Financial Statements and New Member Induction – January 8th Meeting

Financial Statements and New Member Induction – January 8th MeetingBrian St. Hilaire presented the financial statements for year ending July 31st, 2025. The statements were reviewed by our auditors. The overall financial position is very positive. The financial statements were unanimously approved. Members were very impressed with the list of donations our Club has made to the community and internationally. It was agreed to share this good news with the public through a press release. Welcome to Rita Makubuya who was inducted into our Club. Her sponsor is Margaret Jarrell. She is a Family Mediator. She has volunteered with a number of local children’s camps. She is passionate about supporting the Club and greater community through volunteerism. ![]() |
Become a Rotary Star - November 27th, 2025As Rotarians, we believe in creating lasting change- both locally and Internationally. The Rotary Foundation is the engine that powers that change. Every year, thousands of grants are funded which brought clean water to communities, expanded education and supported peace building worldwide. When we think of investments, where else can you have your money doubled or tripled in such a short period of time to make a real lasting difference. With our reputation before us, it is no surprise the Rotary Foundation has for the 16th year in a row, received the highest 4-star rating as a charity. Our goal as a Rotary Club is to have every member supporting our Foundation. Whether it be by Rotary Direct making a monthly donation on a credit card or an annual donation of $35cdn or more to the Annual fund or Polio. Give the gift that will really keep on giving. Support your Rotary Foundation in whatever way you can. |
Exchange Student Presentation Night at the Lakeshore Club – October 8th
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Stay Curious and Don’t Just Click: Cyber Security – Oct 2nd meeting
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Celebrating the success of our Golf Tournament – Sept. 25th meeting
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Wendy Evans Classification Talk– September 11th meeting
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Rotary Auction Niagara 2025, International Guests and Buffalo Sunrise – September 4, 2025 MeetingRotary Auction 2025Julie shared an informative video on the upcoming Rotary Auction Niagara, outlining several important changes and improvements for 2025, including new features, policy changes and important dates. Our club keeps 100% of the proceeds from items that we bring. Julie asked members to review your past donor list and start soliciting contributions now and/or go out and get some new donors. Julie has sent all members the details along with links to timelines and documents. ![]() International GuestsRick Evans introduced two very special visitors, Fatima from Brazil and Jesper from Copenhagen – both former Rotary exchange students who visited our club 50 years ago and returned to reconnect. ![]() Buffalo Sunrise Rotary Club PresentationBryan Gibson and Sarah Baret joined us to share an overview of the Buffalo Sunrise Rotary Club which is 28 members strong. Their focus areas are Community gardens, local service projects and global initiatives. ![]() |
50 Year Anniversary of Exchange Student VisitAt the September 4th meeting Rick Evans had Fatima Barreto from Sao Paulo Brazil and Jesper Udsen from Copenhagen Denmark who were our club's inbound Rotary Exchange students 50 years ago! Rick presented them with a certificate, club banner and Ribfest t-shirts to mark the reunion. He has kept in touch all these years and they are staying with Rick and his family. A very special day for to have them here as Rick was also celebrating his birthday! ![]() ![]() ![]() |
New Budget, New Member and Recognition – July 24th MeetingBrian St. Hilaire presented the 2025/2026 budget. Our overall financial position is very positive. The budget was approved at the August 10th meeting. Audrey Wall was inducted into our Club. Her sponsor is Past President Jackie. Audrey is a Registered Nurse and has her own company. She has held leadership positions in non profit associations as well as with community groups. She sees Rotary as a way to contribute to humanitarian projects on a large scale and to build connections in the local and global community that creates a lasting impact. Past President Jackie presented the club with a Recognition Plaque that was presented to her by Margaret Tuhumwire, the Director of EWAD (Environmental Women in Action for Development) in Uganda. Our club has financially supported a much needed expansion and infrastructure in a school in a remote fishing village in Uganda, through a global grant. ![]() |
Yahoo! R.I. Convention in Calgary and focus on Club Committees – August 14th meeting
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Rotary International Convention June 2025 – Yahoo!
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2025 Rotary St. Catharines - CAA Annual Golf TournamentOn behalf of our Rotary Club of St. Catharines / CAA Niagara Golf Tournament Committee, I want to thank you all for making this year's tournament at Lookout Point such a huge success! Your commitment to this Tournament helped us raise over $34,000! These funds will be divided between Niagara Children's Centre and Distress Centre Niagara and will make a big difference in our community. We hope you enjoyed the day and took home good memories, a gift from us to you, and perhaps even a silent auction item! Thanks again for your support and we'll see you again next year! Trevor Van Nest on behalf of our Team. ![]() |
President's Celebration June 19thIt was a memorable evening and an opportunity to honour and thank President Jackie for her dedicated service over the past year. It was also a fun event as we chatted with members and guests to the sounds of James Carter’s tunes and enjoyed some great food. We were also treated to a comical Magic Show, in keeping with this year’s theme, by Show Biz Team Building’s Anthony Linden. Several “volunteer” Rotarians assisted with the magic tricks. Past President Oksana was our M.C. She spoke about Jackie’s high energy, her belief in Rotary’s mission and how she has worked tirelessly to facilitate the accomplishment of the Club’s goals and to make the meetings productive and enjoyable, focusing on the 5 factors of the Club experience. Of particular note was her engagement of the members through interviewing 52 members and following through on the results of a club survey. Jackie spoke to us about the highlights of the past year and all that the club has accomplished, along with some memorable photos. She thanked a number of individuals who had particularly helped her and the club membership for their support and commitment. She also thanked her family for their support. Jackie’s two daughters were in attendance. She presented the Complin cup to Past President Oksana for all of her efforts to ensure a smooth transition to the President’s role and her help throughout the Rotary year. Congratulations Oksana! Well deserved. Thank you, Jackie, for your great leadership this past year! |
Rotary Meeting June 5th – Amazing Youth
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Urkupina Bolivian Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Project GG2343050 Completed March 2025 The Urkupina Bolivian Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Project GG2343050 was completed in March 2025, thanks to the efforts of the Rotary Club of St. Catharines, Canada (District 7090) and the Rotary Club of Trinidad, Bolivia (District 4690), along with support from The Rotary Foundation. The project successfully provided fresh, clean drinking water to around 1,000 people in a rural Bolivian community. Key Achievements:
Contributors:Rotary Clubs from Canada, Bolivia, Brazil, Australia, the USA, and Barbados all played a role in making this project a success. The Rotary Foundation facilitated funding and expertise. A plaque at the base of the water tower commemorates the contributions of various Rotary Clubs, marking the gratitude of the Virgen de Urkupiña community. Representatives who visited the site—including Lezlie Murch, Rina Bergshoeff, and John Boot—experienced firsthand the community’s appreciation. If you're interested in supporting a Rotary Global Grant in Bolivia, you can contact LezlieMurch@gmail.com. |
Rotary Meeting April 24th, 2025At a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of St. Catharines, we had the privilege of hosting Jane LaVacca, Executive Director of Westview Centre 4 Women. Jane shared her remarkable journey and the impactful work being done at the Centre to support marginalized women in our community. Westview Centre 4 Women, located in St. Catharines' Queenston Street neighborhood, is a weekly drop-in center offering a safe and supportive space for women facing challenges like homelessness, low income, addiction, mental health issues, and the sex trade. Under Jane’s leadership, the Centre has expanded to address service gaps and provide comprehensive support. The Rotary Club of Niagara-on-the-Lake recently reinforced its commitment to supporting women by donating nearly $8,000 at the grand opening of Westview Centre 4 Women’s new location. This generous contribution highlights a shared dedication to empowerment and community upliftment. |
Great Lakes Watershed CleanupThis year’s cleanup coincided with Earth Day 2025, and I’m excited to share that our Rotary Club of St. Catharines once again be participated. Rather than organizing our own site, our Community Service Committee decided to join forces with the Rotary Club of St. Catharines Lakeshore for their cleanup event. This was a great opportunity to build Rotary fellowship while contributing to a cleaner, healthier environment right here at home.
A special thank you to Jackie, Melissa, and Grace for their dedication and participation in this meaningful initiative. Their efforts help make a lasting impact in our community, and we appreciate their commitment to creating a cleaner and greener St. Catharines! |
Breakdown of the 2025 Volunteering in the FutureThe conference was held on April 6th in Niagara Falls with a focus on volunteering. Our club was represented by President Jackie, Valerie Vanderhoeven, Rob and Nora De Petris, Sharon and Duncan Willock and Amin Osmani. Duncan and Amin were on the organizing committee. Bits, Bites and Benevolence was the fundraiser held on the Friday evening. There were games and karaoke. The highlight was Stompin Rob’s rendition of “Sudbury Saturday Night.” The conference, chaired by DG David Alexander focused on attracting and engaging volunteers in these times. Speakers included Lauren Ott, a leader in Social Impact, Jim Anderson, Peace activist and Ian Mc Cann Meridian’s Manager of Social Impact and Partnerships. Our district’s Exchange Students were well represented, marching into the conference with their flags. Students from our Interact Clubs also participated. The conference ended with an evening of fellowship including Bocce Ball and “Name that Tune.” Some of us dated ourselves by our knowledge of hits from the 70’s and 80’s. |
Behind the Scenes with the Public Image CommitteeThe Public Image Committee of the Rotary Club of St. Catharines is hard at work, ensuring the club’s story is heard. At a productive meeting on January 21st, the team brainstormed creative ideas for upcoming events like Rib Fest and the Golf Tournament, while planning engaging social media campaigns to showcase the club’s initiatives. [Read more…] |
Welcoming Sandra Downey to the Rotary FamilyThe Rotary Club of St. Catharines proudly welcomed its newest member, Sandra Downey, at a recent meeting. Sponsored by Trevor Van Nest, Sandra brings a big heart and a passion for service that will surely make a difference in our community. [Read more…] |
End Polio Now Flag RaisingMembers of the Rotary Club of St. Catharines, St. Catharines South, St. Catharine's Lakeshore and Interact Club from Collegiate High School gathered together to raise the flag and awareness of the End Polio Now campaign that is spearheaded by Rotary International. They were joined by Councillor Mark Stevens who gave some opening remarks along with our President Jackie and Interact President Rahaf Rifa who gave some remarks on behalf of the interact club highlighting the clubs' efforts to raise funds and awareness to support the campaign. |
Congratulations to Rick Vanderkuip - 100th Donation to Canadian Blood ServicesRick's answer when asked why? Why? We've all known/knew people who needed blood or plasma... who knows... we may need it someday ourselves... Why it takes no talent, no learning curve and costs only your time... and only at your convenience! Why? You can donate together with other Rotarians. Why? It is Service Above Self... just do it! The next one is in November! |
Rotary Auction Niagara
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Lincoln Centennial Breakfast ProgramMany of you may remember our vibrant breakfast program that ran last year. Well, the new school year is here, and we are starting up again as of October 7. To that end, we need volunteers to make it work. What is involved: Two volunteers would show up at 7:45am at Lincoln Centennial and put together a simple breakfast and serve to children. Preparation would take from 7:45 to 8:30am, serving to children would happen from 8:30 am to 9am, and clean up would happen from 9am to 9:15am. We are open to getting non-Rotarians and Rotarians at other clubs involved to make this work. If interested contact office@rotarystcatharines.com for more information. |
Supper Market - Community DayEven the big dark clouds could not deter President Jackie from talking up the Club at the at Hernder Estates’ Community Partner Supper Event! We are always open to new members! Thank you, Tommy Wegge, for also keeping the watch! |
Paul Haris AwardsFoundation Chair Rick Evans had the pleasant task of presenting PHF awards to Rotarian Sharon Willock and Mike Britton at the August 8th, 2024, meeting. An awarded PH means the recognition is given to an individual whose actions demonstrate our moto of "Service Above Self." Congratulations Sharon and Mike! |
Presentation of Boliva Travels by Lezlie and RinaHave you met these 2 Rotarians? These 2 ladies have been very busy creating Hope in the World and Magic! At the June 6th meeting Rotarians Lezlie Murch and Rina Bergshoeff took the members and guests on a whirlwind tour through their Bolivia trip. These two have a special connection to this country. Lezlie was an exchange student in 1973 and Rina came to Canada in 2004 from Bolivia and still has family there today. There are 6 major projects through Global Grants that have made a huge impact on the lives of many people. Total of projects: $317,196 USD The presentation touched on each incredible story as they visited each project and so many positive outcomes to so many people. They concluded with thanks to each and every Rotarian for making this possible! |
Rotary Medalist WinnersWhat a great afternoon presenting the certificates and cheques to these Rotary Medalist winners at the May 9th meeting. From left to right is President Oksana Fisher, Olivia Breakspeare, Edward McTague, Juan Clavijo Caicedo and Rotarian Rob DePetris. |
50 Years of Service Art WingCongratulations to Art Wing for 50 years of service with the Rotary Club of St. Catharines. While he was unable to join us at the Paul Harris Gala on May 2nd, 2024, a $1000 Legacy certificate was presented in his honour. This is the true meaning of Service above Self.
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A Paul Harris Celebration EveningMay 2nd, 2024, Save the Date! The 3 St. Catharines Rotary Clubs are hosting a Paul Harris Celebration Evening. We will be honouring individuals and organizations within our community. Ticket information has now been updated and is limited to 120. The cutoff for ordering is April 19th, 2024. We look forward to seeing you! Please follow the link attached to Eventbrite for tickets and information. |
Here We Grow Again!!Rotary St. Catharines has inducted 5 new members since Nov 2023; including 2 on Feb 22. Welcome to Rotary St. Catharines Liz Palmieri, Kim Schwenker, Roberto Godoy, Julio Murch and Brad Clarke. Rotary St. Catharines is bettering lives in our local community - culturally, economically & socially. Respecting and reflecting our community's diversity. Truly Service Above Self. We are engaged. We care for one another. We are People of Action! |
Ray and Olga Bukovic - President's DinnerOn behalf of myself, my wife Olga, and my family, I want to personally reach out and thank all of you for the totally unexpected reception and the awarding of a Paul Harris Fellow Award for my years of service. |
Art Wing Award 2023President Rick was pleased to present Rotarian Duncan Willock with the Art Wing Award.
Congratulations Duncan for resurrecting all our Youth Services programs! |
Paul Harris Fellow AwardRotarian April Feasby presented a Paul Harris Fellow Award to Lisa St. Hilaire So many years of Ribfest involvement. We thank her for the dedication and assistance over more than 20 years resulting in many successful events. |
Complin Cup Award 2023Congratulations to Lezlie Murch recipient of the Complin Cup for her total involvement in all aspects of Rotary and always thinking of how to make more efficient everything Rotary.
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Paul Harris Fellow AwardIt was with distinct pleasure for President Rick Evans to give some history and well deserving acknowledgement to Ray Bukovec for his over 50 years of outstanding service to our club and for expanding Rotary's reach in Slovenia. Surrounded by his family, receiving a Paul Harris Fellow Award made for an emotional moment for him and all. Congratulations and thank you Ray. |
Thank you Letter to the ClubDear St. Catharines Rotary Club, My boys J and E are medically fragile children who see a lot of doctors at McMaster Children’s Hospital in Hamilton ON. Being a parent who doesn’t drive and living in St. Catharines, we can have a hard time making it to important appointments. Rotary was our saving grace. You have helped us by loading funds onto my Presto Card so we could use the Go Bus system to get to and from Hamilton. You also helped us during the time of the Go Bus strike when we had appointments and even a surgery booked to help us get taxis to and from McMaster. You have definitely helped alleviate some of the stress that comes with getting to and from Hamilton. If it wasn’t for Rotary this overstressed mom would have had a harder time getting to my children’s appointments. Thank you. Kelsey, Mom at Niagara Children’s Centre
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Foundation AwardDistrict Governor Lisa Bishop and Foundation Chair Sandi Chard presented Lezlie Murch with a prestigious Foundation Award. Lezlie works very hard in many aspects of Rotary, and a long time supported of the Rotary Foundation. This award recognizes all her efforts in supporting the Foundation. The club congratulated her with a standing ovation. |
Foundation Award Lezlie Murchhttps://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid026N2WqHUurhKRqP3hkJNfCjxoHqLsHaKhzEEKg5jCS2R8TdVXwAcPYQJ853ehAvRUl&id=100064626044402&sfnsn=mo&mibextid=RUbZ1f |
Peace & Conflict Resolution MonthBy carrying out service projects and supporting peace fellowships and scholarships, our members take action to address the underlying causes of conflict, including poverty, discrimination, ethnic tension, lack of access to education, and unequal distribution of resources.
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March is Rotary's Water + Sanitation MonthRotary has issued a global challenge to its members, asking them to work collectively to improve education quality and access — particularly for girls — by working with communities to improve teacher training, curriculum, and water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities.
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