo Effect - well you can see it for yourself as Keith Jones is blinded by the glow as he prepares for Hot Havana Night. Will it add some colour to those cheeks?
Why would a business owner in Simcoe donate free pizzas to support several community groups during their fundraising events? George Karamilev considers it his contribution to a great community. The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise considers George’s contribution “service above self,” and recently recognized him with a Paul Harris Fellowship Award.
The club says George, owner of Dominoes Pizza in Simcoe, and his staff, have worked tirelessly to supply free pizzas and a smile to events including the Cystic Fibrosis Lawn Bowling Tournaments, CIBC Run for the Cure, Terry Fox Run, and the M.S. Walk to name a few. Thousands of people have enjoyed the pizzas after these events. Recently they made free deliveries of football-shaped pizzas to the community Grey Cup Party in Teeterville. George has sold pizzas and donated the proceeds back to families in financial need due to illness. He sells $5 pizzas and returns the full proceeds to the Sick Kids Hospital.
A Paul Harris Award is given to deserving Rotarians or community leaders that exemplify the Rotary ideal of “service above self,” going above and beyond to help others in the community and world wide. The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise has donated $1,000 U.S. to The Rotary Foundation in George Karamilev’s name, in order to recognize his outstanding service to community.
Lyndsey Ross, in picture with George, and Gail Catherwood presented the award to George on behalf of the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise had community members trying to “Catch the Ace” for a very long time.The draws were held each Friday at the Port Dover Legion.It was never anticipated the Ace of Spades would be revealed with the 52nd card and would last the full 40 weeks, the maximum number of weeks allowed by County gaming rules.Every week, until the Ace was revealed, a lucky winner received $500 in prize money.In total $100,000 was raised with $30,000 going to the winner, $20,000 given out in weekly draws, and $50,000 going to Rotary for distribution into the community.
RCNS recently contributed to the production of emergency meals destined for those in need. This photo shows preparation work which is now being done at a volunteer church in Simcoe but will be done at Riversyde 83 in due course. The meals are delivered to emergency shelter locations as coordinated by HN Social Housing.
Good progress is being made with the redevelopment of the Riversyde 83 facility and an end-year occupancy/opening is still anticipated.
You'll be inspired by this powerful message, as "we walk this earth together."
Chief R. Stacey Laforme was one of the most liked speakers at the 2018 Rotary International Convention in Toronto, and has a very common sense and moving message for everyone who lives on Mother Earth.
Powerful message by Chief Stacey Laforme, Credit First Nation, at RI Convention
Thanks very much to Mike Cobb (left), representing the Rotary Club of Simcoe and presenting a cheque to John Wallace, to support the Operation Eyesight project in Nepal which is led by the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise. The Simcoe and Norfolk Sunrise Clubs work closely together in several ways, to the benefit of the members in both clubs and the people and communities supported locally and internationally. Thank you Simcoe Rotary members!
Very uplifting "classification talk" by Tracy this morning. Interesting to learn that it took Tracy a while to find her passion as a chef, but she certainly hasn't looked back since. That passion certainly has driven Tracy to excellence, demonstrated in spades through The Bellworth House restaurant, her catering, and now her Liaison College venture.
Dennis McArthur is the final winner of $500 under this lottery license. Dennis did not find the Ace of Spades, however. All 12 cards were drawn and opened on January 4th, the final night of this lottery, before the Ace was found. And the big winner is Nadia Watson, who took home the $30,000 cheque. Congrats to Dennis and especially to Nadia!!
And thanks to Gail Catherwood and her very dedicated team of Norfolk Sunrise Rotarians who have spent their past 40 Friday nights at the Port Dover Legion to make this fundraiser so successful. Stay tuned for future plans.
A whole lot of happy kids, parents, families, and Rotarians at the Jr. Farmers Building Saturday morning for Breakfast With Santa and his Elves. We served breakfast to over 240 people as well as over 20 volunteers. A great way to usher in the Christmas season and the Christmas Panorama. Thanks, Santa and Elves, for coming to Simcoe to delight our young families. Congratulations to Bettyann Carty and her team for putting together this great event.
Breakfast With Santa is a community service provided by the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise in cooperation with the Christmas Panorama.
Jim used his Sgt-at-Arms opportunity to give a brief overview of his experience as a part of the 2018 Canada to Scotland Rotary Curling Tour. He noted the rewards, value and unique aspects of the tour and thanked his Rotary hosts as well as those in the club who had supported his great experience. Happy Bucks offered for each one. Shown here is Jim with the 'Bob Mackintosh TransAtlantic Rotary Curling Quaich' won by the 2108 Canadian team for the first time in 8 years.
Our event was a huge success and Chef Tracy and her crew provided an outstanding delicious menu, sure to please any foodie, that was served throughout the evening. Right Roddie? Paulie (Zorad) was the doorman and he ensured no riffraff gained entry. Our keyboard player and soloist regaled the patrons with songs of yesteryear. The outfits were stunning. The poker table was busy all evening and no snitches ratted out our location. All was kept under wraps. Our drivers safely got everybody to and from, door to door. Thank you Nicolle’s and Dawson’s. Thank you to Jenni Mudge-Winters and the Ways and Means Committee for a superb event. More thanks to come from the committee for all who supported. Bravo RCNS!!
Congratulations to Nancy Sherwin, our club's most recent Paul Harris Fellowship Award recipient. This is Nancy's third such award, and Karen Oakes presented Nancy with a 2-sapphire pin.
Nancy does an amazing amount of work for our club, including serving as Club Secretary and also Bulletin Editor. Nancy also contributes monthly to The Rotary Foundation. I can't imagine anyone being more deserving of a PHF award.
Ann Rowell made it look easy. While visiting Norfolk along with 11 other Rotarians and partners from Welshpool, Wales, Ann took the opportunity to try playing Simcoe's carillon bells -- and Ann sounded like a pro right from the first note. What a natural talent. Hurry back, Ann, for your next practice with Bill.
The 3 Rotary clubs in Norfolk (Rotary Clubs of Simcoe, Delhi, and Norfolk Sunrise) and the Norfolk Rotaract Club provide amazing service in their communities throughout Norfolk County. Watch the brief video clip to get a taste of that community service.
Follow the link below to read Rotary's Community Newspaper and learn more about Rotary in Norfolk: https://tinyurl.com/y7moaoos
On August 23rd 2018 the 4 Rotary Clubs in Norfolk County, Ontario (Simcoe, Delhi, Norfolk Sunrise and Norfolk Rotaract) held a joint work party to assemble and distribute floral arrangements to all 12 Norfolk County nursing and retirement homes. The Action Day was held at King's Garden Centre near Simcoe.
District Governor Melisa Schrock participated throughout the day alongside the other 70 volunteers. 180 arrangements were assembled and delivered to adorn the dining room tables and bring joy to some of the seniors in the Norfolk community.
The Action Day also provided assistance to the Christmas Panorama, through paint touch-up of the Fantasy Castle display and building a new deck for a trailer.
President Gail opened the meeting with the singing of O Canada and God Save the Queen. Keith Jones lead with enthusiasm the saying of the 4-Way Test.
Guests included speakers Virginia Lucas and Eric Haverkamp as well as AG Lisa Bishop and Linda Peters.
RCNS Royals and Birthdays
A message from Mark Boerkamp was read thanking RCNS for clean up of the Norfolk Sunrise Trail.
June 19 is an evening Changeover Meeting at Springview Farms Golf Club
July 12 is an evening BBQ at Waterford Legion
Laura Zorad was the winner of CTA this week – envelope # 43 is now gone
Gail Bouw thanked her committee for a great job at the Pig Roast, including Mary, Yvonne, Tina, Louise, Jenni, Tracey, Steve and Jim. The event will raise approximately $2300 profit.
Steve Malo circulated several cards created by students at St. Joseph’s School thanking RCNS for support of the snack program.
Several members have birthdays in May, including Gail Catherwood, Jim Oliver, Keith Jones (today!), Kristina Kett and Steve Malo. The birthday balloons were mostly to recognize the 22nd birthday of RCNS tomorrow. Several Charter Members were recognized.
Sue O’Dwyer gave the Sergeant-at-Arms report on the theme of Hot Havana Night which will take place on June 21st at the Port Dover Yacht Club. This annual event started in 1999 as Cigar Night. Two new sponsors this year include Gold Coast Realty and Gold Leaf Farms.
George Cornfield reported on his participation as a volunteer in the We Believe in Simcoe event held at the Aud and Rec Centre. In this 9th year for the event, put on by Church Out Serving, 223 volunteers received many thankful comments from attendees. The follow-up event will be held next weekend with fireworks at Calvary Church.
(L-R) Jim Simpson, RCNS Chair of Community Service Committee, Virginia Lucas, Eric Haverkamp of COS
Jim Simpson introduced Eric Haverkamp and Virginia Lucas representing Church Out Serving (COS). Their main topic was the plans for Riversyde 83.
Eric identified 6 community concerns that COS is hoping to address with the development of Riversyde 83. These concerns are:
Social disconnection
Food insecurity
Life struggles, related to mental health, poverty, etc.
Food waste – totaling $45 million at farm gate annually
Downtown Simcoe decline
Employable citizens
Riversyde 83 will be a community space centred around food and will have a community/commercial kitchen, a teaching kitchen with seating for 60+ people, a café, a marketplace for selling local artisan products on consignment, an information kiosk, and a variety of meeting spaces including a board room, small meeting room, prayer room, and a few offices that could be leased out.
COS has a renovation budget of $750,000, with over $500,000 of that already raised. The renovations will be done “Habitat for Humanity” style, largely by volunteers, so will take approximately 6 months to complete.The renovations will begin in Fall 2018 and should be completed by Spring 2019.
The operating budget for Riversyde 83, once completed, includes 2 full-time equivalent management positions, but the site will be operated primarily by volunteers.Two donors have agreed to cover the mortgage payments for a period of 10 years.
Church Out Serving is a registered Not-for-Profit Corporation, governed by an elected Board of Directors.It is a faith-based organization, with several local churches as its members. Their services are provided in the Simcoe area to people with any or no religious affiliation.
To Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise - from a proud Papa!
Not sure if the following news can somehow be mentioned to all my friends at RCNS but “our” Hannah not only graduated McGill last November with honours in both majors (Sociology and Poli Sci… and a minor in Spanish American Literature) but her honours project on the northern Amazon (Calha Norte) earned her a full scholarship to pursue a masters at McGill.
To add a prestigious cherry on top, last week Hannah learned she has also been awarded a Fullbright Scholarship and complete freedom to pursue her research interests on her own terms. This will apparently include a 9 month return to Brazil and more adventure up the Amazon.
Some of her work can be found at her project website and blog:
There isn’t a shadow of doubt in our minds that Hannah’s involvement with Rotary as a host sister and RCNS representative to Argentina provided her with a skill set she’s wielded continually since.
THANK YOU!
I owe y’all a looney.
Dan Reardon
Former Exchange Student Strikes Gold - Hannah Reardon
On Tuesday morning, 20 June 2023, Gail Bouw welcomed Kim Dziegiel as our Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, she spoke to us about assisting with the existing municipal permitting process and the role her shop (
Following six, successfully-concluded licences of our ever-popular Catch the Ace (CTA) fundraiser, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, with the support of the Port Dover Legion Branch 158, restarted the contest on Friday, 09; this our seventh licence - it will conclude once the Ace of Spade is finally drawn.
Just before his passing, our first club president, Keith Flexman organized a car rally - it was one of the very last things he contributed to the club. To honour all that Keith meant to us, we have continued with that event ... it's fun, it brings us together and it helps the community.
n Tuesday morning, 19 Sept 2023, we welcomed our own Dave Nicolle as our Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, he spoke to us about his recent trip to Southern Africa. 
On an absolutely beautiful Saturday morning, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise was hosted to a tour of 
Once again members of the RCNS were out in force, this time making floral arrangements for the 2023 Run for the Cure fashion show. The beautiful arrangements will be given away as door prizes at the end of the show. In true Rotary fashion food was also featured as we lunched on a potluck chili, corn bread and lots of sweets.
Ever wanted to know a bit more about Rotary and what's going on with our service club??
On Tuesday morning, 26 Sept 2023 we will welcome Kim Dziegiel as our Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, she will speak to us about improving the municipal permitting process and the role her shop (
On Tuesday morning, 19 Sept 2023 we will welcome our own Dave Nicolle as our first Guest Speaker of the new season. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, he will speak to us about his recent trip to South Africa.
They are back from their Ukrainian homeland; safe in Canada and they are most grateful for this great personal turn of events.
Meet Macarena (Maca) Gimeno! She hails from Valencia, in Spain, is our newest inbound exchange student and has been with us for two weeks now. She's busy making friends and even has her first day in school and attendance at her first Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise (RCNS) event under her belt! Interesting to add that our own Sophie Mummery has now made it to Sweden and has successfully started her own part of this international exchange adventure.
Notwithstanding a summer break to recharge our batteries, some 16 Club members (incl family and friends) were able to join together on Saturday 19 August, to attend a fundraising, 'Down-by-the-Wharf', dinner at the Port Dover Yacht Club; all in support of the local Sailing School.
Following a long (and continuing) planning process, the Ontario-based team selected to attend the bi-annual, Canada-to-Scotland, Rotary International curling exchange has been finalized - Keith Jones has been chosen to be the representative from our own Norfolk Sunrise Club. John Vallee has been selected from the Simcoe Club.
Mzuzu Hospital has recently accepted the optical instruments that the RCNS provided under our Global Grant. They are currently being trained on the equipment and are awaiting the third shipment of optical supplies to complete the project. Click on the 'Read more ...' tab for a note/photos from Operation Eyesight staff member Blessings Banda on this happy event.
Here's some 'food for thought' about our Rotary 'brand' - one interpretation of the symbology behind the cogged wheel, along with a timeline of its change over the years. Note the authorized Rotary Wheel logo is all gold now, the blue/gold version is past history
On Thursday, July 13 a group of Rotarian ladies headed to Long Point to visit friend-of-the-club, Joyce Flexman. Joyce has always been a part of the Rotary family and she was thrilled to host this afternoon visit at her lovely home. Food and drink were provided but best of all some great fellowship was shared as everyone chatted and laughed. The picture of everyone shows just how much fun was had. Shown left to right are Bettyann Carty, Joanne Kiefer, Joyce Flexman, Linda Muir, Gail Catherwood, Gail Bouw, Andrea Matecsa, Louise Schebesch, and Tina Millea - missing from the photo were Pam Shantz, photographer and Yvonne Dipietro who thought the deck was a safer spot.A big thanks to Joyce for hosting. 
An estimated 350 golfers teed off at the Greens of Renton Charity Golf Tournament on Tuesday, July 11. RCNS was one of 27 charities represented at the tournament. Our contribution was to host golfers to the Red 7 hole. Volunteers from RCNS manned that assigned hole in 3 hour shifts from 830 am until 730 pm when the rain stormed in. See the "Read more .." tab for additional information about the prizes related to our hole and the big winner!
As Rotarians, we believe in the 4-way test. By extension, we support the RI focus on Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI).
Shown in the photo; from the PDL, Rick Weatherill & Brian Jamieson; from the PDSC, Lee Garrett & Sue Finnie and from the RCNS, Dave Nicolle, Mary Mercato & George Cornfield.
Newly minted President John Wallace joined the Canada Day celebration at Abel Enterprises for staff and volunteers.
Following the 2022-2023 activity year, it was time to enjoy ourselves at the Waterford Legion and to conclude some essential Club business before our summer break. It was planned as a great social moment to reflect on that which we have accomplished, to recognize our most recent Paul Harris recipients (see two accompanying stories), to induct our new Board for 2023-2024, to offer our thanks and respect to our Outgoing President Louise Schebesch and to welcome in our Incoming President John Wallace. Moreover, we were able to offer our gratitude to Outgoing District 7090 Governor Lisa Bishop for the role she has played in our Rotary lives over the past year.
Following the tragic events unfolding in The Ukraine, it happened that a Ukrainian family, fleeing the war, came to Norfolk County, more specifically to Port Dover. They had, only themselves. It became a community challenge to open arms and offer help to this family. It was an opportunity that Jennifer Rodger fully accepted.
On Tuesday morning, 20 June 2023, Andy Kooistra welcomed Ryan Elliot, Director of Structural Engineering at Vallee Engineering as our Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, he spoke to us about the history, re-construction and future plans for developing the Cst John Verral Bridge on the Queensway in Simcoe. 
At our morning meeting on 20 June, we were pleased to be able to make a donation to the ongoing development work going on in Port Dover as concerns the Silver Lake Revitalization Project.
Following an earlier presentation by one of the Jr RYLA organizers (Aisley Ellis - see story below), the high school representative from Norfolk County at this years camp at Canterbury Hills in Ancaster gave us a full account of her excellent adventure. Avaia Bergan packed the short time allowed with a clear summary of what she experienced, why it was such a great opportunity for her and what she hops to exploit from her time as a Jr RYLA participant. See a few more photos at the 'Read more ...' tab.
Jim and Marjorie Dawson were recently in Pikangikum, a northern Ontario First Nation to provide canoe training for the Grade 7 class and the outdoor education class. After a number of recent tragedies in the community Cindy Spence the Principal of the EBS school asked Jim and Marjorie if they could come and provide a much needed distraction for the students who had recently lost a member of their class. 
Everything is set to go - the Dragons are coming from near and far and the race preparations are well in-hand - we are so excited to get the racing underway. 
It was President Louise's aim that we all gather to hear an RCNS recap of the year; to listen to a summary from each of the committee leaders as related to their committee service over the past year.
It has been several years since our Club has had a place to really call home; a place that corresponds with our aims and addresses our meeting place needs. As time has unfolded, it was becoming clear that our relationship with Church Out Serving as well as our support of the Food Hub (at R83) might meet all of our hopes and needs.
At our meeting on 30 May, Andi Matecsa welcomed back Aisley Ellis, a former Rotary student, who returned to speak to us about her experiences with the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA). Most recently, Aisley has been quite involved in the RYLA Junior camp (ie for High School aged youth), conducted at Canterbury Hills in the Ancaster vicinity. Aisley did a great job explaining her journey along the RYLA path as well as the values and benefits derived from this very valuable Rotary youth leadership program. 
On Tuesday morning, 30 May 2023 and on our collective behalves, David Douglas welcomed Kate Graham, Curator of the Port Dover Harbour Museum as our Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, she spoke to us about the history, development and various programs offered at this Norfolk County museum. In a very entertaining way, Kate regaled us with several stories/anecdotes related to personalities, artifacts, shipwrecks and the town. Along the way, she also touched upon the Museum's current exhibit entitled Cantelon: The Life and Work of William Edgar Cantelon.
On Tuesday morning, 16 May 2023 and on our collective behalf, David Douglas welcomed Glen Gilvesy, owner/operator of Otter Creek Farms Ltd and Chair of the Ontario Ginseng Growers Assn (OGGA) as our Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, he spoke to us about a variety of issues related to a unique product that is increasingly important to Norfolk County. Representing a group of 160 Ontario-based, ginseng growers, Glen noted ginseng's history and the current impact that his export product generates. He commented on the roles of the OGGA in respect of representing the growers, supporting related research and promoting the international marketing of what amounts to millions of dollars of annual, agricultural sales to the far east.
ur Environmental Chair; Steve Malo writes in;
An evening to remember at the Lynwood Art Centre ...
One of the three ways that a Paul Harris Fellowship may be awarded is for the parent club to use its Foundation contribution points to nominate a particular member of its own club or the community at large.
On Tuesday, 25 April 2023 and on our behalves, Gail Bouw welcomed Rita-Marie Hadley, Executive Director of Lansdowne Children’s Centre (and Rotarian); Jennifer Huxley, Director of Client Services, Lansdowne Children’s Centre; Susan Battin, Autism Clinical Supervisor/Manager, Lansdowne Children’s Centre; and Sue Bailey, Family Service Coordinator, Haldimand Norfolk, HN REACH as our special guests. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, the team spoke to us about ideas regarding Children's Autism as they have experienced that condition at Lansdowne. More information about the Lansdowne Children Centre may be found by 
RCNS had a good turnout to the District 7090 Conference on Saturday; Louise Schebesch, Keith Jones, Sophie Mummery (outbound exchange student), Andi Matecsa, Wolf Lindemann, Gail Bouw. District Governor Lisa Bishop & her partner Lionel were part of the contingent travelling to New York from Norfolk.
Rotarians from four clubs got together to work with the Native Women’s Centre to celebrate the 7090 District Conference and to clean their yard and prepare garden beds for planting. Members of Rotary Clubs of Welland, Fort Erie, Niagara on the Lake and Norfolk Sunrise joined with Native Women's Centre members on Sunday Apr 16 to work on the garden. The first step was clearing a lot of brush and tree branches from the site- enough to fill a 30ft dumpster which was provided free of charge for the project by Walker Industries to dispose of organic waste.
"I have had the pleasure to present many cheques to various organizations but a recent visit to the Norfolk Community Help Centre afforded me the opportunity to meet and speak with some of the young moms attending the Centre. Their experience was life changing, having graduated with an OSSD or in the process of completing the required credits. One mom expressed a goal of becoming a PSW while another is interested in accounting. These were distant goals if a goal at all until just recently. 
On Tuesday evening at 7:00pm, 18 April 2023, we will welcome TRF Trustee Dean Rohr as our Guest Speaker. At Venture Norfolk, she will speak to us about The Impact of Our Rotary Foundation through the world.
Our own, Jim & Marjorie Dawson (on the right side of the photo) just had a wonderful and inspiring week at the National Youth to Youth Truth and Reconciliation program in Winnipeg as chaperones for the 5 youth from our area. The program involved 25 Indigenous and 25 Non-indigenous outstanding youth leaders from all over the country. Each day opened with ceremony at Turtle Lodge. We skinned rabbits and made rabbit stew, filleted fish, built tipis, played indigenous games, lit fires, visited the Canadian Centre for Human Rights and much much more. 
On the heels of the most-successful membership drive our Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise has experienced in recent memory, our ever-creative Membership Committee still has time to toss some brain candy in our direction. Have fun ...
As we have over the development period of the Church Out Serving 'Food Hub' facility at Riversyde 83, our Club added to our offerings with a donation towards needed building improvements. We feel more than welcomed in our new meeting place and are proud that we can be a supporter of such a wonderful community support group.
On Tuesday morning, 21 March 2023, Chair of Club Services, Gail Bouw welcomed Karen Matthews as our Guest Speaker. At Riversyde 83, she spoke to us about the Simcoe & District Chamber of Commerce as she sees it from her new vantage point as the recently appointed (4 days in the job!) Executive Director. Karen energized the room and entertained all of us as she spoke of her career adventures, her 'return to town' and her intentions, hopes and dreams for the Chamber.
On Tuesday morning, 07 March 2023, Pres Louise welcomed Governor Lisa Bishop, Rotary District 7090 to our hybrid meeting at R83, as our Guest Speaker. Governor Lisa spoke to us about the symbolism, and RCNS applications, of the '22-'23 'Imagine Rotary' Theme. Rounding out her presentation were updates on the 2023 versions of the 
Dave Nicolle, Chair of our Community Service Cttee writes in that; "This evening I presented a cheque on behalf of RCNS to the Waterford Tricenturena Skating Club to support their April 1st Carnival which will feature about 175 skaters from age 2 in their Me & My Parent Canskate Program to their Adult Starskate figure skating group. The money will go towards costs for lighting, ice rental, costumes, decorations and props. Accepting the cheque is Maddie Bard, one of the Skating Club's Coaches".
On 28 Feb '23, and on our behalves, Dave Douglas welcomed OPP officers Ed Sanchuk & Brad Wiersma as our Guest Speakers. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, they provided us with a great overview presentation about fraud prevention, the OPP fraud unit and community safety services that have gone a step further by creating an in-person anti-fraud program. Particular attention was given to the red flags and preventative tips surrounding romantic fraud, emergency fraud, CRA fraud, bank fraud, spoofing and delayed disconnect fraud. The contents of the presentation along with a selection of photos may be found by goining to the "Read more ..." section and/or 
Well ... how cool was that!?!
On week #38 out of a possible 40, on 17 February 2023 at the 
On the occasion of our evening 'New Members' information session, it seemed like a good time to pose a word picture of our Club given its relatively large, new membership numbers.
At our morning meeting on 31 Jan '23 at R83, we took the opportunity to formally 'pin' and welcome Annette Jacobs into our ranks as the newest regular member of the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise.
It's that time again ... our walk in support of the Coldest Night of the Year 
On Tuesday, 31 Jan 2023, and on our behalves, Gail Bouw welcomed Dan Avey (sporting his new CNOY toque!) as our morning Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (live+zoom) meeting at R83, he provided an update (from his visit last year) to inform us about developments at Youth Unlimited in Simcoe as well as his progress with the Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) fundraiser. He described the programs he was able to continue with (and in some cases expand upon) as well as the challenges faced by the disadvantaged sector of youth of our community. In a very heart-felt way, he acknowledged the value of our RCNS interests/fundraising over the past months. Dan fielded several questions after which Joanne Kiefer offered our appreciation for the essential work Dan and his staff are doing with our youth - so needed and so well done.
... been to our Sunrise Trail lately?
On Tuesday, 24 Jan '23, and on our behalves, Pres Louise welcomed our own Andy Kooistra as our morning Guest Speaker. At our hybrid (live+zoom) meeting at R83, his aim was to update us on the great work being done to develop the Waterford Heritage Trail.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise is proudly partnering with the Cancer Support & Resource Program of Norfolk to bring the dragon boats back to Shadow Lake for 2023! Mark 24/25 June on your calendars and watch for registration details.
On Tuesday, 17 Jan '23, and on our behalves, Gail Bouw welcomed Port Dover's own Carrie Sinkowski as our Guest Speaker. At our morning meeting at R83, her aim was to discuss general trends with respect to poverty being seen in Norfolk as well as the opening up the warming centre with Church Out Serving and other community partners.
At our morning meeting on 17 Jan '23 at R83, we took the opportunity to formally 'pin' and welcome David Rusling into our ranks as the newest regular member of the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise.
Port Dover and Norfolk County have shown compassion and generosity this holiday season.
It's such a wonderful, festive-season event and once again, our club has contributed more-than-its-fair share to the Salvation Army Kettle program. Once again, our organizer (Joanne Kiefer - see the frozen version at the photo!) worked with the Salvation Army coordinator (Doug Montgomery) to get us all involved at the collection points in Simcoe and Port Dover. She writes in the following note as results from our contributions;
After the excitement of the Christmas period, there is always a chance for a pause in festive-season spirits - but not with Bettyann Carty!
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise (RCNS) recognized Peerless Cleaners on two fronts this past Tuesday. The company was presented with a recognition plaque at the plant for their assistance with the Coats for Kids program run by the club each year. Many Rotarians came to the plant to show their support of this honour. This program helps to ensure kids have warm coats and accessories each winter. Peerless Cleaners, free of charge cleans all the donated items. This year the program was expanded to include coats for adults as well as kids and Peerless Cleaners cleaned in excess of 1200 coats that were dispersed within our community. Peerless Cleaners organized drop off spots with their various outlets, cleaned the coats and delivered them to the distribution area. 
This past year, 2022, has been such an eventful period for us ... and in spite of everything we have remained strong and are proud of our year of many successes.
After much anticipation, we held our first Club meeting in the newly-minted, Riversyde 83, Food Hub facility - what a great meeting in an absolutely tremendous community facility. The facility proved to be an excellent venue for our meetings - the Church Out Serving group can be more-than-pleased with the outcome of their labours. 
One of the three ways that a Paul Harris Fellowship may be awarded is for the parent club to use its Foundation contribution points to nominate a particular member of its own club or the community at large.
At the most recent RCNS weekly meeting congregated at R83 the Food Hub, Distr Gov Lisa Bishop welcomed/inducted three new members to our morning Club; Linda Muir, Carol Mummery and Wesley Wilson. Go to the 'Read more ...' tab for more details/photos.
At our most recent morning meeting at R83, the Food Hub, Distr Gov 7090 Lisa Bishop awarded our own George Cornfield as a 'Benefactor' to the RI Foundation.
The RCNS is a Club that is growing; a Club focussed on Rotary ideals and an aggressive contribution to the communities in which we live. As a result, we oftentimes get noticed for the work we enjoy; the fun we have.
On Tuesday, 29 Nov 2022 we welcomed Daryl Granger, from RoseLe Studios here in Simcoe as our Guest Speaker via Zoom. Gail Bouw introduced Daryl, a certified advanced drone pilot. He gave us an interesting and informative talk on the work he does for construction companies and farmers using drones and associated software. Judging from the many questions, he had us all intrigued by the opportunities with this technology. Dave Douglas thanked Daryl for his overview of the uses of drones.
On Tuesday, 22 Nov 2022, Leah Logan & Jean Montgomery from Indwell, welcomed us to their new facility (Dogwood Suites). Introduced by Joanne Kiefer, Leah & Jean provided for a great update on the progress that they are making with the Dogwood initiative. Moreover, they had coordinated with the Dogwood residents to provide us with early morning refreshments/snacks as well as to break our group into two for a revealing tour of the new facility. What a great way to start the day!
In a continuing role to provide for public & member information about important issues of the day, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise hosted a 4-part, Zoom-based speaker series on Climate Change. The speaker series included four speakers speaking to us about four different aspects of the climate change we are experiencing. 
With so many new members, it was clear to Joanne Kiefer and Mary Mercato that it was time to have an RCNS fashion show; to provide for a Rotary fashion statement. Working with a local supplier, they brought together a range of Rotary wear for all to consider - jackets, polos, hoodies, t-shirts and sweaters. They are gathering their wear at Venture Norfolk for club members to see and try on these items and they will be available in all sizes. Final pricing will be available at that time and purchasing any item is optional. Please drop in and see them on Nov 16, 4-5pm or Nov 17, 1-2pm - at Venture Norfolk
In 2018, Rotarians Margaret Bancroft (RCS) & Jim Simpson (RCNS) were privileged to spend a month in Scotland, curling at 12 different locations as a part of a long-standing Rotary exchange program. Four years later, 16 Scot Rotarians travelled to Canada to curl at 12 different locations; one of which was Norfolk County. While beinge 'wined & dined' by a wonderful group of local Rotary hosts, they were definitely looking forward to the bonspiel and righting the results of the previous visit. 
A compilation of collected photos from the day's events may be found at our CR Photo Album - 
Recognizing the special occasion of a visiting Rotary Team of Scottish curlers to Norfolk County on 10 Nov '22, it was decided to have a joint gathering of our two clubs; the RCS and the RCNS. 
As the Scottish curlers moved on to London (one of the other 12 stops on their '22 Tour), we were left to be grateful for chance to get together as sister-clubs, for the friends we had made, for our success in creating a memory for our visitors and for the pivotal part the special guests, curlers, hosts and partners played in it all.
On Saturday, 04 November 2022, President Louise Schebesch and Past-President Steve Malo awarded Paul Harris awards to Dave Bradshaw, Andy Kooistra & Dave Nicolle for their hard work to achieve the paving of the Trail, north of Waterford. 
Our contact with Indwell, Bettyann Carty writes-in;
The annual Coats for Kids & Adults event was held on October 29 at First Baptist Church with resounding success. Our community partner, Peerless Cleaners cleaned and washed over 1200 coats. Another partner, the Langton Knitters group donated 200 pairs of mittens and hats. Over 500 various items of warm winter wear were chosen by many visitors. The remainder of the coats and mittens were then bagged and distributed through several churches and thrift shops, the Salvation Army, the Pregnancy Centre and the Women’s Shelter.
On Sunday, 30 October, we gathered on an absolutely perfect fall day, to celebrate Halloween, our Rotary friend Keith Flexman, to learn more about our beautiful County and to practice our road rally skills. What a great day ... we had 48 signed up to participate in the actual rally (for a total of 15 cars) .. we had 57 take part in dinner at the Waterford Legion (that includes the 7 take out dinners from those that couldn't make it).
Today, polio is no longer a pandemic nor even endemic in the world….but this virus stubbornly remains a threat. Go to the 'Read more ..' section to read an article penned by Keith Jones, an article to help you learn more about the Rotary Fight against Polio.
On Tuesday, 25 October 2022,and on our behalves, Cathy Harrop welcomed Angela Hogeveen, General Manager of the Norfolk County Fair and Horse Show as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, she spoke to us about the status of, and experiences related to, the recently completed 2022 County Fair. Angela offered a very well-prepared overview of the Fair, in general and, more specifically, the success they achieved this year. So well done for a major event described as being at the very 'soul' of our community. 
On a beautiful, October 22nd, Fall-day, RCNS members Andy Kooistra, Keith Jones and Dave Nicolle joined a group of Brantford Sunrise Rotarians for a wonderful bicycle ride from Waterford to Port Dover in an effort to raise funds towards Rotary’s polio eradication efforts - over $2000 were raised! When the team got to our RCNS daffodil and redbud plantings in Simcoe they were greeted by Gail Catherwood with her delectable fresh-baked cookies as well as by District Governor Lisa Bishop.
On Friday 21 Oct, evening and on behalf of RCNS, Dave Nicolle, Chair of Community Services, presented a cheque to the Port Dover Legion to assist in their kitchen renovation project. The Legion is a wonderful partner for our Club in hosting our weekly Catch the Ace major fundraiser. Accepting the cheque is the Legion's VP, Gary Cryer.
Recently, the Club made a financial donation to the Norfolk Community Help Centre (NCHC); this a further gesture of support to those previously offered over many years. In this case, a portion of our Catch the Ace revenues was approved to be used as the NCHC develops additional support space required for their programs..jpg)
Once again, our club is working with Peerless Cleaners and preparing for the annual collection of coats and other cold-weather clothing that will be useful for the less-privileged in our community. 
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise donated Norfolk County Fair tickets to the residents and their children currently living at The Haldimand Norfolk Women’s Services. Accepting the tickets is Natalie, Counsellor at the Women’s Service.
Whether you're a curler or not, you'll want to mark your calendar for this!
Mark your calendars - get in touch with the coordinator to sign up - once again, we are getting 'on the road again' to celebrate the life of our Rotary friend Keith Flexman and to have some serious fun.
Keith Catherwood. In a Paul Harris presentation to Keith, he was described as an unsung hero, humble, always flying under the radar but always illuminating service above self. He’s the roadie setting up and taking down events, he’s the volunteer driver taking friends and family to appointments and he’s the guy picking up auction items. Keith is the guy you call who you know you can depend on. In true fashion Keith was taken aback and surprised at his Paul Harris award but the club members were on their feet and making much noise to recognize him; and
Louise Schebesch. Our esteemed club President Louise was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow last evening that many club members would say was long overdue. Louise is a long term member of the club and in addition to serving her second year as President this term, she previously was club treasurer for several years. Louise has been instrumental in many of the clubs fundraisers, chaperoned a trip to welshpool for high school students and has hosted an international student. Louise has a passion for literacy and has also volunteered in this area. Louise is a compassionate, kind and inclusive individual and the RCNS group stood and cheered at her presentation to show their gratitude for her service. 
Mary Mercato writes in;
Cathy Harrop writes in: "What a couple of days! And, we did it! In spades! If you ever get a chance to go on a Rotary Friendship Exchange, you now have an idea of how wonderful the experience can be. Tiring, but wonderful!
During the pandemic, we celebrated our 25th Anniversary as a Club.
Recently, our Club was recognized by myFM as their Community Partner for the month of June. They've generously provided continuing airtime for us to get a short promotional message out to Norfolk listeners for the entire month of June.
In a surprise announcement at this morning's Club meeting, President Louise announced that the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise had been selected as the myFM and Domino's Norfolk Community Partner for the month of June 2022.
The fifth approved licencing of our ever-popular community fundraiser concluded on Friday 21 January 2022 - what an adventure that series of draws proved to be - congratulations to all winners but in particular to John Lloy our $15K Grand Prize Winner!
Following a very successful venture in 2020 (right in the middle of the pandemic!), we decided it was important to try collecting hygiene products for those in need, once again. Our aim was to partner with community vendors (incl two employers) to collect feminine hygiene products for distribution to our local Norfolk County food banks (five of them), the woman’s shelter, St Vincent de Paul and the Salvation Army.
Between 15-20 volunteers participated in this very worthy service project with representation from each of the three local Rotary Clubs. With Area Co-ordinator Bob Stevenson's oversight, Joanne Kiefer and Mary Mercato (both from RCNS) organized and ensured that the event would be as successful as possible. They would like to thank all those who participated and helped out in any way to bring this project to fruition. 
he number one way that Rotarians find out information about their clubs and communicate with each other is provided for by Club Runner.
Rudi Atkinson writes in: You are invited to visit the local Rotary Sunrise Trail running north off of Davis St in Simcoe.
Rotary's aim was as simple as it was important - to work with others in the community to help with a cleanup of our local waterways - this as a part of a greater Rotary initiative to do something useful across the entire Great Lakes area, during this years Environmental Week.
Part of the aim was to clean-up our local waterways - here we worked at locations at Alligator Park Simcoe, Wellington Park Simcoe, Quance Dam Delhi, Port Dover, Turkey Point and Long Point.
Our first Rotary initiative to help those in need in our community was so successful, and so appreciated, we have felt the need to try it again...
Rotary Clubs (Canadian and American) around all of the Great Lakes are sponsoring a watershed clean-up in celebration of Earth week. 
On Tuesday, 05 Apr 2022 and on our behalves, Gail Bouw welcomed County Archivist Joshua Klar as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, he spoke to us about the background, ongoing development and use of the local Archives. For more details about Joshua and the County Archives please go to the the "Read more ..." tab..
One of the three ways that a Paul Harris Fellowship may be awarded is for an individual to make substantial personal financial contributions to the Rotary Foundation.
At our evening meeting on 29 March at Abel Enterprises, we were "Abel" to formally 'pin' and welcome Chris Kindy into our ranks as a regular member of the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise.
RCNS International Service Committee (ICS) has sponsored the music program in the remote First Nation Pikangikum for many years and this year we had an unusual request - since one of the electric keyboards we donated many years ago has been so well used that it has worn out, would the ICS consider getting an upright piano? Well, the ICS was able to find a great piano in Winnipeg for $500 and with the ice road still available to ship large items, the new piano was delivered to EBS school in Pikangikum this week with help from the school with the shipping. The music program has blossomed over the years and there are so many acts that the Christmas concert had to be scheduled over 3 days- so it is a very important and successful service project! Morris Ellington, the music teacher said "I finally got the piano today, many thanks to you and your organization for your invaluable support towards the music program. Your help is greatly appreciated. The piano is a very beautiful instrument. Many thanks again to you."
On Tuesday, 22 March 2022 and on our behalves, Rudi Atkinson welcomed Rotarian Rosanne Field as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, she spoke to us about Rotary's approach to a New Generations Service Exchange (NGSE) program. See the "Read more ..." tab for additional information.
Following a very successful virtual dining-in event conducted several months ago, it was decided to follow that social event with a similar approach to wine tasting.
On 28 February 2023 we will welcome Ed Sanchuk & Brad Wiersma as our Guest Speakers. At our hybrid (ie live attendance at R83 with zoom remote attendance) session, they will inform us about fraud prevention, the OPP fraud unit and community safety services that have gone a step further by creating an in-person anti-fraud program. More information about the this topic may be found bygone to the "Read more ..." section and/or 
On Tuesday, 29 March 2022, we travelled to Abel Enterprises for a rare 7pm, on-site, face-to-face(!), Club meeting to hear about the community support programs being offered by that group. Pres Louise introduced our own Scott Williams (in the company of the Abel Board Chair, John Ford and Admin Asst Michele Langedyk), all of whom hosted us to an array of great drinks/snacks as well as their facility and then acted as our Guest Speakers. 
Tuesday, 01 March 2022 and on our behalves, Cathy Harrop welcomed Cory Armstrong-Smith as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, he spoke to us about common home fire causes, how to prevent home fires, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and finally about radon gas.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, in partnership with area Rotary Clubs are going to participate in the Great Lakes Watershed Clean-up where clubs all around the Great Lakes will be cleaning waterways during Earth week Apr 16-22. In addition to Rotary Clubs, local Lions Clubs and other organisations are all going to pitch in to clean waterways in Norfolk County. 
Mark your calendars - let's taste some wine together! 
The goal of this new District-initiated campaign is to have as many Rotaract and Rotary clubs as possible posting new or different content that answers "What is Rotary?" and "What do Rotaracters and Rotarians do to make our communities better places". 
On Tuesday morning, 01 February, and on behalf of the RCNS, Rudi Atkinson welcomed Stuart Mackenzie to our Zoom meeting to speak to us about his work with Birds Canada and the Long Pint Bird Observatory - see the "Read more ..." tab for additional information and click on 
Cathy Harrop writes in; 
The annual District 7090 sponsored (Virtual) Gala in support of the Rotary Foundation is organized and scheduled to be conducted on Wednesday, 23 February from 7:00-9:30pm. 
On Tuesday morning, 25 Jan, and on behalf of the RCNS, Jim Peters welcomed Daniel Avey to our Zoom meeting to speak to us about his work with Youth Unlimited Norfolk County - see the "Read more ..." tab for additional information on Dan and click on 
Again this year, with all of the pandemic restrictions that we live with, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise found a way of making the year end on a positive note. Again this year, Bettyann Carty took to organizing a fun and nutritious meal for the residents at the 
Santa visited the PR&C Cttee just before Christmas and left gifts for the Club!
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise spread some warmth this past Saturday evening by donating hot chocolate to patrons visiting Simcoe’s Christmas Panorama. More than 300 people took advantage of this festive treat and over $400 was donated back by the generous visitors. 
Over the past several years, our Club has been an ongoing supporter of the First Nation's peoples at Pikangikum. Donations of time, talent and funds have been coordinated by Jim & Marjorie Dawson. Jim writes in that ...
It's Christmas and the Sunrisers are busy on the kettles again, helping the Salvation Army with their good work in community support.
At our 2021 Christmas Party, Santa (D7090 Governor-Elect Lisa Bishop), brought us some recognition gifts in response to our $$ gifts to the Foundation!
At our Christmas Party 2021, the RCNS announced its most recent member - Yuliia Postil.
It has been such a curious year - so many ways we've had to adapt our ways of providing a service to our community ... and in spite of everything we have remained strong and are proud of our year of success.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise, along with Grace United Church in Port Dover hosted an Indigenous Speaker Series featuring 4 indigenous speakers with topics ranging from Residential Schools, the Indian Act, the Truth & Reconciliation Commission and wrapping up with a Six Nations Elder speaking on "Living in Two Worlds". The four zoom sessions were well-attended with over 70 participants and the series raised $3000 for the Mohawk Village Memorial Park, a project to provide a healing place for Residential School survivors.
Once again, and in adapting to the pandemic realities, the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise is holding our annual spring Fundraiser, Bargains, Bling and Blarney auction on-line. Our plan is to collect donated gently used or new items from all of those who are reorganizing or down-sizing their homes. 
On Tuesday, 30 Nov, we will welcome Anne and Dolf Wynnia as our Guest Speakers. Via Zoom, the will speak to us about their work to recover land and increase the forested area in our County - 
One of the main issues the RCNS has tried to promote and/or assist with over the years has been related to the improvement of literacy skills. The ways in which we have pursued this aim have been quite varied but our most recent donation to the Norfolk County Public Library (NCPL) has been unique and particularly satisfying.
RCNS recently donated towards the St Vincent de Paul Society’s food programs. The Christmas hamper program assists local families experiencing food insecurities during the holidays. The Society has reported an increase in emergency food requests in 2021 over previous years as well as increase in the number of people relying on the Soup Kitchen. As at October 31, 837 food deliveries had been made. The Soup Kitchen is serving approximately 250 meals per week.
The RCNS has a long history of working internationally and with other partners, in the service of Operation EyeSight fundraising. Our Fall 2021 campaign is now well-under-way. 
On Tuesday, 23 November, and on our behalves, Louise Schebesch welcomed Samantha Devereaux as our Guest Speaker; noting her previous experience with us as a Welshpool exchange student 10 years ago! Via Zoom, Sam helped us to learn more about issues related to personal wellness and more particularly about her developing business Laka Wellness. Additional information concerning this topic is available at the 'Read more ...' tab shown below.
We are very proud of our local Trail; the 4 kilometres of Rotary Sunrise Trail going right through Simcoe - we especially know how much the local community uses and appreciates that outdoor facility.
On Tuesday, 30 November, and on our behalves, John Wallace welcomed Anne & Dolf Wynia as our Guest Speakers. Via Zoom, they helped us to learn more about their reforestation project in Norfolk County; an initiative conceived as a part fo the federal governments Project Forest 2020.
Following our initial success with the RCNS Take a Bite Out of Norfolk (TaBooN), we were encouraged to take a 'second bite'; so, we took on a Fall '21 edition of this popular community support event. We kept the original aim to organize a fundraiser that promoted our County and offered a wide and interesting selection of Norfolk food and products.
Kiefer noted her close family connection to the great Canadian, Russ Jackson and informed us of the most recent honour the Hamiltonian has received. Our connection may be somewhat distant but, through Joanne, we applaud the long-overdue recognition that this most deserving Canadian is receiving. BZ.
The very best kind of community service is when the effort is collaborative. So it is with our continuing Coats for Kids program. 
sun came out on Thursday morning as RCNS put together their crew to spruce up our Panorama Gingerbread House display.
To celebrate the onset of the annual District 7090 Conference, several local Area 1 members assembled to get ready.
Owing to the pandemic, we are 'in-between' our exchange students at the moment. Nonetheless, we remember our great connections from the past and look forward to the program restarting as soon as it is safe to do so.
On 16 May '96. we were chartered as the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise; a new Club within District 7090 of Rotary International.
Earlier, the RCNS installed the first three of our Little Lending Libraries in Port Dover and Waterford.
On Saturday, 02 Oct '21, Rotary District 7090 organized a 'Pedal for Polio' bicycle tour in support of our common Rotary aim to eradicate polio. Blessed with great weather, RCNS embraced the chance to support this Rotary fundraiser and to help draw attention to this great cause.
Last year, we planted 4,200 ... this year, we added another 6,000 daffodil bulbs to further enhance our Rotary Sunrise Trail for those who enjoy its beauty.
The Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise continues to demonstrate its commitment to basic education and literacy, one of the seven pillars of Rotary.
Our summer has passed - fall weather is upon us - so, once again, we have begun to think about keeping our kids warm for the upcoming winter months.
We welcome Josh Herter as our newest member - as a part of the MHN Legal team, Josh will join us as a Corporate member of our Corporate partner.
On Tuesday morning, 28 September, Gail Bouw welcomed (her daughter!) Jordana Botting, Director of Business Development for Viking River & Ocean Cruises, as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, she spoke to us about many of the issues the cruise industry is currently facing.
he grand prize of donated spirits etc was sought by 62 participants with Gail Bouw holding the key to happiness; at least for some of her business clients!
We're almost there - our cut-off date is near.
On Wednesday, 10 November, at 7pm, we will welcome Elder Renee Thomas-Hill as the fourth and last of our Guest Speakers in the Indigenous Voices Speaker Series. Via Zoom, she will help us to learn more about Living in Two Worlds - go to the 'Read more...' tab at the bottom to learn a little more about Renee.
On Wednesday, 27 October, at 7pm, we will welcome Steven Greyeyes as the third of our Guest Speakers in the Indigenous Voices Speaker Series. Via Zoom, he will help us to learn more about Residential Schools - go to the 'Read more...' tab at the bottom to learn a little more about Steven.
On Wednesday, 13 October, at 7pm, we will welcome Bryant Peters as the second of our Guest Speakers in the Indigenous Voices Speaker Series. Via Zoom, he will help us to learn more about the Indian Act - go to the 'Read more...' tab at the bottom of this story to learn a little more about Bryant.
n Wednesday, 29 September, at 7pm, we will welcome Amos Key Jr as the first of our Guest Speakers in the Indigenous Voices Speaker Series. Via Zoom, he will help us to learn more about Building Respectful Relations and Understanding - go to the 'Read more...' tab at the bottom to learn a little more about Amos.
On Tuesday morning, 14 Sept, at 7:30 am, and via Zoom link, we will be joined by Anne Bermingham, our District 7090 Governor. 
Mark your calendars for a unique series of presentations set out to inform and educate all of us in respect of a variety of First Nation issues we are confronted with.
On Tuesday, 31 August, we welcomed Sherry Shrubb as our Guest Speaker. Via Zoom, she helped us to learn more about how we can help pollinators and help food security in our community; all in our own backyard.
It's certainly the dog-days of summer here in Norfolk - here's some on-line fun from our RCNS Membership Ctte to help you stay cool!
e welcomed three high-school students who had been selected as recent Slapshot participants and our Guest Speakers. Rudi Atkinson noted the context for the Rotary SlapShot program selection and provided for student introductions.
After a pandemic period defined by social gathering restrictions and a summer break from our Rotary activities, President Louise welcomed over 45 of us to the first hosted event of her leadership year. It was a great night in an open-air facility, chosen for its safety and we all felt more than comfortable getting together in this way to see each other after such a long break.
After many years in the making, our idea to add some mural artwork to the downtown community is finally taking form.
Ross & Joyce Gowan and Jim & Lynda Simpson (and Andy Kooistra since January) have been delivering Emergency Meals for Church Out Serving since last summer. Over the year they have put in 540 hours of sweat equity for this pandemic response program. 
This is on top of 581 hours that 12 volunteers put in during 2019-20. If you do the math, that's 1059 hours provided to Riversyde 83 construction. Well done!
As a result, in 2021 the Rotary Foundation has recognized Marjorie Dawson, Jim Dawson, Nancy Sherwin, and Rudi Atkinson with Paul Harris Fellows for their ongoing donations to the Foundation. Earlier in the year Keith Flexman had been so-recognized and soon, Don Emerson will be publicly honoured.
Donations to the Rotary Foundation by Rotarians such as these Norfolk Sunrise members are the lifeblood of our body, supporting projects around the world such as polio eradication, clean water and providing grant money back to Clubs for their local projects.
Mary Mercato has been a Club member since 2017 and a leader on our Board since 2019. She has lead the PR&C function and currently chairs the Community Service committee. If there is a fundraiser such as Take a Bite out of Norfolk or Bargains, Bling and Blarney on the go, you are certain to find Mary in the heat of the action. Mary is active in many volunteer activities in the community including St Vincent DePaul food basket delivery, a member of various community boards and a church volunteer. Mary’s generosity with her time to help others is admirable and works within the ideals of Rotary.
Jim Simpson has been a Club member since 2015 and a leader on our Board since 2016. He has lead the Community Service Committee and currently looks after the PR&C function. Jim Simpson has been a powerhouse in redesigning the clubs website and overseeing everything public relations. Volunteering his time in the community has included the ongoing renovations within Riversyde 83, as a church volunteer, as a Community Volunteer Income Tax team member as well as at support groups such as Habitat for Humanity. Jim is our club rep for the RI Can-Scot Curling Exchange program.
We then went about passing the gavel from our outgoing President Steve Malo to our incoming President Louise Schebesch. A leading tribute by John Wallace was followed by several comments about outgoing Steve, who then reflected on our very unusual year and the way in which we met our challenge(s) in such a typically 'Sunriser' fashion. We were lucky to have Steve steer us through such a curious and unique year. Steve then passed the gavel to incoming Louise who promptly explained certain environmentally-focused changes in our club structure and announced the new Board; acknowledging those who had agreed to stay on, thanking those who were moving on, welcoming those moving in ... (see the Leadership tab at the top of the www.norfolksunrise.org page). 
Louise stressed how much she was looking forward to working with the new team. After a short run-down on several of the initiatives Louise was planning for our next Rotary Sunrise year, she returned the meeting to the host who closed out the meeting with a number of randomly chosen 'zoom' break-out sessions to allow for some much needed social interaction between our 'cabin-fevered' club members!
Mark your calendars and sign-up for our next Flex's Road Rally for Rotary followed by a genuine face-to-face, social BBQ; all this fun being planned by our hardworking ways and means group, for Sunday 19 September 2021.
Our most recent donation in support of the Waterford Heritage Trail has now been spent - the work is complete and yet more trail has been opened up for the enjoyment of the Norfolk community and its neighbours.
In response, Past-President Steve Malo writes - 'Great photos. The transformation is incredible. We as well as your trail association are so very fortunate having you as the front man. Great work.'
It finally happened - the Ace was caught after 50 draws! #38 was the lucky envelope and the winner is Bev Wood. Event photo shows Gail Bouw (RCNS), Judy Buck (RCL) and Bev; our happy winner.
More fun from our ever-caring Membership Cttee -
WILL be selected this Friday, 04 June at the Port Dover Legion. When the 
On Tuesday morning, 31 currently active members 'zoomed' in to celebrate our 25th Anniversary as a Club and to recognize our founding members, in particular, those who remain as active members.
In the photo, see Pres Keith being so-pinned at the first club assembly by first Club Secretary Terry Kristman.
Go to the 'Read more ...' tab to see a summary of their ideas. How grateful we are for the work this group has done over the years as well as the example they continue to contribute as we look forward to our bright future as a service club.
On Tuesday morning, our own Norfolk Sunrise Club (with several guests from the Simcoe and Delhi Clubs) welcomed Brian Carmichael and Gail Catherwood who lead a discussion re our interest in Rotary Satellite clubs. In opening the session, Brian provided a brief overview of Rotary as it is today, noting more members were leaving than joining and that average ages were creeping up. Nonetheless, Rotary International is considering a more efficient structure (a Canadian Zone), new Clubs (48) are being formed and progress is being made in our new high-tech circumstances. In the context of Passport Clubs, Rotaract Clubs, E-Clubs and the like, the speaker focused on the merits of forming Satellite Clubs; an initiative that might work well in the current Norfolk situation. See the "Read more ..." tab below, for a primer that provides everything (and more!) that you need to know about the topic. A wide-ranging discussion followed this excellent and most informative briefing. Several local initiatives are to be considered. Well-done, Brian!
More fun from our Membership Cttee - spend your 'stay at home' time knowing just how much you actually know about our Club!!
Club members gathered together on Sunday afternoon, 28 March, to carry-out a socially-distant drive-past Cathy Harrop's home in Simcoe.
ibrary (LLL) is a free book sharing/lending tool, increasing access to books for readers of all ages. Currently over 100 countries around the world have established over 100,000 LLL, exchanging millions of books.
This Tuesday at our weekly 7am, Zoom gathering, Marjorie Dawson welcomed our Guest Speaker, Dawn Lavell-Harvard, Director of the Trent University First Peoples House of Learning. Dawn was joined by her assistant Lorelei Wilkinson. More details on the guest speaker and her initiative may be found by going to the "Read more ..." tab as given below.
nce and her impassioned reflection on so many of the issues facing our indigenous peoples, Dawn completely captured our attention. For a brief moment in our time, she became the "spirit of the hummingbird". Hers was a message we will not soon forget; a message drawing out many reflections from several of our Club members with many more going felt, but unstated.
This Tuesday at our weekly 7am, Zoom gathering, we welcomed our Guest Speaker, Edith Gelbard. Edith was introduced by her son, Richard Gelbard (a local Norfolk resident) and spoke about her family and personal experiences during World War II and immediately thereafter; quite a story of life, courage and an indomitable spirit. Gelbard survived the Holocaust by living as a ‘hidden’ Jewish girl in France. More details on Edith may be found by going to the "Read more ..." tab as given below.
At our weekly 7am, Zoom gathering, Marjorie Dawson introduced our Guest Speakers, Lucy Bonanno, President and CEO of the Norfolk General Hospital, she in the company of Aaron Gautreau, responsible for hospital communications. Lucy gave us a very enthusiastic overview of the NGH and its operations, specifically discussing her experiences in running a critical health care facility in a difficult time. A selection of slides from her presentation as well as a few more details on our guest speaker (as taken from a 2020 edition of the Simcoe Reformer) may be found by going to the "Read more ..." tab as given below.
This Tuesday at our weekly 7am, Zoom gathering, Gail Bouw welcomed our Guest Speakers, Neil Unwin and Aimee Bernardo for the local CrimeStoppers group. Both shared details concerning the local group, their effect on the community and the success they have had over the years. More details on the presentation may be found by going to the "Read more ..." tab as given below.
have approval to recommence our favourite card draw - get your tickets for the 09 April return of Catch the Ace sponsored by our club and hosted by the Port Dover Legion..jpg)
On Tuesday at our weekly 7am, Zoom gathering, Lisa Bishop welcomed our Guest Speaker, Kevin Crosby, friend of our Club, past-Governor of District 7090 and currentlyAssistant Zone Coordinator for Zone 28 (ie 21 Districts). Go to the 'Read more ...' tab to learn more about Kevin.
uesday at our weekly 7am, Zoom gathering, Rudi Atkinson welcomed our Guest Speaker, Kriti Agarwal, friend of our Club and 2006-2007 inbound exchange student from India.
On Tuesday, 16 March, Rudi Atkinson gave a 'blessed' welcome to our Guest Speaker, Kelsey Blake friend of our Club and previous outbound, RCNS exchange student.
On Tuesday at our weekly 7am Zoom gathering, Marjorie Dawson welcomed our Guest Speaker, Heather King, a very busy CEO for the five branches of the Norfolk County Public Library.
At our Tuesday morning Club 'zoom' get-together, Gail Catherwood welcomed our guest speaker Hadley Jackson. 
At our morning 'zoom' meeting of 19 Jan '21, Mary Mercato welcomed our guest speaker Heather Lennie, who provided us with an overview of the Free Reading Program (FRP), a program whose mission is to 'deliver free, on-line literacy programs to children around the world'. Heather, a past member of Rotaract and current member of the Scarborough Rotary Club is the FRP Board Chair (and working out of Viet Nam!). She actively promotes program initiatives, develops and advances programs and connects lik
e-minded individuals who are eager to enhance global on-line education.
We recently lost an outstanding member of our Norfolk community and a truly amazing Rotarian. His life was the definition of 'Service before Self' and we will truly miss him
On the last day of 2020, and so as to dispatch a curious year in a most Rotary way, several of our RCNS club members represented us proudly by making a most useful donation to the 47 Indwell residents living at Hambleton Hall.
7 November the Salvation Army coordinator, Hal Whitcomb briefed us on the new look of their 'Covid and the Kettles' campaign. He encouraged our continuing support of this vital program, a campaign during a pandemic made all the more important in light of the information given by our other morning guest, Heidy Van Dyk. The SA target this year is $100K and the campaign will run from 20 Nov until 24 Dec 2020.
How best to enjoy an evening at home with your friends and contribute to the good going on in the community at the same time??
Our President, Steve Malo reports from the Ride for Polio scene... 
we have raised over $2B. We have made great strides and have experienced great success reducing the incidence by 99.9% The reality remains that until we attain 100% the goal however elusive has not been reached.
On Tuesday morning, 06 Oct, 26 of our RCNS members ‘zoomed-in’ to welcome our guest speaker. As introduced by Dave Douglas, we greeted Josefa Michaelson, an Eastern Region Engagement Advisor for outreach programs of the Canadian Assn of Petroleum Producers, not to mention a long-haul survivor of the Covid virus. 
On 03 October; a bright Saturday morning, about 30 masked Rotarians gathered outside in the Salvation Army parking lot to complete their third annual Rotary Day of Action. 
Once again this year, Dave Nicolle and Bettyann Carty from our Club are leading us in our community drive to collect winter coats for the needy children of Norfolk County.
Early on Tuesday morning, 29 September, we welcomed Mark Boerkamp back to the Club; this time as our 'Zoom' guest speaker. Gail Catherwood introduced Mark as a very active yet previous member of the RCNS, a Paul Harris Fellow and a Past President of our Club.
ark offered a very entertaining talk on his responsibilities as the Norfolk County, Superintendent of Trails and Cemeteries. During the session, Mark discussed the development, and status, of the 45 km of walking trails we have a joint interest in, the issues and little-known aspects of the 45 (19 of which are active) cemeteries that Norfolk County is responsible for, as well as some updated information concerning certain bridges and dams in our County. Of course, Mark couldn't conclude without an 'Environmental Moment'; this one related to the challenge of waste plastics in our world. All in all, a great presentation, drawing much interest and many questions.
On Tuesday, 15 October, our club welcomed Amelia Verlint to a club zoom gathering to tell us about her recent outbound exchange visit to CafeLandia, Sao Paolo, Brazil.
r Rotary Wheel Car Rally is only about 3 weeks away. This is a social event for Rotarians, Friends and Family on Sunday, September 20th at 12:30 PM until 4:30 PM and then a tailgate party at President Steve Malo’s farm. The cost to attend this social is $20 per person.
This ongoing nutrition program is being coordinated at Riversyde 83 and brings many support agencies together to help the needy during these difficult pandemic days.
Here we see Ross and Joyce helping to organize the food gathering part of the program as well as Jim and Lynda assisting with the delivery of the food boxes around the County. Also shown in the photo is CoS coordinator Virginia Lucas.
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Thanks very much to Mike Cobb (left), representing the Rotary Club of Simcoe and presenting a cheque to John Wallace, to support the Operation Eyesight project in Nepal which is led by the Rotary Club of Norfolk Sunrise. The Simcoe and Norfolk Sunrise Clubs work closely together in several ways, to the benefit of the members in both clubs and the people and communities supported locally and internationally. Thank you Simcoe Rotary members!
Very uplifting "classification talk" by Tracy this morning. Interesting to learn that it took Tracy a while to find her passion as a chef, but she certainly hasn't looked back since. That passion certainly has driven Tracy to excellence, demonstrated in spades through The Bellworth House restaurant, her catering, and now her Liaison College venture. 
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