As we approach the mid-point of this Rotary year, it is time to reflect on the achievements and activities our club has been part of, both locally and areas farther afield. It seems like an eternity since our annual fish fry at the Flying Club when Past-President Ed and his Executive turned over the mantle of responsibility to the incoming group.
It was such a wonderful evening, and the fact that we were able to spontaneously raise over $600 for a donation to Special Olympics reflects the generosity and dedication of our club to support others.Shortly after, we had the visit from our District Governor, (the other) Elaine Thompson at which time we were able to fulfil our commitment to the DRHC Foundation fundraising for the new CAT Scan machine with a donation of $40,000. In addition to the donation, the DG was very impressed with the success that our club in supporting so many other causes as well as maintaining a solid and dedicated membership.
Although we had a summer of lesser activity, meetings filled with great fellowship and excellent programming arranged by President-Elect Mardi, during this time we also had six students along with counsellor Jacquie Grandmont attending the RYLA camp in Manitoba, building leaders for the future.
We sprang into fall with the Hazardous Waste Days which again was a resounding success and a great service to the community. Our Youth programs were in full swing by that time with the departure of Varja and the arrival of Sigvart while the selection process was underway for next years outgoing students for both the long-term and short-term exchange programs. We also identified students were for other programs such as Adventures in Agriculture, Technology and Human Rights.
One of the goals of the club is to enhance our relationship with the indigenous community. Hence a meeting took place at the Dryden Native Friendship Centre where we learned of the programs and services they offer to the community. We have also aligned ourselves with the organisation, Honouring Indigenous People whose aim is to assist projects, identified by the indigenous community, to move toward reconciliation.
Once again, the Paul Harris and Performing Arts Awards evening was a highlight of the year as we recognised four outstanding individuals from the community for their commitment to our motto “Service Above Self” as well as five of our members recognised for their contributions to the Rotary Foundation that assist programs around the world. All of this while enjoying a wonderful meal and fellowship and listening to the amazing talent that we have in our community.
On the international scene, we have members that have been working diligently to bring literacy to some of the most underdeveloped areas in the world through a partnership with the Amorak Society. The gift of literacy for these people is life-changing as personally witnessed by a member of the Kenora Rotary Club who is currently working in Kenora but was raised in India where the possibility for advancement in education was only possible when his mother learned to read and passed that gift along to the family.
As we approach the winter solstice, I would like to take this opportunity to thank every one of you for your support and your dedication to making Dryden, Canada, and the World a better place. My very sincere wishes for a happy, healthy and joyous Christmas.
Peter