You are Invited to Le Carnival Haiti! Beat the winter blues! ZOOM into “Le Carnival Haiti”. Join, The Rotary Club of Parkdale-High Park-Humber for this sunny fun on-line fundraiser to support HANWASH* the audacious Rotary inspired group that aims to sustainably bring fresh clean water to every home in Haiti. Sunday, February 28 from 4:30 - 6:00 pm via Zoom All proceeds donated to HANWASH. Those wishing to donate more will receive a tax receipt for donations over $25. Dress for your Caribbean holiday. Get festive and be ready to party. Pour yourself a cool one and join us for a sampling of Haitian culture through the arts! GET READY: - Learn how to make some classic street food in the Creole Cooking class with Chef Marc-elie Lissade and Amir Vertieres of Boukan Restaurant
- Take a Konpa Dance lesson with Schiller Greffin and Meggie Carpel of Danse Select Canada
- Discover how to make an exclusive Carnival cocktail created by Reuben Virasami mixologist extraordinaire
- Enjoy Music by Haitian musicologist DJ NS
- Discover stunning Haiti with tour guide Ricardo Province.
- Meet HANWASH representatives Neil Van Dine and Fritz G. Pierre-Louis
HAVE FUN AND DO GOOD!
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Le Carnival Haiti!
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Cathy Borg
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2021-02-11 05:00:00Z |
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Posted on May 21, 2020
Are you getting tired of the Corona prohibitions? Looking to learn more about libations? Come join me and the Parkdale, High Park, Humber Rotary Club for an on-line fundraiser to support some of our charities that are in dire need due to Covid-19 issues. Logistics: Thursday, May 28 from 5-6:30 via Zoom Theme: Prohibition. Have fun in the comfort of your own home! Create your own Speakeasy! Don your Roaring 20’s garb! Pour yourself a libation and join us to learn more about everything boozy! Entertainment: Experts in wine, beer, and cocktails will teach us some of their craft – we will learn how to mix cocktails for our weekly online happy hours, differences in craft beers, and more about wine. Each presenter will speak for 10 minutes, then have 5 minutes for Q & A from the audience. Entertainment Experts: Tickets: For $20 per person, you can join us via Eventbrite. All proceeds donated to our charities. Those wishing to donate more will receive a tax receipt for donations over $25. Charities: - Fort York Food Bank
- Weston Area Emergency Support Food Bank
- Shelter Box.
Some of the most vulnerable populations have been hit hardest by the Corona Virus pandemic. Visits to food banks have increased, while the sources of some regular food donations have been restricted. Fort York Food Bank ( https://fyfb.com/) provides food and meals to low income individuals and families in Toronto. Weston Area Emergency Support provides food to low income individuals and families in the Weston & Mount Dennis area. Shelter Box ( https://www.shelterboxcanada.org/) provides emergency disaster relief in areas around the world. The corona virus presents serious risks for refugees and displaced families. The Parkdale, High Park, Humber Rotary Club regularly supports these charities that could use additional help right now. Additional Fun: Bone up on your knowledge of prohibition & alcohol and participate in trivia questions throughout the show.
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SPEAKEASY 101! ONLINE FUNDRAISER EVENT!
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ber
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2020-05-21 04:00:00Z |
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Posted by Scott Bartle on Jul 02, 2019
In November of 2017 Rotary International partnered with Idea Studio to produce Rotary’s third VR fil, Two Drops of Patience. The premise of the documentary was to allow people to experience what Rotarians do every day to Eradicate Polio, and to demonstrate what it takes to reach children in very remote areas. On Thursday June 13thBruce Sinclair, Founder & CEO of Idea Studio www.ideastudio.ca gave Members and Guests of the Rotary Club of Parkdale-High Park-Humber an opportunity to experience administrating the Polio Vaccine to Children in a very remote area of Uganda. The Virtual Reality 360 Film is the next best thing to being there. The whole process was all made possible through the co-ordination of the Rotary Club of Soroti and the cooperation of their local Government, UNICEF and the World Health Organization. The Rotary Club of Parkdale - High Park - Humber meets every Thursday for an hour. For more information go to www.parkdalehighparkrotary.org T view a trailer and the film “Two Drops of Patience” go to http://www.ideastudio.ca/two_drops_of_patience.php It’s much different as a Virtual Reality/360 degrees.
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Virtual Reality Comes to Rotary
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Scott Bartle
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2019-07-02 04:00:00Z |
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Posted on Feb 03, 2019
Great Rotary morning meeting January 31st at the Grenadier Restaurant in High Park. It may have been frrrrreeeezzzzing out there but it was warm and cozy at our Rotary Club of Parkdale High Park Humber meeting. We had the great pleasure to welcome Pia Bouman of the Pia Bouman School for Ballet and Creative Movement right here in our neighbourhood of Parkdale. Pia gave us an impassioned speech about the good work of bringing the dancing arts to children and adults of Parkdale, the importance of the arts in our communities and as fundamental building block in young peoples lives. Many families are not able to afford to pay for the classes but are still able to attend through the bursary programs that are at the heart and soul of Pia Bouman's life work. Pia is facing a real estate challenge, in that the building of her school has been sold and she needs to find a new home in the hood. Some great brainstorming happened after our meeting. Such an inspiring morning! In December the Rotary Club of Parkdale - High Park - Humber donated $3,000 to the Pia Bouman School for Ballet and Creative Movement.
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Rotary Supports Pia Bouman School for Ballet and Creative Movement
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2019-02-03 05:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jan 19, 2018
The Rotary Club of Parkdale - High Park celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2017. To commemorate the occasion, they honoured two people who have demonstrated “Service Above Self”. A Paul Harris Fellow is Rotary’s highest award to recognize individuals who have made an impact on the community. The first recipient of this award was Joanne Green who received her award last May. She was recognized for her work with refugee families, coordinating the Roncesvalles Refugee Relief group for Syrian families, and for organizing a sewing machine program, bicycle program, and movie days for refugee families across the GTA. On January 10, the second recipient, Luke Anderson, received the award. The Rotary Club of Etobicoke shared their meeting at the Old Mill for this special occasion. Luke is the founder of StopGap and the executive director of the StopGap Foundation. Luke had a terrible mountain biking accident, leaving him a quadriplegic. Returning to Toronto, he lived in the Roncesvalles/Junction community and became frustrated with the lack of access to the local shops. So, he designed the StopGap ramp that you see throughout the community and city. StopGap ramps are being installed in many cities across Canada, and the initiative is becoming global. Luke believes that accessible means inclusive, and that the world would be a better place if everyone could be included.
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Rotary Recognizes Luke Anderson with a Paul Harris Fellow Award
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2018-01-19 05:00:00Z |
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Posted on Aug 16, 2017
Saturday morning Don Sirko presented Margaret Cantwell of the Fort York Food Bank with a Paul Harris Fellowship Award for her service to the food bank and the community.
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Paul Harris Fellow Award
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2017-08-16 04:00:00Z |
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Celebrating 150 Years Canada!
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Scott Bartle
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2017-07-23 04:00:00Z |
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Posted by Scott Bartle on Mar 17, 2017
District Governor Jim Louttit, and Assistant District Governors Patricia Wright and Yosef Ciosa attended our meeting to talk about Rotary in the District, our Membership and the Rotary International Conference in Atlanta this June and in Toronto in June of 2018. There will be a meeting in April of the group of West End Rotary Clubs to discuss an event for the Conference in 2018. There could be 25,000 Rotarians visiting Toronto during this conference and we'll start to see Advertising for this in July. The District is holding a second Membership Session in Oshawa on Saturday March 25th and they are hoping someone from our Club will attend. Suzanne attended the last seminar and came back with some great ideas. We have switched our website to ClubRunner and the idea of having an evening meeting once or twice a month in Liberty Village and on the Waterfront seemed popular. We need to explore this and find two good venues. These meeting places could lead us towards a couple of Satellite Clubs. Patricia mentioned that there was interest in an Interact Club at Ursula Franklin Academy that we need to explore with her help. Remember our Wine & Cheese Event on Friday April 28th. We need tickets sold and Auction Prizes.
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Notes from March 16, 2017
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Scott Bartle
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2017-03-17 04:00:00Z |
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Posted by Scott Bartle on Mar 10, 2017
We had a small but lively group this morning. Suzanne Manvell updated on the membership Seminar and were looking for someone to attend the second session on March 25th in Oshawa. From this seminar Suzanne brought back that we need to update our website and add some video (I sent the order form into ClubRunner today). We also need to practise our elevator speech. I’m going ask someone to give us their speech each week. The Toronto West Club says that “Meet Up” has helped them bust their membership. Five Scarborough Clubs are hosting a large event for the 2018 Rotary International Conference and there will be a meeting in early April of West End Clubs to discuss similar possibilities.
The TV Auction Committee is meeting next Wednesday and I will attend with my ideas and listen to theirs. If anyone else wants to attend, call me.
We’re moving forward with the Wine & Cheese Event with the Roncesvalles United Church so we’re looking for tickets to sell and items for auction. Sally and I are offering a week at our Florida Home, Suzanne is offering up some time at her cottage on Lake Erie and Berk has some stuff up his sleeve. This is a real opportunity to promote Rotary and have a party and Celebrate our 30th Anniversary. The Date is Friday April 28th and Cathy will have tickets and posters for us soon.
I have 3 submissions for a Paul Harris Fellow Award to date. Please submit your candidates to me ASAP. March 18th is the cut off.
The Roncesvalles Refugee Relief group has taken on a family from Romero House and are in need of the items below for this weekend if possible. Please let me know if you have anything on the list that you can donate. This RRR Group has gotten active in a number of ways. Please check their website below.
Furniture for Refugee Family from Angola.
• single bed
• double bed
• bunk bed
• dressers
• night table
• small sofa or love seat
• occasional chairs
• all kitchen accessories
• bookcases
• area rugs
• lamps
• bed & bathroom linens
• duvets
• small desk and chair
• coffee table
• mirrors
http://www.roncyrefugeerelief.org
Thank you! There will be no Board Meeting this month however, Robin is looking into how we can help the West End KEYS who spoke to us last week. Our speaker next week is Lisa Randall from Culture Links. I am hoping to have special Speakers on March 16th since our District Governor, District Governor Assistants both current and future will be in attendance.
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Notes from March 2, 2017
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Scott Bartle
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2017-03-10 05:00:00Z |
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Posted on Mar 07, 2017
We Celebrated our 30th Anniversary ! Wine & Cheese Gala Friday April 28th
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Wine & Cheese Gala
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2017-03-07 05:00:00Z |
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Posted on Mar 07, 2017
Do you want to make a meaningful difference in our community?
Interested in addressing issues like poverty, health, hunger, education and the environment?
Want to do more than just hope for world peace?
- The Rotary Club of Parkdale-High Park is one of 33,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and regions, forming a network of community service around the world.
- We are a welcoming, friendly and fun-loving group of men and women from different backgrounds, age groups, cultures and occupations.
- What we share in common is the desire to work on community projects, both at home and abroad, to make our world a better place.
- If you want to be part of a global network of community volunteers, then Rotary is for you.
- We meet Thursday mornings at 7:30 am at the Grenadier Café located in the centre of Toronto's High Park.
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The Rotary Club of Parkdale-High Park - Who we are and What we do
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2017-03-07 05:00:00Z |
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Posted on Mar 07, 2017
The Four Way Test on the coffee mug above guides what we do as Rotarians.
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The Four Way Test for Rotarians
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2017-03-07 05:00:00Z |
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Posted by Scott Bartle on Feb 16, 2017
On February 16, Jane Pang, founder and principal of Clearview School of Arts and Culture, gave a presentation on Chinese culture. Jane's presentation addressed the recent global interest in traditional Chinese culture and referenced it through examples such as the popularity of Shen Yun Performing Arts, which aims to revive authentic Chinese culture on a worldwide scale. In addition to Jane's presentation, the Club inducted a new member, Michael Wolkensperg, and had a special guest attendee Berk Icer of Budget Blinds West Toronto. The Rotary Club’s mission is to bring together business and professional leaders in order to provide humanitarian services, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and to advance goodwill and peace around the world.
Click the link below for SNAP's full story and Photos of the morning.
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New Member Induction
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Scott Bartle
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2017-02-16 05:00:00Z |
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Posted by Wayne MacDonald on Mar 25, 2015
Announcements - Don, Scott and Suzanne
Speaker: High Park Nature Center
Happy Bucks
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Notes from March 26, 2015
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Wayne MacDonald
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2015-03-26 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Carole Rowsell on Nov 26, 2014
Club Discussion Thursday November 27 2014
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message from November 27 2014 meeting
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Carole Rowsell
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2014-11-27 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Wayne MacDonald on Nov 19, 2014
Notes from our Breakfast Meeting, Thursday November 20, 2014
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message from November 20 2014 meeting
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Wayne MacDonald
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2014-11-20 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jul 09, 2014
Notes from today's meeting:
- Our special guests today were District Governor Brian Thompson and Mary Lou Harrison.
- After introducing our guests, Club President for the Quarter Carole mentioned that she had hard copies of the minutes available from our board meeting this week for anybody wishing them. Copies of the minutes were also emailed to club members by Carole. As Carole is now using ClubRunner to email, please ensure that your email address on ClubRunner is current! (If your email is not current, you're likely not receiving these notes anyway.) The board minutes included:
- Planning and goals discussed for the 2014-2015 year
- Some Leadership roles required
- Treasurer's report with a listing of last year's charitable givings
- Granting guidelines as approved for the 2014-2015 year
- A summary of past, current and possible new service projects.
- Mary Lou Harrison introduced our guest speaker, DG Brian Thompson. Brian is looking forward to visiting the 54 clubs in our District 7070 - a far easier task than some of his fellow DGs have - one DG has 6 countries to visit with several languages to manage and a conflict on top of that. Brian gave us a bit of background on the 2 year District Governor training experience he recently went through, the notion that he is at the top of the roller coaster, and the fact that he will be fired a year from now. Brian spoke about the impact of Rotary on his life and quizzed us on some Rotary stats such as number of clubs (34,000) and members worldwide (1.2 million), number of countries with active rotary clubs (over 200), and the amount of money (~$23.00) used to seed the Rotary Foundation. Part of Brian's presentation included a video from RI President Gary Huang in which he speaks about a lesson from Confucius that "it is better to light a single candle than to sit and curse the darkness. President Huang's theme for the year is "Light Up Rotary". Closer to home, borrowing from Bond, DG Brian's District 7070 theme is "Shaken and Stirred".
Brian invites us to be Shaken and Stirred at the District 7070 Conference at the Weston Prince Hotel in Toronto October 24-26, 2014. Carole thanked Brian with our now customary donation to the Nature Centre and to Polio Eradication.
- We are trying something new this year. The Parkdale - High Park club presidency is going to be shared over the coming year by 4 past presidents on a quarterly rotation. Pictured below with DG Brian Thompson are our 4 quarterly club presidents for the year: L-R: Robin, Don, DG Brian, Carole and Scott.
- Happy bucks came from Danielle for her baby boy to be born early in January as well as from Carole, Scott and Robin for Danielle's news.
- Robin won the draw but not the pot!
- After the meeting, some of us met with DG Brian and Mary Lou to get to chat about the year ahead.
- And that's it for now.
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Message from our July 10, 2014 Meeting
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2014-07-10 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jul 02, 2014
Some notes from today's meeting:
- The new Rotary year began on July 1 and our new President "for the period", Carole Rowsell, took the meeting.
- As our guest speaker was unable to make the meeting, Carole quickly adjusted our meeting content.
- Wayne mentioned that he could speak to the club on "Business Intelligence" in a future meeting.
- We chatted about upcoming plans including organizations we might support this year. John gave an update on the Food Shelter. Danielle gave the club an update on one not-for-profit initiative for the club's consideration.
- Carole indicated that our first board meeting of the new year will be on July 8 and will be held at the Grenadier. As we have an open board, all club members are welcome to attend the board meeting. And we're in need of volunteers for great minute taking.
- A reminder that we have our District Governor, Brian Thompson, joining us at next week's meeting on July 10.
- Scott asked that we get back to him with any questions concerning the August 14 golf tournament. We have a full complement of golfers and it is in our club's interest to solicit sponsors to generate proceeds for our on-going charitable work. In the absence of sponsorships, we would need to think again about our involvement! Sponsorship information can be downloaded from our website main page.
- We will be celebrating Suzanne's past year as president at Don's house on July 17 at the President's Dinner. We have 3 folks bringing salads and 2 bringing deserts? There is a fair beverage selection leftover from the Paul Harris evening. If you have different beverage preferences, BYOB. Twenty dollars each for the steak dinner with $10 of that towards eradicating land mines.
- As Paul drew the ace of hearts - the pot does indeed live on.
- And as there was nothing else to discuss "for the good of Rotary", we recited the 4 way test in the customary way and Carole closed her first meeting of 2014. Thanks Carole!
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Message from our July 3, 2014 Meeting
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2014-07-03 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jul 02, 2014
Some notes from today's meeting:
- The new Rotary year began on July 1 and our new President "for the period", Carole Rowsell, took the meeting.
- As our guest speaker was unable to make the meeting, Carole quickly adjusted our meeting content.
- Wayne mentioned that he could speak to the club on "Business Intelligence" in a future meeting.
- We chatted about upcoming plans including organizations we might support this year. John gave an update on the Food Shelter. Danielle gave the club an update on one not-for-profit initiative for the club's consideration.
- Carole indicated that our first board meeting of the new year will be on July 8 and will be held at the Grenadier. As we have an open board, all club members are welcome to attend the board meeting. And we're in need of volunteers for great minute taking.
- A reminder that we have our District Governor, Brian Thompson, joining us at next week's meeting on July 10.
- Scott asked that we get back to him with any questions concerning the August 14 golf tournament. We have a full complement of golfers and it is in our club's interest to solicit sponsors to generate proceeds for our on-going charitable work. In the absence of sponsorships, we would need to think again about our involvement! Sponsorship information can be downloaded from our website main page.
- We will be celebrating Suzanne's past year as president at Don's house on July 17 at the President's Dinner. We have 3 folks bringing salads and 2 bringing deserts? There is a fair amount of wine and beer leftover from the Paul Harris evening. If you have different beverage preferences, BYOB. Twenty dollars each for the steak dinner with $10 of that towards eradicating land mines.
- As Paul drew the ace of hearts - the pot does indeed live on.
- And as there was nothing else to discuss "for the good of Rotary", we recited the 4 way test in the customary way and Carole closed her first meeting of 2014. Thanks Carole!
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Message from our July 3, 2014 Meeting
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2014-07-03 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jun 11, 2014
Some quick updates:
- We're getting caught up in our meeting summaries for the past few weeks and these should be posted in the near future.
- In the meantime, check out the details for our upcoming Paul Harris Fellows Awards night on June 19 in our web site calendar here. There will be no breakfast meeting that day. If you can help out, let Scott know and definitely (you know who you are) let Scott know whether you're going to be there and how many you will be bringing.
- We're looking forward to our President's Dinner on July 17. BBQ at Don's. There will be no breakfast meeting that day.
- At our breakfast meeting today we learned that our speaker, Allan Crawford, will be retiring Monday. Allan is keen that the torch be passed for the outdoor programs such as TROOP for youth and encouraged us in ways and means to do this - working together with the police services.
- Also, please check the line-up of breakfast speakers that we have. These can be viewed on the club's home page on the right hand side.
- If you can help out at the Food Bank this weekend, Saturday June 14, please contact John H.
- And don't forget to do what you need to do for the Golf Tourney in August! See below.
- John H. won the 50/50 draw but not the pot today.
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Quick Updates
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2014-06-12 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on May 29, 2014
Guests:
- Our guests today were Alex from Toronto Earls Court Rotary and our Speaker, Michael Kelly.
Announcements:
- The next Blood Donor Clinic is Saturday, May 10th.
- Paul Harris Fellows will be presented on Thursday June 19th at the KUMF Gallery, 2118-A Bloor Street West. This is a great opportunity to give Family, Friends and Potential Members an insight into Rotary. Food and drinks will be served starting at 6:30 p.m. and we should be wrapped up by 9:00 p.m.
Our Guest Speaker: Michael Kelly
Michael has lead Shakespeare in Action as Artistic Director for over 25 years, coordinating programming and directing the vast majority of our productions and educational and outreach programs.
To find out more you can visit Shakespeare in Action’s website at
http://www.shakespeareinaction.org/
- 50/50 Draw: Scott drew his own number but didn’t win the pot. Sorry Scott
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Message from our May 8, 2014 Meeting
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2014-05-30 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on May 29, 2014
Guests:
- Our guests today were Alex from Toronto Earls Court Rotary and our Speaker, Michael Kelly.
Announcements:
- The next Blood Donor Clinic is Saturday, May 10th.
- Paul Harris Fellows will be presented on Thursday June 19th at the KUMF Gallery, 2118-A Bloor Street West. This is a great opportunity to give Family, Friends and Potential Members an insight into Rotary. Food and drinks will be served starting at 6:30 p.m. and we should be wrapped up by 9:00 p.m.
Our Guest Speaker: Michael Kelly
Michael has lead Shakespeare in Action as Artistic Director for over 25 years, coordinating programming and directing the vast majority of our productions and educational and outreach programs.
To find out more you can visit Shakespeare in Action’s website at
http://www.shakespeareinaction.org/
- 50/50 Draw: Scott drew his own number but didn’t win the pot. Sorry Scott L
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Message from our May 8, 2014 Meeting
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2014-05-30 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Apr 24, 2014
Guests:
- Our guests today were Alex from Toronto Earls Court Rotary and our Speaker, Gurbeen Bhasin.
Announcements:
- There will be a board meeting, Monday April 28th.
- The next Blood Donor Clinic is Saturday, May 10th.
- There will be a Cherry Blossom walk/talk, Thursday May 22nd.
- Paul Harris Fellows will be presented on Thursday June 19th at the KUMF Gallery, 2118-A Bloor Street West. This is a great opportunity to give Family, Friends and Potential Members an insight into Rotary. Food and drinks will be served starting at 6:30 p.m. and we should be wrapped up by 9:00 p.m.
- Awesome work from last year TV auction! More than $8,000 raised ($5,820 raised from TV auction, and about $3,000 raised from the sale of Love Raffle tickets)
- The club's Golf Tournament is Thursday August 14th and we need golfers but, more importantly, we need Prizes and Sponsors. The promotional posters have also arrived. Call Scott if you have questions.
Our Guest Speaker: Gurbeen Bhasin
Gurbeen is the Executive Director of the Aangen Community Centre. Gurbeen describes Aangen as a self-sufficient (non-grant based), not-for-profit organization that helps global orphanages and families in need. Aangen raises funds through workshops, sales of Ayurvedic teas and fresh farm products. Aangen is now celebrating their 14th year! To find out more you can visit Aangen’s website at www.aangen.com.
- 50/50 Draw: Scott drew his own number but didn’t win the pot. Sorry Scott
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Message from our April 24, 2014 Meeting
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2014-04-25 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Apr 24, 2014
Guests:
- Our guests today were Alex from Toronto Earls Court Rotary and our Speaker, Gurbeen Bhasin.
Announcements:
- There will be a board meeting, Monday April 28th.
- The next Blood Donor Clinic is Saturday, May 10th.
- There will be a Cherry Blossom walk/talk, Thursday May 22nd.
- Paul Harris Fellows will be presented on Thursday June 19th at the KUMF Gallery, 2118-A Bloor Street West. This is a great opportunity to give Family, Friends and Potential Members an insight into Rotary. Food and drinks will be served starting at 6:30 p.m. and we should be wrapped up by 9:00 p.m.
- Awesome work from last year TV auction! More than $8,000 raised ($5,820 raised from TV auction, and about $3,000 raised from the sale of Love Raffle tickets)
- The club's Golf Tournament is Thursday August 14th and we need golfers but, more importantly, we need Prizes and Sponsors. The promotional posters have also arrived. Call Scott if you have questions.
Our Guest Speaker: Gurbeen Bhasin
Gurbeen is the Executive Director of the Aangen Community Centre. Gurbeen describes Aangen as a self-sufficient (non-grant based), not-for-profit organization that helps global orphanages and families in need. Aangen raises funds through workshops, sales of Ayurvedic teas and fresh farm products. Aangen is now celebrating their 14th year! To find out more you can visit Aangen’s website at www.aangen.com.
- 50/50 Draw: Scott drew his own number but didn’t win the pot. Sorry Scott
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Message from our April 24, 2014 Meeting
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2014-04-25 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Apr 17, 2014
Notes from our April 17th meeting:
Guests:
- Our guests today were Alex from Toronto Earls Court Rotary and our Speaker, Anne Brobyn.
Announcements:
- The next Blood Donor Clinic is May 10th and we need two volunteers for the late shift.
- Food Bank is doing a clean-up of the kitchen at the end of the month and we’ll get more information soon. They will need volunteers for this.
- The club's Golf Tournament is Thursday August 14th and we need golfers but, more importantly, we need Prizes and Sponsors. Call Scott if you have questions.
- The TV Auction Committee met after the meeting and is making great progress!
- Paul Harris Fellows were announced and will be presented on Thursday June 19th at the KUMF Gallery, 2118-A Bloor Street West. This is a great opportunity to give Family, Friends and Potential Members an insight into Rotary. Food and drinks will be served starting at 6:30 p.m. and we should be wrapped up by 9:00 p.m. The Recipients will be:
- Norm Clarke; who stated the Triple Threat Basketball league for Inner City Kids in 2002. There are 17 teams now.
- Daria Olynyk; who has a long list of accomplishments and contributions to the Ukrainian Community, U of T, and St Joseph’s Hospital.
- Sam Caragianakos; who is the Active Head of the Family for the Grenadier Group. Great contributor and supporter to our Rotary Club, all High Park programs and the Local Community.
- Charlene Hewat; who is a Rotarian in Zimbabwe. We are using our Club’s points to honour Charlene with this Award. In 1986-87 Charlene and a friend rode their bicycles 22,000 kilometers to bring awareness and raise money to save Rhinos. She went on to create Environment Africa, an organization to improve the conditions of water an earth to help the people of Africa and the list goes on. Our Club (Carole Rowsell) was involved with Charlene with Water Projects for 16 Communities supporting more than 20,000 people. We hope to have video of this award being presented to Charlene at their District Conference in Africa.
Our Guest Speaker: Anne Brobyn
Anne spent 15 minutes giving us a worthwhile exercise on “How to grow your Business in Niche Markets”. It was a simple and easy to understand presentation and she was very engaging. Anne is the Founder and President of Hibiscus International. She is a Speaker, Presenter, Consultant and Travel Adviser to the Tourism 7 Hospitality Industry. To find out more you can visit her websites at www.Vision.2000.ca/AnneBrobyn and www.Hibiscusinternational.com
- 50/50 Draw: Anne drew her own number but didn’t win the pot. Sorry Anne
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Message from our April 17, 2014 Meeting
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2014-04-18 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Mar 29, 2014
Quick notes from the March 27 breakfast meeting:
Announcements:
- The next Food Bank date is Saturday, April 12.
- There will be a board meeting, Monday April 21. (Bring your own chocolates for the Easter egg hunt.)
- The night for Paul Harris celebration/awards is not yet confirmed.
Today’s Speaker:
- Our guest speaker today was Staff Sgt. Phil Van Andel from Toronto Police Services’ 11 Division.
- High Park falls under 11 Division, bounded to the north by Davenport, the west by the Humber River, to the east by Dufferin Street and the south by Lake Ontario. There is a slight exception to areas within Parkdale. There are 17 police services divisions in the city.
- Staff Sgt. Van Andel spoke to us about the Pacer Report - a far reaching paper on Policing in the City of Toronto. The Pacer report addresses how Police interact with the various groups in the city and provides recommendations for the future.
- Last year, 11 Division created a Scholarship Program - which our club supported. This program is open to all students enrolled or planning to enroll in post secondary education, that either attend a school within Division 11’s boundaries or live within the boundaries. Some of the students have volunteered for homework clubs (keeping kids in the schools, and thereby keeping them out of troublesome situations, giving them better opportunities for the future) as well as in coaching and recreational opportunities, giving kids better odds of success.
- The program is based on both need and to those who have made a difference in their communities in matters concerned with safety. The committee is made of the local Committee Liaison Group, which is made of 3 community members and Staff Sgt. Van Andel.
- For more info click here.
50/50 Draw:
- And Scott won the 50/50 pot!
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Message from our March 27, 2014 Meeting
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2014-03-30 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Mar 12, 2014
Despite the wintery weather, 8 of 12 members made it out this morning!
And here are some notes from this morning's meeting:
1. Reminder: Night of a Thousand Dinners in support of Canadian Landmines Foundation and Toronto Sunrise Rotary Projects:
Date: Saturday, March 15, 2014
Place: 7 Seymour Ave
Time: 7:30 to ???
Phone: (416) 469-0426
Make your cheque payable to Toronto Sunrise Rotary - tax receipts will be given for 80% of donations of $25 or more.
2. We will be doing only 3 Blood Donor Clinics going forward and the next one will be a Saturday in May.
3. We welcomed Fernando Neubern into the Club, classification "Coffee Farmer"! Sponsored by Scott Bartle, Fernando is a transfer from his Club in
Brazil, the ROTARY CLUB OF GARÇA REAL, which he chartered 29 years ago. He is a past President of his club and a Paul Harris Fellow.
Pictured above: Suzanne, Fernando and Scott
4. Phoebe Leung gave her classification talk today. Phoebe came to Canada with her parents in 2001 from Hong Kong. She graduated from U of T with degrees in Economics and Political Science. She then went on to get her CMA and has worked for Sears. Lever Bros. and most recently, Starbucks, in her Classification role as Financial Analyst. Phoebe was attracted to Rotary as a vehicle to give back to the Community and wants to focus her efforts to International Projects. She thanked Alex from the RC of Earlscourt for introducing her to our Club and to Robin for being her Sponsor. Phoebe has already made contributions to the Club and has met with Jim Louttit from the Toronto Sunrise Club to gather more information Rotary's involvement with Micro Financing. Phoebe enjoys reading and jogging when the weather is nice.
5. Scott talked today about Nominees for a Paul Harris Fellow (PHF) and our $100 contribution annually to Every Rotarian Every Year. Our $100 annual contribution/assessment goes to the Rotary Foundation and is credited towards individuals towards a PHF, credits the club with points towards a
PHF and we receive a tax receipt from RI. Our District 7070 also receives recognition for our contribution and this allows us many opportunities to apply for Matching Grants. Our Club has benefitted from the Matching Grants program on a number of occasions. For more information about EREY click here.
Please follow the Criteria for your PHF nominees and send your submissions to Scott by March 27th. Our plan is to hold an event in May to recognize 2 or 3 of the nominees submitted. In simple terms we are looking for nominees who demonstrate a contribution to the Community, locally or Internationally.
Consider the following:
- Impact on our Club and/or the Community
- Duration of effort
- Consistent with Rotary Goals
- Contribution or Relationship to our Club
- Volunteer activity beyond the Club or extension of profession
- Building a sustainable program or contributing to a program’s growth
6. The New Prospect's Committee met after the regular meeting and we look forward to hearing about their progress.
7. Danielle gave a Happy Buck because Suzanne lent her a Snow Bunny outfit for the Slopes of Tremblant and Scott gave a one because he leaves for Florida on Saturday.
8. John Humphreys had the winning 50/50 ticket but the pots lives.
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Message from our March 13, 2014 Meeting
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2014-03-13 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Mar 09, 2014
Announcements:
- Alex from Toronto Earls Court Rotary and Fernando were our visitors today.
- Rotary Business Cards - Scott brought the draft business cards for the senior members of the club (Past and Current Presidents)
- Both the Blood Donor and the Food Bank are this weekend, Saturday March 8th.
- Night of 1000 Dinners for the Canadian Landmine Foundation is March 15th
- In this month's Snap issue, on page 2, is a brief article on the Love Raffle
- The club’s net portion of the TV auction was ~$5,700 (~$6,200 gross less expenses of ~$500)
- The new prospects’ meeting will be after the weekly meeting.
- Danielle was on the conference call (this could be available to others) with updates and progress for the TV auction.
- Scott indicated that he only has 1 candidate submission so far for the Paul Harris Fellow Award. Scott asked that submissions include support material as indicated in the Selection Criteria document that he sent out last week. Please let Scott know if you have any questions about your submissions.
Today’s Speaker:
- Wayne MacDonald gave his Classification talk and introduced the club to some of his history and why Rotary is important to him.
Happy Bucks and 50/50:
- The 50/50 pot lived for another week!!!
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Message from our March 6, 2014 Meeting
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2014-03-10 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Mar 03, 2014
Notes from today's meeting:
Announcements:
- Our visitors were Alex from Toronto Earls Court Rotary and Fernando;
- Don celebrated his birthday this past Thursday. Happy Birthday Don and best wishes for many more!
- Reminder of the Night of 1000 Dinners for landmine removal on March 15th - see prior meeting notes for details;
- We are looking for worthy candidates for Paul Harris Awards. Please see Scott for more information.
Today's Speaker:
Cheryl from Colborne Lodge treated us to a fascinating history lesson on the background of High Park and how it came to be. Some of the highlights included the fact that the land was originally purchased in 1836 by John Howard, who also happens to Toronto's first city engineer, as a "country property". John's love of the park and for family led him to sell back to the City, based on certain conditions, the property we know now as High Park in 1876, but not all at once. In fact, it was not until 1930 that High Park came to be the size that it is now. John Howard's wife died of breast cancer and is believed to have been the first identified woman to die of this nasty disease.
Next Week:
- Wayne MacDonald is tentatively to be our speaker next week;
- The 50/50 pot lived for another week!!!
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Message from our February 27, 2014 Meeting
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2014-03-04 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Feb 20, 2014
Notes from today’s meeting:
- We welcomed our newest members Wayne MacDonald and Phoebe Leung.
Announcements:
- Scott celebrates his 60th Birthday this weekend! Happy Birthday Scott and best wishes for many more!
- Night of 1000 Dinners, is a night to enjoy wonderful Hot and Cold appetizers and support the Toronto Sunrise Rotary fundraising efforts to support the Canadian Landmines Foundation in their mission to eradicate landmines throughout the world. The Date: Saturday, March 15, 2014. The Place: 7 Seymour Ave. The Time: 7:30 to ??? Phone: (416) 469-0426.
- The next blood donor clinic at the Swansea Town Hall will be March 8 – Suzanne M. to confirm date.
- The "Love Raffle" netted the club $2785.50 for our charitable work! 718 of 1000 tickets were sold! (A huge thanks to all members for their efforts!)
- The draft of the new thank-you cards for the guest speakers is available - supporting both local (High Park Nature Center) and International (Eradicating Polio) causes.
Today’s Speaker – Danielle
- Danielle is going to organize a committee to plan and execute our Rotary TV Auction fundraiser efforts including soliciting donations from new and existing contributors. The next meeting to be held after the Thursday breakfast!
50/50
- The 50/50 pot lived for another week!!!
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Message from our February 20, 2014 Meeting
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2014-02-21 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Feb 16, 2014
In place of our usual morning meeting, on Thursday night, February 13, the club held a fellowship evening at the Yellow Griffin Pub. The main event of the night was the Love Raffle Draw. The following email from Danielle aptly summarizes the evening. Thanks Danielle!!
Hello my fellow Rotarians!
Congratulations to all of us for a successful fundraiser the "Love Raffle" in which we raised over $3000 to help those in need :) A special thank you to Scott for the incarnation of using our left over auction items for a raffle, to John for printing, distribution of tickets, collections, organizing sales at the Grenadier and keeping us on track...you really deserve a gold star...and Mark for your work with ticket design...it was perfect! And of course to everyone who sold tickets, bought tickets and volunteered to sell at the Grenadier...we all did a marvelous job!
The draw at the Yellow Griffin was also a huge success, I can see us using that venue again! Our winners were as follows:
1st - VIA - Kelly Cochrane
2nd - HBC blanket - Mary Pollard
3rd - Red Bag - Steven Liu
4th - necklace - Elsa Ng
5th - medieval times tics - Suzanne Manvell
My favorite part about this fundraiser was the level of participation from everyone...thank you again...we will discuss as a group making this an annual event :)
Enjoy your weekend and see you all on Thursday!
Warmest regards, Danielle
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Message from our February 13, 2014 Meeting
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2014-02-17 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Feb 16, 2014
On Thursday night, February 13, the club held a fellowship evening at the Yellow Griffin Pub. The main event of the night was the Love Raffle Draw. The following email from Danielle aptly summarizes the evening. Thanks Danielle!!
Hello my fellow Rotarians!
Congratulations to all of us for a successful fundraiser the "Love Raffle" in which we raised over $3000 to help those in need :) A special thank you to Scott for the incarnation of using our left over auction items for a raffle, to John for printing, distribution of tickets, collections, organizing sales at the Grenadier and keeping us on track...you really deserve a gold star...and Mark for your work with ticket design...it was perfect! And of course to everyone who sold tickets, bought tickets and volunteered to sell at the Grenadier...we all did a marvelous job!
The draw at the Yellow Griffin was also a huge success, I can see us using that venue again! Our winners were as follows:
1st - VIA - Kelly Cochrane
2nd - HBC blanket - Mary Pollard
3rd - Red Bag - Steven Liu
4th - necklace - Elsa Ng
5th - medieval times tics - Suzanne Manvell
My favorite part about this fundraiser was the level of participation from everyone...thank you again...we will discuss as a group making this an annual event :)
Enjoy your weekend and see you all on Thursday!
Warmest regards, Danielle
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Love Raffle Draw and Fellowship Night
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2014-02-17 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Feb 06, 2014
Notes from our February 6 meeting:
Guests
- Fernando Neubern - from Rotary Garcia Real.
- Paul Collier - From Toronto West Rotary spoke about the success of their Club’s recent recipient of "Youth Impact Award”. The Club recognized Dave Dryden for his work with "Sleeping Children around the World".
Announcements:
- Next Board meeting is tentatively scheduled for Monday, February 17, but as this is family day, it might be re-scheduled. It will be a Suzanne's house.
- There will be no breakfast meeting next Thursday, instead, meet in the evening at the Griffin Pub and Restaurant, upstairs! For pub address and map click here.
- Scott mentioned that we have credits for Paul Harris Fellowship awards and we might want to consider recognizing members of the Community and Rotary as recipients. Scott will prepare something for the next Board meeting.
Love Raffle Ticket Sales
- We have raised $1950!!!!!.
- The draw is next Thursday, invite your friends to share in festivities. There will be some free appetizers.
Gustavo Macias - Guest Speaker
- Gustav Macias, from Skyline Farms (www.skylinefarms.ca) explained to the group about vertical farming.
- Copied from their website is a brief overview. On their website, you will find a more detailed description of the work they are doing.
Environmental
less space, less water, fewer nutrients, no pesticides & better access
Reduced carbon footprint
Skyline Farms’ model delivering farm to table within walking or cycling distance amounts to a major reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
Skyline Farms uses 0 oil-intensive fertilizers or pesticides, fewer nutrients and 10% of the land required in traditional farming.
Reduced carbon footprint
Skyline Farms uses aeroponic technology that consumes water in a closed loop. Crops take only what they need and recycle the rest back into the reservoirs.
Skyline Farms uses only about 10% of the water consumed in traditional farming methods.
Urban renewal
Skyline Farms revitalizes and rehabilitates unused and under-utilized urban spaces on land and rooftops.
Sustainability
Skyline Farms can produce 7.7 harvests–more than double those produced by soil-based methods in the same growing period. Its vertical tower gardens maximize land use and, with greenhouses in the works, Skyline Farms will soon be harvesting all year long
50/50 Draw
- John won the weekly draw and our guest speaker drew in his absence but the pot lives for another week!
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Message from our February 6, 2014 Meeting
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2014-02-07 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jan 29, 2014
Notes from our breakfast meeting today:
Visiting Rotarian:
- We had a visiting Rotarian from Grenada (the Spice Island!) today. He has been with his 45 year old club - the first of 3 in Grenada - for 23 years.
Food Bank:
- February 8th (Saturday) is our next Food Bank outing.
Paul Harris Award:
- Carole Rowsell received a Paul Harris Award this morning.
- There are several ways to earn a Paul Harris including outstanding service and contributions towards RI.
- Scott mentioned that there are several awards of which some can be members of the community not necessarily members of Rotary.
- Congratulations Carole!
Today's Speaker:
- Danielle spoke to us today about the need to start planning now for the Rotary TV Auction. Start thinking of what role makes sense for you.
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Message from our January 30, 2014 Meeting
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2014-01-30 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jan 22, 2014
The News from today's meeting:
Love Raffle
- Ticket sales will take place this weekend, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.
- Ticket Sales are going very well.
Upcoming Speaker - January 30
- Danielle will follow-up her January 16 presentation with further information on the TV Auction.
Jazz Night at the Lula Lounge
- Jazz Night - Rotary Foundation Dinner & Show - Lula Lounge February 2nd. For details see the Lula Lounge site by clicking here.
Land Mine Fundraiser - March 8
- There is a fund raiser on March 8 to rid the world of Land mines. The evening is hosted by some leading Toronto Chefs and is open to all. It is an evening of amazing appetizers! Give what you can. This is an international project shared with Sunrise Rotary. The address is 1585 Dundas Street West, Toronto, Ontario 416 788 2699.
Happy Bucks
- We were all HAPPY but no Bucks to report
50/50 Draw
- Don Sirko had the winning ticket and pulled out the Joker. Congratulations Don!
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Message from our January 23, 2014 Meeting
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2014-01-23 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jan 17, 2014
Get your Love Raffle tickets! Only 1000 tickets printed. $5/One or $20/Five
1st Prize: Two VIA Round Trip Tickets to Quebec City
2nd Prize: HBC Signature Blanket
3rd Prize: Diaper Bag and Stuffed Toy
4th Prize: Carnelian Necklace
5th Prize: 2 Medieval Times Tickets
We will be holding the draw at the Yellow Griffin Pub on Thursday evening, February 13, 2014. We'll be gathering on the pub's second floor for food, fellowship and the draw beginning at 8:00 p.m. The Yellow Griffin is located at 2202 Bloor Street West. For more ticket information, contact Dr. Danielle Gilas at 416.523.2374 or email at Dr.Gilas@gmail.com. Proceeds to the club's local charitable activities.
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Love Raffle
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2014-01-18 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jan 17, 2014
The Rotary Club of Parkdale - High Park continued its support of the Swansea Town Hall Blood Donor Clinic last Saturday. Every other month, our club serves coffee and cookies to our local blood donors. Pictured above is our own Scott Bartle - doing double duty.
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Blood Donor Clinic
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2014-01-18 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jan 15, 2014
The News from today's meeting
Updates
- Paul is planning to be back in the club, around June 2014
- The LOVE raffle ticket sales will be taking places this Saturday (January 18, 2014) at the Grenadier Restaurant
- A speaker has been lined to present on the topic of Vertical Gardening in the near future
- PACT will be the beneficiary of our 2014 Golf Tournament. This organization targets youth who have been involved with the Police and given them means to stay out of legal trouble. PACT stands for Participation, Action, Commitment and Transition. Visit their website for more information www.pactprogram.ca
- Two causes (Polio and Nature Center) have been identified for speaker gifts.
- There is a photo contest to illustrate service projects. The dates of the photos must be between July 1st 2013 and March 31st 2014. The picture size is limited to 3mb and must be jpeg format.
Today's Speaker
- Danielle spoke about the need to start planning for the Rotary TV Auction.
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Message from our January 16, 2014 Meeting
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2014-01-16 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Nov 27, 2013
See below an update from Ron Noseworthy who is in the field in the Philippines followed by some recent photos.
The damage & destruction caused by Super Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines is enormous & wide spread. Our ShelterBox Response Team has been concentrating our initial response on the remote islands of the Bantayan archipelago which are located north of the island of Cebu. We are working in this area because it has not received much aid as a result of its' remoteness. These islands were in the direct path of the typhoon and sustained massive damage, with 70 to 80% of the homes destroyed or badly damaged in many of the towns.
Supplying our aid in this area has been challenging logistically. We are dealing with limited transportation, restricted communications and destroyed infrastructure. Three weeks after the typhoon there is still no power on the islands and it will likely be a very long time before it is restored. Reconstruction has been slow, compounded by severe poverty in many parts of the islands. We travel to the smaller outer islands, carrying our tents and supplies in small, local fishing boats with limited capacity.
In spite of these challenges, we have been able to deliver our aid to many, many grateful families. We are working with local disaster relief organizations and have received great help from the young recruits of the Philippine Marine Reserve Corp as well as from many local volunteers.
With The Philippines close to the equator, the temperature and humidity levels are very high and the sun is punishing. However, these are relatively minor inconveniences to us compared with the suffering of the Philippine people. They are very resilient and, in spite of the enormous challenges that they face, they remain positive and upbeat; they are a pleasure to work with.
We supplied a tent to a very elderly couple with several grandchildren in their care. We set up the tent in a field near their destroyed home and when I returned to check on them an hour later, it was heartwarming to see the little old lady crouched down and busily trimming the high grass and bushes around the tent with only a knife. It was obvious that our tent was not only giving them essential shelter, but also providing them with the hope and dignity to carry on.
The need is enormous and as long as our generous supporters continue to donate to our important mission, ShelterBox will be here to help many more thousands of desperate families in the Philippines.
Ron Noseworthy
ShelterBox Response Team Member
Past President Rotary Club of Kenora
Chair, ShelterBox Canada
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Super Typhoon Haiyan
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2013-11-28 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Nov 25, 2013
The 33rd Annual Metro Toronto TV Auction was held this past weekend, November 22-23, 2013. By all accounts, it was a success! And for the first time, the auction was live-streamed over the internet by Rogers TV to make the auction available to an even wider audience.
Thanks to all club members for your contributions to the weekend. Working together with the East York, North Scarborough, Scarborough Twilight, and Toronto Humber Rotary clubs, we were able to raise funds in support of our clubs' charitable efforts.
This year, ShelterBox figured prominently over the course of the telecast. This timing was fortunate given Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines and global Rotary efforts to contribute to ShelterBox's request for donations.
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The 33rd Annual Metro Toronto Rotary TV Auction
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2013-11-26 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Nov 17, 2013
Please click on the image below for details on the Rotary TV Auction being held on November 22 and 23, 2013.
Items for auction and the schedule is available through this Rotary link: www.rotaryclubauction.com
PLEASE BID AND SUPPORT ROTARY'S CHARITABLE EFFORTS!!
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Rotary TV Auction
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2013-11-18 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Nov 12, 2013
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Philippines - Haiyan Relief
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2013-11-13 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Sep 11, 2013
Quick notes from today's meeting:
- Present today: Suzanne M. Don, Robin, Scott, Carole, Hugh and visiting Rotarian, Gord Dobbin.
- Gord Dobbin came in today to light a fire under us for this year's TV Auction:
- We need more active commitment from all Toronto-High Park members - especially on the operations committee.
- It's time to get items together for this year's auction and need to have the items in by the end of October.
- Gord was glad to hear that we have a letter going out for old supporters and that we are trying to find new item donors.
- Rather than our breakfast meeting on November 7, we will meet at Lulu Lounge in the evening in support of the High Park Nature Centre's fundraiser. They will have 5 bands and a comedian and "nature calls". Should be fun.
- Blood Donor Clinic is on this Saturday. If you can make it, please call Suzanne M. We are a little short this weekend.
- Happy bucks:
- Suzanne M. for pleasant travelling vacation with father
- Scott for recent vacation with family and his sister who is recovering well to her stem cell cancer treatment
- Hugh won the draw but not the pot.
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Message from our September 12, 2013 Meeting
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2013-09-12 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Sep 10, 2013
High Park Rotary Club—Minutes for the Meeting of September 5th, 2013
Present: Hugh Dimock, John Humphreys, Paul Pereira, Carole Rowsell, Don Sirko, Robin Sorys
Guests: District Governor Valarie Wafer, Assistant District Governor Mary Lou Harrison, Fernando Neubern from the Rotary Club of Garca Real, and Magdallini Agrafioti
Call to order: by Don: 7:45 a.m.
Announcements:
Mark your calendars:
- October 10 visit by Ms. Peggy Nash - our federal MP for Parkdale-High Park, Official Opposition Critic for Finance, will be visiting our Rotary club.
- Sept. 12 visit by Gord Dobbin to update on TV Auction planning.
Today's Speaker:
- Mary Lou introduced Valarie. Valarie has been awarded a queen's diamond jubilee medal for hiring those with disabilities.
Notes from Valarie’s “Engage” talk:
- When choosing a partner for marriage, we don't think that a few dates are enough to make-up our minds. When a prospective Rotarian chooses to join, why do we think that they well be able to make an effective decision after a few visits?
- Our pitch to Rotarians has relied in large part on the value of loyalty, but the current generation is impatient. The traditional 30 second elevator speech for “Why Rotary” mentions the 1.2 million service-oriented members we have around the wold, the prospect for friendship and personal growth, opportunities for lifetime learning and global citizenship, an environment free of politics and religion, and an opportunity to serve. This list does not appeal to the younger demographic. They do not seek structure nor fellowship, but opportunities to help others around the world, to vaccinate children, and to bring fresh water to communities, now. The young want to be engaged today.
- Rotary has created a new chair for engaging young professionals with a focus on new technologies such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Rotary has also released a new website.
- Paul Harris, the founder of Rotary International, recognized our need to adapt early on. “This is a changing world; we must be prepared to change with it. The story of Rotary will have to be written again and again.” (Paul Harris, This Rotarian Age, circa 1935)
- Valarie's talk closed with an appeal for engagement:
- Attend the District conference in October.
- Have a meeting once a month outside the club.
- Find a signature hands-on project to allow people to participate with sweat rather than dollars.
- Take the challenge to change and be engaged with Rotary.
Brainstorming:
Valarie described how she uses Facebook and Twitter to maintain a Rotary presence online. Mary Lou Harrison uses Facebook for both her Rotary and her personal life. Paul asked if Rotary had considered a successor to the TV Auction for fundraising since he hasn't used one of those boxes in 15 years. He suggested something like Kickstarter to fundraise for particular projects. Carole brought up a project in Kingston, Jamaica that might be suitable for a Kickstarter-like
campaign.
The Pot:
After some speculation regarding the fairness of the ticket draw. Doubts were shattered when Paul's ticket was finally chosen. Paul failed, however, to choose the joker, leading to new speculation that there may not even be a joker in the deck. The pot lives.
Meeting adjourned: at 8:30 a.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Paul Pereira
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Message from our September 5, 2013 Meeting
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2013-09-11 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Aug 06, 2013
High Park Rotary Club—Minutes for the Meeting of July 25th, 2013
Present: Susanne Manvelle, Scott Bartle, Danielle Gilas, John Humphreys, Paul Pereira, Carole Rowsell, Don Sirko, Robin Sorys.
Guests: Alex Franklin, Magdeleni Agrafioti, Mary Lou Harrison.
Call to order: 7:45am.
Board Meeting: There will be a board meeting on Monday.
Golf Tournament: Scott has announced that the golf tournament is now sold out. We have 144 golfers, but are still in need of prizes. Please obtain a business card for each sponsor.
Oh, The Places You'll Go ... Adventures in Rotary (with apologies to Dr. Seuss!): Mary Lou Harrison spoke about her experiences with Rotary.
Mary became started as a member of Whitby Sunrise. Her international trips have brought her to the Dominican Republic, South Africa, and Uganda amongst other places. At home, she has demonstrated ShelterBox on her front lawn while fundraising for Girl Guides. Mary has met many interesting people through Rotary, particularly through Rotary's conventions, fundraising, leadership opportunities, and relief efforts.
World Polio Day: World Polio Day is to be held on October 24.
Foundation Walk: The District 7070 Rotary Foundation Walk will be held in Newmarket on October 6th, 2013.
Club Focus: Ms. Harrison's club has singled out a single local charity and international charity for support: a footcare clinic at St. James Cathedral and a clinic in Ghana. Her club is small, with 18 members, so they found they did not have sufficient funds to split amongst multiple charitable causes.
High Park Brochure: The summer brochure has been published by Grenadier Restaurant and mentions the Rotary Club.
Blood Clinic: The next Swansea blood clinic will be held on September 14th.
Rotaract: there is a race in Alexandria, Egypt for Rotaract members.
District Governor: will be visiting September 5th.
Happy bucks: Scott is glad the golf tournament is now sold out. Don found a home for a Service Berry tree. Suzanne is happy Mary Lou was able to give her presentation.
The pot: The pot lives, says Robin who drew again after her recent win. Volunteer scrutineers were requested for next week.
Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 8:30am.
Sincerely,
Paul J.S. Pereira
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Message from our July 25, 2013 Meeting
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2013-08-07 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jul 23, 2013
Pictured above L-R: John, Don, Danielle, Scott, Simon, Carole, Robin, Suzanne, Paul
Minutes for the Meeting of July 18th, 2013
Present: Suzanne Manvell, Scott Bartle, Hugh Dimock, Danielle Gilas, John Humphreys, Paul Pereira, Carole Rowsell, Don Sirko, Robin Sorys.
Guests: Simon Da Rosa of Brokerforce Insurance Inc. 1501 Dundas St. West., Toronto (near Dufferin) 416-533-3565 (office) 416-627-3565 (cell).
Call to order: 7:45am.
Announcements:
Golf. We are aiming for 30 golfers from our club and looking for 30 prizes.
Garage sale. The Toronto Sunrise Rotary Club will be having a garage sale Saturday at 8am at 18 Norma Crescent near Bloor & Glendonwynne. Volunteers wanted.
Guest Speaker:
Insurance. Simon spoke about basement flooding. The last Toronto rain storm caught insurance companies by surprise. They have been slow to respond to their clients. Simon's office had 22 claims and his head office had 200 claims.
Survey: What should affected households do? Immediately make a list of all damage to your home's structure and personal property. You should hire a contractor to do the initial clean-up if it is too big for you to handle, but keep receipts. Then you should take your appliances and store them in a safe place. In some cases, people have stored their appliances outside and they have disappeared.
Carpet: If you have to replace carpet, keep a piece so that you have evidence for the insurance adjuster. Many people try to use floods as an excuse to upgrade carpets. If there are health hazards, you can often seek temporary accommodation for a reasonable cost.
Hugh asked if there is possible damage behind the wall, whether the insurance company pay for inspection (which may cause damage). Most policies will not cover a destructive inspection.
Scott asked if it is necessary to contact an adjuster before hiring a contractor. Many insurance companies will allow you to hire before the adjuster in circumstances like this flood. Don mentioned the possibility of hiring an outside adjuster. This usually is not an advantage unless the claim is very large.
Infiltration damage: water penetrates through cracks. Water damage to the structure is not covered, but damage to personal property is. Area rugs are part of the contents, wall-to-wall rugs are part of the structure.
Water escape: covered. This water may come from a pipe that leaks, the bathtub, etc. This is often due to human error.
Sewer backup: sometimes covered. It is difficult for adjusters to differentiate between infiltration and sewer backup. This is particularly true when the adjuster arrives late, after you have cleaned up. This is an addition to the standard home-owner's package. Most companies now offer limits for this coverage. The deductible is often $2500 to $10,000. Limits are often $20,000 to $30,000.
The insurance companies are getting away with too much, with differing rates by postal code. The area may needs government intervention as there was with automobile insurance.
Preventive measures: proper maintenance of the property. Be familiar with your home owner's policy. Ask questions and negotiate with your broker. Mechanical prevention measures. Sump pumps: are very effective except when the power is out. They are great to avoid humidity and water. Insurance companies are starting to pay attention to sump pumps and back-flow valves (both manual, semi-, and fully-automatic). There are pedestal and submersible sump pumps. They are often electric, but some new ones run by water or have battery back-up. They cost about $2500, and the city will provide about half.
Renters in the basement: You can be responsible for the loss of your tenant's property if there is a problem with your property and it is the reason for your loss. If he moves out for a few days, you are also responsible. You should require them to have tenant's insurance. If they cause a problem to your property, then their insurance policy would cover it.
Costs of insurance: has doubled in the past few years. Labour costs have stayed constant, but material costs have increased. The insurance companies will likely increase rates by 10-15%.
Past President's Dinner. August 14th, from 5-8pm.
Rotary's Presidential Citation: was awarded to Don for his work last year.
The pot lives, says John after drawing his own ticket for a second time.
Meeting adjourned at 8:30am.
Sincerely,
Paul J.S. Pereira
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Message from our July 18, 2013 Meeting
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2013-07-24 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jul 10, 2013
Notes from today's meeting:
- We were glad to have Michelle Guy and Fernando Neubern back with us again as visitors this week. And, shortly into the meeting, Paul Collier from the RC of Toronto West joined us.
- Suzanne asked us to give thought to the types of presenters and presentations we might like to have this year.
- There was talk of putting on a gala - perhaps at Sunnyside. This is something that would take some planning and is a possibility for next year.
- Scott updated on golf. The golfer numbers are good. We still need prizes so let Scott know what you can contribute - especially if you're not available to volunteer at the event itself. We'll be setting up a ShelterBox tent on the course. For the poster, click here.
- Hugh indicated that there is a TV Auction Operations meeting tonight. It's not too early to collect items for this year's auction now - in order to avoid last minute rushes.
- Don, Hugh and Michelle shared their personal flooded basement stories from this week's record rainfall.
- Carole mentioned her conversation with Jan from the Beeches Club. Apparently the pod system worked very well for their club in terms of organising meetings. We might want to revisit the pod approach as a way to organise ourselves. Pods worked for them and improved attendance.
- There will be a board meeting at Suzanne's house on July 29? at 6:30 p.m.
- I forget who won the draw but the pot still lives.
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Message from our July 11, 2013 Meeting
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2013-07-11 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jul 03, 2013
Notes from our first meeting of the new Rotary year chaired by President Suzanne M.:
- Suzanne introduced our visitors today:
- Fernando Neubern (20 year former Rotarian from Brazil now living in Toronto)
- Michelle Guy from the Toronto Club.
- Carole did a make-up in going to the RI convention in Lisbon, Portugal!
- It's Danielle's birthday tomorrow - Happy Birthday Danielle!
- The Canada Day event in High Park was a success according to Robin, Arthur and Suzanne R. Seventeen visitors came by our Rotary table and all of our pamphlets were distributed. Having the ShelterBox display next to our table helped to draw people in and so Arthur was able to chat to folks about Rotary and relate it to the ShelterBox initiative. Two Rotarians from Australia visited our table.
- Scott relayed that 132 golfers are lined up for our August 15 Golf Tournament. No breakfast meeting that day. Need commitment from our various club members. Speak to Robin for volunteering. Scott will be following up with each of us. Who knows, Fernando could be there!
Today's Speakers:
- Carole and Michelle gave us their first hand impressions of the recent RI Convention in Lisbon, Portugal. Overall, a great experience!!
- The convention consisted of plenary sessions held in a "skydome"-like building and "break-out groups" held in various locations.
- The plenary sessions included presentations from two Nobel peace prize winners, Jacques Cousteau's grand-daughter (on her web site designed to trigger positive change in the world), Jane Goodall (with a chimp in tow speaking about the environment and positive changes being brought about), and Toronto's Craig Kielberger (Save the Children) as the final speaker. Craig was electrifying.
- Some of the the break-out groups were a little challenged from space and language translation perspectives. Carole attended the water topics. An honourable mention was that Jim Luitt from the Toronto Club moderated the micro-finance break-out session that both Carole and Michelle attended.
- This was Michelle's 7th RI convention and she was yet again inspired by the fact that Rotarians from 167 countries come together with shared interests and experiences..."like-minded people". One convention should almost be mandatory.
- Carole purchased the convention DVD package and, when they arrive, will be able to show at upcoming breakfast meetings.
- Carole and Michelle were very taken by the politeness of the Portuguese people.
- Carole is going to miss the wee old-fashioned tram - a highlight of her day!
Following our impromptu speakers:
- Mention was made of our own District Conference in Deerhurst in late October 2013.
- We chatted about the number of "wanted" posters to print.
- Happy Bucks came from:
- Carole thanking Don for his leadership this past year and for Suzanne M. for the year ahead;
- Danielle for her best vacation ever, getting home safely and her 40th tomorrow!;
- Michelle for our "amazing" club;
- Suzanne M. for last week's President's dinner and her first meeting as President;
- and Fernando Neubern for being back at a Rotary meeting.
- John won the draw but not the pot.
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Message from our July 4, 2013 Meeting
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2013-07-04 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Robin Sorys on Jul 03, 2013
On Monday, July 1 Peggy Nash, MP hosted her annual Canada Day barbeque in High Park. Over a thousand members of the community attended the event along with many community groups and Arthur Andersen and Suzanne Rusywich represented our club and met some interesting people including a rotary member and his wife from Australia.
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Canada Day barbeque in High Park
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Robin Sorys
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2013-07-04 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jun 27, 2013
- On Thursday, June 27, we celebrated the past 2012-2013 year under President Don.
- Past President Robin organised the dinner celebration.
- We gathered at the Sunnyside Pavilion for dinner and fellowship on a beautiful summer evening.
- Attending were Don and Irene, Paul, Danielle, Hugh and Karen, Robin, Scott and Sally, Suzanne M. and John.
- In his report, Scott revealed that we gave out approximately $10K this past year - not bad!
- Scott gave Don (on order) and John their pins for perfect attendance. This marks 19 years of perfect attendance for Don!
- Lastly, we're looking forward to the 2013-14 year ahead under incoming President Suzanne M.
- Thank you Robin, Don and Suzanne M!
- And don't forget the July 1, Canada Day commitments at High Park - 11:00 - 2:30.
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2012-13 President's Dinner
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2013-06-28 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jun 27, 2013
- On Thursday, June 27, we celebrated the past 2012-2013 year under President Don.
- Past President Robin organised the dinner celebration.
- We gathered at the Sunnyside Pavilion for dinner and fellowship on a beautiful summer evening.
- Attending were Don and Irene, Paul, Danielle, Hugh and Karen, Robin, Scott and Sally, Suzanne M. and John.
- In his report, Scott revealed that we gave out approximately $10K this past year - not bad!
- Scott gave Don (on order) and John their pins for perfect attendance. This marks 19 years of perfect attendance for Don!
- Lastly, we're looking forward to the 2013-14 year ahead under incoming President Suzanne M.
- Thank you Robin, Don and Suzanne M!
- And don't forget the July 1, Canada Day commitments at High Park - 11:00 - 2:30.
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2012-13 President's Dinner
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2013-06-28 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jun 20, 2013
Very brief notes from today's meeting:
- Our visitor today was Paul Pereira.
- Our new member today was Paul Pereira - classification lawyer - welcome Paul!
President Don (sorting out pin) and Paul
- John handed in a number of make-ups and a couple of Rotary pennants from his recent sojourn in England.
- John showed off the new recruitment Wanted posters - final edition.
- Hugh finally finished his ShelterBox Texas training presentation which resulted in some discussion/comparisons to how other Rotary-affiliated organisations often evolve.
- There were several happy bucks including Don marking his last meeting as President and Suzanne with several happy bucks including one for escaping unscathed from her car accident.
- John won the draw but not the joker.
- Remember that there is no breakfast meeting next week, June 27. Instead we are meeting for our President's dinner at Sunnyside Pavillion at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 27. Children and friends welcome!
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Message from our June 20, 2013 Meeting
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2013-06-21 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jun 12, 2013
Some notes from today's breakfast meeting:
Visitors:
- Alex from the Toronto Earlscourt Rotary Club
- Lynne Martin from the Toronto District School Board and Naly from St. Christopher House
- Paul Pereira - soon to be a Rotarian
- Today's speaker and a founding member of our club - David Lockett
Announcements:
- Expect a call from Scott regarding our golf tournament preparations in the next week or so.
- Robin handed out copies of the new Grenadier Restaurant brochure which includes our club logo/meeting invite. It looks great and the High Park map on the back has made it very usable by weekend visitors to the park. Many thanks to the Grenadier for this initiative.
- John presented the latest version of the "Wanted Poster". With one last modification, it is ready to go to print. It was also suggested that we add the $2.99 Breakfast to our web page (sec. note DONE).
- John also announced that the Abbott Street Sale is on for June 22. Speak to John for more details. Don is contributing a wine fridge!
Presentations:
- President Don presented a cheque from the club to Lynne and Naly to support the work at St. Christopher's House. The St. Christopher House program to be supported is the 3 week summer one for parents and children that helps children from immigrant families prepare to attend kindergarten in Toronto.
- President Don also presented a cheque to David Lockett in support of PACT.
Speaker:
- David Lockett gave the club an update on the PACT (Participation, Acknowledgement, Commitment & Transformation) program.
- PACT was founded in 1995 by our own Rotary club charter members David Lockett and Dan Cornacchia with the goal to build peace in our community "in partnership with the courts, schools, and other youth focused community agencies". PACT has had tremendous support from Rotary over the years and is currently helping 700-800 kids each year. PACT continues to work with at risk youth using a one-on-one coaching approach to help youth turn their lives around before their ways become set on a life of crime and so that they may their lives to their full potential. More information on PACT can be found at www.pactprogram.ca.
- Don thanked David and presented a mosquito net on PACT's behalf to Tanzania.
Happy Bucks & 50/50:
- Happy bucks came from Scott (Don vs. Gord Perks on light synchronisation as lights being sync'd), David (glad to be back visiting this morning with Don and Scott), Hugh (Karen's 200 km plus Ride to Conquer Cancer), and Don (synchronised lights too?)
- Our visitor, Alex, won the draw but not the pot.
Next Week:
- As there is no scheduled speaker, Hugh may finish up last week's ShelterBox presentation.
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Message from our June 13, 2013 Meeting
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2013-06-13 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on May 30, 2013
Today's breakfast meeting was readily abandoned in favour of a Euchre social evening.
Summary of the Euchre Evening:
- Danielle graciously hosted Rotarians, spouses, family and friends in her building's Party Room.
- Following food and refreshment, and some brief instructions for the novices, we sat down to an evening of fellowship and...competition.
- You see, Danielle had consulted with her sister, an expert in organising euchre tournaments and it would be each player playing alone for two different pots - one for successfully "going it alone" and one for the overall high score. That set the tone.
- In the tournament format, the winning team rotated to the next table and the losing team stayed put. In each game, we each had a new partner and kept our own scores. As it would turn out, some people moved and some did not!
- At the end of the evening, Don was that last to be holding the coffee cup for successfully "going it alone".
- And, Robin was the overall winner with the highest score. Robin then handed her prize back to the club!
- A great evening with the talk of doing this as a club fundraiser in future.
- MANY THANKS TO DANIELLE!!
- Lastly, while there were no announcements this evening, do take a peek at the August 15 Golf Tourney reminder on the web site main page.
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Message from our May 30, 2013 Euchre Evening Meeting
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2013-05-31 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on May 22, 2013
At today's meeting:
- Lisa Chang and Paul Pereira were our visitors today.
- Lisa is thinking about rejoining Rotary after being away for 10 years.
- Paul has been a true "regular" over the past few weeks and could soon be joining us!!
- Robin announced that Suzanne R. and Arthur have volunteered for the July 1 event in High Park.
- Don mentioned passing along informational emails from other clubs such as for the upcoming Rotary golf tournament of Newmarket's. Check your emails.
- Speaking of golf, Scott announced that:
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- The push is now on for our August 15th Golf Tournament. We need to work on sponsors, prizes, and golfers. The Rotary Club of Brampton Flower City Centennial has committed to recruiting 80 golfers. As the minimum number required is 120 to make the tournament work, this should not be a problem though we are targeting having a full complement of 144 golfers. Robin will be coordinating the volunteer effort from across the clubs. Scott will be approaching each of us individually to see what we can each commit to...and then will be following up on our individual delivery!!
- Speaking of the Rotary Club of Brampton Flower City Centennial, they are recognising Johnny Bower as "Citizen of the Year" at their Presidential Gala on July 11, 2013. This will be a black tie event at the Mississauga Grand Banquet Hall. For details, see their web site at www.flowercityrotary.org
- Danielle announced that preparations are well underway for the Euchre Evening next Thursday, May 30. If you haven't RSVP'd to Danielle please do so. There will be no breakfast meeting that day! Food (pizza and salad) is being provided and it's BYOB. Don't be an early bird and show up before 7 p.m. as Danielle might not be there by then!
- The balance of the morning meeting was spent doing a quick euchre introduction - led by Danielle. (Don't worry, you'll get it by the end of next Thursday.)
- Happy Bucks:
- Scott for his son's summer playing with the Marlins baseball team in Manitoba!
- Danielle for her upcoming vacation!
- Don relieved for his cataract surgery today.
- Danielle then won the 50/50 draw but not the pot.
- See you all at Danielle's next Thursday night!!
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Message from our May 23, 2013 Meeting
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2013-05-23 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on May 15, 2013
Thanks to Paul and Suzanne for the following:
High Park Rotary Club—Minutes for the Meeting of May 16th, 2013
Present: Don Sirko, Scott Bartle, Danielle Gilas, Suzanne Manvell, Carole Rowsell, Robin Sorys.
Guests: Paul Pereira.
Call to order: 7:45am.
Blood Donor Clinic. There is a blood donor clinic Saturday morning at the Swansea Town Hall. There are two shifts from 9-11:30am and from 11:30-2pm. Volunteers are needed to mark cards, give juice and cookies. Carole and Suzanne are attending the first, Paul and Scott the second.
TV auction. Danielle, thinks that sending out the call to action cards for items donated to the TV Auction. She has asked for extra help to attend meetings for the TV auction, to which Don agreed.. Danielle also asked how we feel about setting a goal for the auction. Last year we made $7,000 including our sponsorship, so let's think about a new bigger and better goal to achieve for next year
Grenadier Brochure. Robin presented the Grenadier Restaurant Brochure in which we are highlighted as one of the community groups.
Fluid Change. Omar's Service Station's gift to the TV Auction, a transmission fluid flush of $150 value, is still available. Bid on it at Danielle's party next Thursday night.
Food trucks. Don will call Suresh, the president of the food truck association, to ask him to participate in our upcoming fundraisers.
Canada Day. Suzanne R. and Arthur will be asked if they would like to man the table at the July 1st event in the park.
Cheques. We need cheques for CAMH for the donation to the garden.
Recipient breakfast. Danielle spoke with Mike Bell and they do a special breakfast for the recipients of the monies that we give throughout the year. It would great idea for us to do the same for our recipients and also for our donors from the TV auction. We could invite them at the same time as we send out the call to action letter in September and have a breakfast in October.
Golf tournament. Our annual tournament is on August 15th. We need golfing groups and sponsors. The price is $250 per golfer (or $225 with the early bird discount) and $1,500 per corporate sponsor. We need new sponsors and also reach out to friends and clients for golfing parties. We also need items for the silent auction
Train your brain. Juice up your brain with Dr. Danielle. Train the brain two thursdays from today.
Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 8:30am.
The pot. Scott drew, and the pot lives.
Happy Bucks:
Graduation. Congratulations to Scott's son for graduating. He will be playing baseball in Brandon, Manitoba for the summer.
Daughter's visit. Don contributed a buck for his daughter coming home on Saturday.
Great fellowship. Suzanne had happy bucks for enjoying the fellowship of our great club. She did not have any loonies or toonies and so will contribute one of each next week to mark this moment and pay for the draw.
Respectfully Submitted,
Paul J.S. Pereira & Suzanne Manvell
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Message from our May 16, 2013 Meeting
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2013-05-16 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on May 08, 2013
Members will note the higher standard in the following notes from our May 9th meeting - thanks Paul!!
Present: Don Sirko, Scott Bartle, Carole Rowsell, Robin Sorys.
Guests: Lynne Martin of the Toronto School Board; Kate Sowen of St. Christopher House; Paul Pereira.
Announcements: Division 11 of the Toronto Police Services has an Open House on Saturday, May 11th at 2054 Davenport Road from 11am-3pm.
Call to order: The meeting was called to order at 7:50 a.m.
St. Christopher House—Early Learning Program: Lynne Martin and Kate Sowen visited the Rotary Club on behalf of St. Christopher House.
They spoke of the Queen Victoria Early Learning Program, a summer readiness program serving low-income students and new immigrants. The pre-Kindergarten program is offered to 80 students in 3 classrooms by a teacher and support staff. It is held through July from 9am-12am, and then for a few days from 9-2, so that students will be ready for their first days of school. Program members do better in school. The program is sponsored in part by the Queen Victoria School, Toronto Public Health, the Parkdale Parents & Primary Prevention Program, and the City of Toronto. They have a budget of $18,000 and seek from $2000 from the High Park Rotary Club. Kate mentioned that she is now on secondment to St. Christopher House and that Lydia Monaco will be taking responsibility for the program as of June. Lydia is a Director of Children, Youth & Family Services.
The club donated $1000 last year, but due to fiscal constraints this year, the Club considered making a smaller donation of $500 this year.
Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 8:18 a.m.
50/50 Draw: Carole won 50% of a $144 pot by drawing the Joker.
Respectfully Submitted,
Paul J.S. Pereira
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Message from our May 9, 2013 Meeting
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2013-05-09 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on May 01, 2013
In a nutshell:
- Paul Pereira visited us this morning. Paul is interested in learning more about Rotary. Paul is a law student - soon to be articling.
- Our guests this morning were S/Sgt Phil Van Andel, Councillor Gord Perks and Mary, his assistant.
- A surprise visitor this morning was Richard Clarke! Richard came out east for the polio celebration in Ottawa. Richard gave an update on the success of the recent penny fundraising for polio, and the involvement of the federal government and Bill Gates in matching the funds raised. Between $6 and 7 million was raised!
- President Don presented a cheque from the club for $500 to S/Sgt Van Andel for 11 Division's Community Safety Scholarship program. Phil updated the club on the fact that 11 Division has awarded two $1,000 scholarships this year and has a little left over to seed next year's scholarships.
- Don indicated that there is a meeting this weekend for new club executives. Don is going and if you're interested in going too, speak to Don.
- Gord Perks, spoke to us passionately about the need for an LRT system. Gord indicated that an LRT system is critical to Toronto's future and indicated some possible ways and means of funding such a system. He encourages us all to spread the word that the LRT is the most cost effective option for public transit.
- Danielle circulated the TV Auction thank you note that is going to be sent out to our donors and sponsors - looks good!
- Robin reminded us of the upcoming early bird deadline for the Golf Tournament!
- Don won the draw but not the pot.
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Message from our May 2, 2013 Meeting
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2013-05-02 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Apr 24, 2013
Some notes from our April 25th meeting:
- It was agreed to give $150 to Bill Patchett to the End Polio Campaign to wrap up any commitment.
- There was $40 collected at the last board meeting for Land Mines.
- The Grenadier Restaurant is making a pamphlet to include community groups and we will be highlighted along with others. This pamphlet will be at the front of the restaurant, so we will gain so good exposure that way. Thanks Sam!
- Hugh attempted to give a presentation on his recent ShelterBox Response Team (SRT) assessment training experience in Texas. As the TV monitor did not cooperate with Hugh's PowerPoint presentation, he will try again at a future date when he'll also have some pictures to share. In brief though, the purpose of the assessment training was to select candidates to proceed to further training in Cornwall, England. It was a 4 day assessment program with 11 candidates (including 5 Rotarians) and 8 SRT assessors. All in all, an interesting experience with 4 candidates selected to proceed to Cornwall - no Rotarians (sniff!).
- Gord Perks will be our speaker next week when we will be presenting a cheque to 11 Division for their Community Safety Scholarship program.
Happy Bucks:
- Robin (sisters birthday); Danielle (upcoming European vacation) and Suzanne M. (YouTube video that won a new client).
50/50
- Don drew the card, and yes, the pot lives.
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Message from our April 25, 2013 Meeting
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2013-04-25 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Apr 17, 2013
Today:
- Michelle Guy from the Toronto Club visited us this morning doing a make-up.
- Hugh did a make-up in attending ShelterBox training in Texas last week. More on that next week.
- Lots of chat about this and that this morning - including the purpose of the controlled burn for High Park's Black Oak Savannah and the Trump Aids effort in Malawi.
- Don gave an overview of the recent District 7070 meeting including the following: District raised over $800K for RI Foundation this year; we netted 10 new members in the past campaign; there is a new members package available to us through District; there is a water conference in Lisbon the day before the upcoming Lisbon RI conference; District 7070 will be well represented at Lisbon - one of the top Districts in terms of participation; District 7070 is #1 in the world for polio giving and there were only 17 cases of polio reported last year; see Don for information on the Trump Aids poker walk April 27; and, we have the most recent guide for Rotary Youth Exchange. And, from the recent Toronto Presidents meeting, Don mentioned that: the Etobicoke Club will be looking for volunteers (10 per school) for the breakfast for schools initiative; and, Don's Toronto initiative was discussed with a comment offered that it might be a challenge to maintain long term motivation given the 26 year span.
- Don also mentioned that District Governor-Elect Valarie Wafer will visit our club on September 5 in her role as our new District Governor.
- Scott passed around the new thank you card being developed for our supporters. We will be able to tailor the inside message by way of an insert appropriate to whatever occasion.
- Hugh attended the 2013 Rotary TV Auction kick-off meeting Tuesday night this week. The auction committee is looking for leaders for the various teams. The teams are: 1) Operations; 2) Sponsors & Partners; 3) Public Relations & Marketing; 4) Warehouse & Item Management; 5) Customer Support/Relations Management; and 6) Finance/Treasurer. If you are interested in leading and/or being on any of these teams, speak to Danielle or Hugh. It was suggested that we start now on soliciting items from any new sources we might be thinking of.
- Assuming that he gets some anticipated photos from the course, Hugh will likely present to the club next week, April 25, on his ShelterBox response team assessment training experience last week.
- Don won the 50/50 draw but not the pot.
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Message from our April 18, 2013 Meeting
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2013-04-18 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Apr 03, 2013
At this morning's meeting:
- We had 3 visiting Rotarians: Don and MJ from the East York club and Paul from the Toronto West club.
- Our guest speakers this morning were Staff Sgt. Phil Van Andel from Toronto Police Service's 11 Division and Allan Crawford from the City of Toronto PFR Inner City Outtripping Centre.
- The meeting was very ably chaired by our incoming President Suzanne M. - fresh off P.E.T.S. training and her recent excursion to RI headquarters in Chicago.
- Allan Crawford spoke to us of the help that Rotary has been to his outtripping organisation over the years. He then introduced his "new best friend", S/Sgt. Phil Van Andel. Phil spoke to us about 11 Division's efforts to create a number of Community Safety Scholarships. These scholarships have been successfully awarded by 14 Division over the last number of years. 11 Division's Community Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) would like to create a similar opportunity for students living in the 11 Division area (lake to St. Clair and Dufferin to the Humber). For 11 Division, this will be the First Annual Community Safety scholarship with the Investing in Our Diversity Scholarship program. "The scholarship will award up to $4,000 to deserving young people who live or go to school within the boundaries of the Toronto Services 11 Division and who are engaged in making their community a safer place to live." This program has the support of Bill Blair, Chief of Police. The program is unique in that it recognises community and civic engagement vs. academic accomplishment. There are matching scholarships offered through the city's universities and colleges as well as an employment program to help students connect to their chosen fields. The scholarship supports any form of credible post-seondary education or training, including university, college, trade school, apprenticeship etc. Time is unfortunately short. They have raised $750 so far and the awards dinner is on May 23rd. Applications are with the 4 local high schools and they need to raise money now to reach their objective. Anything we can do would be appreciated. There is a free Scholarship Program Breakfast launch Wednesday April 17, 2013 8-9 a.m. at Blaney McMutry LLP, 2 Queen Street East, Suite 1500, 15th floor. For more information and to make a donation, we can call Phil at 416.808.1183 or email him at phillip.vanandel@torontopolice.on.ca
- Happy Bucks came from Suzanne M. for conducting her first meeting, Paul for the great work that the Police Services do behind the scenes, and from Danielle for her new grandpa.
- President Don should be back next week while Hugh will be away on the ShelterBox assessment training.
- S/Sgt. Van Andel selected Allan Crawford's 50/50 ticket but Allan left the pot.
- Think that's it for today!
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Message from our April 4, 2013 Meeting
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2013-04-04 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Mar 20, 2013
So today:
- Scott was back, Carole was our guest speaker, and there were lots of Happy Bucks!
- With Scott back, the golf tourney push is back to the front burner...and fortunately Robin had a keen player to register! Time to work on sponsors!
- Carole spoke to us about her day at the Rotary Peace Symposium on March 2. The day far exceeded Carole's expectations - a well run program with great speakers. The symposium was set up to take advantage of the fact that Rotary International President Sakuji Tanaka was in town for the Toronto Rotary Club's 100th Anniversary Luncheon and built on, or followed, President Tanaka's "Peace Through Service" theme for the year. Carole was amazed at the turnout, plenary sessions and break-out groups. One of the breakout groups Carole attended was the landmines one - which was packed. The day was professionally run with the CBC's Suhana Meharchand donating her time and introducing speakers like Marc Kielberger from "Free the Children". Marc also received the Wilf Wilkinson award. (For an example of one of Marc's YouTube clips, but not necessarily the one shown at the Peace Symposium, click here.) Borrowing from the District site here were the honoured guests at the symposium:
- Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish, "The Gaza Doctor" & the author of I Shall Not Hate
- Raseema Alam, a Rotary Peace scholar, Canada's former Polio Manager in Afghanistan and former Canadian Diplomat with over 15 years of experience in developing countries.
- The Hon. Julian Fantino, Minister of International Cooperation, Government of Canada
- Marc Kielburger, Co-Founder of Free the Children, Co-Founder and Co-CEO, Me to We
- Dr. Bob Scott, a leader in Rotary’s battle against polio
- Khalil Z. Shariff, Chief Executive Officer of the Aga Khan Foundation Canada
- Wilfred Wilkinson, Past President of Rotary International
- Suhana Meharchand, host CBC News Now and our Master of Ceremonies.
While a one-off symposium, Carole would like to see more Rotary events like this one. Thanks Carole!
- Happy Bucks:
- Suzanne M. - a bunch of bucks for: her Gold Award, recent Shakespeare-in-Action experiences, her excitement and wee bit of trepidation at being our incoming club president but looking forward to P.E.T.S. training in Chicago and the opportunity for personal and professional growth and fun!.
- Scott - a couple of bucks for: being back and a new knee; and,
- Robin for her hair colour transformation and working out with colleague.
- Don won the draw but not the pot while Scott shed a tear for Don.
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Message from our March 21, 2013 Meeting
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2013-03-21 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Mar 13, 2013
At today's meeting:
- We were privileged to have new club member, Arthur Andersen, share many of his life experiences with us this morning during his classification talk. Arthur has had an extraordinary life so far including as a teacher, scout leader, and nurse. Arthur was born in the United States but lived in Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay before immigrating to Canada in the early eighties. Along the way, he learned much about life through his deep interest in and caring for people. We look forward to hearing more of Arthur's stories. Thank you Arthur!
- Robin won the draw but not the pot.
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Message from our March 14, 2013 Meeting
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2013-03-14 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Hugh Dimock on Mar 10, 2013
ShelterBox Canada | shelter. warmth. dignity.
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ShelterBox - Syrian Update
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Hugh Dimock
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2013-03-11 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Mar 06, 2013
Notes and announcements from today's meeting:
TV Auction:
- Danielle presented the cheque for $4,868.66
- Auction Committee - how great it was to have the Zeddy's
- Now is the time to start looking for sponsors and items
- Jackie will create a thank-you letter that we can send to the supports and will include the 2 events for this year and looking for support for 1.
PACT:
- Event (March 2) - Jackie; lots of people, 4 bands; Jackie has quick facts about PACT that we could have on hand at events. Jackie will send them out.
- Next event in May: Manicure/Pedicure and another event in the fall.
Toronto Rotary Luncheon (March 1) 100th Anniversary:
- Carole, Suzanne, Robin and Danielle attended. Great event.
- Toronto Club donated $100,000 towards polio and it was matched by Government of Canada and Bill Gates Foundation for $300,000 in total.
Toronto Initiative:
- This coming Mon, March 11 (6:30 at Milestones on Yonge St), Don has a meeting set up for the "Toronto Initiative" project. Anyone interested in attending, let Don know.
Blood Donor Clinic:
Euchre:
- Robin had cards and rules ready had we had time to practice. No time left!!!
Next week:
- Arthur will be our speaker.
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Message from our March 7, 2013 Meeting
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2013-03-07 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Feb 22, 2013
Les Stroud - Survivorman
ShelterBox is proud to welcome Les Stroud, best known as the producer and star of the hit TV series Survivorman, as a celebrity spokesperson to help raise awareness of families affected by disaster.
For a sample clip our club supported last December in Toronto's High Park, click or the image above or here.
And, for the latest ShelterBox news - including an article on ShelterBox's Rotary Day 2013 click here.
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Survivorman in High Park Video Clip
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2013-02-23 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Feb 21, 2013
Quick notes from the meeting:
- Our guest today was Danielle's co-speaker Sue Rumack. This is Sue's second visit to our club.
- Carole will be attending the March 2 Urban Peace conference for us and we will take up Mary-Lou Harrison's offer to try and find a student from Ursula Franklin Academy (which is setting up a Rotaract Club) that we can sponsor for the conference.
- Suzanne M. will be starring this Saturday night in The Shakespeare Challenge. Be there if you can!
- Danielle and Sue spoke to us today about how they came together (3 hours at David's Tea) and their decision that a combined service offering for the management of stress through Life Coaching (offered by Sue) and Chiropractic Therapy (offered by our own Danielle) would be a good thing to do. Danielle and Sue shared personal stories with us and finished with an offer of free trial services for us and our friends with each/either of them over the next 2 weeks. They would appreciate feedback from us on their concept and a little web survey will be fired our way to enable this. Thanks to Sue and Danielle for speaking to our club today!
- The draft "Wanted Poster" was circulated and John is going to work on it some more before heading off next week.
- Suzanne R. won the draw - she says for the first time - but not the pot!
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Message from our February 21, 2013 Meeting
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2013-02-22 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Feb 13, 2013
At today's meeting:
- Visiting us this morning was Michelle Guy from the Toronto Club. Michelle invited us to attend the Toronto Club's 100th Anniversary Luncheon ($80 ea. - includes desert) on Friday March 1, 2013 at the Royal York. RI President Tanaka will be in attendance. Do please come.
- President Don invested and welcomed Arthur Anderson as a new club member. Welcome to the club Arthur! We will enjoy getting to know you!
- Our guest speaker was Michael Kelly, Artistic Director of Shakespeare in Action. Michael spoke to us about some of the Shakespeare in Action programming including the opportunity to donate to their not-for-profit organisation by purchasing a sonnet for $25 which would be then read over the phone to you by an enthusiastic youth member. Michael also invited us to attend the upcoming Shakespeare Challenge presentation of The Tempest at the Arts and Letters Club on Saturday, February 23 where our own Suzanne M. will be one of the cast. Our Club then donated a cheque for $500 to Michael to support the company's charitable efforts. For more info on Shakespeare in Action and the Shakespeare Challenge, click here.
- We briefly discussed our desire to work on the list of charities that we would like to support this upcoming year. This will definitely be discussed at ournext board meeting Monday, Feb 25 at Don's house.
- Don said we're good to go on any Foundation grants as he and Carole attended the certification session last weekend.
- We should be getting a cheque for our TV Auction proceeds on Feb 28. (Amount not known as yet.)
- Danielle and her colleague, Sue Rumack, will be our guest speakers at next week's breakfast meeting, Feb 21. Please plan to attend!
- Happy bucks came from Danielle, Michelle, and Suzanne R.
- Danielle won the draw but only the 6 of hearts or was it diamonds...so sad again.
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Message from our February 14, 2013 Meeting
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2013-02-14 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Feb 07, 2013
Just a few quick notes from yesterday's meeting:
- The fifth-Thursday-of-the-month Shakespeare in Action dinner meeting last week at Suzanne's was a great success.
- Don and Carole will attend the Future Vision meeting in Oshawa this Saturday.
- If you have a student candidate in mind for the Peace Symposium March 2, let us know. The club will pay the $100 cost for the day.
- John H. gave his impressions after attending the recent Membership Drive Workshop at Whistler's.
- Danielle is hoping that we'll have the TV Auction results soon!
- We're looking forward to the next fifth Thursday evening meeting in May. At that one, the talk is for a euchre evening.
- I forget who won the draw...but the pot lives.
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Message from our February 7, 2013 Meeting
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2013-02-08 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jan 23, 2013
Here are the items noted from today's meeting:
- Suzanne Manvell will be our President next year. Thank you Suzanne!
- Scott's doing well! (Hello Scott!)
- Don mentioned some of the agenda items discussed at this week's board meeting including:
- We want to survey all club members to determine what we are passionate about supporting from a Rotary perspective. The list of possible charities will then be used to guide discussion and collectively determine our priorities for the upcoming year or two. The working list so far:
- Elder Nature Club - Nature Centre
- Shakespeare in Action
- An international water initiative
- CAMH Sunshine Garden
- Rotary Student Exchange
- ShelterBox International
- Riverton Project, Jamaica
- Landmines
- ENTER YOUR PASSION HERE!
- The need for folks to reflect on their attendance and thus commitment to this club! What's your passion?
- There is a membership drive workshop on January 28 at Whistler's Grill. John H. says he can go.
- We have $500 for Landmines Eradication. Carole will be taking care of next steps.
- Our agreement in principle to supporting the Visibility Initiative being discussed by the Toronto Area club presidents. Would involve our giving 10% of funds raised to the cause.
- Danielle is expecting our results from the TV Auction this week or next. Stay tuned.
- There is no breakfast meeting next Thursday, Jan 31st! Instead, it is anticipated that Suzanne Manvell will be hosting a Social and Fundraiser Dinner for Shakespeare in Action for club members at her home that evening. Confirmation details to follow from Suzanne.
- Danielle won the 50/50 draw but not the pot...so sad.
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Message from our January 24, 2013 Meeting
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2013-01-24 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jan 16, 2013
Message from our third meeting of the New Year:
- But what happened at our first two meetings you ask?:
- Attendance at our Jan 3 meeting was extremely light hence, no e-Bulletin.
- Attendance at our Jan 10 meeting was good however, our e-Bulletin writer was delinquent. Briefly though, Don was back at the helm after his ski/touring trip to Austria and London with his daughter. Arthur Anderson was our guest. Main items (at least recalled!) were that ShelterBox (SB) was selected as our club's charity for our 2013 golf tourney promotional material and we agreed to donate at least 75% of our tourney proceeds to SB this year. We also chatted about charity support in general and the need for us to decide where to focus our efforts going forward...a discussion to be continued. Scott circulated this past year's Nutcracker brochure - which highlights our club's current and past contributions - and shows a 1/4 page advertisement for our club. Also, our first Board meeting of the New Year will be Tuesday, January 22 at Don's house and everyone is welcome to attend with $10 per meal going to landmines...let Don know.
So, as far as today's January 17 meeting is concerned, here are the notes:
- Don mentioned some agenda items from last night's meeting of Toronto area club presidents:
- The proposal for an initiative that would contribute 10% of each club's proceeds to fund a club's one-time project was discussed at some length...there would be 18 clubs so this would take place over an 18 year period. Still being discussed positively. Some talk about what this would mean as far as committing future boards...discussion to be continued.
- The Rotary Food Initiative to End Student Hunger in Toronto schools was also on the agenda and discussed.
- Volunteer planning for the 2018 RI meeting in Toronto was mentioned including a suggestion to hire workers to free up Toronto area's Rotarians to actively participate in the meeting itself.
- Also, there was the reminder for clubs to consider sponsoring students to attend the Rotary Peace conference in early March...$100 each.
- There is no news to report as yet on the results of the TV Auction. Danielle will check into.
- Scott updated on last night's Golf Tourney meeting. Things are coming along nicely. They'll be negotiating with the golf club next week. Looking at $250 per golfer and $225 for the early bird. Thursday, August 15 is the day. Flyers should be ready mid-February. The 3 projects decided so far are all international involving Guyana, Ghana and ShelterBox. ShelterBox will be asked to set up a tent etc. and have a speaker, Suzanne will do her great gourmet food thing and Robin's skills have already been solicited to organise the volunteers. A radio host from Z103.5 will be the MC. More to come.
- Scott also asked us to keep an eye out for the ads for our club that have been regularly placed in the local editions of SNAP.
- Suzanne M. announced she is doing the Shakespeare thing again this year. A fundraising dinner at Suzanne's is in the works. Perhaps a Wednesday night?
- Happy Bucks and 50/50:
- Robin gave a loonie as she will be receiving a Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal for her volunteer work at an upcoming ceremony at Swansea Town Hall. Well done Robin!!!
- Hugh gave a loonie for having booked his flight to the April 2013 ShelterBox Response Team Assessment Training in Mason, Texas and for having plowed once through the reading material for the course.
- Carole drew the 9 of hearts...the pot lives.
- A reminder of the Board meeting at Don's house (not at Scott's hospital bedside) next Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. There was a good show of hands but please confirm to Don so he has the right amount of food.
- The next Blood Donor Clinic at Swansea Town Hall is February 9, 2013. We need 4 volunteers for the day.
- That's it! (Apologies for any omissions.)
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Message from our January 17, 2013 Meeting
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2013-01-17 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Dec 19, 2012
A few quick notes:- Visiting today from the Rotary Club of Brampton Flower City Centennial was Scott Bartle's guest, Robin Singh. Robin's club would like to partner with our club in running a golf tournament in 2013. The Brampton club has been running a golf tournament for the past 7 years - as it happens - also at the Royal Ontario Golf Club. Robin's club has historically brought out 75 golfers. Together, our two clubs might achieve the ideal number of 144 golfers for the tournament. Discussions to follow and details to come.
- Much of the breakfast chat today was on this past weekend's successful TV Auction - including the positive impact of the Zeddys! Also, Scott brought a few of our leftover auction items to breakfast and we auctioned them off internally. The too-late-arriving-to-make-the-auction Casino Rama tickets for Kenny Rogers and Tracy Morgan will put on Kijiji by Danielle to see what we can raise.
- We are already starting planning for next year's TV auction. One of this year's organisers, Kevin Manuel, has put out an email asking for our feedback in order to assist in this planning. As a club, Scott mentioned that we do need to ensure our full participation throughout the weekend. Danielle is pumped for next year!
- Also, Marty has about 300 Zeddys still looking for a home. John H. and Don have been busy on this front. The intent is that we find them homes as soon as possible so that proceeds can go to the Redwood as soon as possible. Marty will invite the Redwood to drop by our club to receive the HBC cards and Zeddy proceeds.
- Don wondered whether we might like to view a film on Stalin's treatment of the Ukraine people in the early 1930's...November is the month that the Ukrainian community reflects on the forced famine that occurred over the period 1932-33.
- Danielle had a Happy Buck for the TV Auction experience and John H. won the 50/50 draw but not the pot.
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Message from our November 29, 2012 Meeting
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2012-12-20 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Dec 19, 2012
Announcements:- Don mentioned the terrible news of the 8 polio workers murdered/wounded in Pakistan.
- Scott briefed us on the latest in relation to the golf tournament to be held on August 15, 2013. Clubs participating will be Toronto Eglinton, Toronto Sunrise and the Brampton Flower City Centennial. It will be an all Rotary event and we should be able to easily sell out this tournament. Scott met with fellow organisers last night including Robin Singh. There will likely be an early bird date of May 31, 2013. Curry goat will be on the menu!
- Not too late to give Scott a call in regard to the Pia Bouman Nutcracker event this Friday night. (Suzanne M. has hurt her foot and might not be able to make it.)
- Hugh gave an update on recent ShelterBox activities including the Swansea School of Dance raising funds through their Holiday Performance, Survivorman Les Stroud in High Park (see accompanying article), and presentations to the Rotary Club of Oakville West with John H., and then again at the Etobicoke's Big Ideas event last night where he floated the Global Gifts idea for their last minute Xmas gifts.
Greedy Grab: - The Greedy Grab draw was held and gift selection proceeded in quite an orderly fashion. Great little gifts and only one greedy member... Scott! Happy sipping Don!!
- Don won the 50/50 draw but walked away with the extra greedy grab gift instead of the pot.
- There is no meeting next week...see everyone back on January 3, 2013 and Merry Christmas!
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Message from our December 20, 2012 Meeting
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2012-12-20 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Hugh Dimock on Dec 13, 2012
Pictured above: Les Stroud from the hit TV series "Survivorman"
What better way to spend a sunny Thursday afternoon than in Toronto's High Park doing a charity promo shoot for ShelterBox with Survivorman Les Stroud?
What's that you say?
It started with getting an email from ShelterBox's Lisa Salapatek early Thursday morning saying we're doing the Survivorman shoot in High Park this afternoon...interested in coming out?
So we met up in High Park at 1 p.m., selected a spot with Les's cameraman and set about putting up a ShelterBox tent. Shortly afterwards, Les arrived, checked things out and began filming. After an hour or so, we were all done.
You see, Les had kindly agreed to promote ShelterBox.
A very interesting fellow Les Stroud - filmmaker, adventurer and musician - he's on TV around the world. Les has done a lot in his life already. For more information about Les Stroud click here.
Here's another picture of some of us involved yesterday:
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Survivorman and ShelterBox in High Park
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Hugh Dimock
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2012-12-14 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Dec 12, 2012
"Two Counts for Charity" Before summarising today's breakfast meeting, the above photo came to us from the Rotary Club of Toronto's President Neil Phillips. The feedback from Neil is that the Zeddys not only helped raise funds, but were also a wonderful addition to the children's gift bags at their Saturday party...Two Counts for Charity! And now, some notes from our breakfast meeting today:
Guests and Visitors: - Assistant District Governor Michael Bell joined us this morning - bearing a bottle of wine!
- Emma Lewsly, Executive Director of the Redwood and our own honorary club member Anthea Windsor were guests this morning.
- Prospective member Arthur Anderson also visited us this morning - welcome Arthur!
Presentations and Announcements: Pictured above L-R: Emma Lewsky, Don Sirko, and Anthea Windsor - From the Zeddy fundraising effort, Don presented a cheque for $2,500 to the Redwood's Emma Lewsly and Anthea Windsor. As well, twenty $100 HBC gift cards were presented courtesy of Zeller's. Also given to the Redwood were bags of cookies by John H., children's kits by Robin and 30 tickets to the Pia Bouman Nutcracker event by Scott.
- Anthea and Emma thanked the club for our on-going support to the Redwood. Anthea indicated that while the relationship has necessarily evolved since the days of bricks and mortar, it has done so in a thoughtful and meaningful way (though she said it better than summarised here). Emma gave an update on the "Women on the Move" program where a documentary film is in process. Unfortunately, demand still exceeds their capacity at the Redwood and much still needs to be done on multiple fronts to reduce violence in the family.
- And from ADG Mike:
- Mike thanked us for an idea he nicked from us for the Etobicoke Club - the Selfish Santa - a spin-off of our Greedy Grab. They had their fun and fellowship last night at their Xmas party.
- From the District level, Mike spoke about the upcoming February 2, 2013 Marlie Night in aid of Polio Eradication. Details available through Bill Patchett and Mike. There's also the possibility for our club to get involved in the 50/50 draw at the Marlies game.
- Mike also gave a heads up about the March 1, 2013 Rotary Club of Toronto lunch with RI President Tanaka attending.
- Also, on March 2, 2013, the Peace Symposium will be held at the Royal York. Our club would get credit for attendance.
- Don announced:
- Marty and Rick have resigned. Let's get new members.
- We received a letter of thanks from the High Park Zoo for our recent support.
- and a letter of thanks from ShelterBox for our support and in appeal in Iraq due to refugees fleeing Syria.
Hugh mentioned: - Each club member should ensure that their email addresses are correct on ClubRunner in order to automatically receive emails from District announcing upcoming events like the Marlies one Mike highlighted.
- If you are still looking for gifts for the upcoming holiday season, do consider charitable Global Gifts from ShelterBox. Gifts range from $20.00 to $1,000. Easy to shop on line here.
- His daughter took it on herself to get her dance school to give this year's fundraiser proceeds to ShelterBox.
Scott indicated: - There are still some Zeddys left.
- If you're interested in hosting at the December 21 Pia Bouman Nutcracker event at Humberside CI, speak to Scott. Some tickets still available for those who could use them. Humberside's Key Club will manage the event so we are simply hosts to our guests.
Jacquie thanked folks for their support on the recent loss of her mother.Don concluded the meeting with an overview of corruption in Russia - corruption so widespread and complicated that it induced financier Bill Browder to successfully campaign against allowing the corrupt ones entering the United States. Speak to Don for the details!It was noted that Carole again arrived early, and again won the draw but, this time, not the joker. Is there a new arrival pattern for Carole emerging?And lastly, the draw for the bottle of wine brought by ADG Michael was won by Scott. And now, a picture of all of us this morning (minus ADG Mike who was our photographer): AND THAT'S IT FOR TODAY!
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Message from our December 13, 2012 Meeting
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2012-12-13 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Dec 05, 2012
Quick notes from today's meeting:- Suzanne R. brought a guest, Arthur. Arthur was at our Halloween party a few years ago and is interested in Rotary.
- Marty gave an update on the Zeddy numbers. Over $1,000 in Zeddy money was handed over to Scott this morning. And approximately 250 Zeddys are still looking for a home.
- We discussed the upcoming Pia Bouman Nutcracker show and our traditional support to this community event.
- Danielle was successful in raising $250 on Kijiji for the Casino Rama tickets.
- Scott will look at updating the club pamphlet with the new web site address etc.
- Hugh suggested that we might consider sponsoring a new seat or two in support of Humberside's renovation efforts in Lismer Hall. The chairs would be marked with our club's name.
- Don reiterated the need to settle next year's board by year end. Zeddy for president?
- Carole demonstrated the benefits of arriving earlier than normal by drawing the joker in the 50/50!
- A reminder to all that next week, December 13, we could use a good turnout of members for the Zeddy-related presentations to our guests.
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Message from our December 6, 2012 Meeting
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2012-12-06 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Nov 25, 2012
Thank you to all our donors and sponsors for your contributions towards another successful Rotary TV Auction!
Rotarians from five Toronto Rotary clubs came together to put on the 32nd Annual Live Metro Toronto TV Auction televised by Rogers TV. The Rotary clubs involved were East York, North Scarborough, Scarborough Twilight, Toronto Humber and Parkdale-High Park. Led by Rotarians Darryl Patterson, Gord Dobbin and Kevin Manuel, hundreds of volunteers were involved over the course of the weekend to make the auction happen.
Members from the Rotary Club of Parkdale - High Park handling the phones and/or appearing on camera and/or working the item bins were Robin Sorys, Danielle Gilas, Scott Bartle, Marty Kristof, Carole Rowsell, Carmel Kidd, Suzanne Manvell, Don Sirko and Hugh Dimock. John Fernandes worked away in the background entering items into the computer before the weekend and Rick Crawford's company Rid-of-It was an auction sponsor. All club members assisted in soliciting items for the auction.
Making their debut appearance at this year's auction were the Zeddys donated by Zellers. Marty's idea of handing out Zeddys to generous bidders helped encourage bidders to meet or exceed the posted value of the items up for bid. At one point the supply ran low and had to be replenished. The Zeddys were a definite hit!
Special thanks to Danielle Gilas for leading the Parkdale-High Park club's efforts at this year's auction.
We're now thinking about next year's auction.
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Another Successful Rotary TV Auction
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2012-11-26 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Nov 21, 2012
Announcements:- Cecilia Luu visited us. Cecilia recently joined the Etobicoke Club
- Other visitors were Liz Kirk and Jamie from the CAMH Sunshine Garden.
- The Rotary TV Auction is this weekend. All available hands required on deck!! Danielle will send out the volunteer list and encouraged us to visit the items list accessible through our own web site.
- Marty indicated that we will need to drop the price on the Zeddys. The reason for this is that the Zeddys are being sold at Zellers for $10 only. We will therefore change the sales strategy to ask for a donation in the $10-20 range rather than for $20. The $5 tactic to other organisations remains unchanged. 47 cartons in Marty's garage need to go!
Guest Speaker: - Danielle introduced our speaker today - Liz Kirk from Foodshare/the Sunshine Garden at CAMH.
- Liz began by thanking our club for our contributions to establishing the native plants component of the Sunshine Garden.
- The vision of the Foodshare program is - and Liz's topic today was - "Good and Healthy Food for All".
- Liz herself is trained in Horticultural Therapy and introduced Jamie, a client at CAMH.
- Jamie spoke passionately about how working in the garden this past year has been so meaningful to him. Working in the dirt was a totally new experience for Jamie and, an initially challenging one, in terms of being able to initially envision a "finished garden" while standing in the dirt in the Spring. But the green bits did come - "things started to happen" - and Jamie grew into the role to the point that he wanted any excuse to be spending time in the garden. It was a wonderful aid for managing his own addiction. Amusingly, he even became particularly fond of a certain red cabbage that he built into a display for visitors. He did not want to initially sell this cabbage for food as part of the Foodshare program. He proudly showed off the garden to visitors. The garden has truly been therapeutic for Jamie. "There's nothing like the garden", said Jamie.
- Liz then summarised the key role that the garden has played and again thanked us for our role in making the native section happen.
- Robin thanked Liz with our customary mosquito net and thanked Jamie with a Zeddy!
Happy Bucks and 50/50 Draw: - Hugh put in a happy buck for getting accepted to go to Texas in April 2013 for further ShelterBox Disaster Response Team screening.
- John H. won the draw but not the pot.
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Message from our November 22, 2012 Meeting
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2012-11-22 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Scott Bartle on Nov 20, 2012
Thanks to Marty Kristof’s efforts, the Rotary Club of Parkdale-High Park has been given 1,000 Zeddy Bears by Zellers for its use to raise money for The Redwood, a shelter for victims of family violence. The Redwood has had great success in not only protecting families from violence, but also giving victims the tools and support to become self-sufficient so they don't have to return to their abuser. The Rotary Club is asking for donations of $10 - $20 for the cute little bears and all funds raised will go directly to The Redwood. Rotarians volunteer their time and money to run their Clubs so, there are no administrative fees associated with these fundraisers. The Rotary Club of Parkdale - High Park along with 4 other Rotary Clubs is having a TV Auction this weekend on Rogers TV and the Zeddy Bears will be very visible and Zellers well recognized for their donations. These Zeddy Bears may become a collectors’ item with the closing of the Zellers stores. You can find more information about The Redwood at www.theredwood.com
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Zeddys for The Redwood
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Scott Bartle
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2012-11-21 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Nov 14, 2012
Announcements: - RJ Petersen visited us today!
- Don gave a quick run down of items from last night's Presidents' meeting:
- do remember the upcoming party for Bob Scott - details available from Don.
- this year the Vocational Studies theme will be Palliative Care. Participants will need to have 6 weeks available. The hope is that hosts will be found for participants in west, east and central Toronto for one week stints in each area. The other half of the course will be in Japan where hotels will likely be used. If you know of anyone interested in hosting or participating, please speak to Don. All other details concerning dates etc. are also available from Don.
- Don picked up a box of crocuses for Polio Plus from Bill Patchett for $200 to supplement givings to Rotary Foundation. Scott moved that we pay the $200 now for the box and give the crocuses out to speakers and/or buy them ourselves - motion was quickly carried.
- there will be a Rotary TV commercial in the near future with the message "You Are The Missing Piece!".
- a reminder of the upcoming Toronto 100th lunch at the King Eddie on November 23. Don will re-send the email with the details. A plaque will be unveiled at the King Eddie. Also, on March 1, 2013, there will be a dinner at the Royal York.
- our club's Rotary Peace Fellow nominee was the runner-up for the $75K scholarship. The scholarship recipient was also from our district.
- March 2, 2013 there will be a Peace Through Rotary conference. Details to come.
- Lastly, Don sold $210 worth of Zeddys at the Presidents' meeting.
- There will be a club board meeting at Don's house next Monday, November 19th.
- The Dec 6 meeting may be an evening one if the Toronto police are meeting at the Grenadier in the morning.
- The Xmas Greedy Grab will be December 20th.
The Zeddies Are Here! - Marty introduced a dozen or so of the 1,008 Zeddys he recently received from Zellers. First introduced by Zellers in 1937, they may become collector's items one day.
- The challenge is now on to sell the wee critters! They're definitely cute.
- Marty reminds us that if we sell them at $20 each through our businesses and to our friends, this will maximise the amount that we raise for the Redwood Shelter.
- We can also sell them for $5 each to other Rotary clubs and organisations (such as schools,churches) in order that they can re-sell them for their own purposes.
- So be creative and start selling...Marty's going to bring them by the TV Auction meeting this evening.
- Following the Zeddys discussion, Hugh gave a quick demonstration of ClubRunner and Scott encouraged all those who haven't as yet to give it a try. It really is not difficult and the more that you use it, the easier it becomes.
Happy Bucks and 50/50 - RJ was happy to be visiting.
- Scott was happy that RJ was visiting and, for his son's 24th birthday.
- Carmel's ticket was drawn but she she didn't draw the joker.
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Message from our November 15, 2012 Meeting
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2012-11-15 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Hugh Dimock on Nov 13, 2012
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ShelterBox Global Gifts
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Hugh Dimock
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2012-11-14 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Oct 17, 2012
At today's breakfast meeting: - Rotarian Don Sexton from the Mississauga Club visited us today. Don has been to our club before - the last time was a couple of years ago. Welcome Don!
- Be warned, our own President Don is considering the notion of starting our breakfast meetings on time! This will necessarily mean that club members are there to order breakfast at 7:15 a.m. so the meeting can start with the ring of the bell at 7:30 a.m. So, don't be surprised to hear more about this in the near future!
- President Don announced that at the Tuesday night board meeting, it was apparent from the financial review that we need to put all effort into gathering items for the upcoming TV Auction - in order to replenish our funds for donatations. This is necessary for us in order to carry on the good work that we do. So Don encourages all of us to approach the people we regularly interact with such as at the grocery store, garage, stores etc. and ASK!
- Marty gave us an update on the Zeddy front. Zeddies are expected to arrive any day now and will need a storage spot! There are several options available including the offer from Robin to store them at the park. Marty is going to check out the options. The plan is to sell them to others for $5 and have them re-sold at $20 for the cause. Don will pass Marty's plan on to District's Gael Moore to get word out to our other clubs. In fact, Marty was pitching the notion to Don Sexton in the breakfast line this morning...and with apparent success...what a salesman!
- On the TV Auction front:
- Danielle gave us an update on planning.
- Volunteer sheets were distributed in order that members could sign up for their preferred role for the TV Auction weekend. If you weren't there this morning, please get in touch with Danielle as to how you can help.
- Donations should ideally be coming in now with the October 12 target deadline has come and gone.
- As the items will be entered into the system on November 1st so it's important to put on the final push in getting items in.
- Danielle is going to let us know who will be entering our items in the database.
- A quick survey of members present suggested that items are coming in...4 items or so per member so far.
- Scott suggested that we talk to our friends with hockey tickets in the event that there will an NHL season. Allowance is being made to take hockey tickets right up until November 18 - given their big popularity at the Auction.
- On the social front, a plan is afoot to have a dance around Valentine's day. We are also looking into a social evening towards the end of January - January 31st in fact - together with better halves.
- Carole will be at the District conference this weekend and Hugh will be there with ShelterBox.
- Marty won the draw but not the pot.
And that's it for another week!
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Message from our October 18, 2012 meeting
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2012-10-18 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Sep 26, 2012
Announcements:- Don welcomed our Rotarian guests: Tom Sears (Northumberland Sunrise) and Gael Moore (Cobourg).
- Don attended the Bowmanville Foundation Walk on a beautiful day last Sunday and enjoyed the experience. Be sure to complete your donation forms accompanying your cheque.
- Danielle announced that she and Hugh attended the TV Auction Operations meeting last night. It is time to collect items for the auction! Danielle and Carole have sent letters out to past item donors. We should each follow-up these letters now with regard to our personal lists. Danielle has the letter format for new donors ready to go and asks that we each provide her 3 new names and she will send solicitation letters out for our individual follow-up. Scott is volunteering to receive the items and get them to where they need to be. The next Operations meeting is scheduled for October 11 at 200 Yorklands.
- On the subject of golf, Scott indicated that there is a good possibility that we will be able to co-host a golf tournament in the summer of 2013 so don't rule it out! More to come.
Guest Speaker:
- Our guest speaker today was Tom Sears and the topic was the Rotary International Youth Exchange. Tom has been chair for the past 9 years and Gael Moore is the new chair for District 7070.
- Tom indicated that our club (and Don specifically) has been involved in the past with the student exchange. Tom is hoping that more Toronto clubs will get involved in the international exchange program as it is a great experience for our youth. The program involves reciprocal exchanges at the District level. Currently 17 students from District 7070 are outbound. We are hoping to increase this number significantly. Over 8,000 youth per year worldwide are involved in the program across 50 countries.
- To be involved in the program, a Rotary district has to be certified. This process necessarily includes interviews, orientations and police checks.
- Through the program, students learn to solve problems themselves and ask for help. They learn a new language and experience a new culture. They leave as a teenager and come back as an adult. From the club standpoint, it adds another element to club life.
- For the 2013-14 school year, students need to be selected by November 2012. Students leave in August 2013. For budgeting purposes, the cost is ~$3,500 for an inbound or outbound student - which includes $150/month in allowance.
- Note that a host family does not have to be a Rotarian. The majority (60-70%) are not Rotarians but are friends of Rotary. Parents of participating students are asked to host for 3 months.
- Tom is able and willing to coordinate Toronto clubs to share the responsibility. Given the public transportation system in Toronto, as long as the Bloor-Danforth line is involved, logistics are not an issue. The public and Catholic school boards are willing participants. (Budget $2,000 if partnering with another club.)
- Parents of students are responsible for airfare and insurance and usually contribute to the $175 red Canadian blazer.
- Key to making the program work well is identifying and partnering with a school or two.
- Tom has had great satisfaction being involved in this international student exchange program and hopes that we might consider being involved.
- Scott thanked Tom for his presentation with a mosquito net for Tanzania. This was a particularly meaningful gesture to Tom and he has been to Tanzania 5 times.
The Draw:
- Despite there being 2 jokers in the deck this day, Carole did not draw the winning card. The pot lives.
Postscript: There was no bulletin created the week of September 20th as there was not a guest speaker and we batted around fundraising thoughts over breakfast.
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Message from our September 27, 2012 meeting
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2012-09-27 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Sep 13, 2012
Highlights from this morning's breakfast meeting:- Our guests today were Rotarians Lars Tolstrup, who was visiting from Aarhus, Denmark and Syd Wilson, our guest speaker.
- Scott introduced Lars. Lars was in town on business (aerospace) and had emailed the club regarding attending our meeting. Lars gave us a brief overview of his club. There are 5 Rotary clubs in Aarhus, Denmark - a city of ~350,000 people. His Tuesday lunch club is very stable at 60 members who tend not to leave. Lars and his wife are very interested in Canada.
Announcements: - Don attended the recent District 7070 Presidents' meeting:
- Out of this meeting came the challenge to add 100 new members to District 7070 in 100 days. This contest starts September 15 and ends December 23, 2012. Prizes will be awarded to winning clubs (1st $2,500; 2nd $1,000; 3rd $500) for netting a minimum of 2 new members.
- In December we need to submit our club's names for our 2013-2014 Board. Give it some thought!
- The first Rotary E-club in Canada is soon to be set up. This club will meet on the internet.
- For those interested in attending, the Rotary Leadership Institute will meet on November 17, 2012.
- On May 31, 2013, a birthday party is being organised for Bob Scott. The party will be held in Cobourg and our RI President will be there. Tickets are $200 each.
- A call is out to help Rotaractors attend the District Conference in Richmond Hill at $299 each.
- Suzanne is looking for afternoon volunteers for this Saturday's Blood Donor Clinic at Swansea Town Hall.
- Danielle announced the Sunshine Garden latest and will be sending out an email with details and a link for the Queen West Project. We will be getting an update on October 18.
- Danielle also announced the next TV Auction Operations meeting to be held at 200 Yorklands on September 26.
- There will be a Board meeting at Don's house on Monday, September 17...with $10 for landmines.
Guest Speaker: - Danielle introduced Syd Wilson.
- Syd walked us through the various methods used by the Rotary Club of Toronto Humber for soliciting items for the TV Auction. (Key has been having a retired Rotarian available to coordinate this effort.)
- Approximately 160 letters are sent out each year by Toronto Humber. One third of these are from club members and the other two thirds come from Syd. This effort generally results in 250 items for the TV Auction with proceeds from this effort approximately $20,000.
- Sports tickets are top sellers. Last year, with the shortened NBA season, they did not make as much on sports tickets. Time will tell what might happen this year if the NHL season is impacted?
- Syd supplied us with copies of the letters that they use for new and old item donors. These could then be tailored and used by us.
- Syd also provided us with categories of possible item donors and strategies to approach - including through bank contacts. The television viewing audience is 850,000. This is attractive for many potential item donors and the sooner they donate, the more free publicity they stand to receive. Toronto Humber suggest receiving items by October 12th.
50/50 Draw: - Scott drew the JOKER and won the $238 pot!!
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Message from our September 13, 2012 meeting
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2012-09-14 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Sep 04, 2012
There were six of us at this morning's meeting and we discussed some new fund raising ideas. One of which is a list of trusted services called The Rotary List, similar to Angie's list. We also talked about having a corn roast during the Harvest Festival in High Park and selling hot dogs as a fund raiser for the zoo. Robin won the draw again.
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Message from our August 30, 2012 meeting
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2012-09-05 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Aug 22, 2012
And so here's roughly what happened at this morning's breakfast meeting:- Lynda Moore visited this morning!
- Don reported out on art work progress on our club "Wanted" poster and solicited some input on descriptive wording.
- We discussed the Foundation Walk that is scheduled for Sunday, September 23, in Bowmanville. Each active club member is required to donate a minimum of $100 to the Foundation Walk this year. But there are no limits! Each member can use the pledge forms to raise as much as they can. This is a great way to contribute to Rotary Foundation. Given we have had regular access to Rotary Foundation funds in the past and will again in future, this is a great time to contribute to the pot. Hugh was asked to re-send the August 03 email describing the day together with the necessary pledge forms. (Done!) Note that there is an additional description of the Foundation Walk, received from District, directly below in this bulletin and on our web site home page: www.parkdalehighparkrotary.org
- Danielle gave us an update on last night's TV Auction Operations Team meeting. Danielle distributed item donor and sponsor brochures to those present at this morning's meeting. Also available are sponsor forms (more limited quantity) to be filled out. Be sure to get your brochures next week if you missed this morning. The suggestion is that we target 10 item donors. Syd Wilson will pop by one of our breakfast meetings to give some of his tips on successful targeting strategies. Danielle will also send out an email to assist people joining, getting involved, and keeping abreast of the various TV Auction committees through MTRA. (And it is easy to adjust your MTRA settings so that you do not receive notice of non Rotary TV Auction functions.)
- Rick received word yesterday that we cannot hold the September bottle drive. Brewer's Retail senior management apparently have pulled the plug all such events - except their own. So the planned bottle drive is unfortunately CANCELLED. (And now Rick has to find a truck to remove the smelly accumulation of bottles at his house!)
- Robin won the 50/50...and kindly left the pot for someone else!
- One last note, if you are having trouble logging into and using the new web site, give Hugh an email call for help.
- THAT'S IT!!
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Message from our August 23, 2012 Meeting
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2012-08-23 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Aug 01, 2012
Notes from today:- A good summer turnout of club members...there was no guest speaker today...and there were no guests.
- John H. briefed us on his recent trip to Mexico where he did a make-up in Puerto Vallarta. John's experiences (good and not so good - beware the water supply and time share meetings) sparked others to volunteer some of their surprise experiences in travelling including having to provide US$10 to get off a plane, the need to surrender visitor passes on exiting certain countries and the tendency for some foreign police to fleece foreigners etc.
Announcements: - Danielle reminded everyone that there is an TV Auction 'Operations Team' meeting on August 15. Looks like Rick and Hugh will join Danielle for the meeting on the 15th - anyone else? Danielle will bring in a TV Auction expert one morning to give us tips on effective item and sponsorship raising techniques. There are many new businesses throughout our area that we should consider approaching in addition to our regular supporters. The list of our regular supporters will be issued soon.
- Don reminded us that our club's web site will soon be integrated to District's ClubRunner site...once Hugh gets on to it.
- Hugh mentioned that the old club web site addresses will soon forward to the new site and we will not be able to access the old site content.
- Don gave another heads up that the District 7070 Foundation Walk is on September 23, 2012. More details (including pledge forms) to come from Hugh and Carole.
- Carmel will be sending out an email to get us thinking about possible speakers.
- Lastly, Don reminded us to bring a friend to a club meeting.
- Rick won the draw (as usual) but not the pot (as usual).
- That's it!
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Message from our August 2, 2012 meeting
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2012-08-02 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jul 12, 2012
A few quick notes from today:- We had a Rotarian visitor from Bremen, Germany today. Reiner was in town for the Microsoft conference.
- Our special guests today were District Governor Ted Kosiel, his wife Maureen, and Assistant District Governor Michael Bell.
- ADG Michael introduced Ted. Ted hails originally from Glace Bay, Nova Scotia and spoke about his experience in Rotary to date and the huge impact that Service above Self has made on his life. We will try and get a copy of Ted's presentation as it outlines his vision and goals for District 7070 for the 2012-2013 year as well as the tie-in to Rotary International's vision and goals. District is now on ClubRunner and there's lots to explore on the District site as far as what Rotary is and what Rotary is up to. Worth regular visits!
- Happy bucks came from multiple sources - too numerous to record - including for the recent Jamie Bell Playground "almost" opening Saturday and for Toronto Ribfest - from Robin for the ShelterBox experience and from Mike Bell for glad that Ribfest is over for another year!
- Robin announced that the Jamie Bell playground will be unveiled Friday and put out a call for Thursday evening mulch volunteers.
- Don managed to win the 50/50 draw again this week but not the pot!
- After the breakfast meeting, DG Ted and ADG Michael met with President Don and a few others present to chat about our goals for the club for the upcoming year and to ask what support we would like from District to help us in achieving our objectives this year. As with all clubs, growing membership is a challenge. One of the ideas suggested was for each club member to bring out a one guest every 6 months. This would give us 30 or so possible future Rotarians. With the younger clubs, there is a definite trend to wanting to get out more and do more hands on projects.
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Message from our July 12, 2012 meeting
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2012-07-13 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jul 04, 2012
From this morning's meeting:- Denise Brunsdon was our visitor. Denise will be around town until the end of August then moving to London, ON.
- It was an intimate club gathering this morning so next week Brian will not be setting places!
- While there was no guest speaker planned for today, please note that next week's speaker is District Governor Ted Kosiel and make plans to attend.
- Don will host his first dinner meeting of the 2012-2013 season at his home on Tuesday, July 10 with $10 each for landmines. The purpose of the meeting is to talk about the upcoming year, board requirements etc. All club members invited. Please RSVP to Don.
- This weekend, July 7 is the Jamie Bell Playground re-opening in High Park. A full day of community events is planned. Come on out and enjoy the day. We will be assisting ShelterBox in putting up a tent to promote this international Rotary project. Come on by and visit the tent in the community groups section.
- Last weekend, over the 4-day Canada Day Toronto Ribfest, Robin, John H. and Hugh were some of the volunteers manning the ShelterBox display. People were successfully diverted from their beer and ribs missions to ask and/or hear about ShelterBox. With over 200,000 people attending, the Etobicoke Club again put a huge effort into this year's successful event!
- Don announced that Mamaya Oda, our former Rotary exchange student, will be in Toronto in 2 week's time for a 2 week holiday. If you are heading out on an excursion and can include Mamaya, please let Don know.
- A quick reminder, if you can, to plant seeds and/or start collecting items for this year's Rotary TVAuction so that we can continue to support our causes.
- Lastly, Don drew the 6 of spades and so the 50/50 pot lives.
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Message from our July 5, 2012 meeting
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2012-07-05 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jun 28, 2012
Our Past President, Scott Bartle, organised tonight's year end party at the Sunnyside Pavillion on the shores of Lake Ontario. The weather was fine as we sat on the patio for dinner and drinks to celebrate President Robin Sorys' year as President. Thanks Scott!
As a result of the dinner, we raised $ 220 in Robin’s honour for the Canadian Landmines project. Marty presented our cheque for $ 4,000 from our anniversary dinner for the Redwood Shelter to Denise Brunsdon. In thanking our club for the donation, Denise emphasised the unfortunate but critical need for a place like the Redwood. Scott summed up this past year's incoming and outgoing successes as follows:
Money Raised: TV Auction $ 5,475 25th Dinner $ 4,000 Golf $ 5,600 Foundation Walk $ 500
Total: $ 15,575 Donations:
Pia Bouman $ 750 Redwood $ 4,750 Rotary Foundation $ 1,100 Rotary Foundation $ 1,250 Sunshine Garden $ 2,500 Students Crossing Borders $ 3,000 Hearing Foundation $ 350 PACT $ 1,250
Total: $ 14,950 Some members also contributed to Suzanne Manvell’s Shakespeare Group through the dinner she held. And just this week, Robin completed the Rotary Peace Fellowship application for Julian Gutierrez Castano. Hopefully this application will be successful and Julian will be on his way to Chapel Hill North Carolina to continue on his path to making the world a better place. All in all, it was a great year for our Club!
And lastly, we welcomed back incoming President Don Sirko in re-assuming the reins of our club for a second time for 2012-2013!! Thank you Don!
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Message from our June 28, 2012 Year End Party
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2012-06-29 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jun 20, 2012
A few quick notes from our meeting this morning:- First and foremost, Scott was back and looking good!
- We did not have a guest speaker today so just chatted about stuff.
- Don mentioned his upcoming quest for next year's board. Expressions of interest welcome. If not, other measures will be taken. Various committee manuals are available from Don for the various positions. Scott is willing to take over the treasurer role with one condition - ask John C. what the condition is!)
- John H. mentioned that CAMH is having an Open House today for the new facility. (For more details: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/story/2012/06/20/mental-health-camh-youth.html )
- Hugh mentioned that the first annual Big ShelterBox Week is now over. We spread the word about ShelterBox through:
- John H.'s Abbott Street sale;
- A presentation to the Rotary Club of Toronto Twilight;
- Robin, John H. and Hugh attended the ShelterBox Open House;
- Pitching a tent at the Ostend Street Party in Swansea; and
- Pitching the tent again on Hugh's front lawn on the last day of the Big Week.
- John H., Robin and Hugh are volunteering to host at the ShelterBox tent at Toronto Ribfest. If you are interested, please speak to Hugh as soon as possible. Really need help on the Sunday if you're available.
- The High Park Zoo is saved!
- If you have a story for the web site, send it on to Hugh.
- Remember that there is no regular meeting next week, June 28, as we have the year end party at Sunnyside. (See the related email from Scott or look at the event calendar on the web site for details.)
- Marty managed to draw his own 50/50 ticket but didn't manage the joker.
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Message from our June 21, 2012 Meeting
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2012-06-21 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jun 14, 2012
- Robin welcomed our visitor Denise Brunsdon and today's speakers Robert Wakulat & Christine Koenig.
Announcements:
- Robin announced that she will attend the Historical Society visioning session at Colborne Lodge this week, on behalf of our club, and will report back next week.
- John H. indicated that the poorer weather likely hampered turnout at this year's Abbott Street Sale with proceeds lower than desired.
- Hugh announced that he, Saleem Kassum and ShelterBox Response Team member Dave Hallett attended last night's Rotary Club of Toronto Twilight meeting to present on ShelterBox. Toronto Twilight contributed 4 boxes to the Haiti earthquake appeal and were interested in an update on ShelterBox and an introduction to the charity for their newest members.
- Hugh also announced that this week is Big ShelterBox Week with the Open House today at 159 Jane Street just north of Bloor from 12 noon to 8 p.m.
- Lastly on ShelterBox, if you are able to attend the ShelterBox Display at Toronto Ribfest over the Canada Day weekend, please confirm by email to Hugh.
Today's Presentation:- Speakers Robert Wakulat & Christine Koenig presented on Greening the City of Toronto One Business Community at a Time.
- GreenTBiz's mission is to engage and empower Toronto’s small and medium-sized enterprises and Business Improvement Areas to take a hands-on approach to improving the sustainability of their urban environments and increasing their profitability. We believe that no business is too small to make a difference. GreenTbiz envisions sustainable communities where residents and businesses live in harmony with and contribute meaningfully to their local environment. GreenTbiz will be at the forefront of the movement to create these communities, by empowering businesses and BIAs, by developing innovative resources and by transforming economic values.
- Robert gave a quick overview of some of the guiding rules around implementing green energy projects and this was followed by some lively questioning on costs of energy. Following this, Christine gave a specific example of a German village of 750 people that is energy self sufficient using a biogas plant fueled by agricultural manure and wood chips - with the byproducts returned to the farm fields as fertiliser.
- For more information on community power, see their website www.greentbiz.org
- Robin thanked our speakers with our customary mosquito net for a Tanzanian family.
Lastly,
- Robin won the 50/50 but the pot still lives.
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Message from our June 14, 2012 Meeting
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2012-06-15 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jun 08, 2012
On June 9, John Humphreys used his neighbourhood's annual street sale to promote the Rotary Club of Parkdale-High Park, Rotary in general, and our causes. The Abbott Street Sale has been an annual event since the '70's. This year, John decided that he would pitch a ShelterBox tent on his front lawn and hand out pamphlets to spread the word about ShelterBox. Coincidentally, this day was also the first day of Big ShelterBox Week. No sooner had the tent been "partially" pitched than a neighbour came by and said ..."cool I saw those in Haiti." John Humphreys is pictured on the left holding the silver teapot with Don Sirko, incoming president of P-HP Rotary. Thanks John!
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Abbott Street Sale
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2012-06-09 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jun 06, 2012
Here's what happened this morning:- Robin welcomed visiting Rotarians Gord Dobbin, Vashti Jaikaran, and Patrick Labouef.
- Gord Dobbin gave us an update on the TV Auction - encouraging us all to start collecting donations soon - that those who start early, find it much easier and results in greater proceeds for their club. Targeting the $100 mark per donation proved successful last year. He also reminded us of sponsorships and the fact that 100% of the amount raised goes back to the club. People count on the TV Auction for their Christmas shopping. Hockey tickets always popular. Gord praised Danielle for her great efforts on camera last year - evolving quickly from being a deer caught in the headlights to being quite at ease. Gord looks forward to our involvement on the TV Auction committees this year. The auction is Nov 23/24.
- Vashti Jaikaran is the President of the new Rotary Club of Toronto Skyline. She invited us all to their Charter Night on June 19th at the Hard Rock Cafe See the separate email sent out yesterday with their flyer for the details - RSVP June 14th. Cost $75.
- Patrick LaBoeuf was in Toronto on business. He is from the Rotary Club of Old Montreal. Patrick's club was involved in organising the 2010 conventions in Montreal. Their 22 year old club has 23 members who get involved in new projects every year - including ones in Africa. The clubs in Montreal and the surrounding area are continually coming up with innovative ideas. Patrick mentioned the Valleyfield Club raised $100K and transformed a bus into a mobile room to teach drop-outs how to get back into school.
- The Abbott Street Sale is coming up this Saturday. John H. will be setting up as early as 7:30. Tables still needed.
- Robin announced that it is looking promising for the High Park Zoo and that our $2K contribution was helpful. She recently held 3 baby capybaras and a baby wallaby - which were all so cute!
- Robin also announced that the Jamie Bell Adventure Playground unveiling is scheduled for July 7th. Mike Holmes is tarping it in for the unveiling. We can get involved or just come out to enjoy the day. Speak to Robin. ShelterBox will be there!
- Don had a Happy Buck for his 35th Wedding Anniversary. This prompted Robin to contribute a Happy Buck for her 31st and Hugh to cough up a looney for his 20th Anniversary.
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Message from our June 7, 2012 meeting
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2012-06-07 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jun 01, 2012
On Monday May 28, Danielle and Marty presented a cheque to Liz Kirk at CAMH for the Sunshine Organic Garden. The Sunshine Organic Garden at CAMH is part of the “Growing People Growing Food” program. The Sunshine Garden is Toronto’s first organic market garden where volunteer clients from CAMH and the Social Phobia Support Group of Toronto cultivate an organic vegetable garden and then sell the produce back to the community. All proceeds from the sale of the produce are re‐invested in the program. This activity involves weeding and mulching the organic vegetables grown in the Sunshine Garden, as well as composting. The program promotes wellness, healthy nutrition, recovery and enjoyment.
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CAMH Sunshine Garden
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2012-06-02 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on May 31, 2012
Announcements:- Scott is resting up at home! (Right Scotty?)
- Robin welcomed Julian Gutierrez and William Payne visiting this morning to speak to us today about Rotary Peace Fellowships.
- Danielle announced that she and Marty presented a cheque to the CAMH Sunshine Garden project on Monday this week.
- Robin announced that our P-HP Board approved a $2,000 contribution to the High Park Zoo to help in getting them even closer to achieving the matching fund target.
- John H. is still looking for bodies to help at the Abbott Street sale scheduled for Saturday, June 9.
- Hugh gave an update on ShelterBox activities. He's been talking to scout and church youth groups and has presentations lining up for the Twilight Club and the Etobicoke Club. Speaking of the Etobicoke Club, any P-HP members available and willing to man the ShelterBox display at Toronto Ribfest over the Canada Day weekend, please speak to Hugh. With the ShelterBox staff involved, we're trying to man our display with fellow Rotarians and other ShelterBox volunteers throughout the 4 day event.
- And remember, there's the Etobicoke Club's Magoanine B School event this Sunday at Nigel Brown's home
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Message from our May 31, 2012 meeting
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2012-06-01 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on May 10, 2012
Our new web site address for any of our printed materials is www.parkdalehighparkrotary.org
Using this address will take the reader to this ClubRunner hosted site.
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New Web Site Address
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2012-05-11 00:00:00Z |
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Posted by Martin Kristof on May 09, 2012
25th Anniversary Event
April 25th, 2012
From all the responses I have received, everyone thought our Rotary Club of Parkdale-High Park, 25th Anniversary Event was a huge success. We had nearly 100 guests from near and far, past and present. It was also in support of the Redwood, founded by earlier Club Members with proceeds of the event going to the Redwood.
Set at the Boulevard Club (BC) on the shores of Lake Ontario, on a sunny spring day, we had the full use of the entire BC venue: reception area, solarium, terrace and Ballroom. The four-course chicken/beef dinners were excellent, elegantly served and finished with a very popular chocolate mousse desert.
Scott Bartle was our MC and Robin Sorys our invocation speaker. The Redwood staff also spoke and told of their work. Founding member, Dan Cornacchia, spoke about the early days and Neil Webster's vision, as Charter President, in establishing the club. Suzanne Rusywich and Danielle Gilas made honorarium presentations of floral plants to the band and Rotary dignitaries. The memorable entertainment was provided by the GTA Swing Band (18 piece) and June Garber, vocalist. They were FABULOUS. This was an event with a real...WOW factor.
The Core Event Planners were Scott Bartle, Marty Kristof and John Counsell; Fund-raising: Jacquie Menezes; Table decorations: Suzanne Rusywich and Danielle Gilas; Greeters: Suzanne Rusywich and Suzanne Manvell; Volunteers: John Counsell, Lynda Moore, Peter Jones, Larysa Kalyta and Ron.
During this very memorable evening, everything seemed to flow. It seemed that the sum of the total was greater than its many parts. A great job by all our workers and volunteers. Congratulations.
Marty Kristof
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25th Anniversary Dinner Reflection
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Martin Kristof
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2012-05-10 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jan 18, 2012
Our regularly scheduled committee monthly meeting times are: - Board - third Monday
- Fundraising - first Tuesday
- Club - second Tuesday
- Service - fourth Tuesday
- Outreach - fourth Monday
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Committee Meeting Times
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2012-01-19 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Jun 11, 2010
The Rotary Club of Parkdale-High Park is involved in service projects in the local community
and in the broader international community supporting a variety of humanitarian, educational
and health issues. Here is a sampling of our work:
Local Projects:
Redwood Shelter for Women
PACT - Urban Peace Program
Swansea Blood Donor Clinic
CAMH Community Garden
Pia Bouman Nutcracker Community Event
International Projects:
Eliminating Landmines
Polio Eradication
Students Crossing Borders (Jamaica)
Mosquito Nets for Tanzania
Water Wells in Zimbabwe
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Our Projects
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2010-06-12 00:00:00Z |
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Posted on Apr 09, 2010
We are grateful for the support of our community businesses!
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Our Donors
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2010-04-10 00:00:00Z |
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Thirty years of service... Since April 28th 1987, The Rotary Club of Parkdale - High Park has been working for the benefit of its community, and in support of the international community service initiatives of Rotary International. We are proud to be members of the world’s oldest service club, founded in 1905, and to be associated with its strong record of local and international community service. On December 1st 2017 the Rotary Club of Toronto Humber merged with the Rotary Club of Parkdale - High Park forming the Rotary Club of Parkdale - High Park - Humber.
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Rotary Club of Parkdale - High Park - Humber
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ShelterBox News - September 2012
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ShelterBox News - September 2012
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Our Past President, Scott Bartle, organised tonight's year end party at the Sunnyside Pavillion on the shores of Lake Ontario. The weather was fine as we sat on the patio for dinner and drinks to celebrate President Robin Sorys' year as President. Thanks Scott!
As a result of the dinner, we raised $ 220 in Robin’s honour for the Canadian Landmines project.
Marty presented our cheque for $ 4,000 from our anniversary dinner for the Redwood Shelter to Denise Brunsdon. In thanking our club for the donation, Denise emphasised the unfortunate but critical need for a place like the Redwood.
Scott summed up this past year's incoming and outgoing successes as follows:
Money Raised:
- TV Auction $ 5,475
- 25th Dinner $ 4,000
- Golf $ 5,600
- Foundation Walk $ 500
Donations:
- Pia Bouman $ 750
- Redwood $ 4,750
- Rotary Foundation $ 1,100
- Rotary Foundation $ 1,250
- Sunshine Garden $ 2,500
- Students Crossing Borders $ 3,000
- Hearing Foundation $ 350
- PACT $ 1,250
Some members also contributed to Suzanne Manvell’s Shakespeare Group through the dinner she held.
And just this week, Robin completed the Rotary Peace Fellowship application for Julian Gutierrez Castano. Hopefully this application will be successful and Julian will be on his way to Chapel Hill North Carolina to continue on his path to making the world a better place.
All in all, it was a great year for our Club!
And lastly, we welcomed back incoming President Don Sirko in re-assuming the reins of our club for a second time for 2012-2013!! Thank you Don!
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Year End Party - June 28, 2012
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Posted by Hugh Dimock
The following note was received from Lisa Salapatek, Executive Director, ShelterBox Canada. The first item is a wrap-up comment on Big ShelterBox Week - with several photos from activities involving P-HP members (e.g. look for John H. and Don on this link!: http://animoto.com/play/PqZS5CMAyRGT9ZNQAuMc3g
). As well, there is an update on the Project Partnership mentioned at our breakfast meeting June 21st. It outlines how Rotary clubs like ours can get involved.
Dear ShelterBox Canada Ambassadors,
1) Big ShelterBox Week Wrap-up:
A VERY big THANK YOU to everyone that that supported Big ShelterBox Week. We were thrilled to hear about the activities that took place across the country last week. Every Cake Bake, Camp Out and Clear Out will make a true difference for families that are affected by disaster – thank you so much for embracing the week with such enthusiasm and creativity. Please follow this link to an article on our website that celebrates Big ShelterBox Week across Canada, including a short video profiling photos of many of the events that took place:
http://www.shelterboxcanada.org/news.php?id=1047
2) Rotary International Fact Sheet – Project Partnership:
Rotary International has just published a fact sheet outlining the RI ShelterBox Project Partnership. It provides a great overview on the partnership, as well as ideas on how Rotary Clubs and Districts can get involved, and will be very helpful in communicating the partnership to the Rotary community. The fact sheet can be found via this link to the RI website:
http://www.rotary.org/RIdocuments/en_pdf/factsheet_shelterbox_en.pdf
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Big ShelterBox Week Wrap-up and Rotary International Project Partnership
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Hugh Dimock
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On June 9, John Humphreys used his neighbourhood's annual street sale to promote the Rotary Club of Parkdale-High Park, Rotary in general, and our causes. The Abbott Street Sale has been an annual event since the '70's.
This year, John decided that he would pitch a ShelterBox tent on his front lawn and hand out pamphlets to spread the word about ShelterBox. Coincidentally, this day was also the first day of Big ShelterBox Week. No sooner had the tent been "partially" pitched than a neighbour came by and said ..."cool I saw those in Haiti."
John Humphreys is pictured on the left holding the silver teapot with Don Sirko, incoming president of P-HP Rotary. Thanks John!
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Abbott Street Sale
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CAMH Sunshine Garden
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ShelterBox Canada | shelter. warmth. dignity.
For the latest ShelterBox news including on the Syria appeal or to donate, click here: www.shelterboxcanada.org
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ShelterBox News
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Our regularly scheduled committee monthly meeting times are:
- Board - third Monday
- Fundraising - first Tuesday
- Club - second Tuesday
- Service - fourth Tuesday
- Outreach - fourth Monday
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Committee Meeting Times
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ShelterBox is an international disaster relief charity specializing in emergency shelter provision. ShelterBox responds immediately when disasters strike across the world. Volunteer ShelterBox Response Teams deliver humanitarian aid in green ShelterBoxes. Each box supplies an extended family with a tent and lifesaving equipment to use while they are displaced or homeless. Founded by Rotarian Tom Henderson (Cornwall, England) in the year 2000, ShelterBox has responded to over 160 disasters across the world. It is estimated that over 10,000 Rotary Clubs have played a role in supporting ShelterBox, by raising funds, building awareness or providing operations support in disaster zones. More information can be found at www.shelterboxcanada.org
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ShelterBox
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Forms and other club resource information
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