Stories

Dryden Rotary Losses Its Most Senior Member “Rolly” Swan

It is with deep sadness that the Dryden Rotary Club learned of the passing of one of its most beloved members Roland (Rolly) Swan on Monday afternoon, January 20, 2020.

Laina Smith spoke to Rotarians on her vision of a holding a Fall Fest in Dryden each October. She has rallied a small committee of seven citizens to organize the event.

With the induction of three new members on January 8th, the Rotary Club of Dryden has returned to its all-time high of 64 members.

The key difference, however, this time we have an equal number of members by gender.

January is Rotary’s vocational service Month. Rotary’s belief is that our vocations can provide the basis of service. Essentially, whatever your vocation, you serve as Rotary’s Ambassador to that vocation and to the community at large. You also serve as an Ambassador of your vocation to Rotary.

New Member’s Career Path Follows the Heart

Posted by John Borst on Dec 09, 2019

All new members who join Rotary give what is called a vocational talk. Originally it was a way for members to get to know what your business was. Over the years it has morphed into more of a life story

December is Disease Prevention and Treatment Month: A Need for Vigilance

Posted on Dec 08, 2019

Even with a vaccine more than 300 children die needlessly everyday from measles.

By Carl Eisner, MD and Past President Rotary Club of Dryden

December is Rotary’s disease prevention and treatment month. This is one of the six areas of focus of the Rotary foundation. Much headway has been made in this area over the past decades – for instance, polio has been 99.9% eradicated, compared to where the world was with polio when rotary became involved.

The Dryden Rotary Charity Foundation Approves Thirteen Grants Totalling $31,011

Posted by John Borst on Nov 17, 2019

Four times a year the eight member Dryden Rotary Charity Foundation meets under the leadership of Rotarian and Past Club President Rena Madden, to disperse the money raised through the Dryden Rotary Bingo proceeds.

Are Women the Future of Dryden’s Most Vital Organizations?

Posted by John Borst on Nov 14, 2019

Dryden Rotary is unique among District 5550’s forty-six clubs because it has more women than any other club. Of the club’s 63 members 32 are male and 31 are female. However, when It comes to leadership within our organization women are more likely to serve on our Board of Directors and the Board of The Dryden Rotary Foundation. The latter is a separate body which determines the grants we distribute.

Loss of Two Volunteer Organizations Requires Meals on Wheels in Dryden to Find New Volunteers

Posted by John Borst on Nov 11, 2019

Colleen Hill, Dryden’s Meals on Wheels coordinator provided the club with an update on the operation of Dryden’s MOW program.

Ignace, Ontario Plans to be Canada’s Site for Used Nuclear Fuel

Posted by John Borst on Nov 05, 2019

Rachelle Davenport and Chantelle Gascon of the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) in Ignace, Dryden’s neighboring community brought the club up-to-date on the NWMO’s site selection progress for that community.

Rotary Day at the U.N. is November 9th

Posted by Carl Eisener on Nov 04, 2019

November 9, 2019 is Rotary Day at the UN. It is the day that Rotary and the United Nations celebrate and honour their 72-year relationship.

Annual Rotary Awards Evening a Time to Celebrate Many Accomplishments

Posted by John Borst on Oct 27, 2019

Once a year the Rotary Club of Dryden hosts an awards evening in which it celebrates three local Drydenites who exemplify Rotary's motto "Service Above Self" through their volunteer efforts, Rotary members who have donated one-thousand (USD) dollars to The Rotary Foundation, winners of the Dryden Royal Conservatory piano competition and inducted new members who have joined the club.

Strategic Plan is Focus of DRHC CEO’s Operational Update

Posted by John Borst on Oct 21, 2019

Doreen Armstrong-Ross Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Dryden Regional Health Centre (DRHC) gave us a brief background on the state of our hospital and their future directions.

2019-20 Exchange Student ‘Lolly’ shares her background with the club

Posted by John Borst on Oct 14, 2019

Our Brazilian exchange student, Lorena Cartocci Bazanelli or ‘Lolly” for short, shared with us some background on her home and country.

October 24 is Rotary End Polio Day-Give Today

Posted by Carl Eisener on Oct 08, 2019

Ramesh Ferris was born in India to an impoverished single mother in 1979. When he developed polio as an infant, she surrendered him to an orphanage, knowing that he would have no chance for a good life if she kept him. He had the good luck to be adopted by a Canadian couple, and with proper rehab, braces and crutches, he learned to walk short distances at a slow pace.

Six Humanitarians Honored for their Work with Refugees

Posted on Oct 06, 2019

Six humanitarians who are members of the family of Rotary are being honored as People of Action: Connectors Beyond Borders during the 2019 Rotary Day at the United Nations, which focuses this year on the global refugee crisis.

District 5550 Governor Fred Wright Visits Club and Puts Emphasis on the Reduction of Child Poverty

Posted on Oct 06, 2019

Rotary International is divided into around 535 Districts. That averages out to about 65 clubs per district. Each District has a four-digit number. Dryden is part of District 5550. Each District is managed by a person titled the District Governor. Each governor serves for only one year from July 1 to June 30. For the 2019-20 year our District Governor (DG) is Fred Wright from Kenora.

Putting the Plus in PolioPlus

Posted on Sep 30, 2019

We’re doing so much more than eradicating polio

By Vanessa Glavinskas Photography by Andrew Esiebo

Musa Muhammed Ali, a farmer in Borno state, Nigeria, has had to deal with the many ways polio has affected his life. For instance, he used to have to pay for transportation when he needed to buy feed for his animals.

Dryden Rotary Works with District and other Clubs to Create a Literacy Program in Bangladesh’s Urban Slums

Posted by John Borst on Sep 29, 2019

Each month Rotary defines a theme for Rotarians to focus upon. September’s theme is Basic Education and Literacy. It is for that reason that our International Services Director James Kroeker and DHS law and justice teacher Cynthia Palermo spoke to the club on the topic of the Amarok Society.

Rotary 'Vocational Training Team' Program a Means to Support People With Autism

Posted on Sep 25, 2019

by Dr. Corina Yatco-Guerrero, member of the Rotary Club of Sta. Ana (Davao), Philippines

I am a Neuro-Ophthalmologist and my husband is a Neurologist; we both practice in Davao City, Philippines. When our third child, Emmanuel, was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at the age of two, we were both stunned and perplexed.

Transforming mathematics education in Ecuador's low income schools

Posted on Sep 25, 2019

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By Octavio Jarrin R., member of the Rotary Club of La Puntilla, Ecuador and Keith E. Axtell, member of the Rotary Club of Marin Evening, United States

An assessment of mathematics teachers in Ecuador showed they received little training in content preparation and teaching techniques. This resulted in teachers with little motivation and enthusiasm when preparing and teaching their classes.

2018-19 Rotary President to be Feature Speaker at District 5550 Conference

Posted by John Borst on Sep 21, 2019

In the absence of President Mardi, Assistance Governor Carl Eisner, took the meeting chair and proceeded to share future meeting dates and events of which we should be aware.

What the ‘together’ in Rotary’s vision statement means

Posted on Sep 19, 2019

Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create

lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.

— Rotary International Vision Statement

By Paddy Rooney, governor of District 7390 (Pennsylvania, USA)

The word which defines much of our world today is division. We are divided in so many ways by race or creed, ethnicity or belief, by gender or age or sexuality. But the divisions have gone beyond mere realities and instead have become a source of dissension among us with the result that we have sliced and diced ourselves into smaller and smaller groups or tribes which only further exacerbate our sense of alienation one from the other.

Why the loss of ‘The Dryden Observer’ Matters

Posted on Sep 18, 2019

by John Borst, editor Rotary Club of Dryden Website

In May of this year The Dryden Observer ceased to publish and the community of Dryden loss a little of its soul. Somewhat ironically it was Pope Francis speaking to an audience of Italian journalists on September 16th who reminds us why the local community newspaper is vital in the life of a community.

Club receives reports on Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) for 2019

Posted by John Borst on Sep 17, 2019

Each year District 5550 of which Dryden Rotary is a member, sponsors a Junior and Senior Rotary Youth Leadership Awards program. The program consists of “camp” environment at Shoal Lake, Manitoba.

The Contrarian Reflects on the New "New Morality"

Posted on Sep 14, 2019

by Mel Fisher, Rotarian and blogger as DrydenCurmudgeon. Mel's columns were published in the Dryden Observer and will now be co-posted here.

A page out of Willy Brant’s diary — Joe and I dropped off some veggies at the food co-op and were sitting in 'Timmies' when a carload of teenagers came roaring in and occupied the table next to us; I got the impression they considered that was ‘their’ table and us old codgers were interlopers to be sitting next to it. Well dressed, nice looking kids, all chattering at once, I didn’t pay much attention till I heard one girl announce ”Well I will never have any kids, that’s for sure!”.

Together Dryden Needs to Find a Solution to Our Youth Centre Crisis

Posted on Sep 12, 2019

Commentary by John Borst, editor Dryden Rotary News and We the Northwest News and Views

We have all heard the meme “It takes a village to raise a child.” We are also prone to nod in agreement and then go on about our business of living and forgetting about the kid who goes to school without having breakfast and hasn’t got a lunch to eat, or the teen who hangs out downtown or at school staying away from home as long as possible. But in a small city like Dryden even youngsters with three meals a day and a loving home can suffer from anxiety, loneliness or fear of their peers.

Democracy is Set to Take a Giant Leap Forward in Dryden

Posted on Sep 12, 2019

OPINION by John Borst,

There are two keys to living in a successful vibrant democracy: participation and vigilance. Dryden City Council is to be congratulated for taking a modern step forward to facilitate those principles.

Club Looking for Students Interested in Student Exchange in 2020

Posted on Sep 12, 2019

The Rotary Club of Dryden in looking for Dryden High School students interested in doing an international student exchange in 2020.

Dryden City Council Set to Webcast Meetings Starting in October 2019

Posted by John Borst on Sep 11, 2019

Buried in a single sentence in a Staff Report at the September 9th Committee-of-the-Whole Council Meeting on “Electronic Participation” by members of council that “The IT Department ...have sourced the required hardware and software solutions to implement this project including webcasting.”

Dryden Rotary Website to Become More Community Based

Posted by John Borst on Sep 10, 2019

With the demise of our community newspaper, The Observer, Dryden Rotary News will this fall expand by adding We the Northwest News and Views.

Poole Describes How the Salvation Army and Community Outreach Go Hand-in Hand

Posted by John Borst on Sep 09, 2019

Sandra Poole, a Kenora Rotarian and regional leader within the Salvation Army provided a brief insight into the workings of her church.

Dryden Youth Centre Needs Support if it is to Continue

Posted on Sep 03, 2019

Ann Tkachyk of the Dryden Police Department and Vanessa Shepherd, Manager, Children's Services Dryden Children's Resource Centre were instrumental in establishing a Youth Centre in Dryden which ran for 37 days this summer out of the former Child Care Centre on Albert Street.

Thunder Bay Runners Take First in We Run This City Half-Marathon

Posted by John Borst on Sep 02, 2019

Full Race Results Published Here

Sunday morning September 1, 2019, dawned wet and cool for the Dryden's Young Professionals' Second Annual We Run This City Half-Marathon and 10 km road races. The weather, however did not deter the the twenty-three runners in the half-marathon or the forty-six participants in the 10 km race.

Club Looses Member Marg Saville to Cancer.

Posted by John Borst on Sep 02, 2019

It is with profound sadness the The Rotary Club of Dryden announces the passing of its member Margaret Saville. Margaret joined Rotary in June of 2011. Her funeral service will be held at the United Church at 7:00 pm.

‘We Run This City’, Dryden’s Premier Road Race, All Set to Go

Posted by John Borst on Aug 24, 2019

Put September 1^st on your must-see list as 97 runners course through Dryden’s streets and trails in the Second annual ‘We Run This City’ half-marathon and 10 k road races.

WHAT CAN A ROTARIAN DO WHEN THERE IS NO COMPLAINTS POLICY?

Posted by John Borst on May 30, 2019

Many Rotarians are passionate about Rotary, some so passionate that they forget that other Rotarians must be treated with respect.

‘WeLoveDryden’ - Show Your Hometown Pride on June 8

Posted by John Borst on May 25, 2019

Imagine if the 8000 residents of Dryden marched in the same parade, what a scene it could be.

Okay, 8000 is a little extreme but 1000 would be a super goal and would pack a wallop for our sense of community. Packing a wallop is just what the organisers of Dryden’s first “We Love Dryden” day want to achieve. So put June 8^th on your calendar and participate in one or more of the three events.

1 Comment

Links to Series on 2019 Council on Legislation Plus Concluding Comments

Posted by John Borst on May 21, 2019

#7 in a series.

A request to provide a compendium of links to the 2019 Council on Legislation from a PDG at District 7390 was the inspiration for this post. It also provides an opportunity to reflect on the bigger picture of what happened this year which may portend future directions and trends.

Sing-along with this Saskatoon-Nutana version of the Four-Way Test.

Posted by John Borst on May 19, 2019

This is a version of the Four-Way Test to which you will have no trouble singing along. The 53 seconds of lyrics have a slightly different ending. There is one additional line.

Did the Council make Rotaractors, Rotarians? No!

Posted by John Borst on May 17, 2019

Did the Council of Legislation change the status of a member of a Rotaract Club with Enactment 19-72? The answer is no. They are still Rotaractors. They are not Rotarians. That is the conclusion one has to draw from the experience of two Rotaractors who also have membership in Rotary Clubs.

Results of Survey on Changing the Name of The Rotarian

Posted by John Borst on May 16, 2019

As reported some two weeks ago, the Council on Legislation gave Rotary Executive the authority to alter the name of The Rotarian magazine if it was necessary to be consistent with Rotary’s rebranding initiative.

The Duarte Story as told by Dr Sylvia Whitlock

Posted by John Borst on May 14, 2019

Author of Women Also Serve: Duarte Invites Women to Join Rotary tells her first person account of what it was like to be a woman Rotary pioneer.

High Tech Industries in Saskatoon Awe Dryden Students

Posted by John Borst on May 14, 2019

Chris Mills and Cameron Miles, two Dryden High School students shared their trip to Saskatoon for a Rotary Adventures in Technology Program sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of Saskatoon.

What is wrong with this statement on women in Rotary?

Posted by John Borst on May 13, 2019

Variations of the statement below, I have seen many times over the years. A male, with many years of dedicated service, made it in a Facebook post, this past week.

Can Rotary Morph into a ‘Smart’ Organization?

Posted by John Borst on May 12, 2019

Eight steps Rotary must take to be a "Smart" Organization

“Smart’ is the word of the century. Smartphones, smart cars, smart cities, and smart organisations fill the pages of city newspapers, magazines and scholarly journals.

Rotary’s Chance to Right a Historic Injustice Fails

Posted by John Borst on May 10, 2019

The need to replace Sushil Gupta, RIPN 20-21, who resigned for health reason, presented the opportunity for the 20-21 Nominating Committee to correct a historical injustice.

The Power of ‘Creating Memorable Rotary Events’

Posted by John Borst on May 10, 2019

On May 3, 2019, Past Rotary International Director (PRID 2009-10), Dr John Blount spoke to the delegates attending the 2019 District 5550 conference on the topic “Creating Memorable Rotary Events.

John joined Rotary at age 27. He was President of the Sebastopol Club at age 32 and Governor of District 5130 eight years later.

THE ACT OF GENEROSITY GROUNDED IN ROTARY - MELISSA'S STORY

Posted by John Borst on May 08, 2019

Drawing from a lifetime of personal and professional experiences, from his humble beginning as an Indigenous youth living in Winnipeg's North End, to working alongside business, community and government leaders, Kevin Chief brings a unique voice that is able to attract diverse crowds into inclusive and healthy conversations about diversity, policy, and social change.

FIREFLY PROVIDES WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES FOR CHILDREN, YOUTH, AND FAMILIES IN COMMUNITIES ACROSS NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO

Posted by John Borst on May 08, 2019

Karen Ingebrigston, the executive director, explained the background on Firefly and a soft push to see if there were any potential future board members in the crowd.

COL takes small steps to streamline its proceedings but rejects the big one.

Posted by John Borst on May 07, 2019

RI’s tax status changed from a 501(c)4 to a section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization under the US Internal Revenue Code.

#6 in a series

Enactments 19-96 to 19-115 dealt with proposed changes to the before, during and after periods of the Council on Legislation itself.

Rotary International provides a good summary of what occurred during this session, however I have reordered their report to correspond more closely with the chronological order which took place.

An attempt to make the Council smaller and meet more frequently failed.

As Rotary reports

A measure to allow the Council to meet every two years, instead of three, but with a smaller number of delegates, failed 174-334.

The Board argued having a smaller half-sized council meet more frequently would make the process more manageable with more robust debate, and allow Rotary to be nimble and flexible. Districts would have been paired, with one district's delegate attending every other council.

But opponents were against shrinking the council, denying districts the ability to send its own representative every time.

On the other hand a motion allowing the council to meet on line before meeting face to face to find where agreement existed at the 80% level did pass so that those items could be dispatched with “consent” which is a small step in streamlining proceedings. Although only 117 resolutions were dealt with in 2019, the high end is 613.

Another rather strange streaming feature also passed “by the narrowest of margins”. Council members voted 258-252 to strike RI past presidents, and all but one board member from taking part in future councils as non-voting members. The president, president-elect, and one director would remain as non-voting members. It was put forward as a cost saving measure.

Notes revealed that in 2016 the cost of hosting the COL was 3.3 million, with the cost of the average delegate at $3,600. The 17 member board plus 14 Past presidents cost was $118,000 or $3,800 per non-voting delegate. In my view the decision smacks more like an attempt by Past District Governors to retain control of the Council and lessen the influence of the Directors and Past-Presidents even though they are non-voting delegates.

The Director’s did make a major gain with an “emergency” piece of legislation gaining approval. The Board may now propose legislation it deems urgent to the Council on Resolutions, which meets online every year, instead of waiting for the next Council on Legislation. Proposal 19-96 passed 325-182, and offers the Board a means of recommending constitutional changes more frequently than every three years. Evidently something similar already exits but it has never been used. Given where RI’s strategic plan is pointing, especially in Strategic Priority Four on future governance, I think the odds just increased this new authority may be put to use.

Regarding the change in tax status, although it passed 374-120 the very vocal minority “feared the measure would change the way clubs have to operate by requiring only activities that qualify as charitable, and would harm the reputation of The Rotary Foundation as the charitable arm of Rotary.” Rotary reports however, that “A joint committee, composed of members of both the Board and Foundation, has reviewed the idea for more than 18 months, and argued the change would not change the way Rotary clubs operate or be harmful to The Rotary Foundation.”

Finally before closing in two of its last resolutions 19-115 and 19-116 “the Council approved two measures that clean up and modernize The RI Bylaws and standard Rotary Club Constitution, making them more understandable. The enactments make no substantive changes. But proponents noted these documents have not received a comprehensive review like this in almost two decades and have accumulated redundancies and archaic language. So if you've avoided these documents in the past, give the new edition, when available, a second look!”

As an historical footnote, “This is also the first time a sitting RI President has ever proposed an item to the Council.”

Membership, RI Committees and Dues Provided Lots to Debate by COL Delegates

Posted by John Borst on May 06, 2019

# 5 in a series

Rotary has shouted out loud and clear that Rotaract Clubs are now officially clubs of and in Rotary rather then clubs outside of the family of Rotary. The path there had many twists and turns including an appeal to Social Media by President Barry Rassin. His was a post I just happen to read. Then the next thing I knew it I was hearing that Rotaractors would now be Rotarians too.

n my opinion it was a decision that made much sense since as I have argued in earlier posts, Rotaractors are adults and qualify by age for Rotary. I also live in a small working-class town in which Rotaract makes little sense. Hence if an eighteen to thirty-nine year old is interested in service to community Rotary is where they should be.

The debate over dues for seniors in 19-89, 90, and 91, I found fascinating primarily because the reasoning wants so poorly thought out. Rather than being a recognition that the aged like youth may require some adjustment to the cost of being a Rotarian, 90 and 91 especially were more a reward for long time service than age. 19-89 made the best case primarily on the basis of age but did include a short service factor.

The real reason we should provide a reduced cost to those 80 years or older is a recognition that it is a service to do so. At that age the social aspect of Rotary is our greatest benefit to others including our members. Isolation and loneliness face the elderly. Multi-generational contact may not be possible elsewhere in our age stratified society. A reduction for long-time service is not a justifiable reason for a reduced fee as is proposed in 19-90 and 91. Both create two classes of seniors, which certainly is not fair to all concerned. A reduction based solely on age does warrant consideration.

I also found the rejection of a standing committee on “Information Technology” disappointing. Nothing is so all-pervasive in this age than “information technology”. Perhaps it was the term itself that was part of the problem. Somehow, it is a dated expression. The next wave of the revolution is already poking at the door. Some call it, The “Internet of Things”. Concepts such as “Smart Cities” are being developed. So are Smart organizations especially mega-companies such as Amazon.com. We too are an organization. We too should be exploring and evolving into a “smart service organization”. It should not be left to our staff, we need our governance leaders to part of the process. But that is a topic for a future post.

There is not enough space to comment on other items, however, I do wish to say, I wish Rotary would report on the rational for the withdrawal of an item. Some items leave one wondering why? A little more transparency would go a long way in developing confidence in COL’s leadership and the delegates thing and an understanding of the process.

Marketing Rotary to Older Adults: Let’s Not Miss the Boat

Posted by John Borst on May 06, 2019

May is Youth Services Month. Rotarians in every community quite justifiably put much effort and coin into providing support to its early years’ cohort. Youth Exchange programs, adventure series of various types, scholarships, food programs, literacy supports, are some of the best-known Rotary activities.

A Short Study. Should RI change the name of its magazine, if so to what?

Posted by John Borst on May 01, 2019

At the recent Council on Legislation RI was given the authority to change the name of its magazine. Below is a two-question survey which will take about 10-15 seconds to complete on this issue.

COL Motions on Our Magazines, Privacy and Past-Presidents Are a Surprise

Posted by John Borst on Apr 30, 2019

#4 in a series

I didn’t expect subjects such as District Administration and Rotary International-General to hold anything exciting, but I was wrong as there was much to chew upon.

Dear Nominating Committee for 2020-21 Replacement President-Nominee

Posted on Apr 29, 2019

Please choose a woman as President-nominee for 2020-21.

COL Rejects Glorious Opportunity to Make Rotary More Democratic

Posted on Apr 29, 2019

# 3 in a series

Enactments 19-40 to 19-55 addressed issues of elections and nominations at the President and Governor levels plus two Miscellaneous election items.

Dryden’s Rotary Exchange Student in France, Maryn Wrolstad, Shares Her Latest Adventures

Posted on Apr 28, 2019

Sorry, it has been a while since my last email. I’ll give you an update on what’s been going on. We had our Paris/Toulouse/Barcelona week-long bus trip at the end of February. It was exhausting but a lot of fun!

If you are a Victim of a Crime, you need to know about VCARS

Posted by John Borst on Apr 28, 2019

Tanisha Grandbois, the Executive Director of Sunset Area Victim Crisis Assistance and Referral Services, is more commonly known by its acronym VCARS (pronounced vic-cars).

Council on Legislation more active in adopting changes to Clubs

Posted by John Borst on Apr 28, 2019

#2 in a series

COL approved ten changes to Clubs in the areas of Administration, Membership and Meetings and Attendance. They also rejected ten proposals. Two items were withdrawn.

#RIWPNow! – Join the Campaign for a Woman President @RotaryWP

Posted by John Borst on Apr 28, 2019

It is with regret that we learned of Sushil Gupta’s, (President-nominee for the 2020-21 Rotary year) decision to resign his position as a result of his health. I am sure it was an extremely hard decision to make and I am sure the people of India and throughout Rotary are disappointed.

Council on Legislation Rejects All Changes to Rotary’s Avenues of Service, Object of Rotary, and Core Values

Posted by John Borst on Apr 27, 2019

#1 in a Series

Making changes to Rotary’s CONSTITUTION and STANDARD ROTARY CLUB CONSTITUTION was impossible in 2019 as the 532 delegates rejected all 15 proposed changes while two were withdrawn.

# 5 of 30 Women of Excellence to celebrate 30 Years of Women in Rotary

Compiled from resources from Patty Vann, Tommy Johnson, Peter Keen and John Borst

In 2017 Rotary International and Habitat for Humanity formed a partnership to ensure that in the future more people will have access to affordable housing around the globe. Rotary General Secretary John Hewko stated that “Habitat’s aim to bring people together to build homes, communities and hope aligns perfectly with Rotary’s commitment to make positive, lasting change in communities around the world. With Habitat’s expertise and the power of Rotary’s volunteer network, we will help build the foundation for stronger communities.”

It is time to replace the “Public Image Coordinator” with an “Integrated Communications Coordinator”

Posted by John Borst on Apr 24, 2019

It has now been five years since Rotary’s new branding initiative launched. To assist Rotarians in implementing the change, Rotary created, at the Zone level, a responsibility portfolio called the Public Image Coordinator. Some but not all Districts followed suit.

The Emergence of the Rotary Butterfly Begins on July 1st

Posted by John Borst on Apr 22, 2019

June 30, 2019 is nearly here and with it the end of if this Rotary year. But something else associated with Rotary ends too,Rotary International's current Strategic Plan.

A Short History of Women on Rotary's Board of Directors

Posted by John Borst on Apr 18, 2019

Women currently account for 22% of Rotary International's membership. The growth of women in Rotary officially began on 4 May 1987, when the United States Supreme Court confirmed the Californian decision supporting women in the case Board of Directors, Rotary International v. Rotary Club of Duarte and the Council on Legislation confirmed the decision.

Kaakewaaseya Justice Services and the Role of the ‘Gladue Report’

Posted by John Borst on Apr 18, 2019

Jennifer Groves, an employee of the Kaakewaaseya Justice Services provide legal services to Treaty 3 Residents who live both on and off reserve. Groves is a specialist in writing Gladue reports.

Rotary says 'Let's talk about diversity and inclusion'

Posted on Apr 16, 2019

The theme of Rotary International’s April 2019 Training Talk Newsletter is on “Diversity, equity and inclusion.” Just last week I addressed this topic by sharing in graphical form the principles inherent in Rotary’s policy statement. Because this topic is of such importance to our future as a Rotarian, I am sharing the contents of the April 2019 newsletter so that it gets as wide a distribution as possible.

Understanding the relationship between consent and veto between Canada and Its Indigenous Peoples

Posted on Apr 14, 2019

By Roshan Danesh

Some politicians, journalists, business leaders, lawyers and others have adopted the practice of using the terms “consent” and “veto” interchangeably when discussing the role of First Nations in decision-making regarding lands and resources.

Community Support Centre NW Needs Help with Purchase of New Mobility Van

Posted by John Borst on Apr 14, 2019

Debbie Dokuchie, Executive Director at Community Support Centre NW (formerly the Dryden Volunteer and Recruitment Centre), began her talk by announcing that the organisation had undergone a name change to the Community Support Centre NW to better reflect what they do.

Apatisiwin Employment Counsellor for the Dryden Native Friendship Centre Explains Role to Rotarians

Posted by John Borst on Apr 13, 2019

Jeremy Dutton, the Dryden Native Friendship Centre’s (DNFC) Apatisiwin Employment Counsellor spoke on the kinds of services he provides to the urban Indigenous population of Dryden.

Remembering Denis Belleville

Posted by John Borst on Apr 12, 2019

Sponsored by the late Bill Beatty, Denis joined the Rotary Club of Dryden in1995 and remained an active member until his passing on April 3rd, 2019.

What Is a ‘True Rotarian’ Anyway?

Posted by John Borst on Apr 09, 2019

Words like “True’, or ‘Authentic’ applied to human endeavours are problematic whether applied to a member of a political party, fans of a sports team, a religious faith or a service organisation like Rotary.

It’s Time for a Woman President in 2014-15!

Posted by John Borst on Apr 09, 2019

Editor's Note: The following is a legacy piece first published in Spring 2012 at 5550opinions.

Sometime around now, a committee is about to meet within Rotary to decide whom to nominate as the 2014-15 President.

Diversity and Inclusion in Rotary, what’s the difference?

Posted by John Borst on Apr 07, 2019

Today on a Rotary Facebook page a Rotarian wrote: “Diversity is being invited to the party; Inclusion is being asked to dance.”

DRYDEN ROTARY PROVIDES POWERPOINT ON YEAR’S EVENTS AND PROJECTS

Posted by John Borst on Mar 31, 2019

This PowerPoint had two requests that occurred at the same time. The District Governor wanted a report on the Club's annual events and projects. At the same time, the President-elect wanted help in creating a PowerPoint on the same topics. Hence, this presentation with its thirty-seven slides was born.

From Personal Advocate to National Advocate: Wendy Wiedenhoeft’s story with the CNIB

Posted by John Borst on Mar 31, 2019

Being an advocate for the Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) began seventeen years ago for Wendy Wiedenhoeft when her grandson was born blind. Today, Wendy is Northwestern Ontario’s representative on the CNIB Board.

Dryden Economic Development Officer Optimistic About City’s Future

Posted by John Borst on Mar 22, 2019

Dryden’s economic wows have been front and centre for so long that it was a delight to hear the optimism in Tyler Peacock’s upbeat presentation on Dryden’s future.

Don't just sit in the house, go outside and enjoy nature

Posted by Willem Vermeer on Mar 18, 2019

Each week the editor of the club’s weekly KEYWAY newsletter includes a column titled “The lighter side” in which items of a humorous nature appear. The item this week took the form of three pictures under the banner in the title.

Chance Meeting with Former Roommate’s Brother Leads to Life in Dryden.

Posted by John Borst on Mar 18, 2019

Terry McKay recently joined Rotary and shared her life story with club members. Terry was born in Tillsonburg, Ontario but grew up in Orillia, on the shores of Lake Couchiching.

The Lady Rotarian, the Gentleman Rotarian: Why do we see one and not the other?

Posted by John Borst on Mar 15, 2019

If women are equal to men in Rotary, why is it then that we frequently see the term “Lady Rotarian” but never the term Gentleman Rotarian?

Mae Concepcion Dolendo, PP of the Rotary Club of Waling-Waling Davao Philippines is known for her ‘House of Hope” and its Foundation

Posted on Mar 14, 2019

# 4 of 30 Women of Excellence to celebrate 30 Years of Women in Rotary

Nominated by Maria Victoria C. Jimenez, a Past President of the Rotary Club of Waling-Waling Davao Philippines, edited by John Borst

Alexandria Ritchie only Twenty-four and Already a Rotary Woman of Excellence

Posted on Mar 12, 2019

#3 of 30 Women of Excellence to celebrate 30 Years of Women in Rotary

Nominated by Richard Cunningham, edited by John Borst

MP Robert Nault Updates Rotarians on Federal Initiatives in the Kenora Riding

Posted by John Borst on Mar 12, 2019

Member of Parliament Robert Nault visited Dryden Rotary to give us an update on the work he is doing on behalf of the Kenora Riding in Ottawa.

JUDITH DIMENT OF THE MAIDENHEAD THAMES ROTARY CLUB, AN ADMINISTRATIVE STAR IN ROTARY'S CAMPAIGN TO ERADICATE POLIO

Posted on Mar 04, 2019

#2 of 30 Women of Excellence to celebrate 30 Years of Women in Rotary

Nominated by Greg Wilkinson, text edited by John Borst

Toronto Calling is Theme of Graham Harrison’s Life Story

Posted by John Borst on Mar 03, 2019

When a new member joins a Rotary Club, they eventually have to give a little speech on their life story, especially their work history. We call it a “Vocational talk”. This is Graham Harrison’s story.

PP DR ANJANA MAITRA OF ROTARY CLUB OF ROURKELA STEEL CITY, D 3261

Posted on Mar 03, 2019

#1 of 30 Women of Excellence to celebrate 30 Years of Women in Rotary

Submitted by Putul Rahul and edited by John Borst

Help Celebrate 30 years of Women in Rotary

Posted by John Borst on Feb 26, 2019

The following call for submissions is patterned after a call at District 9940 in New Zealand.

Twenty-nineteen marks the 30^th year Rotary International has officially welcomed women as members.

Rotary Clubs in the News for February 26, 2019

Posted by John Borst on Feb 26, 2019

A compendium of Rotary Clubs in the news for February 26, 2019. Yesterday and today are tests to gauge the response to a daily news feed. It will take more time to establish the system to generate posts of this nature. Based on the response to the February 25, 2019 post it appears feasible to continue such a project.

Rotary Clubs in the News for February 25, 2019

Posted by John Borst on Feb 25, 2019

A compendium of Rotary Clubs in the news for February 25, 2019

Melissa Munn Explains Métis Nation Ontario Programs Available in Dryden

Posted by John Borst on Feb 24, 2019

Melissa Munn, the coordinator of the Community Action Program for Children (CAP-C) of the Métis Nation Ontario (MNO), described the services they offer out of their office at 34 King Street.

Rotary’s Obligation to Promote a Civilized Society

Posted by John Borst on Feb 22, 2019

Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., the esteemed Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1902 to 1932, left many opinions which guided the creation of civil society in America for much of the Twentieth Century.

To Hope or Despair, that is the Question?

Posted on Feb 21, 2019

I am proud to say I am an American because I have the good fortune to live in a country that listens and reports – it provides a journalistic communication mechanism which gives prominence to controversial personalities and their radical ideas. At the end of the day, when the disillusion with the status quo reaches a critical point, incredible change happens through the ballot box, and new ideas are put to the test for at least four years. At the individual level, the process can be so disruptive and painful that many want only that it will end. The first view offers hope; the latter only leads to despair.

The Importance of Wearing the Rotary Pin

Posted on Feb 19, 2019

I am a Japanese businessman, and I wear a suit almost every day. The Rotary pin is always on my lapel. It is there because I am proud to be a Rotarian. Anywhere I go, people will see the pin and know who I am. Other Rotarians will see it and know that I am a friend, and people who are not Rotarians will see it as well. I want to be sure that all of them also understand the meaning of this pin.

A REVOLUTION IN THE TYPES OF ROTARY CLUBS IS UNDERWAY

Posted by Elaine Thompson on Feb 18, 2019

Gone are the days when all Rotary Clubs met weekly over a meal and attendance was taken and tracked. Over the past decade, flexibility and innovation have become the mantra of Rotary International. And the grassroots have taken up the challenge of creating new ways for clubs to meet the demands of modern society and different cultures.

What Rotary can learn from AOC as symbol

Posted by John Borst on Feb 18, 2019

AOC, AOC, AOC: it’s a chant frequently heard throughout the United States since the November mid-term election. For those not of the USA, who do not follow American politics, AOC stands for Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. On January 3, 2019, she became the U.S. Representative for New York's 14th congressional district and at the age of 29, the youngest woman ever to serve in the United States Congress.

Rotary Adventures in Agriculture 2018 Another Success for Dryden Students

Posted on Feb 17, 2019

Cole Ford and Ashley Armit, two students from Dryden High School, attended the 2018 Rotary Adventures in Agriculture Program in Regina organised by the Rotary Club of Regina Eastview from November 21st - 25th, 2018.

Two Books on Rotary’s Four-Way Test Available at Amazon

Posted on Feb 17, 2019

Corrine Gregory and Wallis Zbitnew, two North American Rotarians have both written books on Rotary’s take on the golden rule. While the authors bring a different approach to the task of reflecting on how the “Test” can be used in life and work, they have the same goal to use it as a means to develop a more ethical and civilised society.

The Happy, Healthy Rotarian

Posted by John Borst on Feb 14, 2019

Are Rotarians happier and healthier than most people in society? Although I could find no article which definitively answers that question, there is plenty of evidence from research that volunteering in a community through an organisation makes you happy with the result that you are more likely to be healthier as well. It is especially true if the benefits that accrue are to your community.

Are Global Grants Distorting the Heart of Rotary?

Posted by John Borst on Feb 13, 2019

The heart of Rotary is the service club and the community in which it exists. People join first and foremost because they want to give back to their community. Finding fellowship and honing leadership skills are pleasant extras.

2 Comments

How Might a Philosophy Professor Analyse Rotary’s Four-Way Test

Posted on Feb 12, 2019

At a recent meeting, the Wilmington Rotary Club invited Wilmington College Philosophy Professor Ron Rembert to share his view of Rotary’s Four-Way Test as a philosopher.

3 Comments

The Biggest Problem That No One Talks About

Posted on Feb 11, 2019

Dr Pat Love speaking to the Rotary Club of Pagosa Springs, Colorado asked Rotarians to identify a malady which is more highly correlated with early morbidity than obesity, smoking and drug abuse and is also correlated with violence, careless acts and substance abuse.

WHY ROTARY'S PEACE INITIATIVE IS NEEDED MORE THAN EVER: AN INFOGRAPHIC

Posted on Feb 10, 2019

Researchers at the European Centre for Development Policy Management in a report arguing that while “the nature of conflict and violence is changing and old tools and approaches need rejuvenation, funding for peace-building, while increasing, actually remains low.” Worse, researchers say, support for such efforts is vulnerable to sudden domestic policy shifts inside donor states. “The current geopolitical flux will profoundly affect political support to peace-building,” E.C.D.P.M. researchers worry.

We the 4 is a blog on Rotary International, its clubs, districts, and Rotarians. It is a component of the Rotary Club of Dryden’s website where Rotarians can express opinions or information pieces on Rotary issues or experiences.

Opinions expressed on The Rotary Club of Dryden’s blog Wethe4 are those of the author or authors of the piece. The Rotary Club of Dryden takes no responsibility if any reader misinterprets the opinion of the author or authors to be that of Rotary International, its Zones, Districts or Clubs.

DREAM TEAM MAKING PROGRESS ON DRYDEN ARENA UPGRADE

Posted by John Borst on Feb 09, 2019

The Dryden Recreation Extension And Modification (DREAM) Committee has made excellent progress in raising funds for Dryden’s Recreation Centre comprised of two arenas, swimming pool and recreation facility.

An Idea from Saskatoon on What to do with Dryden’s Brownfields

Posted by John Borst on Feb 07, 2019

Do you know what a brownfield is? The Merriman Webster dictionary defines it as “a tract of land that has been developed for industrial purposes, polluted, and then abandoned..” Cambridge English lumps together “interstitial spaces, brownfields, disused industrial estate, railway lines and stations, abandoned ports, and plots in ruins as unproductive areas within the economic structure of the city which could potentially be used for temporary activities.

SIX HUMANITARIANS HONORED FOR THEIR WORK WITH REFUGEES

PUTTING THE PLUS IN POLIOPLUS

We’re doing so much more than eradicating polio

By Vanessa Glavinskas Photography by Andrew Esiebo

TRANSFORMING MATHEMATICS EDUCATION IN ECUADOR'S LOW INCOME SCHOOLS

By Octavio Jarrin R., member of the Rotary Club of La Puntilla, Ecuador and Keith E. Axtell, member of the Rotary Club of Marin Evening, United States

ROTARY 'VOCATIONAL TRAINING TEAM' PROGRAM A MEANS TO SUPPORT PEOPLE WITH AUTISM

by Dr. Corina Yatco-Guerrero, member of the Rotary Club of Sta. Ana (Davao), Philippines

WHAT THE ‘TOGETHER’ IN ROTARY’S VISION STATEMENT MEANS

Together, we see a world where people unite and take action to create

lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves.

— Rotary International Vision Statement

By Paddy Rooney, governor of District 7390 (Pennsylvania, USA)

The word which defines much of our world today is division. We are divided in so many ways by race or creed, ethnicity or belief, by gender or age or sexuality.

THE DUARTE STORY AS TOLD BY DR SYLVIA WHITLOCK

Author of Women Also Serve: Duarte Invites Women to Join Rotary tells her first person account of what it was like to be a woman Rotary pioneer.

It’s Time to Melt the “Frozen Middle” and create a “River of Hope”

Posted by John Borst on Feb 05, 2019

The issue of climate change and the melting of the polar caps is everywhere at this moment in history. However, according to one former Rotary International director Rotary has its ice cap. Rather than being found at either end of Rotary’s linear structure, it is according to the director found in the middle of its structure or to use a quote from a comment on FaceBook the “Frozen middle”.

Dryden High School’s “Four Directions” Program Doubles Indigenous Student’s Graduation Rate

Posted by John Borst on Feb 04, 2019

In the book All Our Relations: Finding the Path Forward, Tanya Talaga, explores the alarming rise of youth suicide in Indigenous communities in Canada, with a special emphasis on North Western Ontario. Part of that story is grounded in the abysmal history of Indigenous education from the late 19^th C, through the 20^th C until today.

1 Like

Shine for ShelterBox Dinner Raises Nearly $4000 for Emergency Disaster Relief Agency

Posted by John Borst on Feb 04, 2019

Seventy patrons from Dryden and North Western Ontario, attended a Shine for ShelterBox fundraiser at The Centre on the evening of January 30, 2019. ShelterBox is an emergency disaster relief agency which provides emergency shelter and tools for families robbed of their homes by disaster or conflict.

Rainbow Alliance Dryden supports LGBTQ2S+ community in the area

Posted by John Borst on Feb 03, 2019

Representatives Amanda Nisula and Meghan Winters of the Rainbow Alliance Dryden (RAD) spoke on how they support Dryden and area’s LGBTQ2S+ community.

2019 Dryden Rotary On-line Auction Set for April 8 -15

Posted by John Borst on Jan 28, 2019

Preparation has begun at the Dryden Rotary Club for the 2019 rendition of our Online Rotary Auction.

Proposal Made to Club to Start Livestreaming as a Means to Grow Membership

Posted by John Borst on Jan 28, 2019

Club member, John Borst, editor of the club's website, shared a presentation he put together titled “Live Streaming: Its time has Arrived.”

Dryden Hunter, the “Real Deal”

Posted by John Borst on Jan 24, 2019

Dryden hunter and entrepreneur, Marc Mcnay, owner of the Real Deal shared the story of his rise to prominence as a promoter of wildlife hunting.

1 Like

Let’s learn to keep it SIMPLE in Rotary design!

Posted by John Borst on Jan 14, 2019

Each year, no doubt at significant expense, Rotary creates a Presidential Theme and a logo to accompany it. Most, thank goodness, are immediately forgettable.

Let’s learn to keep it SIMPLE in Rotary design!

Posted by John Borst on Jan 14, 2019

Each year, no doubt at significant expense, Rotary creates a Presidential Theme and a logo to accompany it. Most, thank goodness, are immediately forgettable.

Volunteers Needed for Programs at Patricia Gardens

Posted by John Borst on Dec 24, 2018

“We are getting older and will eventually need many of the services provided by Patricia Region Senior Services Inc.” Joy Auren, the new Volunteer and Community Engagement Planner at Patricia Gardens, told Dryden Rotarians at their meeting on Wednesday.

1 Comment

Club President Peter Summarises Accomplishments at Mid-point in his Term

Posted by John Borst on Dec 16, 2018

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.

Horses at the Heart of ‘Horseshoe Connections’ Wellness Learning Program

Posted by John Borst on Dec 09, 2018

“Why Horses?” is the most frequent question Joyce and Meagan Gardner get asked when they describe what they do at Horseshoe Connections, an Equine-Assisted Learning Ranch.

Viherjoki and Graver tie for First Place in the 2018 Dryden Rotary Ian Nixon Memorial Public Speaking Contest

Posted by John Borst on Dec 02, 2018

This year two very confident young women from St. Joseph School tied for First Place in the Dryden Rotary Ian Nixon Memorial Public Speaking Contest. They are Kaitlin Viherjoki and Kira Graver. Both girls are in Grade 8.

McRotary’s Farm Grows in Ignace

Posted by John Borst on Nov 25, 2018

Who knew! The Mary Berglund Health Centre’s (MBHC) Community Garden has grown to include animals and redubbed McRotary’s Farm in honour of our club's support of its gardens and health project.

Remembrance, The Legion and Imagining War

Posted by John Borst on Nov 18, 2018

Ted Mitchell, a Dryden High School Teacher, and a member of the Oxdrift Legion ask Rotarians to “try to remember or imagine the world of a military person during war”.

Patricia Region Tourist Council Creates Interactive Digitized Version of their Famous Fishing Map

Posted by John Borst on Nov 18, 2018

Graham MacKenzie, the recently appointed Manager of the region’s sole tourism marketing association, the Patricia Region Tourist Council (PRTC) spoke to Dryden Rotary on the current state of the organisation.

Nutrition on Weekends Pilot Program Offered at St. Joseph's School

Posted by John Borst on Nov 15, 2018

The research is clear that a hungry child is at a clear disadvantage compared to a well feed child when it comes to school-based learning. Hence many jurisdictions have a breakfast program.

There are a few children, however, whose level of food security is such that they may not be getting enough food at home on the weekends.

Club learns about 2018 Rotary Adventures in Human Rights Program

Posted by John Borst on Nov 04, 2018

Rtn. Cynthia Palermo and student Samantha Meek, one of two DHS students, spoke to the club about the Rotary Adventures in Human Rights program they attended in the summer of 2018. Payton Zilkans also attended, however, was not available for the presentation.

Museum Curator Promotes Current Travelling Exhibit on Medical Records

Posted by John Borst on Nov 04, 2018

Bethany Waite, the curator of the Dryden and District Museum, has been in Dryden since 2017, right after completing an internship in Fort Frances during 2015-16

Dryden Rotary Club Donates 15K To Furnish New Hoshizaki House

Posted by John Borst on Oct 30, 2018

The Dryden Rotary Club is helping the reopened Hoshizaki House to furnish its new building.

Dryden Rotary 2018 Awards Night a celebration of our best Young Piano Students, Outstanding Community Volunteers and Club’s Paul Harris Fellows.

Posted by John Borst on Oct 27, 2018

Each year The Rotary Club of Dryden holds a special awards evening. The event occurs at The Centre with a dinner after which we move to the venues performance seats for the awards ceremony.

Local Chiropractor Neil McLeod shares his story with club members

Posted by John Borst on Sep 06, 2018

Neil McLeod, Northwestern Ontario born shared his vocational journey to becoming a chiropractor.

Exchange Student Lindsay Coles shares the story of her year in Belgium

Posted by John Borst on Aug 26, 2018

Dressed in her souvenier studded red blazer former DHS student Lindsay Cole shared highlights of her year in Belgium with Dryden Rotary.

Council makes progress on multiple fronts says, Mayor

Posted by John Borst on Aug 20, 2018

Mayor Greg Wilson provided the Club with an update on the “state of the City of Dryden.”

Ollerhead, Lutheran Parish Mission director briefs Rotarians on Haiti Initiative

Posted by John Borst on Aug 06, 2018

Terry Ollerhead of Dryden’s Lutheran Parish provided a brief update on their work in Haiti.

How to be ‘FireSmart’ if you live in a high-risk wildfire zone

Posted by John Borst on Jul 30, 2018

Malcolm Robertson, a local MNR officer, spoke on FireSmart a program about living with and managing for wildfire on our landscape and property.

And Your Name Is?

Posted by John Borst on Jul 26, 2018

Here is what happened when District Governor Elaine Thompson, met Elaine Thompson Rotarian extraordinaire of the Rotary Club of Dryden.

2 Comments

District Governor for 2018-19 starts her tour of clubs with Dryden.

Posted by John Borst on Jul 25, 2018

The 2018-2019 District Governor Elaine Thompson visited the Dryden club on July 4^th. Elaine and her husband Ed, a former Past District Governor, were travelling home to Winnipeg by RV after visiting the Rotary International Convention which was in Toronto from June 23- 27^th.

Dryden Tennis Club Needs Proper Facilities, says Pacheco

Posted by John Borst on Jul 23, 2018

Humberto Pacheco, speaking on behalf of Brian Eschbach President of the Dryden Tennis Club described how Dryden lacks the facilities of other local communities such as Kenora or Sioux Lookout. This lack of courts prevents DTC from holding local tournaments and improving our young players.

Maryn Wrolstad is Dryden’s Out-going Exchange Student for the 2018-19 year

Posted by John Borst on Jul 16, 2018

Maryn Wrolstad, Dryden’s out-going Exchange Student, will spend the 2018-19 school year, in Chelles, France. Chelles, France is in Rotary District 1770 just outside of Paris.

Maryn Wrolstad is Dryden’s Out-going Exchange Student for the 2018-19 year

Posted by John Borst on Jul 16, 2018

Maryn Wrolstad, Dryden’s out-going Exchange Student, will spend the 2018-19 school year, in Chelles, France. Chelles, France is in Rotary District 1770 just outside of Paris.

Maryn Wrolstad is Dryden’s Out-going Exchange Student for the 2018-19 year

Posted by John Borst on Jul 16, 2018

Maryn Wrolstad, Dryden’s out-going Exchange Student, will spend the 2018-19 school year, in Chelles, France. Chelles, France is in Rotary District 1770 just outside of Paris.

New Executive Installed for the 2018-2019 Rotary Year.

Posted by John Borst on Jul 04, 2018

The Rotary year extends from July 1 to June 30^th. As a result, a new executive is sworn in during the last meeting in June.

Dryden Rotarian Sally Sipos is a Leader in Habitat for Humanity Builds

Posted by John Borst on Jun 23, 2018

Sipos earns Dryden Club Zone award for her work with H4H.

Club member Sally Sipos who has been on 14 builds with Habitat for Humanity, shared her May 2018, experience in Macedonia with the Club.

Community Attacks Impaired Driving

Posted by Ed Iskra on Jun 04, 2018

In response to a spike in impaired driving arrests two years ago, Sergeant Michelle Teeple began to fight back galvanizing leaders and agencies in our community to form a group to tackle the issue of impaired driving.

Club learns the background on two new members

Posted by John Borst on Apr 26, 2018

One of the customs of a Rotary Club is for a new member to give a talk on their vocation. Such short speeches have become known as a “vocational talk”. Although members are expected to focus on their “work,” there is a large autobiographical component to most talks.

Bob Macdonald and Donna Pollock gave their talks at the April 11^th meeting.

Club learns the background on two new Club learns the background on two new members

Posted by John Borst on Apr 26, 2018

Bob Macdonald and Donna Pollock gave their talks at the April 11^th meeting.

Public School Board’s ‘Hockey Canada Dryden Skills Academy’ Explained to Club

Posted by John Borst on Apr 10, 2018

Bill Reid, a KPDSB teacher and leader of the Hockey Canada Dryden Skills Academy shared the history and goals of the program.

Clearer Financial Picture for New Seniors’ Residence is Emerging

Posted by John Borst on Mar 18, 2018

Harry Funk, Capital Coordinator, for Bridge Roads Development (BRD) described the progress he and his company are making to bring Dryden its first new seniors housing development in over thirty-five years.

How a visit to a Dryden Concert lead one Resident into Disaster Relief

Posted by John Borst on Mar 15, 2018

During the past year, Dryden born and bred resident Kendra Saville accepted an invitation from Rotarian Susan Reany-Iskra, a co-worker at the Dryden Fire Management Centre, to attend the Rotary-sponsored Mudmen concert.

Club Disperses nearly $54,000 to area community projects

Posted by John Borst on Mar 15, 2018

At its March 1^st, meeting The Rotary Club of Dryden members approved the giving out of $53,480 to various projects in the communities of Northwestern Ontario.

Dryden Rotary’s Cynthia Palermo shares an inspiring vocational talk with the club

Posted by John Borst on Mar 02, 2018

Cynthia was born in Dryden, the oldest of two girls of Brian & Fatima Davidson. Being raised in a family with a stay at home Mom, she learned the importance of saving at an early age.

Second Chance Pet Network expands catchment area to 50% of Canada

Posted by John Borst on Mar 02, 2018

According to Cynthia Seitz, a director with Dryden’s Second Chance Pet Network, the organisation now takes in dogs and cats from an expanded region including 50 First Nation reserves, Northern Manitoba, and Nunavut

ShelterBox Journey

Posted by Ed Iskra on Feb 12, 2018

During her 20 seasons dealing with forest fire emergencies, Kendra Saville (left) witnessed first hand the devastation, turmoil and upheaval caused by wildfires across Canada.

Managing Dryden’s Forestlands is a Never Ending Balancing Act

Posted by John Borst on Feb 06, 2018

Jack Harrison, the forestlands manager at Domtar, gave us an update on the woodlands component of Dryden’s pulp mill.

Ice Dogs Hockey Club to Host the Dudley Hewitt Cup in 2018

Posted by John Borst on Feb 06, 2018

Mike Sveinson, a former Rotarian provided a brief background on the Ice Dogs Hockey Club and the upcoming Dudley Hewitt Cup.

Club Gears Up for Annual Online Auction

Posted by John Borst on Feb 06, 2018

Dryden Rotary’s online auction will take place in 2018 from April 10^th to 17^th.

Rotarian and Past Club president, Brian Braid will chair the 2018 fundraising event.

With Two New Members, Club Reaches Two Milestones

Posted by John Borst on Feb 06, 2018

The ‘New Year,’ wasn’t the only reason Dryden Rotarians had to celebrate, as 2018 began. January 2018 will stand out in the history of the Club, as the year it reached parity between men and women.

LeeAnn Benson: Another “From Away and Stay” Rotarian

Posted by John Borst on Dec 27, 2017

Another story of a Rotarian from “Away”, takes a short-term job in Dryden and then stays. That’s a common theme of many residents of this town and it’s part of LeeAnne Benson’s vocational story too.

Dryden Rotarians Organize to Support Meals on Wheels in 2018

Posted by John Borst on Dec 21, 2017

For the past decade, Dryden Rotarians have been delivering Meals on Wheels on weekends as a service to the community.

Lutherans to establish support group for caregivers of people with dementia

Posted by John Borst on Dec 21, 2017

Louise Fisher of Dryden’s Lutheran Church shared with Dryden Rotarians a new program the church is about to start for the caregivers of people with dementia.

Club’s Website Grows by Over 300% in 2017

Posted by John Borst on Nov 30, 2017

The Rotary Club of Dryden has seen excellent growth in both the number of pages viewed and the number of visitors during 2017.

Hoshizaki House is focus of meeting on November 29

Posted by John Borst on Nov 29, 2017

Executive Director Terri Fedorchuk, brought us an update on the changes taking place at Dryden’s crisis shelter for abused women and their children.

ClubRunner Creates App for Dryden Members on the Go

Posted by John Borst on Nov 23, 2017

ClubRunner, the platform on which DrydenRotary.org runs, has announced that the ClubRunner Mobile App is available for download!

Club Listens to the 2017 Dryden Rotary Public Speaking Contest Winners

Posted by John Borst on Nov 22, 2017

Each year Dryden Rotary sponsors a public speaking contest. Each school in the Dryden area from both the Keewatin-Patricia DSB and the Northwest CDSB participate. Rotarians act as the judges.

In Memory of Veterans, Local Rotarians Share Connections to Our Military

Posted by John Borst on Nov 19, 2017

With Remembrance Day 2017 approaching, club Rotarians shared their family connections to our past and current military.

Rotary Exchange Students Deliver a Pleasant Surprise to the Community of Churchill

Posted by Ed Iskra on Nov 18, 2017

Each year, The Rotary Club of The Pas organizes a trip to Churchill Manitoba for Rotary Youth Exchange students to see polar bears in the wild. But this year has been exceptionally hard.

Rotary President Puts Focus on Environment and Peace in 2018

Posted by John Borst on Nov 17, 2017

This month as we do each year, we celebrated Remembrance Day on November 11^th. It is appropriate on such days to remind all Rotarians that “Rotary is dedicated to six areas of focus to build international relationships, improve lives, and create a better world to support our peace efforts and end polio forever.”

Royal Conservatory Students Entertain Rotarians at Paul Harris Fellowship Night

Posted by John Borst on Nov 05, 2017

As has become customary at the Paul Harris Fellowship evening, the winning students of the annual Dryden Royal Conservatory piano competition and sponsored by Dryden Rotary, played their winning numbers for members of the club.

ShelterBox Reaps Benefit of a Fun Concert

Posted by John Borst on Nov 01, 2017

ShelterBox, a supplier of crisis shelter tents, and an official partner of Rotary International is richer by 2 ShelterBoxes after Dryden Rotary’s concert staring The Mudmen, a Celtic rock band featuring none other than two bagpipers.

CLUB HONOURS TWO DRYDEN CITIZENS WITH PAUL HARRIS FELLOWSHIPS

Posted by John Borst on Oct 31, 2017

Among the highest tribute, Rotarians can pay a non-Rotarian resident of a community is with a Paul Harris Fellowship. At its meeting on October 25^th, Dryden Rotary honoured Willene Moffat and Jim Shearer.

The award honours those who exemplify the Rotarian motto “Service Above Self”.

Paul Harris Fellowships Awarded to Seven Members; One Posthumously

Posted by John Borst on Oct 25, 2017

On the evening of October 25^th six of our Rotarians Jeannie McMaster, Patricia Rigey, Patricia Vann, Pam Brown, Clare Thompson, & John Carlucci, were also awarded Paul Harris Fellowships having contributed $1000 to The Rotary Foundation.

Rtns McMaster and Plomp, Promote Mudmen ShelterBox Event on CKDR

Posted by John Borst on Oct 22, 2017

Jeannie McMaster and Mardie Plomp were guests on the CKDR Morning Show Friday to announce that all proceeds from the Mudman concert will support their 'Shelter Box' program.

Dryden Students Report on new ‘Rotary Adventures in Human Rights’ program

Posted by John Borst on Oct 18, 2017

Two Dryden High School students, Abbey Taylor and Sarah Becker were the first Dryden students to take part in a new Rotary District 5550 program called “Rotary Adventures in Human Rights” (RAHR).

Leanna Bullock shares her ‘Vocational’ Talk with Club

Posted by Leanna Bullock on Oct 05, 2017

During a new members’ first few months, they are required to provide club members with a brief account of their life and work. Here are a couple of excerpts from the vocational speech by Rotarian Leanna Bullock.

A Rotary Life Lived: An Interview with ‘Rolly’ Swan on the occasion of his 90th birthday

Posted by John Borst on Oct 04, 2017

This is the first in a series of interviews paying tribute to long serving Rotarians.

CLUB BRINGS ‘CANADA’S ROCK WARRIORS’ TO DRYDEN FOR SHOW OCTOBER 28TH

Posted by John Borst on Oct 03, 2017

Rotary Club of Dryden presents Mudmen – Canada’s Rock Warriors fundraising in support of Hurricane Relief through Shelter Box.

Canadian Troubadour, Jon Brooks to appear at Midtown Stage November 9th

Posted by John Borst on Oct 03, 2017

Club Rotarian, John Borst has arranged for the Canadian singer Jon Brooks to appear at The Midtown Stage on the evening of November 9, 2017, as he tours Western Canada.

Club’s 2017-18 Exchange Student Shares her Country, Family and Dreams

Posted by Ed Iskra on Sep 21, 2017

Varja LindstrÖm gave us a little insight as to who she is, her family and where she was from. Varja means “Wolf”.

Club Mourns Passing of Past-President Bill Beatty

Posted by John Borst on Sep 20, 2017

William (Bill) Beatty, age 90 years, passed away surrounded by his family on September 19^thafter a long battle with Pulmonary Fibrosis.

A Memorial Funeral service to celebrate Bill’s life will be held Monday, September 25^th at 11:00 a.m. in the First United Church with Rev. Erin McIntyre and Alice Bloomfield officiating. Interment will follow in the Dryden Cemetery.

Rotarians Pitch-In at the City of Dryden’s Hazardous Waste Day

Posted by Ed Iskra on Sep 14, 2017

On September 9, 2017, nineteen Rotarians and friends volunteered their time helping the City of Dryden with its Household Hazardous Waste Day event.

Club’s 2017-18 Exchange Student Shares her Country, Family and Dreams

Posted by John Borst on Sep 13, 2017

Varja Lindström gave us a little insight as to who she is, her family and where she lives. Varja means “Wolf”.

Sarah Wood reports on Rotary Exchange Year in Brazil

Posted by John Borst on Aug 30, 2017

Dryden High School student, Sarah Wood, during 2016-17 did a year long Rotary sponsored student exchange in João Pessoa, the capital of the state of Paraíba in Brazil.

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Former Rotarian Bill Beatty celebrates 90th birthday

Posted by John Borst on Aug 16, 2017

Rotarians Rena Madden, Joanne Misner and Joanne Bunney took former Rotarian Bill Beatty out to The Lodge for his 90th birthday. Bill served as club president in 1987-88.

Borst is first speaker in club’s ‘Spotlight’ Program

Posted by John Borst on Aug 16, 2017

Club Rotarian, John Borst provided a brief updated vocational as part of President Ed’s "Spotlight" Program. Although the idea was to speak for only 3 minutes, in the absence of the planned speaker, Borst was encouraged by the chair, to speak a little longer.

ClubRunner's place among the 4 major RI website providers

Posted by John Borst on Jun 11, 2017

This slide share from the RI Atlanta Convention provides a comparison of data for Club Collaborator, DACdb, Roster on Wheels and ClubRunner

Just how close is “This close!” in Rotary’s eradication of Polio campaign

Posted on May 17, 2017

“The finish line is in sight!” says R.I., V.P. Jennifer Jones in this TED Talk – PurdueU video. Watch this 15 minute talk to learn how Rotary got into the business of the eradication of polio, the sheer magnitude of organizational effort required to save millions of lives, and how threats and violence have been responded to by those doing the immunization in the three countries that remain.

Club Celebrates 75 years of Rotary in Dryden

Posted by Will Vermeer on May 14, 2017

Approximately 100 Rotarians and guests converged on The Centre in Dryden on April 22nd for the celebration of 75 years of Rotary in Dryden.

THE DRYDEN CAMPUS STORY OF CONFEDERATION COLLEGE

Posted by John Borst on Apr 26, 2017

The quality of any community is measured by the educational opportunities available to its citizens. Forty-two years ago Dryden became the second Northwestern Ontario community to establish a satellite campus of Thunder Bay’s Confederation College which had been established just eight years earlier.

Club inducts two new members

Posted by John Borst on Apr 19, 2017

April 19^th saw the induction of two new Dryden Rotarians: Leanna Bullock and Lee Ann Benson.

Treasury Metals projects production start in 2020

Posted by John Borst on Apr 12, 2017

2020 is the year the Treasury Metals Gold and Silver mine is projected to go into production mine Vice-President Norm Bush told the Dryden Rotary club at the April 12^th meeting.

Ice Road Hauling in NWO: the Real Story

Posted by John Borst on Apr 05, 2017

Al Skene, President of Skene Transfer and Supply, using video shared the story of what hauling freight across ice roads in North Western Ontario is really like

Of the Four Questions in the 4-Way Test which is most important and why?

Posted on Mar 27, 2017

by Corrine Gregory

Last week I asked my Rotary newsletter members this intriguing question. The answers I received were very interesting, particularly since everyone seemed to have a very passionate opinion about why "of course it HAS to be Question X!"

Roy Napish Shares Indigenous Cultural Views with Club

Posted by John Borst on Mar 22, 2017

Guest speaker Roy Napish, shared an oral history of his culture, comments on the role of treaties and his experience with residential schools.

Blight Provides Club with a Glimpse of Mill’s Future

Posted by John Borst on Mar 15, 2017

Jim Blight, General Manager of local Domtar mill, provided the club with an overview of the current Domtar operations and their future plans to transition to local operations.

Clare Thompson shares stories from the club’s past

Posted by John Borst on Mar 08, 2017

Clare Thompson, the Club’s only Past District Governor, shared interesting and humourous insights on the history of Dryden Rotary over the past 40 years ago.

MP Robert Nault brings a political update to club

Posted by John Borst on Mar 01, 2017

MP Robert Nault was here to bring us an update on activities in Ottawa, but first he wished the Rotary club a Happy 75th birthday and then mentioned Canada’s 150^th anniversary.

Club Receives Update on DRHC, CT Scanner Campaign at First Annual Spaghetti Dinner Evening

Posted by John Borst on Feb 15, 2017

It was the club’s first spaghetti dinner evening. Rtn. Chuck Schmitt presented a preview of the next fundraising drive at the hospital for a new CT Scanner as well as an update at the hospital’s hirings.

Walter’s Auto Body donates $1000.00 in Memory of Walter Denzler the Company’s Founder.

Posted by John Borst on Feb 15, 2017

Rtn. Joanne Bunny presented President Carl Eisner with a $1000.00 donation from Walter’s Auto Body in memory of past Rotarian Walter Denzler, the founder of Walter’s Auto Body.

Carmela Fyfe shares family history with club

Posted by John Borst on Feb 08, 2017

Rotarian “Carm” Fyfe as her “vocational” talk shared her family history with the club on February 8^th.

Carmela was born in Italy and came over to Canada with her parents and three sisters. They first settled in Molson MB. One was later born in Ontario after her father transferred to Wabigoon.

Spaghetti Fundraiser at the Centre

Posted by Ed Iskra on Jan 30, 2017

Everyone is invited to a Rotary Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser to be held from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm on Saturday, February 11th, 2017 at the Dryden Regional Cultural and Training Centre. For $20.00 you can experience Carm's delicious home-made pasta dinner, plus salad, garlic bread, and dessert.

Tickets are available at the Centre or by calling 220-1105 or 223-4345

Jim Shearer brings Club an up-date on the work of the Dryden Mission

Posted by John Borst on Jan 25, 2017

Jim Shearer of the Dryden Mission brought us an update on the progress of his “mission”. He last presented in 2012.

The Mission is now a registered charity existing to help families and individuals find a relationship with Jesus Christ through “Serving One Another with Love".

MAG Logistics buys Discovery Air

Posted by John Borst on Jan 18, 2017

Wednesday’s guest speaker was Tom Ball of MAG Logistics. Ball provided background on MAG Logistics’ September 8, 2016, agreement with Discovery Air to buy DA’s Fire Services business. Final details and regulatory filings are expected shortly to finalize the deal.

Rotarian Plomp takes on Information Referral Coordinator role in Ontario’s ‘Better Justice Together’ Program

Posted by Ed Iskra on Jan 16, 2017

Mardi Plomp is now a regional Information Referral Coordinator with the Ministry of Attorney General who helps people experiencing a family break-up access the right information they need.

Her new job is part of a “Better Justice Together” program put out by the Ministry of Attorney General to ensure that access to the court system is cheaper, easier to navigate, faster and brings an integrated feel to it allowing justice partners to share and access information.

DHS students Gouliquer and Carr report on the 2016 Adventures in Agriculture Program

Posted by John Borst on Jan 15, 2017

Jakeob Gouliquer and Devon Carr, the 2016 Adventures in Agriculture students from DHS reported on their involvement in Adventures in Agriculture Program, November 23 - 27, 2016 in Regina.

Their PowerPoint provided pictures of equipment - the first being a John Deere tractor that costs about $850,000.

6 key numbers in the fight to end polio

Posted on Jan 13, 2017

Editor’s note: the following article was first published at the World Economic Forum

By John Hewko, General Secretary Rotary International

We are close to eradicating a human disease for only the second time in history. A global public-private partnership has reduced the poliovirus caseload by 99.9% over the last 30 years, but there’s still plenty of work to do.

Even before we reach that milestone, the knowledge and infrastructure built to fight polio is being repurposed to take on other global challenges.

Rotarian since 1969, Walter Denzler, passes away.

Posted by John Borst on Jan 10, 2017

It is with deep regret that The Rotary Club of Dryden shares with you the loss of a brother Rotarian, Walter Denzler. Walter joined Rotary on October 24, 1969, and just retired from the club on December 1, 2016, a run of 47 years. We will remember him as the person who led us each week in the singing of O' Canada. His obituary follows:

Club’s longest serving member Walter Denzler, retires

Posted by John Borst on Dec 21, 2016

For our final meeting of 2016, Dryden Rotarians visited Princess Court to share lunch with Rtn. Walter Denzler who has been a Rotarian since October 24^th 1969 and retired this month.

Dryden Rotarians Apprised of Meals on Wheels Growing Needs

Posted by John Borst on Dec 14, 2016

Rotarian, Kim Anderson-Fuerst, the club’s organizer of our contribution to the Dryden Meals on Wheels (MOW) program. Kim brought us up-to-date on the programs growing need as well as refreshed our memories on the way the program is delivered.

Club approves budget for Tri-club Northern Literacy project

Posted by John Borst on Nov 30, 2016

Rtns Jeannie and Jack McMaster provided an update on the Tri-Club northern literacy project.

The three Rotary clubs in Northwestern Ontario namely Dryden, Kenora and Sioux Lookout have agreed to jointly fund a literacy initiative to provide books to the school at Sandy Lake First Nation.

Club hears update on Pine Ridge Seniors housing initiative

Posted by John Borst on Nov 30, 2016

At the Nov. 30^th meeting Rtn. Mel Fisher provided an update on the 22 unit Pine Ridge Seniors housing project planned for the lot across from 330 Van Horne.

2016 Dryden Rotary Performing Arts Awards

Posted by John Borst on Nov 23, 2016

For the first time in many years, Dryden Rotary’s Performing Arts Evening was not held at The Centre, Dryden’s performing arts venue.

OPP’s Teeple shocks club with area drinking and driving stats

Posted by John Borst on Nov 16, 2016

Michelle Teeple of the OPP startled Dryden Rotary with some eye-opening statistics on drinking and driving in the Dryden area.

Teeple, a police officer for 23 years, thought drinking and driving by young people was on the decrease until she went into liquor store last May and found it almost bare so asked an employee why?

Virtual ‘Spirit Walk’ puts focus on a veteran this Remembrance Day

Posted by Will Vermeer on Nov 09, 2016

After a preliminary outline of the origins of Remembrance Day, Rtn. Will Vermeer gave us an indoor “Spirit Walk”, that is a story about a veteran buried in the Dryden cemetery.

Six Dryden Rotarians Graduate from the Rotary Leadership Institute

Posted by John Borst on Nov 09, 2016

In 1992 a group of far sighted Rotarians saw the need for members of Rotary clubs to better train future leaders. In that year a grassroots coalition of Rotary districts implementing a leadership development program for "potential" leaders of Rotary clubs. It is called the Rotary Leadership Institute of RLI for short.

Dryden Soccer Fields at Rotary Park receive NOHFC grant for multi-use complex.

Posted by John Borst on Nov 08, 2016

On Tuesday, November 8^th, 2016 MPP Bill Mauro, Ontario’s Minister of Municipal Affairs, was in Dryden to present a cheque from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) for $124,000.00 to Gary Nichol of the Dryden Soccer Association.

POLIO IN PAKISTAN: IMMUNIZING A POPULATION ON THE MOVE

Posted on Nov 03, 2016

By Devin Thorpe

From the October 2016 issue of The Rotarian

Dressed in a black burqa under a blazing sun with temperatures topping 100 degrees, Hina is going from house to house, knocking on doors. Plastered against the walls of the mud-brick homes, neat rows of hand-patted dung cakes dry in the sun to be used for cooking fuel. Open sewers stagnate beside the uneven dirt roads where children play.

Henry Wall of Kenora District Services Board briefs club on its work

Posted by John Borst on Nov 02, 2016

Henry Wall, our guest speaker and CAO of the Kenora District Services Board spoke on the mandate of the Board (KDSB).

Wall began with a brief history of KDSB and its origins in the District Social Services Administration Boards Act of 1998. Its mission is “Dedicated to Improving Lives”.

Celebrate Rotary Foundation Month

Posted on Nov 02, 2016

By Kalyan Banerjee, Foundation Trustee Chair 2016 - 17

Back in 1956, the Rotary International Board of Directors designated a week in November urging all clubs “to devote a programme to The Rotary Foundation.” In 1982, the Board determined that the entire month of November should be dedicated to the Foundation.

Arch Klumph’s Revolution

Posted on Nov 02, 2016

By John F Germ, President, Rotary International

Looking back at the momentous 1917 Rotary Convention in Atlanta, it is difficult to see what could have been contentious about the words of then-President Arch C. Klumph: “It seems eminently proper that we should accept endowments for the purpose of doing good in the world.”

What does it mean to be human?

Posted on Nov 02, 2016

What does it mean to be human?

By Misaki Otani, member of Interact in District 5170 (California, USA)

Big changes coming to RI in next few years

Posted by John Borst on Oct 27, 2016

The second 2016–17 RI Board of Directors meeting was held from 19–22 September, 2016. At this meeting the Board reviewed 12 committee reports and recorded 64 decisions.

Dryden Go-Getters’ Centre Seeks to Expand

Posted by John Borst on Oct 26, 2016

The guest speaker at the October 26^th meeting was Jack Nesbitt of the Dryden Go-Getters.

Jack, a retired teacher of 34 years, is a former resident of the City of Dryden who left in 1959 and returned in 2014.

Dryden Airport, Focus of Club on October 19th

Posted by John Borst on Oct 12, 2016

Norman Sanders, manager of the Dryden Regional Airport (DRA) spoke to the club about the future of our municipal airport.

2016-17 Exchange Student, Katarina Närhinen, shares her story with club.

Posted by John Borst on Oct 05, 2016

Katarina began her talk by telling us a little about her home country Finland.

Three students from the Northern Ontario School of Medicine share their stories

Posted by John Borst on Sep 28, 2016

Katherine Campbell, Director, Planning, Integration and Service Quality at the Dryden Regional Health Centre (DRHC) introduced three medical students from the Northern Ontario School of Medicine (NOSM) Virginia McEwan, Krista Dowhos, and Lauren Turner.

All three are third-year students and provided the club with a background story on their journey on the road to becoming a doctor. Although all are our speakers are women about 40 percent of the NOSM students are men.

2016 RYLA students share their experience with club members

Posted by John Borst on Sep 21, 2016

Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) students, Mitch Turcotte, Sarah Urquhart, Jenna Stuart, and Jailla Stuart of Dryden shared videos they made at this year’s RYLA camp.

Dryden Rotary Receives Award for Business Celebrating Youth

Posted by Ed Iskra on Sep 18, 2016

At its 2016 Business Excellence Awards gala on September 17th, members of the local Chamber of Commerce voted to award the Rotary Club of Dryden its "Business Celebrating Youth" award for its support of area youth projects.

Dryden Rotarian part of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging

Posted by John Borst on Sep 07, 2016

Dryden Rotarian, Brian Kenny is part of a study at McMaster University on the effects of aging.

District Governor, Rod Riopel visits club

Posted by John Borst on Jul 27, 2016

2016-17 District Governor (DG), Rod Riopel has been a Rotarian since 1996. Besides having been President of the Kenora Club he has held other positions in the club as well.

Amarok Society Introduces Club to Rahima, a mother sponsored by the Dryden Club.

Posted by John Borst on Jul 27, 2016

[The Dryden club was in receipt of this letter of thanks from Barbara Melara, President, Amarok Society Board of Directors]

Dear Rotary Club of Dryden

We are really pleased to introduce you to Rahima, the mother/student you are sponsoring!

Artist Willene Moffat Shares Techniques of her work in glass

Posted by John Borst on Jul 11, 2016

Local artist, Willene Moffatt spoke to Rotary about her work as an artist.

Moffatt has gone through various forms of art from pottery to painting and is now working mostly with stained glass.

Police Chief Palson Introduces himself & his approach to policing to club

Posted by John Borst on Jun 12, 2016

Dryden's new police chief Doug Palson was our feature speaker at our June 8th meeting.

Chief Palson was raised in the Interlake area in Manitoba, is of Metis descent, and is a graduate of the University of Manitoba and Brandon University.

2015-16 Exchange Student Sandra Hraskova Reviews Her Stay in Canada

Posted by John Borst on Jun 10, 2016

Sandra gave us a wonderful oral and pictorial history of her time in Canada.

Her presentation alternated between showing PowerPoint pictures and telling stories of her experience.

Challenges and rewards of being a member of the Provincial Legislature

Posted by John Borst on May 30, 2016

Sarah Campbell our MPP was here to describe the challenges and rewards of being a provincial member of parliament.

One such reward is seeing one of your private member’s Bill passed such as her most recent an item on tracking progress on the twinning of Highway 17 between Kenora and the Manitoba border.

Challenges and rewards of being a member of the Provincial Legislature

Posted by John Borst on May 29, 2016

Sarah Campbell our MPP was here to describe the challenges and rewards of being a provincial member of parliament.

One such reward is seeing one of your private member’s Bill passed such as her most recent an item on tracking progress on the twinning of Highway 17 between Kenora and the Manitoba border.

Deanna Pacheco does ‘vocational talk’ with little notice.

Posted by John Borst on May 29, 2016

Deanna Pacheco stepped forward to do her vocational talk when the meeting room was switched to the lounge. A vocational talk gives an opportunity for a new member to tell other club members a little about what you do for a living and a bit about your personal history.

Transforming the Dryden Area Health Care System

Posted by John Borst on May 17, 2016

Guest speakers for May 11^th were Kim Vares and Chuck Schmitt from the Dryden Regional Health Centre (DRHC) who spoke on Transforming the Local Health Care System and the issue of raising funds for capital improvements.

Update on Literacy Program in Dhaka Slums Wows Club Rotarians

Posted by John Borst on May 11, 2016

Gem Munro was here to give us an update on the Amarok Society (AS) and their work which has been supported by funds from our Rotary club

Kenora Rotarians Update the Club on the Ripple Effect Literacy Initiative

Posted by John Borst on May 01, 2016

Gord LeMaistre and John Beringer of the Kenora Rotary club were present to provide an update and a brief history of the Ripple Effect Program (REP) and our club’s involvement.

The Ripple Effect Program is committed to creating a rich learning environment, with sustainable schools and the hope for a brighter future for children in Guatemala.

Paul Harris Fellowship Awards Honour 3 Rotarians and 3 Community Citizens

Posted by John Borst on Apr 24, 2016

Memorial Paul Harris Given in Memory of Rotarian Willie Cheslock

Each Year the Dryden Rotary Club celebrates the founding of Rotary International by remembering its founder Paul Harris. This year the 111^th Anniversary of Rotary was no exception as a formal dinner was held at The Centre. The highlight of the evening was the awarding of 7 Paul Harris Fellowships.

Club makes major donation to the Dryden Food Bank

Posted by John Borst on Apr 17, 2016

Keith Grant, manager of the Dryden Food Bank provided a brief history of the Food Bank starting from the early days when some of our local churches saw a need to help a few families that were having hard times at Christmas time during the late 1980s.

Club Inducts Two New Members

Posted by John Borst on Apr 15, 2016

The highlight of the March 30^th meeting was the induction of our two newest members, Deanna Pacheco and Caryl Hron. Rotarian Will Vermeer conducted the ceremony after an introduction of the two members by their sponsor Rotarian Mardi Plomp.

Dryden Area Young Professionals Network Established

Posted by John Borst on Apr 12, 2016

Sheila Wilson, herself a young professional, was our guest speaker to talk about the Dryden Area Young Professionals Network (DAYPN)

The need to pay attention to and attract more young people to consider a business career in the Dryden area was identified by the DDDC in a 2014.survey of Dryden and area businesses.

Buying School Leads to the Unexpected in Quilting

Posted by John Borst on Mar 26, 2016

Guest speaker, Joan Schneider’s dive into the quilting business was much like not being able to swim when all of a sudden you are thrust into the water and have to learn in a hurry.

Her delve into quilting began when she and her husband were driving by the vacant Oxdrift Public School when her husband casually said they should “buy it”.

Club Supports DAARN with a Cheque

Posted by John Borst on Mar 23, 2016

At its meeting on March 16, 2016 The Dryden Rotary Club presented a cheque to the Dryden Area Anti-Racism Network (DAARN). The cheque was in the $2,500 to continue to improve race relations in Dryden and the surrounding area.

History of 'L’ll Bands' Hockey Tournament Shared with Club

Posted by John Borst on Mar 20, 2016

Ziggy Beardy, project officer with the Sioux Lookout Area Aboriginal Management Board (SLAAMB http://www.slaamb.on.ca/profile ) shared with Dryden Rotary a short history of the L’ll Bands Hockey Tournament that is now held in Dryden for a week each February.

Understanding of AODA Necessary for Meals on Wheels Volunteers

Posted by John Borst on Mar 15, 2016

Our program for Wednesday March 9^th featured Tammy Rollins speaking to Rotary on the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and how it applies to Patrician Gardens, its staff and volunteers.

Getting to Know the Editor of Dryden’s Weekly Newspaper, 'The Observer'

Posted by John Borst on Mar 06, 2016

When you are the editor of a small town weekly newspaper, people what to know what kind of guy or woman you are.

Locally, the editor of our town newspaper, The Dryden Observer is Chris Marchand. On Wednesday last, Chris shared a few highlights from his life story with Dryden Rotary

CMHA & DAFH Promote Dementia-Friendly Community

Posted by John Borst on Feb 28, 2016

Monique Watford and Lori Russell of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) and Susan Traini of the Dryden Area Family Health (DAFH)Team spoke to Dryden, Rotary about dementia, and the importance of building a dementia-friendly community.

Mayor Wilson Shares Plans for Dryden with Club

Posted by John Borst on Feb 22, 2016

Mayor Greg Wilson began his presentation with a portion of a report which had been requested by our Member of Parliament Bob Nault. The Trudeau Liberal government was looking for “shovel-ready” infrastructure projects.

Principles by which a Company Can Become Stronger, Competitive and Profitable

Posted by John Borst on Feb 11, 2016

James Blasé, a Partner with, Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) Consulting, and who serves clients across Manitoba and Northwest Ontario was our keynote speaker at the February 10^th meeting of Dryden, Rotary.

Club Gets Planning Update for Soccer Club House at Rotary Park

Posted by John Borst on Feb 08, 2016

At the February 3^rd Rotary luncheon, Gary Nickle gave the Rotary Club of Dryden a status update on the proposed change room facilities at the soccer fields in Rotary Park.

Remillard Describes the Creation of NEXUS Community Credit Union to Club

Posted by John Borst on Jan 27, 2016

Ernie Remillard, a hometown boy who left Dryden and came back after many years in Southern Ontario to head up the Northern Lights Credit Union as CEO in 2012 shared with the club NLCU’s merger with the Thamesville Community Credit Union (TCU) and the formation of a new credit union to be called Nexus Community Credit Union.

Assembly Updates Club on a Variety of Initiatives

Posted by John Borst on Jan 20, 2016

From time to time a club luncheon focuses on the business of the club rather than having a guest speaker. This is called an “Assembly”.

The January 20^th luncheon was such a meeting and was led by President Jack McMaster.

Adventures in Agriculture is a Big Deal in Western Canada, Eh!

Posted by John Borst on Jan 09, 2016

Izzy Harvey and Meghan Lovett were Dryden High School students visiting to tell us us bit about their time at Adventures in Agriculture, a program sponsored by the Club and District 5550.

Rotarian James Kroeker Entertains Club with his Life Story

Posted by John Borst on Dec 20, 2015

At some point shortly after joining Rotary each new member provides the club with a brief presentation of their life story. This is called a “vocational talk”. Thus on Wednesday December 16th Rtn. James Kroeker was called upon to share his “vocational talk.”

Annual Christmas Dinner: a photo opportunity

Posted by John Borst on Dec 15, 2015

Dryden Rotary held its annual Christmas family dinner, this year, at the Centre. As often happens Santa made his appearance much to everyone's delight.

Dryden Syrian Refugee Committee Visit Moves Rotarians to Respond Generously

Posted by John Borst on Dec 07, 2015

The Dryden Syrian Refugee Committee was formed when Drydenite, Jerry Wilson contacted Dr. Ghada Ibrahim because she was the only person of the Muslim faith he knew in Dryden.

After talking her into chairing the committee and creating a loose connection with the Lutheran Church community and partnering with the Mennonite Central Committee they now have a designated family to sponsor.

By Being a ‘Gift to the World’ Rotary Multiplies JOY

Posted on Dec 01, 2015

by K R Ravindran RI Pesident 2015-2016

When the Canadian army liberated the Netherlands in 1945, they found the country on the brink of starvation. Seeing the suffering of so many, and especially moved by the faces of the children, four Canadian privates stationed near Apeldoorn that year decided to make that Christmas special for as many Dutch children as they could.

Asked to join The Rotary Club of Dryden in 2000 by a Rotarian member whom I respected as an individual, I had limited knowledge of the service organization. My children were young and we were involved with a business which demanded much of my time. Perhaps because of these demands; and not being born and raised in this community with a wide circle of friends, prompted me to attend a meeting and expand ‘me’ as an individual. My subsequent joining of the organization and volunteering also impacted our children in a positive way through their own volunteer efforts at Habitat for Humanity and animal shelters.

Rotarians Spearhead Grass Roots Initiative which Sparks First New Seniors’ Housing in Dryden in Years

Posted by John Borst on Nov 29, 2015

With the help of the Rotary Club of Dryden, Dryden seniors are close to achieving the first new modern apartment complex in over 35 years.

The meetings speaker, our own Rotarian Mel Fisher, had been involved in an earlier attempt to develop a co-op complex under a “life-lease” concept, a form of seniors’ development popular in Manitoba.

2015 Performing Arts Evening Expansion Proves a Success

Posted by John Borst on Nov 19, 2015

2015's Dryden Rotary Performing Arts evening added more speakers and piano winners for the audience to listen to, with the result that over 70 Drydenites attended the dinner and performance of our community's youth.

YOUTH EXCHANGES

Are you interested in learning a new language or meeting new people? Rotary Youth Exchange is the opportunity of a lifetime for the more than 8,000 students who participate each year. By sharing your own culture and embracing a new one, you help foster global understanding—and learn a great deal about yourself and your home country in the process.

ROTARACT, INTERACT, AND RYLA

Leadership is an essential aspect of Rotary—and we offer both clubs and programs to help emerging leaders develop their skills. Through these groups, participants strengthen their leadership skills, serve their communities, increase their world understanding, build friendships, and more.

Dryden Rotary Losses Its Most Senior Member “Rolly” Swan

New Community Group Seeks to Create a “Fall Festival” in Dryden

Club Grows to Sixty-Four Members to Start Off 2020

Vocations: The Key to Rotary's Success in Our Community

New Member’s Career Path Follows the Heart

December is Disease Prevention and Treatment Month: A Need for Vigilance

Even with a vaccine more than 300 children die needlessly everyday from measles.

The Dryden Rotary Charity Foundation Approves Thirteen Grants Totalling $31,011

Are Women the Future of Dryden’s Most Vital Organizations?

Loss of Two Volunteer Organizations Requires Meals on Wheels in Dryden to Find New Volunteers

Ignace, Ontario Plans to be Canada’s Site for Used Nuclear Fuel

Rotary Day at the U.N. is November 9th

Annual Rotary Awards Evening a Time to Celebrate Many Accomplishments

Strategic Plan is Focus of DRHC CEO’s Operational Update

2019-20 Exchange Student ‘Lolly’ shares her background with the club

October 24 is Rotary End Polio Day-Give Today

Six Humanitarians Honored for their Work with Refugees

District 5550 Governor Fred Wright Visits Club and Puts Emphasis on the Reduction of Child Poverty

Putting the Plus in PolioPlus

We’re doing so much more than eradicating polio

Dryden Rotary Works with District and other Clubs to Create a Literacy Program in Bangladesh’s Urban Slums

Rotary 'Vocational Training Team' Program a Means to Support People With Autism

Transforming mathematics education in Ecuador's low income schools

2018-19 Rotary President to be Feature Speaker at District 5550 Conference

What the ‘together’ in Rotary’s vision statement means

Why the loss of ‘The Dryden Observer’ Matters

Club receives reports on Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) for 2019

Together Dryden Needs to Find a Solution to Our Youth Centre Crisis

Democracy is Set to Take a Giant Leap Forward in Dryden

Club Looking for Students Interested in Student Exchange in 2020

Dryden City Council Set to Webcast Meetings Starting in October 2019

Dryden Rotary Website to Become More Community Based

Poole Describes How the Salvation Army and Community Outreach Go Hand-in Hand

Dryden Youth Centre Needs Support if it is to Continue

Thunder Bay Runners Take First in We Run This City Half-Marathon

Full Race Results Published Here

Club Looses Member Marg Saville to Cancer.

‘We Run This City’, Dryden’s Premier Road Race, All Set to Go

WHAT CAN A ROTARIAN DO WHEN THERE IS NO COMPLAINTS POLICY?

‘WeLoveDryden’ - Show Your Hometown Pride on June 8

Links to Series on 2019 Council on Legislation Plus Concluding Comments

Sing-along with this Saskatoon-Nutana version of the Four-Way Test.

Did the Council make Rotaractors, Rotarians? No!

Results of Survey on Changing the Name of The Rotarian

The Duarte Story as told by Dr Sylvia Whitlock

High Tech Industries in Saskatoon Awe Dryden Students

What is wrong with this statement on women in Rotary?

Can Rotary Morph into a ‘Smart’ Organization?

Eight steps Rotary must take to be a "Smart" Organization

Rotary’s Chance to Right a Historic Injustice Fails

The Power of ‘Creating Memorable Rotary Events’

THE ACT OF GENEROSITY GROUNDED IN ROTARY - MELISSA'S STORY

FIREFLY PROVIDES WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES FOR CHILDREN, YOUTH, AND FAMILIES IN COMMUNITIES ACROSS NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO

COL takes small steps to streamline its proceedings but rejects the big one.

RI’s tax status changed from a 501(c)4 to a section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization under the US Internal Revenue Code.

Membership, RI Committees and Dues Provided Lots to Debate by COL Delegates

Marketing Rotary to Older Adults: Let’s Not Miss the Boat

A Short Study. Should RI change the name of its magazine, if so to what?

COL Motions on Our Magazines, Privacy and Past-Presidents Are a Surprise

Dear Nominating Committee for 2020-21 Replacement President-Nominee

COL Rejects Glorious Opportunity to Make Rotary More Democratic

Dryden’s Rotary Exchange Student in France, Maryn Wrolstad, Shares Her Latest Adventures

If you are a Victim of a Crime, you need to know about VCARS

Council on Legislation more active in adopting changes to Clubs

#RIWPNow! – Join the Campaign for a Woman President @RotaryWP

Council on Legislation Rejects All Changes to Rotary’s Avenues of Service, Object of Rotary, and Core Values

Sally Sipos work with Habitat for Humanity earns a Woman of Excellence Citation

# 5 of 30 Women of Excellence to celebrate 30 Years of Women in Rotary

It is time to replace the “Public Image Coordinator” with an “Integrated Communications Coordinator”

The Emergence of the Rotary Butterfly Begins on July 1st

A Short History of Women on Rotary's Board of Directors

Kaakewaaseya Justice Services and the Role of the ‘Gladue Report’

Rotary says 'Let's talk about diversity and inclusion'

Understanding the relationship between consent and veto between Canada and Its Indigenous Peoples

Community Support Centre NW Needs Help with Purchase of New Mobility Van

Apatisiwin Employment Counsellor for the Dryden Native Friendship Centre Explains Role to Rotarians