The Lieutenant Governor attends Spruce Grove Rotary Meeting

The Rotary Club of Spruce Grove had the privilege of hosting Her Honour, The Lieutenant Governor of Alberta at our November 7th, 2024 special meeting and luncheon in support of children focused service projects.
 
Her Honour's speech told us about her journey to Canada and her pride in being Canadian, and ended with a compelling message about the importance of education.  She stated that after meeting students from all corners of our province, she believes there’s no need to worry about our future, “We are in good hands”  Her Honour left a positive, lasting impression on everyone in attendance. To quote one attendee, "Her Honour is very kind and humble".
 
After lunch, guest speakers from You Can Ride 2, the Spruce Grove Public library, and Parkland School Division on behalf of Our Community Pantry shared their organizations' story and how Rotary has contributed to their success.
 
Sincere thanks to the guest speakers, dignitaries, community members, and neighbouring Rotary club members for your attendance and contribution to this event. 
The Lieutenant Governor attends Spruce Grove Rotary Meeting Natalie Dzioba 2024-11-13 07:00:00Z 0 lieutenant governor

Rotary Peace Poles Unveiled in Spruce Grove

On October 8th, the Spruce Grove Rotary Club unveiled four Rotary Peace Poles.
Recognized as a prominent international symbol and monument to peace, there are 250,000 Peace Poles worldwide.  On each pole "May Peace Prevail on Earth" is written in multiple languages. 
 
The Spruce Grove Peace Pole locations are:
  • Rotary Centennial Park
  • Central Park
  • Fairway Park
  • St. Andrews United Church.
To learn more about this initiative, visit  https://rotarypeacepoles.world/
 
Rotary Peace Poles Unveiled in Spruce Grove Natalie Dzioba 2024-10-11 06:00:00Z 0 peace,peace poles
Lieutenant Governor Luncheon - November 7, 2024 Natalie Dzioba 2024-10-08 06:00:00Z 0 children,community pantry,lieutenant governor,school lunch
Projects of Passion 2024-09-04 06:00:00Z 0

2024 Rotary Ride for You Can Ride 2

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On Saturday, August 17, 2024, motorcycle enthusiasts will get on their bikes for a good cause again.  The Rotary Club of Spruce Grove is proud to host the fourth annual Rotary Ride for You Can Ride 2, a motorcycle rally and poker run that raises funds for You Can Ride 2.  That program's "Borrow a Bike" program lends adapted bikes, many of which cost several thousand dollars, to families who may not be able to afford to replace bikes as kids outgrow them.  You Can Ride 2 also runs a "Learn to Ride" program that teaches children with disabilities to ride a two-wheeled bike independently.  If you or someone you know rides a motorcycle, why not take part in this fun day for a great cause.  Full details and registration are available here.
2024 Rotary Ride for You Can Ride 2 Brad Mastaler 2024-07-18 06:00:00Z 0 disabilities,motorcycle rally

Fourth Annual Grove Rotary Ribfest

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Father's Day Weekend!
 
Ribfest is back June 14-16, 2024. Come to Central Park in Spruce Grove for a weekend of great eats, great drinks, great music, and a great family fun. All proceeds support the community improvement projects of the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove and its partners.
 
This year's festival will feature three rib trucks plus many more local food vendors.  A lineup of excellent local bands will take the stage over the three days, and Saturday will feature a family fair hosted by the Spruce Grove Public Library as well as a massive vendor market in the Spruce Grove Curling Club.
 
 
Fourth Annual Grove Rotary Ribfest Jeff Tokar 2024-04-04 06:00:00Z 0

RYLE 2023 Applications Now Open

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RYLE (Rotary Youth Leadership Experience) is an annual conference hosted by the RYLE Committee and sponsored by the Rotary Clubs of District 5370. This four day experience is intended for high school students (grades 9 to 12) or home school students ages 13.5-18 who would like to gain or strengthen their leadership skills and learn how to be active citizens who strive to make a positive impact in the world.

RYLE will be held this year from Thursday, May 4, 2023 until Sunday, May 7, 2023 at Camp Nakamun.

The Rotary Clubs of Spruce Grove and Parkland After Dark are providing full sponsorship for youth from our area to attend RYLE. Applications for sponsorship must be completed by March 23, 2023. Applicants chosen for sponsorship will be contacted by April 3 and advised to fill out the camp registration before April 13.
RYLE 2023 Applications Now Open Brad Mastaler 2023-02-22 07:00:00Z 0

Next Tuesday: Blood Donor Clinic

Blood Donor Clinic… next week on Tuesday. Yes, TUESDAY!  A TUESDAY blood donor clinic is rare for us.  Normally they're on Fridays.  If you're new to volunteering at this event, it's easy (and has nothing to do with blood donation, really!).  You're handing out snacks to donors.

Same place as usual : Holy Trinity Catholic Church Hall

Help is needed for 4 shifts of 1 ¼ hours.

More information and a sign-up sheet can be found here.

 

Next Tuesday: Blood Donor Clinic Judy Kesanko 2022-10-18 06:00:00Z 0

Second Annual Grove Rotary Ribfest Will Be Bigger and Better

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The Rotary Club of Spruce Grove and The RavenWolf Brewing Co. are once again putting on a three-day BBQ rib festival in Spruce Grove's Central Park from July 22 - 24, 2022.  The organizing committee's theme for this year is "MORE, MORE, MORE!" and they have expanded the event on all fronts.
 
This year's festival will feature five rib trucks plus ten or more local food vendors.  A lineup of 17 local bands will take the stage over the three days, and Saturday will feature a family fair hosted by the Spruce Grove Public Library and a vendor market by the Spruce Grove City Centre Business Association.  Once again, the Spruce Grove Skate Park Society is hosting scooter, skateboard, and BMX competitions on the weekend and the car show being put on by the Rotary Club of Parkland After Dark has been expanded to three days with different exhibitors showing up on each day.
 
Admission is free, and organizers hope to see over 10,000 people take part in the festivities over the three days.  "Free admission is the most important thing about Ribfest," says event co-chair Brad Mastaler.  "This event is about strengthening community and making sure that anyone and everyone is welcome to come down and enjoy the entertainment.  Obviously, there's a cost for the food and drinks, but everyone's welcome to come sit down and listen to the music, wander around the car show, and watch the amazing talent on display at the skatepark.  It's a celebration for all."
 
Supported by sponsorships from the local business community to offset event costs, the net proceeds from food and drink sales at the festival will fund the community service projects undertaken by the Rotary Clubs of Spruce Grove and Parkland After Dark.  The Rotary Club of Spruce Grove has served the community by constructing amenities, supporting social enterprises, and developing youth through leadership and international student exchange programs in Spruce Grove for almost 30 years.  The Rotary Club of Parkland After Dark has been doing similar things in the region in their own way for over a decade.

Jan and Randal Gillet, owners of The RavenWolf Brewing Co. are proud to have their brewery be part of a community-focused event again this year.  "Ribfest brings people together from all walks of life and gives people a chance to connect and let them know the community cares about them," according to Jan.  "The world is desperate for community," adds Randal, "and this is a way to bring people together from all backgrounds.  When you do come down and spend some money on food and drinks, you're really just making an investment back into the your own livelihood and wellbeing because all the funds raised are going straight back into the community."
 
The event opens at 3 PM on Friday and 10 AM Saturday and Sunday.  The activities end at 10 PM Friday and Saturday, and 9 PM on Sunday.  General parking is available at Brookwood, Woodhaven, and Broxton Park Schools.  Accessible parking will be available on the event site as well as a passenger drop-off and pick-up zone.  While there will be seating for hundreds on site, attendees are also encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets to enjoy the weekend's entertainment on Central Park's grassy areas near the Lion's Log Cabin.  Having the event in Central Park makes it very accessible for anyone who's out and about on foot, on their bikes, or in their cars.  VIP day passes are available for those who want an upgraded experience, including "fast lanes" at the rib trucks, tent-covered lounge seating, on-site parking, a dedicated private bar, and upgraded washrooms.
 
For more information, see www.groverotaryribfest.com or email info@groverotaryribfest.com.
Second Annual Grove Rotary Ribfest Will Be Bigger and Better Brad Mastaler 2022-07-08 06:00:00Z 0

March 2022 - Community Pantry Update

On Saturday, March 5th we baked cookies to support our Brown Bag Lunch Program for area schools. On Monday, March 7th, using product from our Food Rescue Program, we made sweet and sour ham over rice, beef stew, and corned beef hash.  These meals are made in our commercially approved kitchen and then flash frozen to maintain all heath and food standards. 
 
If you, or someone you know, who may be dealing with food availability concerns and could enjoy a couple of meals, please make arrangements with Our Community Pantry by calling 780-916-8149 or by emailing us at rotaryocp@gmail.com.
March 2022 - Community Pantry Update 2022-03-13 07:00:00Z 0

Our Community Pantry

After seeing children eat food from a trash can in a park, two Spruce Grove Rotarians vowed “not in my community” and made it their goal to improve the food security of children and their families. That day in the park was the beginning of what is now “Our Community Pantry” (the Pantry).
 
Thanks to St. Andrew’s United Church in Spruce Grove, the Pantry has the professional kitchen, storage space and amenities to operate all our food programs from one location.  This facility along with our dedicated volunteers, financial donors, and community partners, allows Our Community Pantry to improve the food security of children and their families by providing a school lunch programfamily meals, food rescue, and summer food programs.
Our Community Pantry Catherine Pederson 2022-02-23 07:00:00Z 0 children,food insecurity

Employing for Ability, Not Disability

Across Alberta, 80% of people with developmental disabilities are unemployed or underemployed.  Inclusion Alberta and Rotary District 5370 have formed the Rotary Employment Partnership to improve this statistic, and if you're an employer or you can talk to your employer about this fact, you can help!
 
Hiring a person with a developmental disability can make a positive difference to your bottom line and your corporate culture.  On Wednesday, February 9, 2022, please join me for a one hour "Lunch and Learn" session on Zoom to find out more.  To see more of the possibilities and success stories, check out the Employment Partnership's January E-Blast here.
Employing for Ability, Not Disability Brad Mastaler 2022-01-25 07:00:00Z 0

Heritage Classic of Curling (Yeah Right) Update

It was a great game and in the end our guys won!  
 
Thanks to Jason and Tammy Svenningsen, Mardy Kulak and Tanya Tinney for facing off against Allan, John, Brad and Angus (standing in for Don Bay who is unable to attend due to a prior commitment).
 
Heritage Classic of Curling (Yeah Right) Update Brad Mastaler 2022-01-19 07:00:00Z 0

Rio Muchacho Water Project Update

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Last year, The Rotary Foundation approved a global grant for construction of a potable water system in the Rio Muchacho valley near Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador.  Our club is an international partner on this project, the second time we've worked with the club in Bahia to bring clean drinking water to a community.  Last week, we received an update from Bill Stumbaugh, the project lead in Ecuador.  Please see his message below and a link to some pictures are videos of the water diversion phase of the project taking shape.
 
Dear Rotarians,
 
I´m writing to provide an update to our sponsors about the progress of this Global Grant project, #2119179.
    
Last month, we began the project construction by successfully drilling a test water well bore 30 meters deep that produced an abundance of water.  However, the water stinks horribly and has a milky color.  Maybe sulfur or some other element...we don't know and opted to not bother to test it.
So, we changed to option B which is to capture the surface water near the point of the river's origin, upstream from 99% of the population.   The work to create the capture point is now in progress.   Some photos are attached.
 
A pipeline is being laid from the capture point following the river shoreline downstream to the place where the test well was drilled.  From there it will be pumped up to the ridge on the side of the valley where water tanks will be placed to store water as well as create the lift for gravity flow downstream to the distribution network and the homes.
 
The rainy season has begun.  It will likely mean that at some point, we´ll have to slow down system construction as the dirt roads and river crossings will become difficult and hazardous.  Also, the Omnicron is now here, and more restrictions are back in place.  Schools closed again, restaurants are high capacity, etc.  Hope you are all well.  Any questions you may have will be welcomed.
 
Bill
 
William F. Stumbaugh, Ph.D.
Past President
Rotary Club of Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador
Rotary Foundation Technical Cadre: Basic Education and Literacy
RPCV, Dominican Republic 1968-70
 
Rio Muchacho Water Project Update Brad Mastaler 2022-01-19 07:00:00Z 0

Changing Lives, Changing Communities

On November 4th, 2021, Inclusion Alberta is hosting its annual "Changing Lives, Changing Communities" fundraising breakfast.  The event is virtual this year, and it's an excellent opportunity to learn about the work that Inclusion Alberta does.  Our Rotary district is part of the Rotary Employment Partnership with Inclusion Alberta to help people with disabilities find meaningful employment.  Please consider attending this event, and because it is a fundraiser, please consider inviting philanthropists you may know who may be interested in this subject.  If you plan to attend, you may RSVP to the email noted below or to brad.mastaler@gmail.comClick here to download a PDF copy of the invitation that you can forward to others.
 
Invitation Page 1
Changing Lives, Changing Communities Brad Mastaler 2021-10-05 06:00:00Z 0

PRESS RELEASE

GROVE ROTARY RIBFEST GETS COOKING IN CENTRAL PARK
 
The Rotary Club of Spruce Grove is putting on a three-day BBQ rib festival in Spruce Grove's Central Park from August 13-15.  The event will feature rib trucks from Gator BBQ, Prairie Smoke and Spice BBQ, and House of Q, plus local food trucks.  There will be talent presentations, live bands Friday night (Brasstactics and Achilles Last Stand) and Saturday night (FlatBroke and My Dog Sam), a show and shine on Saturday, and beer gardens.

This year's title sponsor is RavenWolf Brewing Co. who will be serving a specially branded commemorative beer to signify the kickoff of what the club hopes will become Spruce Grove's premiere community celebration every summer.  The Rotary Club had originally conceived of bringing the event to Spruce Grove in 2020, but the pandemic prevented the plans from going forward.  Plans this year were tentative until the province announced an easing of restrictions for the summer and the club felt comfortable that vaccinations were going in the right direction to help keep attendees safe.  Organizers feel that they can help bring Spruce Grove back together and reinstate vibrancy in the community with this first-of-its-kind event in the region.
 
Admission is free, and organizers hope to see over 10,000 people take part in the festivities over the three days.  The event opens at 3 PM on Friday and 10 AM Saturday and Sunday.  The activities end at 10 PM Friday and Saturday, and 9 PM on Sunday.  The Spruce Grove Skate Park Society is holding BMX, skateboard, and scooter competitions in conjunction with the event on all three days.  The Spruce Grove Public Library is hosting their 60th anniversary celebrations just next door, including a vendor market, indigenous cultural presentations, and a splash bucket challenge where contestants can try to get local politicians and well-known personalities wet with a pinpoint softball throw.  All three events running next to each other at the same time should mean there's something for everyone throughout the weekend.
 
General parking is available at Brookwood, Woodhaven, and Broxton Park Schools.  Some accessible parking will be available on the event site as well as a passenger drop-off and pick-up zone.  While there will be seating for hundreds on site, attendees are also encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets to enjoy the weekend's entertainment on Central Park's grassy areas near the Lion's Log Cabin.  Having the event in Central Park makes it very accessible for anyone who's out and about on foot, on their bikes, or in their cars.  VIP day passes are available for those who want an upgraded experience, including tent-covered lounge seating, on-site parking, a premium private bar, and upgraded washrooms.

Money raised from the event will support the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove's community service programs and partners.  The Rotary Club of Spruce Grove has served the community by constructing amenities, supporting social enterprises, and developing youth through leadership and international student exchange programs in Spruce Grove for almost 30 years
 
ENDS
 
For more information, see www.groverotaryribfest.com or email info@groverotaryribfest.com.
PRESS RELEASE Brad Mastaler 2021-08-03 06:00:00Z 0

Rio Muchacho Water Project

Our club is becoming a partner in another water project in Ecuador!  Following the completion of a municipal water system in the rural community of Santa Teresa, Manabi, Ecuador in 2020, the Rotary Club of Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador approached us again about their next project in the Rio Muchacho valley.  Similar in intent, the project would provide, for the first time, reliable potable water to the homes and schools in the valley by creating a well, a treatment system, a distribution system, meters, and a local water board to govern and operate the system as a utility.  The project would be funded by several Rotary partners and utilize a grant from The Rotary Foundation for expenses.  We are hoping to raise $2,000 from the Spruce Grove community, which we can multiply several times over to become a major contributor to the US$90,000+ project.
 
The Service Projects committee approved up to $2,000 of matching funding under the Projects of Passion plan.  That means if we can meet our $2,000 fundraising goal before the end of May, we will end up contributing $4,000 cash to the project.  We are in the process of gaining approval from Rotary District 5370 to match that with $4,000 of funding.  Following that, we expect to receive a successful match of an additional $6,000 from The Rotary Foundation's world fund.  That would be a total of $14,000 from $2,000 raised from the community!  We should all be so lucky to get a 7:1 match on investments in a matter of a few weeks.  Really, though, the worth of the investment is priceless: the health, wellbeing, and community of the Ecuadorian people in the Bahia de Caraquez region, one with which Spruce Grove has had a connection for over 15 years.
 
If you're interested in making a tax-deductible donation to the project, please contact Brad Mastaler at 780-965-0258 or brad.mastaler@gmail.com or Neil Hollands at 780-690-8002 or nlholl@shaw.ca.  If you know someone in the community who might be interested as well, please pass on this message and our contact info.
 
Thanks,
 
Brad and Neil
 
Rio Muchacho Water Project Brad Mastaler 2021-04-14 06:00:00Z 0

Spruce Grove City Council Allocates Funds

The Spruce Grove City Council allocated $27000 from their 2020 contingency fund to the following local organizations:
 
Neighbourlink $8000
Spruce Grove Welcome and Refugee Centre $6000
Pay Forward Kindness $5000
Auggie's Cafe $4000
Kinettes $4000
 
The Rotary Club of Spruce Grove loves the association and partnership we have with the City of Spruce Grove Council.
 
Way to go Council...way to go Spruce Grove!
Spruce Grove City Council Allocates Funds John Oldham 2020-12-15 07:00:00Z 0
Update from Amarok 2020-10-20 06:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club Promoting Local Businesses to Raise Funds for Community Projects

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October 20, 2020
 
The Spruce Grove Rotary Club plans to reconnect local businesses with customers while raising some urgently needed capital to support ongoing social programs and continue to build community amenities.  From November 3 to November 17, the club will host a virtual silent auction featuring a hundred items and experiences sourced mostly from local businesses.  On the evening the auction closes, bidders can experience a bit of that auction sale frenzy feeling by joining in on their virtual gala.
Rotary Club Promoting Local Businesses to Raise Funds for Community Projects Brad Mastaler 2020-10-20 06:00:00Z 0

Friday Fun Curling!

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FYI for when Curling starts back up again:
 
Our Rotary Club has entered a curling team in the Friday Fun League at the Spruce Grove Curling Club.  Any Rotarians who would like to curl on Friday night at 7:00 PM any time in the upcoming weeks can sign up using the following link.  You don't have to commit to curling every week - only as often as you want, and, more importantly, no experience necessary!  If you're interested in learning the game, keeping in practice, or just coming out for some fun, it's a great experience.  The curling club has implemented protocols consistent with provincial public health orders and Curling Canada's guidelines for the prevention of COVID-19 transmission, so you can stay safe and stay connected to the game and the people you love.  We hope to see you out!
 
Friday Fun Curling! 2020-10-13 06:00:00Z 0

Rotary Virtual Make-Ups Continue!

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On Tuesday, September 15, Rotarians from our club attended (or will attend... I don't know what time you're reading this!) the world's oldest Rotary Club, the Rotary Club of Chicago, founded by Paul Harris, Gus Loehr, Sylvester Schiele, and  Hiram Shorey in 1905.  With that first virtual pilgrimage complete, I thought it would be fitting to have us visit the club that put the "I" in "RI" (Rotary International).  All you Manitobans may know that the Rotary Club of Winnipeg became the first Rotary club to charter outside the United States of America on November 3, 1910.  Fast forward 110 years, and on Wednesday, October 7 at 11:15 AM Mountain Daylight Time, President Brent Jorowski will welcome the contingent of "travelling" Spruce Grove Rotarians.  Darlene Ronald, the guest speaker that day, will give us "A Look Behind the Curtain at Manitoba Opera".  President Brent wants to be able to introduce us personally, so please email me at brad.mastaler@gmail.com to let me know if you plan to attend.  I'll send you the Zoom link when I receive it.
 
Future visits may not all be of historical significance to our club, but there are really good reasons to understand where we, as Rotarians, came from and where we find ourselves today.  With that in mind, I am making arrangements with President Bill Stumbaugh to visit the Rotary Club of Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador, a city where our club has worked for many years on a variety of projects, including recently bringing clean drinking water to about 750 people in two area villages.  I'm finding out that even virtual visits to an Ecuadorian club require formalities to mark the occasion... they're not content to just let us "pop in".  Stay tuned for us to nail down a date for that in October.
 
I want to space out visits every couple of weeks so as not to crowd your schedules.  Future stops on this tour may include...
  • the Rotary E-Club of Canada One, the home club of our current District Governor, Jim Ferguson, and a club that's no stranger to meeting online because that's the way they've always done it.
  • the Rotary Club of Edmonton Mayfield, the club that sponsored our charter into Rotary International in 1993.
  • the Rotary Club of Whitehorse and/or Whitehorse Rendezvous, two new clubs to join our District 5370 on July 1, making our geographically huge district even larger.
  • the Rotary Clubs of Stony Plain and Parkland After Dark, just to say "hi".
  • the Rotary Club of Windsor-Roseland, Ontario, the home club of Rotary International's first woman to be selected as President-Nominee, Jennifer Jones.
  • and more...  I'd love your suggestions!
Rotary Virtual Make-Ups Continue! Brad Mastaler 2020-09-15 06:00:00Z 0

Rotary Ride for You Can Ride 2

 
 
 
Once again Rotarians came together, this time  organizing a charitable motorcycle ride, in support an organization doing good work in and around out community.   You Can Ride 2 is charity that customizes bicycles for special needs kids. Even kids unable to walk can learn to ride a bike specifically adapted for them This one thing can have a major impact on these children and their families.  This inaugural “Rotary Ride for You Can Ride 2” started in Spruce Grove and ended at the Goodwill Impact Centre in west Edmonton.  A 250km scenic tour of Sturgeon, Lac Ste. Anne, and Parkland counties.  Rotary raised over $6500 for You Can Ride 2.  
 
Rotary Ride for You Can Ride 2 2020-08-11 06:00:00Z 0

Rotary Ride for You Can Ride 2

On August 8, the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove is proud to host the inaugural "Rotary Ride for You Can Ride 2".  It's a motorcycle ride and poker run that starts in Spruce Grove, winds its way west and then ends up in Edmonton's west end.  Proceeds from the even to to support You Can Ride 2, a program of Goodwill Industries of Alberta that teaches children with special needs how to ride a bike and fits children with specially adapted bikes on loan at little to no cost to their families.  Check out the event page for more details.
Rotary Ride for You Can Ride 2 Brad Mastaler 2020-07-26 06:00:00Z 0

IMPORTANT: New Zoom Link for Weekly Meetings

Zoom has changed its security settings and that has necessitated that we change the link to the weekly meetings.  This new link will remain the same every week, so keep it handy.  If you ever forget it, you can visit www.sprucegroverotary.org and click About Our Club - Meeting Info and Location.
 
 
If you already have the Zoom app on your device, you can join by entering the meeting ID and password.
 
Meeting ID: 8320 2844 582
Password: 658203
 
IMPORTANT: New Zoom Link for Weekly Meetings Brad Mastaler 2020-06-30 06:00:00Z 0

Tri-CALA Thanks Rotary

(received via Anne, member of the COVID-19 Relief Committee)
 
Good morning Anne.  I wanted to update you on our Laptop initiatives that the Rotary Sponsorship has helped to develop.  I am very pleased to say that TriCALA has secured 2 Smart WiFi Hubs to provide internet service to those who require it along with the use of our laptops.  Also, in partnership with Parkland County Libraries, we have started a new initiative called Tech Drive, where we will take our internet and laptops to where they are needed.  Both initiatives have been made possible with the donation from Spruce Grove Rotary.  We were able to secure the Hubs, purchase tables and chairs, and a portable power supply for our Tech Drive and get both initiatives off the ground.  We are very grateful to your sponsorship to both these initiatives.
 
Brenda Adams, Executive Director
Tri-Community Adult Learning Association
780-591-3355
Tri-CALA Thanks Rotary Brad Mastaler 2020-06-11 06:00:00Z 0

RI Convention 2020 Goes Virtual

The 2020 Rotary International Convention that was to be held in Honolulu, Hawaii last week has had some of its content moved online later this month, from June 20-26.  You can watch the live sessions or pre-recorded ones, and some Rotarians have expressed a desire to get together for some watch parties.  We'll talk more about this at the meeting on Thursday, June 11.  See https://www.riconvention.org/en for more details!
RI Convention 2020 Goes Virtual Brad Mastaler 2020-06-10 06:00:00Z 0

Amarok School Partnership

From John Oldham:
 
The partnership with our club and the Rotary Clubs of Stony Plain, Parkland After Dark and St. Albert Saint City has been established for the school year of 2021. 
 
We have applied for matching District Grants. If the District Grants come through we will have grants of 50% of the total cost of $10 000.00 per year for our school. That means $1 250.00 per club. 
 
I think this is a great model and partnership at a very reasonable cost for the sponsorship of a school.
 
Teach a women...change the world 
 
Amarok School Partnership 2020-06-04 06:00:00Z 0

Positive Peace at a Time of COVID-19

This is a critical time to come together to hear each other. Join online for insights and conversation with our three speakers on Positive Peace at this Time of COVID-19. You will gain an understanding of Positive Peace; what Rotary is doing to promote peace and what you can do.
 
Our new physically distant reality has presented us all with challenges and threats to social cohesion. Rotary has a local and global role to be catalysts for improving equity and empathy.
Please join us online for this 60 minute conversation.
  
June 9, 2020 at 11:00 AM PDT (2:00 PM EDT)
 
Positive Peace at a Time of COVID-19 Brad Mastaler 2020-06-03 06:00:00Z 0

Summary of COVID-19 Support in May

In May, our club continued its financial support for organizations responding to the social and economic problems presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.  Recognizing our community's strong ties to Ft. McMurray and the compounding effect of the COVID-19 pandemic's consequences have on the flooding that occurred there, the club directed $1000 to those relief efforts.  We also adjusted our plans at the last minute and have held back some planned funding for May as we learned of the Alberta Government CIP grant funding announcements.  We want to ensure we can maximize positive impacts from our donations to agencies to the community by considering how all funders are responding to meet needs.  The COVID-19 Response Committee continues to analyze the developing situation and we will provide another update in June.
 
OrganizationActivitiesDonation
Auggie's CafeProviding brown-bag lunches to people needing food support$1,200
Parkland Pregnancy Support CentreProviding baby supplies, consumables and food to families expecting or who have recently had babies$2,000
Disaster Aid CanadaFt. McMurray Flood Relief Fund$1,000
Tri-Community Adult Learning AssociationTables and chairs to support roving Internet connection stations$1,000
TOTAL $5,200
 
Summary of COVID-19 Support in May Brad Mastaler 2020-05-26 06:00:00Z 0
Virtual Pub Night - Pints for Polio Brad Mastaler 2020-05-19 06:00:00Z 0

Playing Party Games With Friends and Family Online

At last week's meeting, we played a game of Quiplash in our Zoom meeting to demonstrate how you can play online party games with friends and family online.  Though we played a game that had to be bought, you can find plenty of free online games or even play traditional party games like Charades or board games with a little creative improvisation.  You also don't have to be using Zoom.  Any other online meeting apps like FaceTime, Google Meet, Skype, and more, can be used for this purpose.  Any app that allows screen sharing and/or video sharing will do the trick.
 
Jackbox Games, the makers of Quiplash, have put together a guide to illustrate how to play their games online with Zoom.  In addition, this article from Good Housekeeping provides a list of games, online and traditional, that you can play online.  Again, they highlight Zoom, but any videoconferencing app should work.
 
Have fun!
Playing Party Games With Friends and Family Online Brad Mastaler 2020-05-19 06:00:00Z 0

Celebrating Volunteers

A letter from The Honourable Leela Sharon Aheer, Minister of Culture, Multiculturalism and Status of Women...
 
Volunteers are the foundation of our community life, and Alberta is proud to celebrate the incredible contributions Albertans make through a wide range of volunteering activities – whether simply caring for one another, or pitching in to help our local community organizations support those that are most vulnerable.
 
Albertans have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic but continue to demonstrate resilience and compassion for one another during this time of crisis. Premier Jason Kenney has issued a call to Albertans to help out however they can during this time of crisis, recognizing that our first priority is the health and safety of Albertans. All Albertans are encouraged to follow the advice of Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Deena Hinshaw, for social distancing, limiting the number of people in public spaces and wearing masks in crowded places. Guidelines for safe volunteering are available on Alberta.ca/COVID-19. 
Celebrating Volunteers Brad Mastaler 2020-05-12 06:00:00Z 0

Summary of COVID-19 Support in April

The Rotary Club of Spruce Grove has answered the community's call for support as we grapple with the public health, social, and economic impacts of the COVID-19 public health emergency.  In April, our club members volunteered in many ways to help those in need.  Highlights include picking up hampers at the food bank to deliver them to those who couldn't pick them up for themselves, delivering brown bag lunches to families in need of nutritional support, assisting Canadian Blood Services to ensure their recent donation clinic was healthy and safe for donors, and providing messages of support to front-line workers.
 
Thanks to our club's financial supporters and the generosity of Rotarians, our club was able to support the following community organizations providing vital relief services to the people of Spruce Grove and surrounding area.
 
OrganizationActivitiesDonation
Auggie's CafeProviding brown-bag lunches to people needing food support$4,200
Parkland Pregnancy Support CentreProviding baby supplies, consumables and food to families expecting or who have recently had babies$4,500
Engage Network ChurchProviding food hampers to people needing food support$1,800
Tri-Region Pay Forward Kindness SocietyProviding supports to unsheltered people in the region$1,000
Tri-Community Adult Learning AssociationProviding wireless hubs and devices to households without Internet connections$1,000
Compassionate ConnectionsProviding furniture and household items to families with children$1,000
Parkland Food BankProviding food hampers to people needing food support$1,000
TOTAL $14,500
 
Summary of COVID-19 Support in April Brad Mastaler 2020-05-01 06:00:00Z 0

COVID-19 Stuff YOU Can Do

Here's some info on a few of ways you can get involved in the community right now.  Talking Buddies doesn't even require you to leave your home to be of service to your fellow human.  Wonderful!  Click on the link at the bottom of this article to learn more.

  • Drive-By Birthday Parties
  • Talking Buddies: Senior Isolation Prevention
  • People HELPING People

 

COVID-19 Stuff YOU Can Do Brad Mastaler 2020-04-14 06:00:00Z 0

#ServiceAboveSelfSG

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We've launched our social media project to show gratitude to essential workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.  In conjunction, we've also expanded our social media presence.  You can now follow the club @SGRotaryClub on Twitter and Instagram in addition to finding us on Facebook.  Here's how you can participate:
  1. On your own Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter account (or all three!), share a gratitude message about an individual or a vocation that you want to recognize.  Make sure your post includes "@SGRotaryClub #ServiceAboveSelfSG" so that it shows up on our club's feed as well and gets associated with the hash tag.
  2. You can also go to the club's Facebook's page and type your message where it says "Write a post..".  Still be sure to include the hashtag #ServiceAboveSelfSG.
  3. If you're not inclined to use social media yourself, simply email President Brad your message and he'll post it as the club.  Let me know if you want it attributed to you or if you want it anonymous.
 
 
 
#ServiceAboveSelfSG Brad Mastaler 2020-04-07 06:00:00Z 0

COVID-19 Update

Due to the Coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak and associated public health emergency, the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove will be conducting its meetings online via Zoom on a weekly basis until further notice.  Please join us online!
 
 
If you already have the Zoom app on your device, you can join by entering the meeting ID and password.
 
Meeting ID: 823 1789 9872
COVID-19 Update Brad Mastaler 2020-03-20 06:00:00Z 0

Champions of Good - Rotary Bucks Wanted!

Mark your calendar: Saturday, April 4th, 9:00 to 11:00 AM, Elks Hall
 
And if you can...Mark some Rotary Bucks.  We do need some more revenue.  We are still knocking on doors but...
 
The Champions of Good, 2020, will be a great event.  Recognizing youth in our community who provide volunteer service.
 
We have just confirmed Ben Scrivens as our main speaker.
 
We also need to know by March 16th if you would like to attend.  No cost.  The Elks hall does have limited seating, so please let Anne Montgomery or me know if you will be attending.
 
Thanks.
 
John and committee
Champions of Good - Rotary Bucks Wanted! John Oldham 2020-03-03 07:00:00Z 0

Darkness into Light Walk

On May 9, Edmonton will host another Darkness Into Light Walk in support of the Coordinated Suicide Prevention Program.  Our own Meryl Murray and Judy Kesanko are instrumental in the event's growing success.  Last week, Judy asked for our help to make this one the best event yet.  How can Rotarians help?  Judy said that they're looking for course marshals and registration volunteers, among other things, and you can always register to walk and raise money, if you want.  To register as a walker or a volunteer, visit https://www.darknessintolight.ie/event/edmonton and follow the event's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/diledmonton/.  You can also reach out to Judy by email at jbkesanko@shaw.ca to have your questions answered.
Darkness into Light Walk Brad Mastaler 2020-03-03 07:00:00Z 0

Amarok: Teach a Mother, Change the World

From John Oldham:
 
Recently we donated a small number of backpacks to the Amarok Society. 
In January Gem Munro was in Bangladesh for a month. He took some with him.
 
Here's a photo of Gem handing out the bags to the women in our school.
 
Tanyss also made these comments to me in a letter.
 
“They were delighted, of course
It’s too bad it's such a  poor photo.  Alarmingly bad actually.  We have only 2 good cameras.  Anyway, looks like a photo from 1962, which is sort of interesting :)”
 
Amarok: Teach a Mother, Change the World 2020-02-25 07:00:00Z 0

Summer Meetings

During July and August, our club will be unable to meet at Shotz Lounge.  This year's board and next year's are working together to plan a series of special events for these meetings.  If you have any ideas about where we might go and what we might do, please email Brad (brad.mastaler@sprucegroverotary.org).
Summer Meetings Brad Mastaler 2020-02-25 07:00:00Z 0

News from Parkland After Dark

The Rotary Club of Parkland After Dark has two upcoming events that may be of interest to you.  On April 4, 2020, they will hold their annual Playoff Hockey Draft and Calcutta.  If you are interested in entering a team in the draft, contact Lonnie Chadwick at lonnie@powerworks.ca and see this poster for more information.
 
On April 24, 2020, Parkland After Dark will celebrate the tenth anniversary of their club charter.  Details are yet to come, but save the date if you're interested in attending.
News from Parkland After Dark Brad Mastaler 2020-02-25 07:00:00Z 0

Inducting Our Newest Member

 
 
 

Recently Jan Gillett, became a member of our Rotary Club of Spruce Grove. Welcome Jan.

Jan is a very community minded/service focused individual.

She is the founder and Director of Parkland Pregnancy Support Centre. She is the director of a recently formed body, Late Night Cafe, which supported those in need during our COLD WEATHER.

She is married to Randal, they have 3 daughters and now, 3 GRANDCHILDREN.❤️

She recently completed the Culinary Arts Program at Nait and is a certified food judge for The World Food Championships AND has her Level 1 Certificate in Wine Studies.

Jan is being welcomed by Michael Klassen, Membership Director and Brad Mastaler, Club President.

Inducting Our Newest Member 2020-02-13 07:00:00Z 0

You Can Ride 2 Bike Trial Day

From Barry Twynam who was there that day, following is a little blurb and photos.  For new members who may not know what this service is, You Can Ride 2 helps special needs kids learn how to ride a bike.  Our club has been a supporter by raising money and donating volunteer hours. 
 
YouCanRide2 isn’t just about giving special needs kids a bike and teaching them to ride.  It is about the dignity, freedom and fun that most of us take for granted.  It is about finding the right bike, adjusting it to maximize the limited ability some of these kids have and making sure they have an adequate braking system when they decide to take flight.  Many of these kids suffer from conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, spina bifida.  Some of these kids may never walk, but can be taught to ride a bike. It is one of those experiences that you can only truly appreciate seeing the transformation first hand.  From when a parent brings in their child for the first time, in some cases kids screaming and kicking at this strange experience.  You will see at times 4-5 volunteers (most of them physio therapists) hoving around the child taking measurements, making adjustments and at all times reassuring the child along the way.  With their new bike complete the child starts off slow with parents and volunteers with outstretched arms ready to support any misstep.  The expression of joyful tears from parents is priceless soon giving way to the realization they need to chase down their kids as they explore their new found freedom.  Now they can feel like “normal” kids and can share the experience with family and friends.  The impact to the family dynamic is huge.  “Look mom I’m flying”! To know more about YouCanRide2, to volunteer or donate to this important program, go to youcanride2.ca
 
 
You Can Ride 2 Bike Trial Day 2020-01-28 07:00:00Z 0

Silly Santa Auction a Success!

 
$1970 was raised for Wings of Providence at this year's Silly Santa Auction!  After the meeting, the housecoats, etc were packed up by some of the ladies (Dianne, Elizabeth, Judy, Patti, Myrna, Lesley and Catherine) and then taken into the city by Tony.  Thanks everyone who organized, bought the gifts, bid on the auction items and delivered the packages.  I'm sure the ladies and children at Wings of Providence are very grateful.  
 
Silly Santa Auction a Success! 2019-11-26 07:00:00Z 0

Teach a Mother... Change the World!

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This week at Rotary, Amarok Society co-founder, Gem Munro, is addressing the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove about the society's unique and highly effective model for teaching mothers to teach children in the world's poorest neighborhoods.  The Rotary Club of Spruce Grove and other District 5370 clubs have been partners in supporting several Amarok schools over the past number of years. Join us to find out more about what's happening and how you can help.  If you can't attend in person this week, we are broadcasting Gem's talk live on the web using Zoom.  You can join us remotely using this link:  https://zoom.us/j/320936935.  A recording of the talk will be available afterward, too.
Teach a Mother... Change the World! Brad Mastaler 2019-11-12 07:00:00Z 0

An Evening With Jennifer Jones

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While we're talking about the Foundation, don't pass up this opportunity to hear about it straight from the top!
 
Rotary District 5370 is honoured to bring Past RI Vice President Jennifer Jones, who is also a member of the Rotary Foundation's board of trustees, to speak in Edmonton on Wednesday night.  Jennifer is a captivating speaker who will inspire you with stories about what Rotary Clubs and The Rotary Foundation are working together to do in the world.  Click here for more info and to register.
An Evening With Jennifer Jones Brad Mastaler 2019-11-05 07:00:00Z 0

What do you know about The Rotary Foundation?

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November is Foundation Month in the Rotary calendar.  Did you know that the Rotary Foundation is a separate entity from Rotary International?  Do you know how the Foundation supports the work our club is doing in Spruce Grove and the world?  Are you aware of all the ways you can support our Foundation?
 
This week at Rotary, Past District Governor and current District 5370 Foundation Chair, Tim Schilds, is speaking to our club to answer all these questions and more!  To explore for yourself, check out www.rotary.org/give
What do you know about The Rotary Foundation? Brad Mastaler 2019-11-05 07:00:00Z 0

Santa Teresa Water System Inauguration

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News from Bill Stumbaugh, our Rotarian partner from Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador...
 
Dear Fellow Rotarians Supporters of Project Santa Teresa,
 
On Saturday, October 19, the Santa Teresa community water system was inaugurated by the community water board with Rotarians from the Rotary Club of Bahia de Caraquez present as well as the local director of the Ministry of Water.  This is a huge achievement for the community, and the support of the several international Rotary Clubs was critical for this humanitarian improvement.
 
Attached are several photos showing different aspects of the event including two separate ribbon cuttings--one at the treatment plant and storage cistern and tank as well as at the water meter at one of the beneficiary´s home.  Also photos of various individuals speaking to commemorate the event.
 
Note the temporary, large banner listing all of the contributing clubs.  Each of yours should be indicated.  A permanent sign of the same design is being constructed at this time and when completed will be placed in the community.
 
We'll continue with the school and community training about best practices for personal hygiene and protection of water sources.
 
Thanks for all your support.
 
Bill Stumbaugh
Rotary Club of Bahia de Caraquez, Ecuador
Santa Teresa Water System Inauguration Brad Mastaler 2019-10-22 06:00:00Z 0

October So Far...

We heard from Fran, our exchange student for Austria.  She told us about her country (not Australia), her family, hobbies and what she would like to accomplish while she is here.
 
 
We also heard from Elly and Ramiro Contreras about the Rotary District 5370 Conference that is being held in Edmonton next year from September 17 to 19th.  
October So Far... 2019-10-22 06:00:00Z 0

Busy September For Our Club

 
We held a BBQ at the new RCMP detachment to welcome our neighbours.  It was very much appreciated by the officers and the support staff.
 
 
We got out and did Highway Cleanup on the not so warm day.  
 
 
And we heard from our now returned outbound exchange student, Marika, about her time spent in Switzerland.
 
Busy September For Our Club 2019-10-08 06:00:00Z 0

People of Action Projects

Posted by Brad Mastaler on Oct 08, 2019
 

At its October 3 meeting, the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove passed its 2019-2020 service projects budget, which includes a $37,000 line item for "People of Action" projects.  Each member of the club will be allocated $1000 to use on one or more service projects important to them.  At our meeting on Thursday, October 10, Service Projects Director Neil Hollands will provide us more details of how you can put these resources to use, including guidance for sharing and developing project ideas, getting your project approved, and taking action!  Neil will send out some preliminary information by email before Thursday's meeting.
People of Action Projects Brad Mastaler 2019-10-08 06:00:00Z 0
Pints for Polio on Wednesday Night! Brad Mastaler 2019-09-17 06:00:00Z 0

Pints for Polio - Update

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The Rotary Foundation's most important goal remains the eradication of polio, a disease on the verge of disappearing, but one that still threatens to reinfect the world through the ubiquity of international travel and misinformation about the safety and effectiveness of vaccinations.  While polio is only endemic now in Afghanistan and Pakistan and that seems like a world away, there is something you can do to help Rotary and its partners wipe the disease off the face of the earth forever: eat wings, drink beer, and have fun!
 
 
On Wednesday, September 18 at 7:30 PM, join us at the Beer Hunter (140, 700 McLeod Ave, Spruce Grove) for our first annual "Pints for Polio" fundraiser.  100% of ticket sales go to The Rotary Foundation's End Polio Now campaign.  10% of food and drink sales that night will also be donated to the cause.  Your $15 ticket gets you in and gets you entered to win door prizes!  Ask any Rotarian you know for tickets, or contact us at info@sprucegroverotary.org or (587) 763-0250.  See our Facebook page for more details.
Pints for Polio - Update Brad Mastaler 2019-09-10 06:00:00Z 0

Suicide Prevention Week

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Suicide Prevention Week (September 8-14) kicks off in our area with the Rotary Run for Life on Sunday, September 8, in support of the Coordinated Suicide Prevention Program (CSPP) and other mental health initiatives.  On Thursday, Angela Fetch Muzyka from CSPP will speak at our Rotary meeting to tell us what the program is all about.  There are a few more suicide prevention and awareness events in the area you should be aware of.  Details of each event are available by clicking on the links below.
 
  • Into the Heart of Suicide - Making sense of suicide at a root level through the most powerful force that drives us: our need for connection.  This talk by Eugena Maguire is being hosted by the CSPP and Stony Plain FCSS on Monday, September 9.  Tickets cost $10.
  • You are Tough Enough - Bring the family to help build garden beds for World Suicide Prevention Day on Tuesday, September 10 at the Spruce Grove Ag Society Community Garden at 455 King Street, Spruce Grove.
  • safeTALK - Suicide Alertness for Everyone - a half-day workshop to learn the signs and how to get help for someone at risk of suicide. Thursday, September 12 5:30-9 PM in Spruce Grove.
Suicide Prevention Week 2019-09-03 06:00:00Z 0

Pints for Polio

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The Rotary Foundation's most important goal remains the eradication of polio, a disease on the verge of disappearing, but one that still threatens to reinfect the world through the ubiquity of international travel and misinformation about the safety and effectiveness of vaccinations.  While polio is only endemic now in Afghanistan and Pakistan and that seems like a world away, there is something you can do to help Rotary and its partners wipe the disease off the face of the earth forever: eat wings, drink beer, and have fun!
 
 
On Wednesday, September 18 at 7:30 PM, join us at the Beer Hunter (140, 700 McLeod Ave, Spruce Grove) for our first annual "Pints for Polio" fundraiser.  100% of ticket sales go to The Rotary Foundation's End Polio Now campaign.  10% of food and drink sales that night will also be donated to the cause.  Your $15 ticket gets you in and gets you entered to win door prizes!  Ask any Rotarian you know for tickets, or contact us at info@sprucegroverotary.org or (587) 763-0250.  See our Facebook page for more details.
Pints for Polio Brad Mastaler 2019-09-03 06:00:00Z 0

National Indigenous People's Day

From Arlaine Monaghan:
 
Our Rotary-based  'Connecting With Our Aboriginal Neighbours' interagency Committee gave financial support for Metis historian, fiddlers and jiggers, and a liaison on Day's organizing committee.  Held indoors because of the rainy weather.
 
 
1) Women's Traditional Dance competition (note small children in traditional dress who had just competed their dance)

 
2) Red Dress group--honouring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
 
 
3) Men's Modern Costume and Dance (only 1 entry--but he was incredibly vigorous!)
National Indigenous People's Day 2019-06-26 06:00:00Z 0

Parkland Food Bank Tour

Posted by Krista Mastaler
Last week we had the opportunity to visit the Parkland Food Bank.  Sheri Ratsoy showed us how the Food Bank has become very efficient in distributing food to people in need.  She also showed us the expansion/renovation of the building and how that is making their job easier.  It was a very interesting tour.  Many thanks to Sheri for showing us around and to Shotz Lounge for bringing us our lunch off site.  It was very delicious as always.
 
Parkland Food Bank Tour Krista Mastaler 2019-06-11 06:00:00Z 0

Inspector Mike Lokken

 
Inspector Mike Lokken was our guest speaker last week.  He gave us an update on the new RCMP building, which will now be called "Parkland Detachment".  He also told us about some of the challenges of being a RCMP officer and how the support staff of the detachment are the unsung heroes of policing. 
 
Thank-you to the Inspector for coming out to our meeting and informing us while entertaining us with your stories.
Inspector Mike Lokken 2019-05-28 06:00:00Z 0

Days for Girls Project Update

Last month Catherine went down to help with assembling of the packages for "Days For Girls".  She had a great time and was blown away by how efficient the Camrose Club was in assembling everything.  The Camrose Club was very thankful for our donation and they were able to use some of it for purchasing fabric, etc.  If you have no idea what I am talking about then check  https://www.daysforgirls.org/ for more information.  
 
Days for Girls Project Update 2019-05-15 06:00:00Z 0

Heather Glasier - MacEwan Rotaract

 
Heather came to the club last week and told us about the MacEwan University Rotaract Club and their upcoming event called "Broadway Gala".  It is to raise money for Polio Plus.  If you are interested in going to this event you can check out their Facebook page for more information.  
Heather Glasier - MacEwan Rotaract 2019-02-25 07:00:00Z 0

Neighbourlink Cheque  Presentation

 
On the January 17th meeting, the Club presented Jim Heinbuch, from Neighbourlink Parkland, with a cheque for $10,000.  Here is the link to their website, if you would like to see what this organization does and why our club supports them.
Neighbourlink Cheque Presentation 2019-01-21 07:00:00Z 0

Why Water in Ecuador?

 
If your weren't at the meeting on January 10th , here is a short video that you can watch to learn why.
Why Water in Ecuador? 2019-01-14 07:00:00Z 0

Have Information for The Rotary RAP?

Posted by Krista Mastaler on Dec 04, 2018
Have a Rotary Story, pictures from a Rotary Social and/or information for the Rotary RAP?  
 
Send me (Krista) an email:  krista.mastaler@gmail.com by Monday Evening at the latest so that I can include it in the weekly RAP on Tuesday Morning.
 
Thanks everyone!!!!
Have Information for The Rotary RAP? Krista Mastaler 2018-12-04 07:00:00Z 0

Silly Santa Auction Total

Posted by Krista Mastaler on Dec 04, 2018
 
$1725 was raised for Christmas gifts to go to the women at Wings of Providence.  Thank-you everyone for your generous support.  Also thank-you to Elizabeth and Victor for doing such a great job as auctioneers!
Silly Santa Auction Total Krista Mastaler 2018-12-04 07:00:00Z 0

Spruce Grove Christmas Hampers

Just passing this along because as a club, we are not donating but if any members are interested in donating or volunteering, here is the information:
 
Spruce Grove Christmas Hampers 2018-12-04 07:00:00Z 0

Update from Marika (Our Outbound Exchange Student)

Posted by Michael Klassen on Dec 04, 2018
 
Marika has been on her RYE journey for over 100 days now and is doing fantastic.  She got word late last week that she passed the exam that she had some nerves about, and references below, so that is good news.  German is a challenging language but she is conquering it along the way!  Here are three questions she was asked so that I could share with the club.
 
1.Biggest surprise you have encountered so far that you didn’t think about before you left on your journey
People always said that everything happens so fast on exchange but I never really believed them. It was like I blinked and I’m already over 100 days into my exchange. It feels like last week I wrote my A1 exam and this time next week I’ll be writing my A2. Also everything is so close when you have public transit available to you. In Canada I don’t go anywhere unless someone can drive me but here I have a GA and can get on any train going in any direction and go where ever I need without needing to coordinate who will drive who. I knew that the Swiss railway system was amazing but I didn’t realize how much it would change how I go about my days. I spend a LOT of time on trains and I get so much done on them, most of the time it is either sleeping, eating, or doing homework.
 
2. Favorite “new” food so far
There are so many. I really like Käsespätzle but my favorite so far is probably deep fried camembert. I’ve also had some really good chocolate. Did you know that they have white chocolate Toblerone bars? So good. Also raspberry chocolate is good. One food that I don’t like is Cold Soup. At a joint Rotary meeting that I went to when I first arrived I had what I can only describe as Cold Dill Broccoli soup that I did not like one bit.
 
3.What are Rotary meetings like over there.  Like or dislike about them?
Rotary meetings seem to be pretty similar to ours in Spruce Grove. Before the meeting everyone chats (except they mostly have wine instead of coffee) and then when the meeting starts everyone sits down at tables of around 6 people and instead of it being buffet style they bring everyone’s food out. During the meeting they discuss Club Stuff and usually there is a speech or presentation. I’ve only been to one so far when I gave my presentation because it’s all the way in Oerlikon, Zurich at Noon on Thursdays so I would have to miss a day of school so I’m going to go on school breaks. I had a dinner with my counsellor, YEO and second host family two weekends ago and I have a Christmas dinner with Rotary next month that I am looking forward to. Their meetings are more formal that the Spruce Grove meetings which I would say is the only thing that I dislike.
 
Say hi to everyone for me! Hope you guys have a good meeting.
Update from Marika (Our Outbound Exchange Student) Michael Klassen 2018-12-04 07:00:00Z 0

Wine Survivor Deadline 

Posted by Krista Mastaler on Dec 04, 2018
 
Please ensure that all your wine and tickets/payments are brought to the meeting this Thursday, as it is the cutoff for this fundraiser!
 
First draws will begin on December 10th, and going until December 14th.  Prizes may be adjusted depending on the number of tickets sold.  
Wine Survivor Deadline Krista Mastaler 2018-12-04 07:00:00Z 0

Silly Santa Auction

Posted by Krista Mastaler on Nov 27, 2018
 
This past week's meeting we had our Annual Silly Santa Auction to raise money for the women at Wings for Providence.  A lot of fun was had and money was spent!  Brad even managed to buy back a painting we had donated a few years ago and Tony Z. bought himself some expensive cups!  Nice to see some gifts are making the rounds a couple of times.  All for a great cause though.  No word on the total raised yet but as you can see, all the housecoats, socks, mugs have been bought and taken to the shelter for the women to enjoy.  Thanks to everyone who could stay after the meeting to help out with the packing of the gifts.
Silly Santa Auction Krista Mastaler 2018-11-27 07:00:00Z 0

Teach a Mother...Change the World!

Posted on Nov 18, 2018
 
Teach a mother...change the world.  Really...Yes!!
 
The Rotary Club of Spruce Grove works to support the Amarok Society which runs 20 schools in the slums of  Bangladesh. They teach women who then teach their own kids and their neighbors kids in their own huts. The cost of education is $80.00 per child per year.  (locally it is about $11 000.00 per child per year)
 
Educating women...educating kids... is one of the best methods of opposing extremism!!
 
The Rotary Clubs of Spruce Grove, Stony Plain and Parkland After Dark partner to support a school.  The cost of a school is $10 000.00 per year.  We are able to access Rotary Grants of $3 000.00.  Therefore we are delighted to to know that for each $1.00 contributed to our local Rotary Clubs turns into $1.42 in this project. (some projects can generate a much higher multiplier effect)
 
One of the benefits of Rotary is the ability to generate a multiplier effect with our community's dollars.  Interested in learning how you can help and be involved?  Contact our club president Tammy, by clicking on her name in the left hand column.  
 
Teach a Mother...Change the World! 2018-11-18 07:00:00Z 0

Spruce Grove Rotary in Partnership with SGPL

Posted on Nov 18, 2018
 
Through the past year, money that our club has donated to the Spruce Grove Library has been put towards:
 
1) Osmo coding and gaming systems, virtual reality programs and tablets with new apps to the Innovation Lab
2) they have expanded children and youth programs.  Also expanding the Little Free Libraries to our neighbouring Indigenous communities. 
3) introducing doll themed literacy backpacks, Indigenous adult and children's books and the all-in-one computers to a new group of young users.
 
The library has completed a new Plan of Service in 2018 which will officially launch in January 2019.  The library's three areas of focus for the next 5 years are:
 
Visit a comfortable place: Community members of all ages will have barrier-free access to welcoming physical and virtual spaces.
Practice and Promote Inclusion: Community members of all ages will have programs and services that embrace diversity through acceptance, appreciation, and recognition of all people in our community.
Encourage Literacy: Community members of all ages will have programs and services that provide opportunity for life-long learning while helping them make sense of the world in a variety of ways.
 
Thank-you to Stephanie Kuhn (Community Services Librarian) from SGPL for coming to speak to our club about the exciting stuff happening and the plans for the future at the library.  
Spruce Grove Rotary in Partnership with SGPL 2018-11-18 07:00:00Z 0
Rotary Foundation 2018-11-12 07:00:00Z 0
Just a Continent Away Krista Mastaler 2018-10-28 06:00:00Z 0

Jesse Martineau 

Posted on Oct 22, 2018
 
Jesse Martineau spoke to our club about his passionate approach to building community and encouraged our club to find ways to engage youth to help do so.  Due to technical difficulties, Jesse couldn’t share a video he wanted to show us, but you can watch it here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENmhVcNq_H8.  You can find Jesse on the web and on lots of different social media platforms.  Just Google his name.  As Jesse said, “There’s only one other person with the same name, and he’s a state representative from New Hampshire.  That’s not me.”
Jesse Martineau 2018-10-22 06:00:00Z 0

October 15th Rotary RAP

Posted by Krista Mastaler on Oct 14, 2018
 
This past Thursday our club enjoyed a great visit to Jen-Col Construction in their magnificent new complex in Acheson.
 

Jen-Col was founded by Ron Jodoin in 1978 and is now run by his son, Cory.

Cory was a tremendous host with his presentation of the principles Jen-Col uses as a basis for their business. He stressed to Rotarians that… construction is the ultimate team sport; their job is to get good value for their client; and that they believe they are building a better future.

Rotarians were very taken with Cory’s description of the culture of his business that he is building, one that would be an amazing addition to any business or organization.

While they build throughout Western Canada, they have constructed several of our local buildings, like the Border Paving Athletic Centre, which houses our international quality Aerials Gymnastics Club, the Jubilee Splash Park, as well as two ongoing projects, the Spruce Grove Protective Services building and the Main Street Law building.

Thanks Cory and Jen-Col Construction.

We also enjoyed a delicious lunch catered by Perks Coffee House.

 

This week's October 18th meeting we have:

Jesse Martineau
Building Community and the Value of People

Come listen to Jesse as he talks about building community and the value of people.  Jesse is a Community Champion and does all the videos for Achieving Community Together.

 

Upcoming Things to Consider:

October 25th - Club Assembly where we are discussing Tony Zeglen's 4 motions that he brought forth on the club's Honorary Membership Policy.
 
October 26th- Wine Tasting hosted by Krista Mastaler and Angus Mckenzie at the Mastaler Residence.  Max 20 attendees.  Invitation has now been sent out.  Please R.S.V.P by October 22nd.  Cost is $10/person.
 
November 1st - Milja Leinonen's Exchange Presentation

Come hear our exchange student Milja present her exchange talk.  Learn more about her, where she originates and what she is hoping to achieve on her exchange in Canada!

November 22nd - Silly Santa Auction

November 23d - Karaoke Night at Dianne Brown's house
 
December 20th - Annual Christmas Party at Porta Romana.  More info to come.  
 
 
Tickets now available from Catherine!  Specific cause that is being supported to be announced soon.
October 15th Rotary RAP Krista Mastaler 2018-10-14 06:00:00Z 0

Jen-Col Vocational Visit

Posted by Krista Mastaler and John Oldham on Oct 14, 2018
 

Our club enjoyed a great vocational visit on October 11th to Jen-Col Construction in their magnificent new complex in Acheson.

Jen-Col was founded by Ron Jodoin in 1978 and is now run by his son, Cory.

Cory was a tremendous host with his presentation of the principles Jen-Col uses as a basis for their business. He stressed to Rotarians that… construction is the ultimate team sport; their job is to get good value for their client; and that they believe they are building a better future.

Rotarians were very taken with Cory’s description of the culture of his business that he is building, one that would be an amazing addition to any business or organization.

While they build throughout Western Canada, they have constructed several of our local buildings, like the Border Paving Athletic Centre, which houses our international quality Aerials Gymnastics Club, the Jubilee Splash Park, as well as two ongoing projects, the Spruce Grove Protective Services building and the Main Street Law building.

Thanks Cory and Jen-Col Construction.

Jen-Col Vocational Visit Krista Mastaler and John Oldham 2018-10-14 06:00:00Z 0

Dr. Mikolaj Raszek from Merogenomics

Posted by Krista Mastaler on Oct 08, 2018
This past week's meeting (October 4th) we had Dr. Mikolaj Raszek from Merogenomics come and speak to us about the current common uses of genome sequencing in medicine, who benefits from having sequencing done, and things you need to consider prior to having this done.  He was a very engaging speaker and the topic seemed to be enjoyed by most, as there were a lot of questions asked at the end of the talk.
 
Dr. Mikolaj Raszek from Merogenomics Krista Mastaler 2018-10-08 06:00:00Z 0

Tri-region Rotary Meeting

Posted by Krista Mastaler on Sep 21, 2018
On Wednesday, September 19th the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove, Rotary Club of Stony Plain and Parkland After Dark came together to have a tri-region Rotary meeting.  We met at Shotz Family Sport Lounge and listened to Jay Ball (general manager of FC Edmonton) speak about the soccer club's history and rebirth into the Canadian Premier League.  It was a great turnout with nearly 80 people (members and guests) showing up.  Food, drink and fellowship was had by all.  
 
 
Wally Ross from Stony Plain Rotary Club, Deneen Roth from Parkland After Dark Club, Jay Ball and Tammy Svenningsen from Spruce Grove Rotary Club.
 
Tri-region Rotary Meeting Krista Mastaler 2018-09-21 06:00:00Z 0

New Meeting Venue

Posted by Krista Mastaler on Sep 17, 2018
Starting September 27th, 2018 the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove will now be meeting at Shotz Family Sports Lounge.
Which is located on the 2nd floor of the TransAlta Tri Leisure Center in Spruce Grove.
Meeting time is Noon to 1:30pm.   Come check us out at our new location! 
New Meeting Venue Krista Mastaler 2018-09-17 06:00:00Z 0
Visit from District Governor Ingrid Neitsch Krista Mastaler 2018-08-14 06:00:00Z 0

Rotary Youth Exchange

Posted by Krista Mastaler on Jul 04, 2018
 
We recently heard from our current Inbound Exchange Student Isabel Meulenberg about her adventures in Canada this past year.  We learned about the activities she participated in, the places she saw and the things that Isobel learned about herself while being away from her home country and family.  Thank-you for sharing with us Isobel!  You will be greatly missed.
 
Then we heard from our future Outbound Exchange Student Marika Mavridis.  She practiced her speech that she must present to her home Rotary Club when she arrives in Switzerland.  Thanks for introducing us to your family and teaching us all something about Canada that we didn't know.  Good luck on your exchange Marika!  
Rotary Youth Exchange Krista Mastaler 2018-07-04 06:00:00Z 0

Become a Rotary Partner Today!

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Apr 25, 2018
 
The Rotary Club of Spruce Grove invites you to become a partner!  Let's build communities together!
 
Your partnership support will enable us to fund projects and programs, in whole or in part, in the areas Rotary calls:
  • Community Service
  • Youth Service
  • Vocational Service
  • International Service
As Rotarians, we promise to follow our Four-Way Test when judging which projects or programs we support using the funds raised from our partners:
  • Is it the TRUTH?
  • Is it FAIR to all concerned?
  • Will it build GOOD WILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
  • Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
100% of all funds provided by our partners go toward projects or programs that we have judged meet our Four-Way Test.  We are a volunteer organization, so we do not incur administrative costs regarding the projects or programs we support.  For more information on our projects and partnership opportunities, please check out our information package.
 
If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a partner or a Rotarian, please attend one of our meetings, or contact us at info@sprucegroverotary.org or phone 587-763-0250. 
 
Become a Rotary Partner Today! Tammy Svenningsen 2018-04-25 06:00:00Z 0
Check out 25 years of Community Service 2018-01-09 07:00:00Z 0

Rotary Youth Exchange 2018-2019

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Rotary Youth Exchange builds peace and international goodwill while changing the life of a young person forever.  Do you know a student who may be interested in participating in the program for the 2018-2019 academic year?  Download the application form here.  For more information about the program, visit the Rotary International Youth Exchange site.
 
Applicants must:
  • be between 16 and 18½ on September 1, 2018 (may currently be in 9th, 10th, or 11th grade)
  • have a good academic standing
  • be open-minded individuals who demonstrate leadership qualities
Note, the deadline for submission is Friday, November 10, 2017.  For more information, click here to contact Anne Montgomery.

 
Rotary Youth Exchange 2018-2019 Anne Montgomery 2017-10-31 06:00:00Z 0

Rotary RAP, August 8, 2017

Upcoming Speakers  Note the August 10th and 17th speakers have been reversed since last RAP.
 
1.  Thursday, August 10th, International Committee Report, 2017-18 Projects
 
2.  Thursday, August 17th, Neil Hollands, South American and African Adventures
 
3.  Thursday, August 24th, John Moquin, Classification.
 
Upcoming Community events
Spruce Grove City Centre, Sunday, August 13, Columbus Park, 11 - 4.
   Public Market and Art Walk and Sale
Rotary RAP, August 8, 2017 2017-08-08 06:00:00Z 0

Community Services, 2016-17 

COMMUNITY SERVICE:  2016-17
 
Service above self is Rotary's principal motto, which means that every Rotarian is responsible for finding ways to improve the quality of life in his or her community, and in those around the world, through service. 
 
Rotary's reputation is built on service projects based on community need.  This includes a focus on determining "hands-on" projects within our community that Spruce Grove Rotarians can add value to.  The goal of the Spruce Grove Community Service Committee is to conduct service projects that ensure the proper use of club funds, benefit those in need and address real and current community concerns. 
 
Examples of current hands-on projects include the Highway Clean-up and the Red Cross Blood Donor Clinic.
 
Through Community Service, the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove directly funds over 20 local non-profit organizations.  Contributions range from large donations that sustain organizations, to smaller contributions that enhance services or facilitate annual events that would not occur without financial support.
 
The Community Service portfolio also includes 2 sub-committees:
 
Connecting with Our Aboriginal Neighbors Committee:
- Originally a Rotary District 5370 initiative, the purpose of this committee is to build partnerships with the Aboriginal community and close historical, systemic barriers while raising awareness of the challenges faced by Aboriginal people in our local area and beyond.  This committee brings together the Rotary Clubs of Spruce Grove, Stony Plain and Parkland After Dark, local libraries, Chambers of Commerce, Indigenous Nations and various partners, the RCMP, municipalities, and interested individuals who have coordinated several successful initiatives and projects.
 
Major Projects Committee: Assesses the feasibility and coordination of major projects in our local community.  Past projects include the Rotary Playscape, Parkland Food Bank expansion and the Ecole Broxton Park Playground.
Community Services, 2016-17 2017-05-09 06:00:00Z 0

Rotary RAP, March 6, 2017

Rotary is...
It was interesting to read about our Rotary International President-elect, Ian Riseley, in an interview in the March edition of the Rotarian and his answer to the question, "If a young person asked you why he or she should join Rotary what, in order, would you say?"  My comments here are the short version.  For the full version go to the March edition of The Rotarian.
 
1.  "The first one is friendship.  Rotary offers the opportunity to meet people in a semi-social environment and also achieve good things."
 
2.   "The second is personal development.  "...being involved in Rotary means that you're encouraged...in a friendly environment to get experience speaking, running meetings, motivating people, all that sort of thing."
 
3.   "The third is business development.  We've shied away from this over a period of time, and I don't believe we should."
 
4.    "The fourth one, and by far the most important is the chance to make a difference in the world."
 
I have had a very short form of answering this question for myself.  Rotary until now has been, fellowship and service.  Maybe now my view of Rotary has been expanded.  It has definitely, for me, also been a place of personal development!!  Interesting.  What does Rotary mean to you?  How would you answer the question put to our President-elect, Ian Riseley?
Rotary RAP, March 6, 2017 2017-03-04 07:00:00Z 0

MY ROTARY

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Mar 11, 2016
Brad Mastaler did a short presentation on how to register for the "My Rotary" website and what you can do with it.  In case you missed it, check out this video tour of My Rotary: https://vimeo.com/73963261.  60% of our club members have registered already, but I know we can get EVERYONE registered.
 
If you haven't already registered, visit https://www.rotary.org/myrotary to do so.  Use the email address for registration where you received this message.  If you need help, Contact Brad!
MY ROTARY Tammy Svenningsen 2016-03-11 07:00:00Z 0
CONNECTING WITH ABORIGINAL NEIGHBOURS UPDATE Tammy Svenningsen 2016-03-11 07:00:00Z 0

PAUL HARRIS FELLOW RECIPIENT

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Mar 10, 2016
Congratulations to Paul Harris Fellow recipient Pete Demchuk, dear friend to Rotarian Barry Twynam.  Please see the photo of Barry, his daughter Devan and Pete. 
PAUL HARRIS FELLOW RECIPIENT Tammy Svenningsen 2016-03-10 07:00:00Z 0

WELCOME NEW ROTARIAN

Welcome Jenni Sustrate, we are pleased to have you join our club!  See the photo of Lesley Crawford welcoming Jenni to the Club.
 
 
WELCOME NEW ROTARIAN Tammy Svenningsen 2016-03-10 07:00:00Z 0
AMAROK SOCIETY - WOMEN'S SCHOOL Tammy Svenningsen 2016-03-10 07:00:00Z 0
YOU CAN RIDE TOO UPDATE TAMMY SVENNINGSEN 2016-03-10 07:00:00Z 0
DISTRICT CONFERENCE 2017 - EARLY BIRD DEADLINE APPROACHING Tammy Svenningsen 2016-03-10 07:00:00Z 0

VOCATIONAL DAY UPDATE

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Mar 10, 2016
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Save the Date: Tuesday, March 22, 2016
Please join the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove and our local High School Students as a participant in our first Vocational Day from 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm at the Horizon Stage, Spruce Grove Composite High School (SGCHS).
 
Click for the Vocational Day cover letter and form.
 
 
VOCATIONAL DAY UPDATE Tammy Svenningsen 2016-03-10 07:00:00Z 0
YOUTH SERVICES - City of Edmonton Youth Council Fundraiser Tammy Svenningsen 2016-03-09 07:00:00Z 0

ROTARY JOB/CAREER FAIR

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Mar 01, 2016
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Our club is planning a job fair/career fair for students in Spruce Grove and the tri-area this March. If your business would like to get involved or you would like to sponsor the event, please get in touch with Rotarian Angus McKenzie!
 
 
ROTARY JOB/CAREER FAIR Tammy Svenningsen 2016-03-01 07:00:00Z 0
Career Day 2016 - poster 2016-02-11 07:00:00Z 0

Career Day 2016

Posted by Anthony Zeglen on Feb 04, 2016
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We are very pleased to announce that Jennifer Heil, the winner of multiple Olympic medals and Canada’s Bobbie Rosenfeld Female Athlete of the Year (2011), will be the keynote speaker at our Career Day event, from 6:30 to 9:30 pm, Tuesday, March 22nd, at Horizon Stage and Spruce Grove Composite High School. This event is open to all high school students in Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, and Parkland County at no cost.  Learn more about Jennifer here 
 
Career Day 2016 Anthony Zeglen 2016-02-04 07:00:00Z 0

CELEBRATE RECONCILIATION & RELATIONSHIPS

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Jan 30, 2016
As part of our desire to engage with our aboriginal communities the Rotary Clubs of Spruce Grove, Stony Plain and Parkland After Dark helped organize an event to celebrate reconciliation and build relationships with our aboriginal neighbours.  We invite everyone to share in this event on February 3rd at 6:30pm, please get your tickets at Horizon Stage.
CELEBRATE RECONCILIATION & RELATIONSHIPS Tammy Svenningsen 2016-01-30 07:00:00Z 0

Mark Your Calendar

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Dec 18, 2015
Auggie's Cafe - All Rotarians are invited to Auggie's Cafe for a cheque presentation: 
  • Tuesday December 22, 2015
  • 11:00am to 1:00pm
  • 131 Church Rd, Spruce Grove
Aboriginal Committee Event - Celebrate Reconciliation & Relationships:
  • Wednesday, February 3, 2016
  • 6:30pm
  • Horizon Stage Performing Arts Centre 1001 Calahoo Road
Deadline for Adventures in Citizenship and Technology Applications
Rotary Curling Bonspiel
  • March 3-6, 2016
  • Vermilion, AB
  • Contact Allan Shaw
Vocational Day - the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove and our local High School Students as a participant in our first Vocational Day:
  • Tuesday, March 22, 2016 
  • 7:00pm to 9:00pm
  • Horizon Stage Performing Arts Centre 1001 Calahoo Road
  • Contact Diane Brown, Chair - 780-963-4605
Lobsterfest
 
Mark Your Calendar Tammy Svenningsen 2015-12-18 07:00:00Z 0

CHRISTMAS PARTY DECEMBER 17 5:30PM

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Dec 17, 2015
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Our club Christmas party is on Dec. 17 at Porta Romana Restaurant in Spruce Grove! We're in for a treat. It's an excellent restaurant, and run by a great local couple. Please RSVP by December 15 to Tony Zeglen if you're joining us!

The cost is $50 per person and friends and family are welcome. We're being served appetizers, two main courses and a dessert ... drinks start at 5:30 p.m. See you then smile emoticon

 

 

 

There is NO regular Rotary meeting that day.
 
 
CHRISTMAS PARTY DECEMBER 17 5:30PM Tammy Svenningsen 2015-12-17 07:00:00Z 0

SPRUCE GROVE COMPOSITE HIGH SCHOOL'S PERFORMANCE OF ANNIE DECEMBER 3

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Dec 03, 2015
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Our exchange student, Julia Soires-Vieira, has a role in the Spruce Grove Composite High School's performance of Annie on Dec. 3. We're hoping to see plenty of Rotarians in the audience that night smile emoticon Ask Julia at one of our meetings if you would like tickets!
 
 
SPRUCE GROVE COMPOSITE HIGH SCHOOL'S PERFORMANCE OF ANNIE DECEMBER 3 Tammy Svenningsen 2015-12-03 07:00:00Z 0

VOLUNTEER NEEDED FOR DECEMBER 2ND

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Dec 02, 2015
As you are aware, our Club is embarking on a new project, a Vocational Day event, in March, 2016.
 
We have a great opportunity to piggy-back on an upcoming event hosted by the Spruce Grove CHS and St. Peter the Apostle HS, in association with NAIT, to help promote student participation in our event.
 
We need one volunteer to run our promotional booth at either SGCHS (morning) or St. Peters (afternoon).  The volunteer will be provided with a short video (on a loop) and a one page handout describing this event.  This information and your friendly demeanor will encourage students to save the date for our event.
 
If you can help, please contact Tony Zeglen ASAP.
 

 
VOLUNTEER NEEDED FOR DECEMBER 2ND Tammy Svenningsen 2015-12-02 07:00:00Z 0
ROTARIANS IN THE NEWS: KATIE JOLICOEUR Tammy Svenningsen 2015-12-01 07:00:00Z 0

ABORIGINAL CONNECTIONS COMMITTEE MEETING: DECEMBER 1

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Dec 01, 2015
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Our club's Aboriginal Connections Committee is meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 1 at the Spruce Grove Public Library from 4:45 to 6:15 p.m. Coffee is on at 4:30 p.m.

Join us for great discussion on the upcoming event Celebrating Reconciliation and Relationships at the Horizon Stage and a followup on the Alexander First Nation Career fair  that was held Nov. 27.

 

 

ABORIGINAL CONNECTIONS COMMITTEE MEETING: DECEMBER 1 Tammy Svenningsen 2015-12-01 07:00:00Z 0

SILLY SANTA SUCCESS!

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Dec 01, 2015
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Special thank-you to Rotarians Victor Moroz and Elizabeth Marsh who volunteer their services as auctioneers in our annual Silly Santa auction in support of Wings of Providence Second Stage Shelter:www.wingsofprovidence.ca/
 
 
 
SILLY SANTA SUCCESS! Tammy Svenningsen 2015-12-01 07:00:00Z 0

JULIA'S SHELTER BOX FUNDRAISER

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Dec 01, 2015
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Looking for some Rotary swag?! Exchange student Julia Soires-Vieira is selling Rotary t-shirts for $20 each as a fundraiser for Shelterbox! Great work Julia!
 
JULIA'S SHELTER BOX FUNDRAISER Tammy Svenningsen 2015-12-01 07:00:00Z 0

ROTARY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE TRAINING - PART 1 ME AND ROTARY

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Nov 14, 2015
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Rotary Leadership Institute; Part 1 Me and Rotary
Rotary 5370 District Office
Nov 14, 2015 
8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
 
Rotary Leadership Institute; Part 1 Me and Rotary
Rotary 5370 District Office
Nov 21, 2015 
8:30 AM – 3:30 PM
 
LI Part 1- “Me and Rotary” is a one day workshop helping to expand your Rotary knowledge beyond the club level and to learn about the bigger picture of Rotary International.  The session shares practical tips, ideas and resources from Rotary International that will assist you in your current and future Rotary roles.
 
The Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) was created as a grass roots initiative to help Rotarians build their leadership skills, both in their professional lives and as Rotarians. To provide this training, our district has partnered with Rotary Districts 5360 and 5550 making up the “Prairie Division” of RLI.
There are 3 RLI training modules and also opportunities for participants to become facilitators. This training has proven to help strengthen clubs because participants learn so much about Rotary in a condensed period of time. The more Rotarians know about Rotary, the better their experience will be.
This training is beneficial to board members in their leadership roles and also provides a great orientation for any members who are in their first five years of service. A perfect opportunity to share ideas, experiences and improve your Rotary knowledge.
 
Cost:  Each workshop is offered at a very reasonable rate of $50 per person. This fee covers your workshop materials, food and refreshments.
Be sure to check with your Club President to determine if there are training funds you can access.
 
For more information contact:
Edith Martin
District RLI Chair
780-721-8765
 
ROTARY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE TRAINING - PART 1 ME AND ROTARY Tammy Svenningsen 2015-11-14 07:00:00Z 0

NOVEMBER SPEAKERS

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Nov 05, 2015
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Rotary Club of Spruce Grove has a great lineup of speakers this month, don't miss:
 
November 5 - Movember Canada - Seth
 
November 12 - Vocational Day talk - Angus Mckenzie
 
November 19 - Club Assembly - AnnLisa Jensen
November 26 - KidsSport - Lisa Smith
 
NOVEMBER SPEAKERS Tammy Svenningsen 2015-11-05 07:00:00Z 0

WORLD POLIO DAY

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Oct 23, 2015
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Thanks to Brad Mastaler and his wife Krista for hosting the World Polio Day livestream at their home in Spruce Grove.
The event (and the Poker for Polio game that followed), were a great chance for Rotarians to have fun and learn about how close we are to ending polio.  If you weren't able to make it ot Mastaler's house, watch the livestream here.
 
WORLD POLIO DAY Tammy Svenningsen 2015-10-23 06:00:00Z 0

THANKS TO CASINO WORKERS!

Posted by Tammy Svenningsen on Oct 15, 2015
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A big thanks to Angus McKenzie, Casino Chair for organizing another successful casino.  Also a HUGE thanks to all of the volunteers for taking the time to work at the two day (and night) event, it was quite easy work for a significant fundraiser!

Allan Polowich/Tammy Svenningsen

Janice Scalzo/Brad Mastaler

Jim Rigby/Catherine Pederson

Lyle Huston/Julie Lilienskold

Dave Eyestone/Tony Zeglen

John Oldham/Nizar Abouchami

Yvonne Naughton/Meryl Murry

Chris Findt/Barry Twynam

Thomas Miller/Dianne Browne

Allan Shaw/AnnLisa Jensen

John Moquin/Judy Kesanko

Mark Radke/Rick Lystang

Don Bay/Angus Mckenzie

 

THANKS TO CASINO WORKERS! Tammy Svenningsen 2015-10-15 06:00:00Z 0
ROTARY RUN FOR LIFE - ANOTHER GREAT YEAR! Tammy Svenningsen 2015-09-16 06:00:00Z 0

Promoting the drug-free lifestyle

Posted by Thomas Miller on Sep 03, 2015
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Thanks to Mike Ryan and Lesley Cleary who spoke to our club about Clean Scene, an organization that works with youth to help them achieve their full potential and with a drug-free lifestyle!

Below: Ryan and Cleary with Rotarian Catherine Pederson (centre).
 
Promoting the drug-free lifestyle Thomas Miller 2015-09-03 06:00:00Z 0

Sexual assault survivor shares her story

Posted by Thomas Miller on Sep 03, 2015
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Special thank-you to Stephanie Chard (left, with Rotary president AnnLisa Jensen) who shared her powerful story with our club. Stephanie, who is from Spruce Grove, is a survivor of sexual assault and now works as an advocate for those going through the same pain she has endured. Stephanie certainly has our club's support in her advocacy going forward and we hope to be involved in the great work she is doing!
 
Sexual assault survivor shares her story Thomas Miller 2015-09-03 06:00:00Z 0

Tri-club softball game was a blast!

Posted by Thomas Miller on Sep 03, 2015
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Thanks to Goodwill Industries and everyone who came out to the family softball game on Aug. 30! What a fun day! And by the looks of it, we could put together a World Series calibre team of Rotarians, as members from all three tri-area clubs participated.
 
Below: At the softball game, Goodwill's Dale Monaghan was presented with a Paul Harris Fellowship.
 
Tri-club softball game was a blast! Thomas Miller 2015-09-03 06:00:00Z 0

Light up the Darkness in Spruce Grove

Posted by Thomas Miller on Aug 28, 2015
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You can make Spruce Grove a safer place to live just by lighting the night for five minutes a week.
At the Safe Neighbourhoods Information Night put on by our club on Aug. 27 at the Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove, we challenged Spruce Grove residents to do just that.
A great group of people pledged to take part (below) and Light up the Darkness.
 
Light up the Darkness in Spruce Grove Thomas Miller 2015-08-28 06:00:00Z 0

The Tour de Spruce Grove

Posted by Thomas Miller on Aug 06, 2015
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Without volunteer support, the largest cycling competition in Canada wouldn't be possible in Alberta.
Representatives from the Tour of Alberta came to our meeting on Aug. 6 to discuss the incredible event that will put Spruce Grove on display for the world.
 
Below: Darwin Park, who is volunteering for the Tour of Alberta and an avid cyclist, appeared at a club meeting during the last Rotary year to get our club ready for the upcoming race.
 
The Tour de Spruce Grove Thomas Miller 2015-08-06 06:00:00Z 0

Be a Gift to the World

Posted by Thomas Miller on Aug 06, 2015
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The Rotary theme for 2015-2016 is "Be a Gift to the World."
"Every one of us has something to give — whoever we are, whatever our place in life. We can give our talent, our knowledge, our abilities, and our effort; we can give our dedication and our devotion. Through Rotary, we can take these gifts and make a genuine difference in the lives of others and in our world."
In Spruce Grove we will do our best to be a gift to this community and internationally, every day.
Be a Gift to the World Thomas Miller 2015-08-06 06:00:00Z 0

Your friendly Neighbour - Link

Posted by Thomas Miller on Aug 06, 2015
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Finances are becoming a bigger issue for people in Spruce Grove.
At our club's July 16 meeting, we heard from NeighbourLink, a great group of local volunteers who help out with just about anything that's needed.
 
Below: Rotary Club of Spruce Grove president AnnLisa Jensen thanks Dick Lutz and Nat Rutter for their presentation.
 
Your friendly Neighbour - Link Thomas Miller 2015-08-06 06:00:00Z 0

Goodwill Documentary featuring Rotary

Posted by Thomas Miller on Jun 23, 2015
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Titled "Redefining Good," a Shaw TV documentary on Goodwill Industries will feature our Rotary's contribution to the organization.
Recently our club, along with the Stony Plain club, helped Goodwill purchase a new van.
The documentary will be screened at the Capitol Theatre, Fort Edmonton Park this Friday, June 26 at 3:45 p.m. (it is one hour in length).
Doors open at 3:30 p.m. and admission is free! Check out the good work that Goodwill is doing, if you are free on Friday.
 
Below: Rotarians Brad Mastaler and Barry Twynam at the rollout of the new Goodwill van in Spruce Grove.
 
Goodwill Documentary featuring Rotary Thomas Miller 2015-06-23 06:00:00Z 0

Dianne Brown classification speech

Posted by Thomas Miller on Jun 22, 2015
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New Rotarian Dianne Brown gave a heart-felt classification speech during our June 11 meeting.
Most of us already knew Dianne through her great work at Auggie's Cafe or with the Parkland Potters Guild, but there's so much about Dianne Elizabeth Brown (so named due to the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II around the time of her birth) that we didn't know at the time!
 
Below: Dianne Brown (right) accepts the Community Volunteer Award at the 2014 Chamber of Commerce Awards. - Photo courtesy the Spruce Grove Examiner
 
Dianne Brown classification speech Thomas Miller 2015-06-22 06:00:00Z 0

A special thank-you

Posted by Thomas Miller on Jun 22, 2015
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Spruce Grove Composite High School student Melanie Elhafid took the time to say thank-you for the "Student Recognition Award" that our club sponsors at her school.
"I feel very honoured to not only have received this award, but to live in a community where there are so many opportunities to get involved," she wrote.
Thank you, Melanie! Keep up the great work!
 
A special thank-you Thomas Miller 2015-06-22 06:00:00Z 0

A visit from England

Posted by Thomas Miller on Jun 22, 2015
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John Head, from the Rotary Club of Workington (in England near the Scotland border), visited our meeting on June 11 while in town visiting friends who have retired to Spruce Grove.
John, now retired himself, used to work in the brewing business, so he had much to discuss with fellow Rotarian Angus McKenzie.
 
Below, club president Victor Moroz welcomes John Head to Spruce Grove, while John brings greetings from England.
 
A visit from England Thomas Miller 2015-06-22 06:00:00Z 0

Former Rotary exchange student visits from Denmark

Posted by Thomas Miller on Jun 22, 2015
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Kirsten Skipper-Mortensen has a new last name from the last time we saw her, and some new additions to her family.
Our club welcomed the former exchange student from Denmark back on June 11 along with her husband and children.
Though it was many years since her exchange, she remarked that she was excited for our club to receive a new exchange student in the upcoming Rotary year.
Kirsten is set to finish medical school soon, a dream she spoke of when she first visited Spruce Grove as a teenager.
 
Below, Kirsten Skipper Mortensen and her family are welcomed back to Spruce Grove by longtime Rotarians.
 
Former Rotary exchange student visits from Denmark Thomas Miller 2015-06-22 06:00:00Z 0

A student who knows service above self

Posted by Thomas Miller on Jun 08, 2015
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Spruce Grove Composite High School student Jonathan Boerger sent a heart-felt thanks to our club for sponsoring the Student Recognition Award.
The award will help Jonathan in his studies at the Royal Military College of Canada, where he will be taking aeronautical engineering!
Great work, Johnathan!
 
A student who knows service above self Thomas Miller 2015-06-08 06:00:00Z 0
Mammography machine finally shipped Thomas Miller 2015-06-08 06:00:00Z 0

Tammy Svenningsen classification speech

Posted by Thomas Miller on Jun 04, 2015
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Our club got to know new member Tammy Svenningsen a little better at our May 28 meeting.
Many of us know Tammy through her work at the Spruce Grove Public Library and through the Rotary family as well (her husband Jason is a member of the Stony Plain club)  ... but now that Tammy has joined the club, we had to get to know her better!
 
Tammy Svenningsen classification speech Thomas Miller 2015-06-04 06:00:00Z 0

Gem Munro on fighting extremism with education

Posted by Thomas Miller on Jun 04, 2015
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Gem Munro, director of the Amarok Society, spoke to our club at our June 4 meeting.
Munro told our club how his organization is fighting extremism with education.
 
Below: Gem Munro (right) accepts a cheque for $3,000 on behalf of the Amarok Society from the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove.
 
Gem Munro on fighting extremism with education Thomas Miller 2015-06-04 06:00:00Z 0
Lobsterfest 2015 a massive success Thomas Miller 2015-06-04 06:00:00Z 0

2015 Integrity Award Winner

Posted by Thomas Miller on Jun 04, 2015
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Congratulations to 2015 Integrity Award winner Dave Oldham!
The son of a Rotarian, Dave says the award skipped a generation, but we're sure his whole family will share the pride from this moment.
Dave donated the honorarium to Kidsport Parkland.
Thanks for your hard work in this community, Dave!
 
2015 Integrity Award Winner Thomas Miller 2015-06-04 06:00:00Z 0

Welcome: Katie Jolicoeur

Posted by Thomas Miller on May 25, 2015
Please welcome, our newest member: Katie Jolicoeur!
Katie is the owner of Be Free Yoga in Spruce Grove, the city's newest yoga studio.
At Be Free Yoga, they hold weekly karma classes, where the proceeds are donated to a charity or non-profit organization such as the Parkland Food Bank.
Be sure to say hi to Katie and her husband Jordan at this week's Lobsterfest :)
 
Below: Club president Victor Moroz and sponsoring member Thomas Miller officially inducted Katie into the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove at the club's May 21 meeting.
 
Welcome: Katie Jolicoeur Thomas Miller 2015-05-25 06:00:00Z 0

Chamber Expo a success

Posted by Thomas Miller on May 25, 2015
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The Spruce Grove and District Chamber of Commerce was very appreciative of our efforts this weekend handing admission at the gate of their Life and Leisure Expo.
In previous years, we have had a booth at this expo. This year we tried a different approach by volunteering.
 
Below: Rotarians Randy and Thomas let the Interact Club go enjoy the Expo late into the Sunday shift once the gate slowed down.
 
Chamber Expo a success Thomas Miller 2015-05-25 06:00:00Z 0

Rotary visits STARS

Posted by Thomas Miller on May 12, 2015
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Our club visited the STARS Air Base at the Edmonton International Airport in lieu of our May 7 meeting.
STARS operates primarily through fundraising, and this was a great opportunity for our club to see first-hand the important work they do.
Read on for more photographs.
 
Rotary visits STARS Thomas Miller 2015-05-13 00:00:00Z 0

You Can Ride 2: Adapting bikes for special needs children

Posted by Thomas Miller on May 12, 2015
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At our club's annual fundraiser — Lobsterfest — we will be raising funds for many causes that we support.
One of those that we will be focusing on at Lobsterfest this year is You Can Ride 2.
 
Below: Melanie Harris (left), a physical therapist at Broxton Park School who volunteers with You Can Ride 2, presented to our club on the organization and its work in finding suitable re-engineered bikes for children with disabilities. Harris was welcomed at our April 30 meeting by Rotarian Barry Twynam.
 
You Can Ride 2: Adapting bikes for special needs children Thomas Miller 2015-05-13 00:00:00Z 0

Planting the seed of Rotary in Spruce Grove

Posted by Thomas Miller on May 11, 2015
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We presented the City of Spruce Grove with the last instalment of our donations for tree planting along Grove Drive.
Mayor Stuart Houston and city manager Robert Cotterill were at our April 30 meeting to accept.
 
Planting the seed of Rotary in Spruce Grove Thomas Miller 2015-05-12 00:00:00Z 0

Outbound exchange student learning about Rotary

Posted by Thomas Miller on Apr 26, 2015
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Spruce Grove Rotary Club's outbound exchange student is Reilly Rosenke. Reilly is a Grade 10 student at Living Waters Christian Academy and is travelling to the Czech Republic for the 2015-2016 school year as part of Rotary Youth Exchange.
Below: Reilly and her family at the orientation.
 
Outbound exchange student learning about Rotary Thomas Miller 2015-04-27 00:00:00Z 0

SGPL turns Rotarians into kids again

Posted by Thomas Miller on Apr 26, 2015
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Ask anyone who used the Oculus Rift at the Spruce Grove Public Library during our club's visit there on April 23: It was awesome!
But that was just one of the many things available to library patrons in the innovation lab at the library, which our club has contributed to.
Special thanks to new Rotarian Tammy Svenningsen for hosting us at her office!
Below: Rotarian Chris Findt takes a ride on the roller coaster.
 
SGPL turns Rotarians into kids again Thomas Miller 2015-04-27 00:00:00Z 0

In the news with Goodwill

Posted by Thomas Miller on Apr 26, 2015
Rotarians Brad Mastaler and Barry Twynam represented our club at a Spruce Grove Composite High School clothing drive for Goodwill Industries.
It was Goodwill's first use of their brand new van, which we contributed $6,000 to.
Along with donations from the Rotary Club of Stony Plain and a matching grant from the Rotary Foundation, our contributions went a long way for Goodwill.
Below: Brad and Barry check out Goodwill's new ride.
 
In the news with Goodwill Thomas Miller 2015-04-27 00:00:00Z 0

Introducing Tammy Svenningsen

Posted by Thomas Miller on Apr 26, 2015
Please welcome our club's newest member: Tammy Svenningsen.
Tammy is director of the Spruce Grove Public Library.
Her husband, Jason, is a member of the Stony Plain Rotary Club.
We will learn more about Tammy during her classification speech on May 21.
Below: Club membership director Michelle Coates pins new Rotarian Tammy Svenningsen.
 
Introducing Tammy Svenningsen Thomas Miller 2015-04-27 00:00:00Z 0
District 5370 Conference - last chance to register! Thomas Miller 2014-09-22 00:00:00Z 0

Honouring our veterans in Cerisy-la-Fôret

Posted by Thomas Miller on Aug 31, 2014
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Rotarian Elizabeth Marsh shared a powerful story of honour with our club during the Aug. 28 meeting.
At the Marsh home in Cerisy-la-Fôret, France, this past summer she and her husband hosted an event for the families of veterans who fought at and liberated the small French town following the Normandy invasions in 1944.
Honouring our veterans in Cerisy-la-Fôret Thomas Miller 2014-09-01 00:00:00Z 0

Congrats students!

Posted by Thomas Miller on Aug 31, 2014
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Congratulations to Amira Aissiou and Catherine Linton of Spruce Grove Composite High School, last year's Rotary scholarship winners!
Do you know a high school student graduating in 2015 who is deserving of the Rotary scholarship? Get in touch with Randy Hetherington!
 
 
Congrats students! Thomas Miller 2014-09-01 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary visits DBG

Posted by Thomas Miller on Aug 24, 2014
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Thanks to Lee Foote and three other tour guides at Devonian Botanic Gardens (DBG) for showing us their beautiful backyard (which just so happens to be AnnLisa Jensen’s backyard as well).
Rotary visits DBG Thomas Miller 2014-08-25 00:00:00Z 0
Tomorrow Project Signs Up Rotarians Thomas Miller 2014-08-18 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Run for Life

Posted by Thomas Miller on Aug 17, 2014
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The Rotary Run for Life is coming up in Stony Plain on Sunday, Sept. 14.
During our Aug. 14 meeting, members Julie Lilienskold and Meryl Murray spoke to the power of the event and the impact it has in the community, particularly for those who have lost someone to suicide. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Julie or Meryl.
There are a number of ways you can help out:
Rotary Run for Life Thomas Miller 2014-08-18 00:00:00Z 0

Auggie’s Café Project Grows

Posted by Thomas Miller on Aug 17, 2014
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Our donation to Auggie’s Café for a new dishwasher got the ball rolling on a much bigger project.
They are now putting in a stainless steel dishwashing centre.
Auggie’s Café Project Grows Thomas Miller 2014-08-18 00:00:00Z 0
Mark Radke classification speech Thomas Miller 2014-08-11 00:00:00Z 0

Former exchange students share stories

Posted by Thomas Miller on Aug 04, 2014
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Thanks to everyone who attended the Rotary social at Boston Pizza on July 31!
It was a great night of fellowship and an amazing opportunity to hear from one of our club’s former incoming exchange student (Mel, from Recife, Brazil), as well as a former outgoing exchange student (Ben McConnell).
Former exchange students share stories Thomas Miller 2014-08-05 00:00:00Z 0

Rotarian Magazine

Posted by Thomas Miller on Aug 04, 2014
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For those of you who haven’t yet had the chance to sit down and read it, I highly recommend the August 2014 edition of Rotarian Magazine.
You can read through a few of the features online, if that’s easier.
 
Rotarian Magazine Thomas Miller 2014-08-05 00:00:00Z 0
History lesson from the MHC Thomas Miller 2014-07-28 00:00:00Z 0
Ag Society thanks members for volunteering at Flapjacks event Thomas Miller 2014-07-28 00:00:00Z 0

WE WON! GOODWILL ADVOCACY AWARD!

Posted by Tony Zeglen on May 12, 2014
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President Nizar Abouchami and Community Service Director Barry Twynam were in attendance when our Club won the Goodwill Advocacy Award on May 7th!  The photo below shows Past President Arlaine Monaghan (right) showing off our award to Rotary International Vice President Anne Matthews while they attended the "She's All That" event on May 8th. 
 
WE WON! GOODWILL ADVOCACY AWARD! Tony Zeglen 2014-05-13 00:00:00Z 0
CHEQUE PRESENTATION: SPRUCE GROVE PUBLIC LIBRARY Tony Zeglen 2014-05-13 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR MAY 15TH MEETING: MERYL MURRAY, FISH TALK Tony Zeglen 2014-05-13 00:00:00Z 0

HUMANITARIANS IN SPRUCE GROVE

Posted by Tony Zeglen on May 12, 2014
This new ad featuring Joanne Daniels will be shown on the City of Spruce Grove electronic bulletin board from May 19th to 26th.
HUMANITARIANS IN SPRUCE GROVE Tony Zeglen 2014-05-13 00:00:00Z 0

WE'VE BEEN NOMINATED!

Posted by Tony Zeglen on May 05, 2014
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We have been nominated for a Goodwill Greatness Award!  The winner will be announced at a ceremony on May 7th to be attended by President Nizar Abouchami and Community Service Director Barry Twynam.  Whether we win or not is not important.  Being recognizing our good work, however, is very satisfying.
WE'VE BEEN NOMINATED! Tony Zeglen 2014-05-06 00:00:00Z 0

BLOOD DONOR CLINIC: FRIDAY, APRIL 25TH

Posted by Tony Zeglen on May 05, 2014
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Thank you to all of the members of the community who attended the Canadian Blood Services (CBS) Clinic on April 25th and were able to donate blood.  The CBS goal for our clinic was 94 units of blood donated - we got more than 130 units!  Congratulations and special thanks to the members of our Club who volunteered to help run the clinic led by the incomparable Judy Kesanko.
BLOOD DONOR CLINIC: FRIDAY, APRIL 25TH Tony Zeglen 2014-05-06 00:00:00Z 0
INDUCTION OF NEW MEMBERS: MAY 1ST Tony Zeglen 2014-05-06 00:00:00Z 0
AT THE MAY 1ST MEETING: MILJA KAUPPINEN, ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE STUDENT Tony Zeglen 2014-05-06 00:00:00Z 0
HIGHLIGHTS OF BOARD MEETING: APRIL 29TH Tony Zeglen 2014-05-06 00:00:00Z 0

FIVE ACTIVE CHARTER MEMBERS

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Apr 28, 2014
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Congratulations and special thanks to the five Charter members below who are still active in our Club!
 
FIVE ACTIVE CHARTER MEMBERS Tony Zeglen 2014-04-29 00:00:00Z 0

YOUTH SERVICES FIRESIDE: APRIL 26TH

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Apr 28, 2014
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Special thanks to Director Randy Hetherington and his wife Michele for hosting our third Fireside of this Rotary Year on Saturday, April 26th focusing on Youth Service.  We had a spirited discussion about our participation in RYLARYPEN, Adventures in Technology (Saskatoon), Adventures in Citizenship (Ottawa), the great work being done by the Spruce Grove Composite High School Interact Club, academic scholarships to students from our three high schools, and the possibility of renewing our Club participation in the Rotary Youth Exchange.
YOUTH SERVICES FIRESIDE: APRIL 26TH Tony Zeglen 2014-04-29 00:00:00Z 0

AT THE APRIL 24TH MEETING: MALALA SGCHS INTERACT CLUB PRESENTATION

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Apr 28, 2014
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The Spruce Grove Composite High School Interact Club wowed members at the meeting on April 24th.  This amazing group of young leaders made an outstanding presentation regarding Malala Yousafzai and her efforts to promote education for girls.
AT THE APRIL 24TH MEETING: MALALA SGCHS INTERACT CLUB PRESENTATION Tony Zeglen 2014-04-29 00:00:00Z 0
AT THE APRIL 24TH MEETING: CHRIS FINDT CLASSIFICATION TALK Tony Zeglen 2014-04-29 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR MAY 1ST MEETING: MILJA KAUPPINEN, ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE STUDENT Tony Zeglen 2014-04-29 00:00:00Z 0
SPRUCE GROVE SKATE PARK Tony Zeglen 2014-04-22 00:00:00Z 0
BLOOD DONOR CLINIC: FRIDAY, APRIL 25TH Tony Zeglen 2014-04-22 00:00:00Z 0

BANNER EXCHANGES

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Apr 21, 2014
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At our meeting on April 17th, President Elect Victor Moroz (left in both photos) was very pleased to exchange club banners with Claude Blaisius (right in the first photo) from the Rotary Club of Insming, France and receive a banner from the Rotary Club of Superstition Mountain in Arizona via Past President Jim Rigby.
BANNER EXCHANGES Tony Zeglen 2014-04-22 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR APRIL 24TH MEETING: CHRIS FINDT CLASSIFICATION TALK Tony Zeglen 2014-04-22 00:00:00Z 0
ROTARY ADVENTURES STUDENTS NAMED Tony Zeglen 2014-04-22 00:00:00Z 0

AT THE APRIL 10TH MEETING: THOMAS MILLER, CLASSIFICATION TALK

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Apr 14, 2014
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Thomas Miller gave his Classification Talk at our meeting on April 10th focusing on the joys and struggles of community newspaper journalism, and the support he has received from his friends and family during his life.  Thomas (centre below) was thanked for his presentation by President Nizar Abouchami (left) and Past President Angus McKenzie.
AT THE APRIL 10TH MEETING: THOMAS MILLER, CLASSIFICATION TALK Tony Zeglen 2014-04-15 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR APRIL 17TH MEETING: BRAD MASTALER, 2014 LOBSTERFEST Tony Zeglen 2014-04-15 00:00:00Z 0

AT THE APRIL 3RD MEETING: SIOBHAN COUGHLAN, CANADA WORLD YOUTH INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Apr 07, 2014
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Siobhan Coughan from the Canada World Youth International Education Program shared many wonderful stories about her youth exchange centering on Whitehorse, Yukon and Inhambane, Mozambique at our meeting on April 3rd.  She also thanked our Club for supporting this great adventure and wonderful learning experience.  She is shown below being thanked by President Nizar Abouchami (left) and Rotarian John Oldham for her presentation.
AT THE APRIL 3RD MEETING: SIOBHAN COUGHLAN, CANADA WORLD YOUTH INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAM Tony Zeglen 2014-04-08 00:00:00Z 0

CANADIAN BLOOD SERVICES VOLUNTEER AWARDS CEREMONY: APRIL 6TH

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Apr 07, 2014
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Rotarians (from left to right below) Tony Zeglen, Patti Zeglen, Woody Murray (Honourary), Meryl Murray, Bill Kesanko (should be a Rotarian), and Judy Kesanko had fun at the Canadian Blood Services 14th Annual Volunteer Awards Ceremony on April 6th.  We represented our Club on behalf of the many volunteers who help run our Blood Donor Clinics.  The next clinic will be at the Elks Hall on Friday, April 26th.
CANADIAN BLOOD SERVICES VOLUNTEER AWARDS CEREMONY: APRIL 6TH Tony Zeglen 2014-04-08 00:00:00Z 0
WE'VE BEEN THANKED: WECHIAU HIPPO SANCTUARY Tony Zeglen 2014-04-08 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR APRIL 10TH MEETING: THOMAS MILLER, CLASSIFICATION TALK Tony Zeglen 2014-04-08 00:00:00Z 0

2014 LOBSTERFEST DINNER AND CHARITY AUCTION: SPONSORS NEEDED

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Mar 31, 2014
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​We are currently looking for individuals and/or businesses that may be interested in contributing to the 2014 Lobsterfest Dinner and Charity Auction on May 31st by sponsoring items for Live Auction and/or specific parts of this event.  Each sponsor will be appropriately recognized in the program for this major community event.
2014 LOBSTERFEST DINNER AND CHARITY AUCTION: SPONSORS NEEDED Tony Zeglen 2014-04-01 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR APRIL 3RD MEETING: CANADA WORLD YOUTH INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAM Tony Zeglen 2014-04-01 00:00:00Z 0
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! LIKE US ON FACEBOOK! Tony Zeglen 2014-03-25 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR MARCH 27TH MEETING: MICHELLE COATES CLASSIFICATION TALK Tony Zeglen 2014-03-25 00:00:00Z 0

JIM KULAK JOINS CLUB 85!

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Mar 17, 2014
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From Secretary Lesley Crawford:
 
Past President Jim Kulak joins the ranks of Des Bulger, Bob Morrison, Norman Dick, and Robin George as a members of Club 85 meaning that because of their long years of service to Rotary and their age, they are no longer expected to attend meetings on a regular basis.  When they do attend, they are counted towards our Club performance level, but when they are absent they are excluded from this record.
JIM KULAK JOINS CLUB 85! Tony Zeglen 2014-03-18 00:00:00Z 0
WE'VE BEEN THANKED ... Tony Zeglen 2014-03-18 00:00:00Z 0

AT THE MARCH 13TH MEETING: GOODWILL TRAINING SESSION

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Mar 17, 2014
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We had a very special presentation by Goodwill Industries of Alberta called “Disability Awareness Training” at our meeting on March 13th.  Unfortunately, the photo and text slides used by Nancy Murphy, Power of Work Program Director, as part of her presentation were not available for integration into the following video.  I hope I have better luck next time :)
 
 
AT THE MARCH 13TH MEETING: GOODWILL TRAINING SESSION Tony Zeglen 2014-03-18 00:00:00Z 0

2014 INTEGRITY AWARD NOMINEES SOUGHT

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Mar 10, 2014
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From Vocational Service Director Ray Frayne:
 
We are looking for nominees for our 2014 Integrity Award for Community and Business People of Spruce Grove.  Do you know someone who should be recognized?  Please go to the Download section on the left of this web page for the nomination form (and more information) which is due at the beginning of May.
2014 INTEGRITY AWARD NOMINEES SOUGHT Tony Zeglen 2014-03-11 00:00:00Z 0
WE'VE BEEN THANKED ... Tony Zeglen 2014-03-11 00:00:00Z 0

AT THE MARCH 6TH MEETING: KATHY RONDEAU, ADOPTION FROM GHANA

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Mar 10, 2014
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Kathy Rondeau spoke to our Club on March 6th about the traumatic highs and lows that she and her daughter Mandy went through in their journey into Ghana, West Africa while they attempted to adopt two brothers.  They spent months and mutiple trips going through the process of acquiring a private adoption, eventually adopting one of the brothers, Caleb.
 
Below is my first iMovie, which integrates the photographs supplied by Kathy with video I recorded and the standard photo I took during the meeting.  Enjoy :)
AT THE MARCH 6TH MEETING: KATHY RONDEAU, ADOPTION FROM GHANA Tony Zeglen 2014-03-11 00:00:00Z 0

AT OUR MARCH 13TH MEETING: GOODWILL TRAINING SESSION

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Mar 10, 2014
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From Judy Kesanko:
 
On Thursday we have a very special presentation by Goodwill Industries of Alberta called “Disability Awareness Training”. It will be of interest to us all, but because of the length of the presentation, which is about 50 minutes (including question and answer time), we are asking Rotarians to come to the meeting a little before noon, which you do anyway, to pay for your lunch and then go directly to the buffet as soon as you arrive.  If we have all eaten by about 12:30, we will be in good shape to have our presentation and be out of the meeting in good time.
AT OUR MARCH 13TH MEETING: GOODWILL TRAINING SESSION Tony Zeglen 2014-03-11 00:00:00Z 0
TRI-REGIONAL INFORMATION AND REGISTRATION NIGHT: FEBRUARY 27th Tony Zeglen 2014-03-04 00:00:00Z 0
AT THE FEBRUARY 27TH MEETING: COBS BREAD VOCATIONAL VISIT Tony Zeglen 2014-03-04 00:00:00Z 0

AT OUR MARCH 6TH MEETING: KATHY RONDEAU, ADOPTING AN AFRICAN CHILD

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Mar 03, 2014
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Kathy Rondeau will speak to our Club on March 6th about the highs and lows that she and her daughter went through in their journey in Africa while they attempted to adopt two brothers.  Kathy and Mandi Rondeau spent months in Ghana, West Africa while going through the process of acquiring a private adoption.
AT OUR MARCH 6TH MEETING: KATHY RONDEAU, ADOPTING AN AFRICAN CHILD Tony Zeglen 2014-03-04 00:00:00Z 0

53RD ROTARY DISTRICTS 5360/5370 CURLING BONSPIEL WINNERS ...

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Feb 24, 2014
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... the Rotarians of Spruce Grove and friends and family who had a lot of fun over four days of competition and social events.  31 of our Club members took part by curling and/or volunteering, along with some of their significant others.  In the end we put on a great show leaving quite a positive impression on our guests regarding our Club and community.  Well done organizing committee members and volunteers!  Check out this video of highlights from this event.
53RD ROTARY DISTRICTS 5360/5370 CURLING BONSPIEL WINNERS ... Tony Zeglen 2014-02-25 00:00:00Z 0

COBS BREAD VOCATIONAL VISIT: FEBRUARY 27TH

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Feb 24, 2014
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We will be going on a Vocational Visit to COBS Bread in the Century Crossing Shopping Centre from 12:00 noon to 1:30 pm on Thursday, February 27th.  After COBS Bread, we will move to the ATB Financial Building for lunch from The Chopped Leaf.  RSVPs were due Friday, February 21st for this event.  
 
By sweet coincidence, Rotarian Jelena Reich and COBS Bread was featured last week in a Spruce Grove Examiner/Stony Plain Reporter article "Bakery hopes to rake in the dough".  Check the full story out here.
 
COBS BREAD VOCATIONAL VISIT: FEBRUARY 27TH Tony Zeglen 2014-02-25 00:00:00Z 0

53RD ROTARY DISTRICTS 5360/5370 CURLING BONSPIEL WINNERS ...

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Feb 24, 2014
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... the Rotarians of Spruce Grove and friends and family who had a lot of fun over four days of competition and social events.  31 of our Club members took part by curling and/or volunteering, along with some of their significant others.  In the end we put on a great show leaving quite a positive impression on our guests (25 teams in total) regarding our Club and community.  Well done organizing committee members and volunteers!
53RD ROTARY DISTRICTS 5360/5370 CURLING BONSPIEL WINNERS ... Tony Zeglen 2014-02-25 00:00:00Z 0

TRI-CLUB ROTARY DAY AD

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Feb 24, 2014
This centre fold ad was published in the Spruce Grove Examiner/Stony Plain Reporter on Friday, February 21st.  Please bring your copies to our Vocational Visit meeting at COBS Bread this Thursday.  I will mount and laminate those copies on Sunday, March 2nd and distribute them to Rotarians in all three clubs for display at their businesses, places of work, and/or around the community.  This way we can get a lot of more mileage out of this $1,800 ad (our Club pays 1/6th of the cost).
TRI-CLUB ROTARY DAY AD Tony Zeglen 2014-02-25 00:00:00Z 0

AT THE FEBRUARY 13TH MEETING: LOBSTERFEST 2014

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Feb 17, 2014
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Brad Mastaler, Chair of the 2014 Lobsterfest Dinner and Charity Auction (May 31st at the TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre), updated Club members of the planning for this event at our meeting on February 13th.  At this point, all Club members are reminded that they are expected to:
  1. Volunteer for some aspect of organizing this event;
  2. Find seven items for the Silent Auction by the middle of May (a solicitation letter will soon be available).
  3. Help set up for the event on the evening of Friday, May 30th and during the day of Saturday, May 3st;
  4. Help take down and clean up on the morning of Sunday, June 1st.
AT THE FEBRUARY 13TH MEETING: LOBSTERFEST 2014 Tony Zeglen 2014-02-18 00:00:00Z 0
WE'VE BEEN THANKED! Tony Zeglen 2014-02-18 00:00:00Z 0

PAUL HARRIS FELLOW AWARDS PRESENTED: BILL KESANKO, JOHN MOQUIN

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Feb 17, 2014
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Past President Brad Mastaler (far right below) and our Club Director for The Rotary Foundation had the honour of presiding over the awarding of two Paul Harris Fellows Awards at our meeting on February 13th.  Judy Kesanko explained the rationale for awarding this honour to Bill Kesanko (second left) and Past President McKenzie (not shown) did the same for Past President John Moquin.  President Nizar Abouchami (centre) congratulated both recipients.
 
PAUL HARRIS FELLOW AWARDS PRESENTED: BILL KESANKO, JOHN MOQUIN Tony Zeglen 2014-02-18 00:00:00Z 0

AUGGIE'S CAFE FUNDRAISER EVEN MORE SUCCESSFUL!

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Feb 10, 2014
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From Donna Ducommuna, Rotary District 5370, via Yvonne Naughton:
 
At the board meeting of Rotary District 5370 Charitable Foundation, a resolution was passed to disburse any remaining funds from the Community Spirit Grant to clubs that have already contributed:  Auggie's Cafe received $1151.40 for kitchen renovations for a grand total of $10,651.40!!
AUGGIE'S CAFE FUNDRAISER EVEN MORE SUCCESSFUL! Tony Zeglen 2014-02-11 00:00:00Z 0

BLOOD DONOR CLINIC SUCCESS

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Feb 10, 2014
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Congratulations to the volunteers and blood donors who made the Canadian Blood Services Donor Clinic on January 31st such a success!  We had nearly 200 donors attend and contribute over 150 units of blood!
BLOOD DONOR CLINIC SUCCESS Tony Zeglen 2014-02-11 00:00:00Z 0
AT THE FEBRUARY 6TH MEETING: JELENA REICH, CLASSIFICATION TALK Tony Zeglen 2014-02-11 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR FEBRUARY 13TH MEETING: BRAD MASTALER, LOBSTERFEST 2014 Tony Zeglen 2014-02-11 00:00:00Z 0

ROTARY RUN FOR LIFE SUCCESS!

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Feb 10, 2014
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Jessica Chappell, Administrative Assistant, and Alyson Brown, Chair of the Rotary Run for Life (RRFL) Board reported at our February 6th meeting that over $55,000 was raised by the 2013 event, half of which has gone to the Coordinated Suicide Prevention Program (CSPP) and the second half to the three sponsoring Rotary Clubs.  Our share was $8,700, which we will donate to the CSPP and other mental health programs.  Jessica (left below) and Alyson (second left) presented the cheque to Rotarian Lesley Crawford, our representative on the 2013 RRFL Board, and Past President Brad Mastaler.
ROTARY RUN FOR LIFE SUCCESS! Tony Zeglen 2014-02-11 00:00:00Z 0

WELCOME TO ...

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Feb 03, 2014
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... Julie Lilienskold who was inducted into our Club at the January 30th meeting.  Julie earned a Certified Management Accountant degree, now lives in Spruce Grove, and is a Vice President and Deal Maker with VR Business Brokers.  She has worked as a comptroller and/or team leader for 17 years for local and international companies in Alberta.  She was a real estate agent and accountant for RE/MAX Real Estate before moving to VR.  She has worked as a volunteer with Parkland Search and Rescue in various flood and fire situations.  She has also participated in Ride for a Cure, and Stollery Children's Hospital and local Christmas fundraisers.  Her classification is Business Broker.  She was congratulated in the photo below by President Elect Victor Moroz (left) and her proposer Rotarian Ray Frayne.
WELCOME TO ... Tony Zeglen 2014-02-04 00:00:00Z 0
AT THE JANUARY 27TH MEETING: RYAN KENNEDY, CLASSIFICATION TALK Tony Zeglen 2014-02-04 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR FEBRUARY 6TH MEETING: JELENA REICH CLASSIFICATION TALK Tony Zeglen 2014-02-04 00:00:00Z 0

FRIEND US ON FACEBOOK!

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Jan 27, 2014
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We need your help to expand the exposure of our Facebook page which was started on January 24, 2012.  All you have to do is friend us from your Facebook page so that our posts can be seen by you and your friends.  Then maybe your friends will friend us, and so on, and the circle of sharing in the good things we do will grow!

FRIEND US ON FACEBOOK! Tony Zeglen 2014-01-28 00:00:00Z 0
WE'VE BEEN THANKED! Tony Zeglen 2014-01-28 00:00:00Z 0
BLOOD DONOR CLINIC: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29TH Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2014-01-28 00:00:00Z 0

AT THE JANUARY 23RD MEETING: BRAD MASTALER, 2014 LOBSTERFEST

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Jan 27, 2014
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Brad Mastaler, Chair of the 2014 Lobsterfest Dinner and Charity Auction, spoke about the history and importance of this event, what decisions have been made thus far, obligations of Club members, and the next steps towards making this event a success.  This event will take place on May 31st, 2014 at the TransAlta Tri Leisure Centre in Spruce Grove.  Brad (left below) was thanked by President Nizar Abouchami for his presentation.
 
AT THE JANUARY 23RD MEETING: BRAD MASTALER, 2014 LOBSTERFEST Tony Zeglen 2014-01-28 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR JANUARY 30TH MEETING: RYAN KENNEDY, CLASSIFICATION TALK Tony Zeglen 2014-01-28 00:00:00Z 0

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Jan 20, 2014
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... Michael Birdsell, Charter Member and President of our Club from 1999-2000, on recently being named to the Queen's Counsel!  For the full story click here.
CONGRATULATIONS TO ... Tony Zeglen 2014-01-21 00:00:00Z 0

AT THE JANUARY 16TH MEETING: DALE MONAGHAN, GOODWILL INDUSTRIES

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Jan 20, 2014
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Dale Monaghan, President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of Alberta, provided us with an update of Goodwill activities at our January 16th meeting.  Dale is shown below (centre) with President Nizar Abouchami and Rotarian Larry Holland.  What follows is a "spoof" introduction of Dale by Larry; to be amused by, certainly not believed.  Then a serious video of Dale's presentation and a clip about Anthony referred to by Dale.  Enjoy!
AT THE JANUARY 16TH MEETING: DALE MONAGHAN, GOODWILL INDUSTRIES Tony Zeglen 2014-01-21 00:00:00Z 0

WE'VE BEEN THANKED!

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Jan 13, 2014
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On Sunday, January 12th, in the St. Augustine's Parkland Anglican ChurchDianne Brown spoke before the service to the congregation about the incredible generosity of our Rotary Club and the commitment of our Club with helping get the church kitchen renovated with a new dishwasher.  She spoke of the $5,000 that suddenly became $9,000 and she was very emotional.   She also talked about how our Club sees the Auggie's Cafe project and the enhancement of their building, and of the Anglican Church as the same thing.

People were so overcome and so grateful.  I think our Club should know just how much this has meant to the Anglican Church's ability to reach out to those in need in our community.
WE'VE BEEN THANKED! Tony Zeglen 2014-01-14 00:00:00Z 0
AT THE JANUARY 9TH MEETING: MIKE RYAN, CLEAN SCENE Tony Zeglen 2014-01-14 00:00:00Z 0

WELCOME TO ...

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Jan 13, 2014
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We proudly welcomed Christian (Chris) Findt as a new member to our Club at our meeting on January 9th.  Chris is a 14-year veteran in Rotary, hailing from the Rotary Club of Bad Mergentheim, Germany.  He moved to our area three years ago and is the General Manager of Building Technologies.  His classification is Information Technology and will be working on our Vocational Service Committee.  President Nizar Abouchami is shown below (left) congratulating Myrna Findt (wife) and new inductee Chris Findt.
 
WELCOME TO ... Tony Zeglen 2014-01-14 00:00:00Z 0

AUGGIE'S CAFE RENOVATION PROJECT CHEQUE PRESENTATION

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Jan 13, 2014
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On January 9th, Community Service Director Barry Twynam (left below), Rotarian Yvonne Naughton (second left), and President Nizar Abouchami (right), proudly presented a cheque for $5,000 raised for kitchen renovations from direct donations by members of the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove ($4,000) and a $1,000 grant through Rotary District 5370 to St. Augustine's Parkland Anglican Church Reverend Donald Gray and Dianne Brown, Auggie's Cafe.  In addition, the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove presented $2,500 for kitchen renovations and $1,500 for operations from the Club budget, for a grand total of $9,000.  Auggie's Cafe serves a lunch and opportunity for companionship every Tuesday at St. Augustine's for the benefit of the homeless and elderly.
AUGGIE'S CAFE RENOVATION PROJECT CHEQUE PRESENTATION Tony Zeglen 2014-01-14 00:00:00Z 0

ANNUAL NETWORKING MEETING: JANUARY 22, 2014

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Jan 13, 2014
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Please join nonprofit and voluntary organizations in the community as the Parkland Volunteer Action Committee (PAVAC) hosts guest speaker Brent Collingwood, Motivational Speaker and Director of Alumni and Corporate Relations for the Alberta MBA programs at the University of Alberta.  Learn why volunteering is one of the most important renewable resources Alberta and our country has to offer. 
 
Wednesday, January 22, 2014 10:00 am – 12:00 pm (Lunch provided by Community Services) Stony Plain Town Office 4905 51 Avenue, Stony Plain.  No Cost, Registration Required, phone 780-963-8583 or e-mail here.
ANNUAL NETWORKING MEETING: JANUARY 22, 2014 Tony Zeglen 2014-01-14 00:00:00Z 0
WE'VE BEEN THANKED SOME MORE! Tony Zeglen 2014-01-14 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR JANUARY 16TH MEETING: DALE MONAGHAN, GOODWILL INDUSTRIES UPDATE Tony Zeglen 2014-01-12 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR JANUARY 9TH MEETING: MIKE RYAN, CLEAN SCENE Tony Zeglen 2014-01-07 00:00:00Z 0
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ONE AND ALL! Tony Zeglen 2013-12-31 00:00:00Z 0

ANY THOUGHTS YOU WANT TO SHARE?

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 23, 2013
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I invite all members to send me their thoughts which you would like to share with fellow Club members on an issue affecting our Club or the Rotary world.  Submission deadline is the Sunday of every week.  Enjoy this week's article, and please feel free to respond to those last words or submit your own article for future pbulication.
ANY THOUGHTS YOU WANT TO SHARE? Tony Zeglen 2013-12-24 00:00:00Z 0
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ONE AND ALL! Tony Zeglen 2013-12-24 00:00:00Z 0

THE END WORD

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 23, 2013
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We are sitting in the Winnipeg airport waiting for our son and daughter-in-law to arrive from Grand Rapids, Michigan.  Long delay because of plane trouble.  They had to transfer to a different plane.  I found one of the few power plugs available to use my laptop, but there are no chairs, so I'm sitting on a box on a baggage cart.  I can't get to Starbuck's because it is located in the Departures Lounge and I'm stuck in arrivals.  FIRST WORLD PROBLEMS are so ...
 
THE END WORD Tony Zeglen 2013-12-24 00:00:00Z 0

CAR ENTHUSIAST?

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 23, 2013
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From Mic Farrell, President, Rotary Club of Edmonton Riverview:
 
David Kinnaird of Edmonton Riverview is looking to make contact with car enthusiasts for a project involving disadvantaged youth.  Are you a car enthusiast, i.e. do you belong to, or have links to, car, street rod, or truck clubs?

Once we locate some enthusiasts, David will share some information from Ontario where a car club has linked up with a high school to support interests in youth at risk in some interesting ways.  David is just waiting for a video or slideshow on the topic to arrive.

If you are interested or know of other contacts David might pursue, please contact him here or Rita Sharek here.

CAR ENTHUSIAST? Tony Zeglen 2013-12-24 00:00:00Z 0
LOOKING FOR A GOLF TOURNAMENT AROUND PHOENIX, ARIZONA? Tony Zeglen 2013-12-24 00:00:00Z 0
AT THE DECEMBER 19TH MEETING: ROTARY READS FISH TALK Tony Zeglen 2013-12-24 00:00:00Z 0
SAINT CITY ROTARY ON THE MOVE! Tony Zeglen 2013-12-24 00:00:00Z 0

ROTARY DISTRICT 5370 INTEGRITY AWARDS

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 23, 2013
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From Don Shay, District 5370:  
 
Please mark on your calendars April 16th, 2014 as the date of the District 5370 Integrity Awards. The awards will be held at the Executive Royal Inn and Conference Centre at 8450 Sparrow Drive in Leduc (directly across from the Edmonton International Airport east of the Queen Elizabeth II Highway 2).  More details to follow in the New Year!
ROTARY DISTRICT 5370 INTEGRITY AWARDS Tony Zeglen 2013-12-24 00:00:00Z 0

AUGGIE'S CAFE RENOVATION PROJECT

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 23, 2013
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Community Service Director Barry Twynam and Past President Brad Mastaler announced at our meeting on December 19th that we have raised $5,000 (thanks in part to a matching grant through Rotary District 5370) for renovations and purchase of an industrial grade dishwasher for Auggie's Cafe.  Yvonne Naughton had the pleasure of informing the Auggie's Cafe Gang of the good news.  Also, we received the very nice thank you card below.
AUGGIE'S CAFE RENOVATION PROJECT Tony Zeglen 2013-12-24 00:00:00Z 0

THE END WORD

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 16, 2013
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Adapted from ClubRunner Connect (December, 2013):

 

There are numerous reasons members choose to leave a Club:  sometimes it is due to relocation or conflict in schedule, other times it could be because of lack of leadership opportunities and motivation.  Sometimes it is very difficult to gain the respect you deserve as a leader within a Club.  Yet we are all leaders in our profession and/or community, that is why we were invited to join our Club.  At the end of the day, the qualities of all members in our Club will motivate each other to work harder to achieve goals and remain part of the club.

 

Leadership is a quality that comes naturally to some, while others have to work very hard to be effective leaders.  A good member-leader knows that it's not about them - it's about the club, club members, and the work the club does. 

 

THE END WORD Tony Zeglen 2013-12-17 00:00:00Z 0
ROTARY CLUB OF JASPER MASQUERADE BALL: MARCH 8, 2014 Tony Zeglen 2013-12-17 00:00:00Z 0

SEASONS GREETINGS ...

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 16, 2013
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From the Amarok Society:  
 
Once again, the women of Amarok Society’s schools have asked us to relay their wishes for a happy holiday season and a happy, peaceful New Year to all their “Canadian brothers and sisters”.  We thank our friends, too, for helping to draw these desperately poor and benighted women and their families into the light of the best of the world.  At the same time, we’re aware, as are you, that peace won’t be created simply by wishing.
 
Tanyss & Gem Munro (and Azien, Gabriel, Grace and Alastair Munro).
SEASONS GREETINGS ... Tony Zeglen 2013-12-17 00:00:00Z 0

CHRISTMAS PARTY: DECEMBER 12

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 16, 2013
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We were suitably feted by Elizabethan Catering and members of the Grove City Chorus at our Christmas Party on December 12th.  Special thanks to Rotarians Rita Sahrek and Randy Hetherington for organizing the event, to Lesley CrawfordJoanne Daniels, and Patti Zeglen for decorating the hall, and to Lyle Huston for providing the space at Diamond Grove RV Park.  Check out the video of 13 songs performed acapella by four members of the Grove City Chorus below (Randy Nerbas, Dick Barber, Frank Traviss, Jim Cochrane) and the photo album to the left of this webpage.
 
CHRISTMAS PARTY: DECEMBER 12 Tony Zeglen 2013-12-17 00:00:00Z 0
ROTARY FOUNDATION CONTRIBUTION FORM Tony Zeglen 2013-12-17 00:00:00Z 0

OUR CLUB YOUTUBE ACCOUNT

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 16, 2013
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Have you ever wondered where all those video clips taken at various Club functions go?
 
Well, all video clips are uploaded to our YouTube account, edited, and published (with permission from the subjects) on our Home Page and/or eBulletin.  To date we have 1,092 video clips in the account, many of which have been merged into longer videos like our Christmas Party Choral Performance video in this eBulletin edition.
OUR CLUB YOUTUBE ACCOUNT Tony Zeglen 2013-12-17 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR DECEMBER 19TH MEETING: BRAD MASTALER, FISH TALK Tony Zeglen 2013-12-17 00:00:00Z 0

BANNER EXCHANGE

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 09, 2013
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At the December 5th meeting of our Club, President Nizar Abouchami proudly exchanged banners with Rotarian Christian (Chris) Findt from the Rotary Club of Bad Mergentheim, Germany.  Banner exchanges are just one of the traditions when Rotarians visit any of the 34,000 Rotary Clubs worldwide. 
BANNER EXCHANGE Tony Zeglen 2013-12-10 00:00:00Z 0

FIRESIDE FOCUSED ON INTERNATIONAL SERVICE: TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3RD

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 09, 2013
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On Tuesday, December 3rd, International Service Director Neil Hollands and his wife Linda kindly hosted a Fireside at their home .  The focus of our discussion was on continued work with projects in Ecuador, the medical equipment we have in storage waiting to be shipped to Nigeria and/or another needy area, and the new grant application process as is reguired by our District and Rotary International.  Thanks also to Randy Hetherington, Past President Brad Mastaler, John Oldham, Tony Zeglen, and President Nizar Abouchami for their attendance and participation.
FIRESIDE FOCUSED ON INTERNATIONAL SERVICE: TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3RD Tony Zeglen 2013-12-10 00:00:00Z 0

CLUB CHRISTMAS PARTY: DECEMBER 12TH (PREREGISTRATION REQUIRED)

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 09, 2013
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There are four tickets available for this event due to cancellations.  Please contact Rita Sharek here if you want these tickets.

The regularly scheduled lunch meeting is cancelled on Thursday, December 12th due to this evening event.

From Club Service Director Rita Sharek:

Place:  Diamond Grove RV, 41 Century Road Spruce Grove

Cocktails - 5:30 - 6:30 pm - Cash Bar

Dinner - 6:30 pm buffet by Elizabethan Catering

Entertainment - 7:30 pm by Magnetic North Quartet (award-winning Barbershop Quartet)

Last Call - 10:30 pm

Tickets $55.00 per person 

CLUB CHRISTMAS PARTY: DECEMBER 12TH (PREREGISTRATION REQUIRED) Tony Zeglen 2013-12-10 00:00:00Z 0

NEW DESIGN AND FOCUS OF eBULLETIN

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 09, 2013
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What you are looking at is the latest design for our eBulletin, including new links to our website Home Page, Archived eBulletins, and Archived Stories.  Please let me know what you think here.
 
More importantly, our Club decided at the AGM on December 5th to limit access to the eBulletin to members only, i.e. internet users will no longer see a button on the website Home Page linked to our eBulletin or previously published stories.  Also, I will no longer
NEW DESIGN AND FOCUS OF eBULLETIN Tony Zeglen 2013-12-10 00:00:00Z 0

HOLIDAY MEETING CANCELLATIONS

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 02, 2013
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From Club Service Director Rita Sharek:

As per usual, we will cancel our Thursday lunch meetings during the Christmas and New Years period, which means no meetings on December 26, 2013 and January 2, 2014.  We will return to our regular schedule on Thursday, January 9th, 2014.

HOLIDAY MEETING CANCELLATIONS Tony Zeglen 2013-12-03 00:00:00Z 0
FESTIVAL OF TREES DONATION Tony Zeglen 2013-12-03 00:00:00Z 0
CATS: DECEMBER 19TH TO 30TH Tony Zeglen 2013-12-03 00:00:00Z 0

FIRESIDE FOCUSING ON INTERNATIONAL SERVICE: TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3RD

Posted by Tony Zeglen on Dec 02, 2013
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Tonight, Tuesday, December 3rd, International Service Director Neil Hollands and his wife Linda have kindly offered to host our next Fireside from 7:00 pm at their home at 14 Deer Park Bay.  As in our first Fireside, this will be an informal event with wine and light snacks, and spouses/partners/friends with an interest in Rotary are welcome.  We will have a general discussion about Rotary at the beginning of the evening, but our focus will be on talking in-depth about what we have done in the avenue of International Service in the past, currently, and what we should be doing in the future.

FIRESIDE FOCUSING ON INTERNATIONAL SERVICE: TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3RD Tony Zeglen 2013-12-03 00:00:00Z 0

AT THE NOVEMBER 21ST MEETING: SHARI ROSZMANN, CLASSIFICATION TALK

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 25, 2013
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Shari Roszmann gave a very moving Classification Talk at our meeting on November 21st, describing her rough start in life, using inner strength to overcome many obstacles, raising her own children, and helping many troubled teens get on the right track in life.  Shari is certainly an inspiration and will make a great contribution to our work on programs for Youth.  Shari (centre below) was thanked by Past President Angus McKenzie and Judy Kesanko for sharing her life story.

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AT THE NOVEMBER 21ST MEETING: SHARI ROSZMANN, CLASSIFICATION TALK Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-26 00:00:00Z 0

WE'VE BEEN THANKED!

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 25, 2013
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Shannon Clark and Claire Casault Grade 10, and Alex Irwin, Danielle Seymour and Kristen Knull Grade 11 from the Spruce Grove Composite High School wrote thank you notes to our Club as recipients of Rotary Awards for the Highest Academic Average.  Classy!

WE'VE BEEN THANKED! Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-26 00:00:00Z 0
MARION BRIDGE: NOVEMBER 27TH TO 30TH Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-26 00:00:00Z 0

AUGGIE'S CAFE: KITCHEN RENOVATION FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 25, 2013
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From Yvonne Naughton:

I have received cheques totaling $790 so far.  Barry Twynam will match up to $2,000.  So, we have the opportunity to provide $5,000 toward an industrial grade dishwasher for Auggie's Cafe ($2,000 donations, $2,000 from Barry, and $1,000 (or more) from District 5370.  Please act now as this campaign ends at the end of this month.

AUGGIE'S CAFE: KITCHEN RENOVATION FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-26 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR NOVEMBER 28TH MEETING: RICK DAVISS, EDMONTON ARENA DISTRICT PROJECT Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-26 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR NOVEMBER 21ST MEETING: SHARI ROSZMANN, CLASSIFICATION TALK Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-19 00:00:00Z 0

MISSED A MEETING? LOOKING FOR A WAY TO DO A MAKEUP?

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 18, 2013
Now there is a new, innovative way to do a make up on line.  It feels and looks like a real meeting, with a different Speaker Program each week.  A Moment of Humour, Inspirational Corner, Food for Thought, and Rotary Minute are all part of the meeting.  There is even a way to make a small donation, in lieu of a meal.  Visit the Rotary E-club of Western Canada, District 5370.  Meetings run 24/7, from Sunday midnight to Saturday Midnight.


MISSED A MEETING? LOOKING FOR A WAY TO DO A MAKEUP? Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-19 00:00:00Z 0

DISASTER RELIEF FOR THE PHILIPPINES: OUR CLUB RESPONSE

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 18, 2013
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Thanks to the support for motions by Past President Brad Mastaler on behalf of the International Service Committee to suspend the two week notice for a motion and to approve the expenditure of $1,000 from the committee's unallocated funds, our Club will pay for a shelter box from ShelterBox Canada in aid of victims of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines.

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DISASTER RELIEF FOR THE PHILIPPINES: OUR CLUB RESPONSE Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-19 00:00:00Z 0

NEXT BOARD MEETING: NOVEMBER 26TH

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 18, 2013
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The next Board of Directors meeting will be held at 5:00 pm today Tuesday, November 26th at the Club House.

NEXT BOARD MEETING: NOVEMBER 26TH Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-19 00:00:00Z 0

POLIO GONZO'S CHALLENGE 2013

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 18, 2013
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From District 5370 Governor Betty Screpnek:

We have had some anonymous donors to Polio Plus come forward!!!  This tremendous act results in another match for polio donations.  We can now turn every dollar donated to Polio Plus before December 15, 2013 into two matching streams; your donation and the anonymous matching donation, each being matched 1 to 6.  This is a tremendous windfall opportunity and we are asking for your support.  What an exciting District we live in!  Further, your money goes toward your next Paul Harris Fellow.

Here is how it works:

  1. From now until December 15, the “Anonymous Donors” will give to District 5370 Polio Gonzo Challenge using The Rotary Foundation (TRF) Canada donation forms.
  2. Clubs and individual Rotarians send their donations for Polio to TRF Canada here. 
  3. The Alberta Government Grant (that was announced at the District Conference in Edmonton) matches the combined donation up to a total district contribution of $175,000.
  4. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation then matches the total donation - two to one.
  5. A duplicate match of your donation is contributed from the Anonymous Donors Fund.

Thus a donation of $1,000 is matched by the “Anonymous Donors” and the Provincial Government turns this donation into $4,000.  The Gates Foundation then matches the $4000.00 twice turning it into $12,000.00.Through both donation streams the money is magnified… WOW!!!

To Donate, please use the link to the Rotary website or use the attached TRF Canada donation form.  NOTE:  the TRF Canada donation form is to be mailed to TRF Canada (not to the US address).  The TRF Canada address is The Rotary Foundation, c/o 91160, PO Box 4090, STN A, Toronto, ON M5W 0E9.  My Polio Gonzo mascot is depicted in the photo.  This is an exciting time for Rotary, an exciting time to be a Rotarian!  Imagine turning a dollar into $12.00!!  An incredible opportunity for us all to make a dramatic difference in the Polio Eradication campaign.  Remember this matching money is only available by the Anonymous Donor until December 15, 2013.  Please direct any of your question to J. Ross Tyson, District 5370 Rotary Foundation Chair or 780-819-4910.

POLIO GONZO'S CHALLENGE 2013 Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-19 00:00:00Z 0

AT THE OCTOBER 31ST MEETING: DISTRICT BETTY SCREPNEK VISIT

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 18, 2013
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Thanks to Rotarian Jan Vanderblij for taking this video of District 5370 Governor Betty Screpnek's visit on October 31st, which includes a presentation to Past President Des Bulger as a multiple Paul Harris Award winner, to Past President Angus McKenzie with a Presidential Citation for the Club's work in 2012-2013, and to President Nizar Abouchami with a gift from the Rotary Club of Edmonton Glenora.


AT THE OCTOBER 31ST MEETING: DISTRICT BETTY SCREPNEK VISIT Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-19 00:00:00Z 0

ME AND ROTARY WORKSHOP: DECEMBER 14TH

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 18, 2013
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The Rotary Leadership Institute (RLI) Part 1 Workshop, ‘Me and Rotary’, is intended for new members of clubs that may not have a formal orientation program or no longer hold fireside chats [Editor's Note:  we will hold our next Fireside on December 3rd].  It is also a great opportunity for an existing club member to mentor a new member by attending the workshop with them.  The more the new Rotarian knows about Rotary the better their entire Rotary experience will be.  The same holds true for our veteran Rotarian.  Currently we are partnering with District 5360 to deliver RLI training.  

Saturday December 14th from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, lunch included at the Quality Inn, 74 Street and Gaetz Avenue, in Red Deer.  The cost to member is $50 to be paid at the session.  To register, please contact Sharon Price, District 5360 Training Director.  Once RLI Part 1 is completed, those Rotarians will be one-third of their way to becoming an RLI graduate!  The RLI training schedule is located on our District Site.  To locate, Parts 2 and 3 workshop schedule, access the District’s Training Calendar here, then Access the District Site, Locate ‘Clubs and Members’, Choose ‘District Training’ from the drop-down menu, Choose ‘Training Calendar’, and, explore the District Training site to access club resources, webinars and other training-related materials.

ME AND ROTARY WORKSHOP: DECEMBER 14TH Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-19 00:00:00Z 0

DISASTER RELIEF FOR THE PHILIPPINES

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 18, 2013
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From District 5370 Governor Betty Screpnek:

On behalf of all Rotarians in District 5370, I wish to express my sincere sympathy to our Rotarians whose families have been deeply affected by the force of nature that has devastated the areas of the Philippines.  Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.  Over the next week, I will be sending you information on how and where to donate.  Today, I received direction form Bryn Styles, our Zone 24 Director which says:  

An email has gone out to the 10 District Governors of the affected districts to see if they have established relief funds.  Once we receive details they will be posted on the Rotary International website. The Rotary Foundation (TRF) will not be establishing a relief fund; however, TRF can be used to address longer term recovery issues.  As soon as we have that information, we will send it out to you.  

Our District will also be sending money, but we want to ensure it goes directly to the District/s that are most in need.  

I am also attaching for your information, received from Dale Perret, our Alberta Representative for ShelterBox Canada.  ShelterBox is on the ground in the Philippines distributing shelter and aid to those so devastated by the recent typhoon with the  staggering loss of infrastructure and lives. We have shipped almost 2,300 ShelterBoxes to the area to date and have two ShelterBox Response Teams (SRTs) on the ground this past week with our Chair of ShelterBox Canada Ron Noseworthy, who is also a fellow Rotarian from Ontario, arriving there shortly.  We are still currently active in several other countries too such as Pakistan, Sudan, Iraqi Kurdistan and, combined with the the displacement of so many families due to ongoing civil unrest in Syria, we desperately need your support.  It has been announced that the Government of Canada will match donations until December 8th, 2013 to registered charities of which ShelterBox is one and this certainly will help us in making an impact in those areas so tragically affected.  Please ensure that all donations to this appeal are marked Philippine Typhoon Appeal.  How can you help?  By donating is certainly one way and forwarding this plea on our behalf to your friends and family, who in turn can share with their friends and family, will help spread the word and assist us in providing shelter warmth and dignity to the many in need.  Our website is only a click away. We sincerely thank you for your support and assistance in reaching out to provide hope for those that are dealing with so much tragedy in their lives.

DISASTER RELIEF FOR THE PHILIPPINES Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-19 00:00:00Z 0

FUNDRICING FOR THE PHILIPPINES

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 18, 2013
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From Mariana Konsolos, Princess Florence Handbags & More:  

We need your help to FundRICE for the Philippines!!!  Our dearest staff member Sharon is leaving to the Philippines on December 19, 2013.  She is visiting relatives that got hit by the terrible natural disaster Typhoon Haiyan.  On Thursday, November 21, 2013 from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm, Princess Florence Handbags & More, with your support would like to send with her as much money as we can to buy rice for people in need.  A sack of 50 kilograms of rice cost $66.  That will be enough to feed 300 people!  We invite you do your Christmas shopping at the store, while helping support our Filipino staff who have been wonderful to all of us through the years!  A percentage of the sales will be donated to Sharon to help friends and family in need.  Wine and bites will be served after 6:00 pm.  At 6:30 pm we will be offering our popular free workshop The Magic of Scarves - Christmas Edition.  Please RSVP by Thursday Nov 21, 5:00 pm here or call us at 780-451-1531 to save your spot!  You are welcome to extend this invitation to your friends and family!

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FUNDRICING FOR THE PHILIPPINES Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-19 00:00:00Z 0

SPRUCE IT UP DISTRICTS 5360 AND 5370 CURLING BONSPIEL: FEBRUARY 20 TO 23

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 18, 2013
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From Des Bulger, Chair, Organizing Committee:

The Rotary Club of Spruce Grove would like to welcome curlers in Districts 5360 and 5370 to the 53rd annual curling bonspiel to be held from February 20 to 23, 2014 in Spruce Grove, Alberta.  Interested teams may visit this site to learn more about the event and to register a team.  Only one registration is required per team.  Details about team members will be asked during the registration process. 
 
If you have any trouble with the registration process or have any questions about the bonspiel, please contact Angus McKenzie here.  On behalf of the entire Organizing Committee, I want to wish all participants safe travels to Spruce Grove and good curling!

Below is a silly (a spoof really) video created by Tony Zeglen to help lure curlers to our event and our community.


SPRUCE IT UP DISTRICTS 5360 AND 5370 CURLING BONSPIEL: FEBRUARY 20 TO 23 Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-19 00:00:00Z 0

REST IN PEACE

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 18, 2013
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We are sad to send news that Andrew Hawkes' mother has passed away.  Club Direct Rita Sharek will soon send a token of our condolences to the family, on behalf of our Club.  May she Rest in Peace.  Andrew wishes to send his gratitude for condolences expressed by his friends in Rotary.

We are also saddened to inform you that former Club member, Stuart Hellis passed away from cancer.  His funeral will be held on Saturday, November 23 at 2:00 pm at St. Augustine Parkland Anglican Church, 131 Church Road, in Spruce Grove.

REST IN PEACE Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-19 00:00:00Z 0

AT THE NOVEMBER 14TH MEETING: SILLY SANTA AUCTION FOR WINGS OF PROVIDENCE

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 18, 2013
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Our Silly Santa Auction was held on November 14th in support of Wings of Providence Crisis Centre.  Members were asked to donate an item, deliberately concealed in Christmas wrapping paper, which was then auctioned by Rotarian Elizabeth Marsh and Vice-President Victor Moroz (shown in the photo below). To add to the fun, most donators wrote a little "poem" mischievously hinting at the contents of the item up for auction.  Only the donator knew exactly what was in the package, but members bid on it anyway raising over $1,600 for this well-deserved cause.  The winners got to unwrap their early Christmas gift, and the mothers and children in crisis will get some comfort and joy during this dark time in their lives.  Check out the new photo album to the left of this web page.

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AT THE NOVEMBER 14TH MEETING: SILLY SANTA AUCTION FOR WINGS OF PROVIDENCE Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-19 00:00:00Z 0

AT THE NOVEMBER 7TH MEETING: ELIZABETH MARSH, FISH TALK

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 11, 2013
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The incomparable actress and Rotarian Elizabeth Marsh entertained us with her Fish Talk at our November 7th meeting.  Se spoke of one of her favourite charities, Wings of Providence Crisis Centre (the fundraising object of the Silly Santa Auction on November 14th).  She explained how the Silly Santa Auction worked, for the benefit of the newer members, and how she got involved with Wings of Providence.  Elizabeth is shown below with Past President Angus McKenzie and Vice President Victor Moroz.

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AT THE NOVEMBER 7TH MEETING: ELIZABETH MARSH, FISH TALK Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-12 00:00:00Z 0
SALVATION ARMY CHRISTMAS KETTLE CAMPAIGN: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-12 00:00:00Z 0

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 04, 2013
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From District 5370 Governor Betty Screpnek:

It is my pleasure as your District Governor, to officially announce the selection of Laura Morie, member of the Rotary Club of Westlock as the successful candidate for District Governor Nominee Designate for the Rotary Year 2016-17.  Here are a few of her background highlights:

  • Joined the Rotary family in 2002
  • Chairperson for RYLA 2009-2012
  • Presently injecting much of her efforts as Director of Youth Services
  • Leadership roles as President, Foundation Chair, and Secretary
  • Benefactor, a Paul Harris Fellow and a Sustaining member of the Rotary Foundation.
  • Financial consultant with Investors Group for the past 15 years.

I would like to thank Past District Governor Kevin Hilgers, whom I appointed as Chair to lead the Selection Committee.  If you want any further information, I would be happy to respond so encourage you to contact me here.

Congratulations Laura!

CONGRATULATIONS TO ... Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-05 00:00:00Z 0

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING HIGHLIGHTS: OCTOBER 31ST, 2013

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 04, 2013
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The Board was pleased to meet with District 5370 Governor Betty Screpnek on October 31st and these were the highlights of that meeting.

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Club Administration Director Tony Zeglen presented a report in writing that the Open House PowerPoint/video was updated to October 16th; four Humanitarians in Spruce Grove ads have been completed and November will feature AnnLisa Jensen; Public Relations projects posted on the District 5370 Data Base include the 20th Anniversary President History Video project, Memory Album project, and the Open House PowerPoint/video project, and the Membership Mentoring program; the Rotary District 5360/5370 Curling Bonspiel promotional video has been completed; and Brad Mastaler was locating a digital copy of our Club flag.  In terms of Membership, we have inducted six new members in this Rotary Year, two others were approved as proposed members, five new members have been introduced to ClubRunner, and a second Fireside will take place in early December focusing on International Service and hosted by Director Neil Hollands.

Brad Mastaler reported on behalf of Community Service Director Barry Twynam that various community projects have been approved and cheques are being written; Highway Clean-up and Rotary Park Clean-up were completed; and Club members have been challenged to contribute to Auggie’s Café matching grant fund for kitchen renovations. 

International Service Direct Neil Hollands reported that the Committee has a budget of $36,000; a matching grant initiative for shipping medical equipment to Nigeria is on hold; our Club supports the Children of Ecuador projects; and the Committee is working on establishing evaluation criteria for granting funds and establishing a long term planning strategy.

Youth Service Director Randy Hetherington reported that he has attended two Interact Meetings, that group is looking to fund raise for an organization that supports women’s right to an education, and the new executive is in place and moving forward (tentatively), recruitment drive continues and they have 12 members; the Vocational Visit to Parkland School Division took place on October 3rd, 2013, highlighting public education for youth ages 2.5 – 20 in Parkland County, with a specific focus on integration of technology and a detailed look into the largest school bus operation in the province; new member Thomas Miller has been added to the committee; Shari Roszmann has assumed responsibility for Adventures programs and RYLE, RYPEN and RYLA (RYLE 2014 – May 1 - 4, 2014 at Camp Nakamun, RYPEN 2014 – May 7 – 11, 2014 at Camp Warwa; RYLA 2014 – September 27 – 29, 2013 in Edmonton); the Committee was approached by Aaron Grenke from Living Waters Christian Academy for support of their Mission trip to Guatemala (a prezi presentation on this request was made available to Board members for consideration and discussion; contact was made with 4th Spruce Grove Scouts to contribute $1500.00 and continue our sponsorship of this organization (they will prepare their charter for signing in the next few weeks); initial planning for the Speech Arts competition is underway; and our scheduled speaker for September 26 (Kaileigh Feist) did not show up.  Pending items include:  Aboriginal Initiative (District 5370) information received; meetings held with past participants regarding RYE to be discussed; and Youth submission to website and sponsorship of Club newsletter.

Vocational Service Director Ray Frayne reported that the Committee is working on Vocational visits (completed one in October), and planning others for January and February; representatives of the Spruce Grove and District Chamber of Commerce attended a meeting in October; and we hope to educate their members about the Rotary Club of Spruce Grove.

Past President Angus McKenzie reported on plans to present a report to the Club about the history of the Trail project.  The Club has the trail money in our account.  We must now submit an application to change the grant’s designation and also apply for an extension.  All financial information concerning this project must be submitted by December 30th, 2014.

President Elect Victor Moroz reported that he attended the President Elect training at the District Conference which instilled in him that continuity in the Club is important to insure we move forward with things we planned to do in the previous year, but did not complete due to time constraints, and that he will be attending the Rotary International Conference in Australia.

Rotary Foundation Director Brad Mastaler reported that our Club has a lifetime donation of $91,260 including 20 Paul Harris Fellows, two Bequests, three Benefactors, 37 Rotarian Donors, and 11 Non-Rotarian Donors; our giving goal is $3130 US (per capita less than $100 per member); and this year we added a line to our billing statements asking for at least a $10.00 donation to the Foundation for the Every Rotarian Every Year initiative.

Secretary Lesley Crawford reported that we have 48 active members and five honourary members, and that the attendance for September was 71%.

Treasurer Jan Vanderblij reported on our Community Spirit, Casino, and Interact Club (new account set up in October) bank balances, term GIC investment, Rotary Trail reserve (new GIC set up in October and that future attention will be required to administer this fund); financial records for the 2012-2013 year submitted to Tober, Hemblings & Callihoo for their review, and that a copy of our Meeting room insurance policy and current Club By-Laws; membership dues invoicing sent out on September 23rd, 2013 with receipt at 50% to date; and our Club has given $50,000 to the Ecole Broxton Park School for their new playground and we have committed $100,000 this year for the expansion of the Parkland Food Bank.

District Governor Betty Screpnek reported that the District will send out a message concerning the establishment of a District Hospitality Room at the Rotary International Convention for one day in order to provide an opportunity for all District attendees to get together; President Elect Training is set for March 7th to 8th, 2014 at the Holiday Inn in south Edmonton; the very first meeting of a Rotary Club in Edmonton was held May 10th at Fort Edmonton and there are plans to hold a birthday celebration on that date, and Dr. Oz has been booked for Rexall Place in June as the first of a series of fundraisers to establish a Rotary Office in Fort Edmonton; and that we should put the Rotary Year theme banner on our website.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING HIGHLIGHTS: OCTOBER 31ST, 2013 Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-05 00:00:00Z 0
AT OUR NOVEMBER 7TH MEETING: ELIZABETH MARSH, FISH TALK Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-05 00:00:00Z 0

AT THE OCTOBER 31ST MEETING: DISTRICT BETTY SCREPNEK VISIT

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Nov 04, 2013
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District 5370 Governor Betty Screpnek visited our Club on October 31st and made several special presentations.  Along with Past President Brad Mastaler, she recognized multiple Paul Harris Fellow and Past President Des Bulger in the first photo below.  Along with President Nizar Abouchami, she congratulated new members Thomas Miller, Ryan Kennedy, Michelle Coates, Shari Roszmann, and Jelena Reich in the second photo; and presented Past President Angus McKenzie Presidential Citation Award for 2012-2013 in the third photo.  Finally, she presented President Nizar Abouchami with a picture in the last photo.  Special thanks to Rotarian Jan Vanderblij for taking these and other photos for this edition of the eBulletin.

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AT THE OCTOBER 31ST MEETING: DISTRICT BETTY SCREPNEK VISIT Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-11-05 00:00:00Z 0

NIGERIAN GROUP STUDY EXCHANGE UPDATE

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Oct 28, 2013
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Note:  Grace was part of the Rotary Group Study Exchange (GSE) Team from Nigeria that we helped host (2009?)

From Grace T. Iyeghe-Erakpotobor via Arlaine Monaghan:

I feel so happy each time I read your mails.  Your concern and care is so moving I can not begin to thank you enough for it.  I am so glad you have overcome the surgery and would soon be back to your active self again.  Please do not mind some of my terminologies because I write to you like I would another Nigerian.  When I say overcome the surgery, I mean you have been successfully operated and are healing well and would soon be fine.

The things happening here are quite fearful and horrifying, but we are not in the midst of it all.  We live in the north west zone of Nigeria and the main problem is in the north east zone. The fearful part is that it can shift to any part of the country, but with God we are in safe hands no matter what happens.  I sometimes fear for my son who is in the University in Kano, and my daughter and parents who are in Jos, but despite all we would survive.  At least my son is home safe for now. 

You can send me mails without any problems.  My major problem here are electricity and internet network stability.  I have a whole pile of mails right now to read because I go for days before I can read my mails and also have the luxury of replying them at the same time.  Today the network is stable and fast enough for me to attach a photograph of me at my friends' daughter's introduction (the groom and his family came to formally introduce themselves and their intention to take her as a wife).  I would have liked to send you more pictures but I am not sure if it would not bug your system.  Maybe I should add one more.  In the first picture we were bringing the bride to be for the groom and his family to identify, if she is the girl they want, and in the second picture I was kneeling down to be prayed for as one of the guests at the occasion.  Sitting beside me is the mother of the bride who is my friend and colleague in the office.  I guess I have to go before the network stalls and I cant send you the mail again. Greet my friends for me.

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NIGERIAN GROUP STUDY EXCHANGE UPDATE Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-10-29 00:00:00Z 0

AT OUR OCTOBER 31ST MEETING: DG BETTY SCREPNEK VISIT

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Oct 28, 2013
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District 5370 Governor Betty Screpnek will visit our community on October 31st.  First she will meet with the Board of Directors at 11:00 am, then will be the guest speaker at our regular meeting.  Rumour has it that she will make a special presentation to Past President Angus McKenzie, and congratulate and welcome the six new members we have inducted thus far in the 2013-2014 Rotary Year.

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AT OUR OCTOBER 31ST MEETING: DG BETTY SCREPNEK VISIT Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-10-29 00:00:00Z 0

NOVEMBER IS ROTARY FOUNDATION MONTH!

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Oct 28, 2013
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November is Rotary Foundation month!  It's a good time to reflect on the great Rotary Foundation sponsored programs we support and on how each of us can contribute to make sure these programs continue.  Our Club is asking each member to contribute at least $10 to the Foundation when they pay their annual dues.  Our Rotary Foundation sponsors a broad range of educational and humanitarian programs that save and change lives here and abroad.  These programs are the lifeblood of Rotary, creating world peace and understanding through the lives touched by the programs.  Ask any Rotarian who has visited/worked on an international project about the difference made by these programs.  There are many wonderful stories of saved and changed lives around the world.  Our contributions to the Rotary Foundation fund these Rotary programs.  While our Foundation is quite healthy (one of the largest foundations in the world), there is so much more we need to do.  Your annual contribution and/or a contribution to the Foundation Permanent Fund (through a major gift or benefactor contribution) fuels our Rotary programs.  A contribution to the Foundation is one of the best investments you can make with nearly 100% going to Rotary programs that save and change lives.  Learn more about The Rotary Foundation here and make a contribution to continue saving and changing lives.  These programs work and are a great investment for a better and safer world.  Source:  http://www.rotary5960.org/showDoc.cfm?pMenuTop=5&pObject=138
NOVEMBER IS ROTARY FOUNDATION MONTH! Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-10-29 00:00:00Z 0

WE'VE BEEN THANKED!

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Oct 28, 2013

The Spruce Grove and District Chamber of Commerce celebrated their 50th Anniversary on October 22nd and made a special effort to thank us for our 20+ year partnership with them as shown in the plaque below.  President Nizar Abouchami was on hand to receive this recognition on behalf of our Club.  It is safe to say, "You are quite welcome and we look forward to many more years working together to better our community!"

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WE'VE BEEN THANKED! Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-10-29 00:00:00Z 0
AT THE OCTOBER 24TH MEETING: MAREN HASSE, AUTHOR AND LIFE COACH Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-10-29 00:00:00Z 0
WELCOME TO MICHELLE COATES: OUR NEWEST MEMBER Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-10-29 00:00:00Z 0

YES, WE HAVE A NEW BANNER ...

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Oct 21, 2013

... in keeping with new brand logo regulations from Rotary International.  For more information, click here.

YES, WE HAVE A NEW BANNER ... Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-10-22 00:00:00Z 0

SILLY SANTA AUCTION IS COMING!

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Oct 21, 2013
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Our Silly Santa Auction is coming on November 14th in support of Wings of Providence Crisis Centre.  Members are asked to donate an item, deliberately concealed in Christmas wrapping paper, which is then auctioned.  Only the donator knows what is in the package, but members bid on it anyway.  The winner gets to unwrap it and discover their early Christmas gift.

SILLY SANTA AUCTION IS COMING! Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-10-22 00:00:00Z 0

GOOD NEWS!

Posted by Anthony (Tony) Zeglen on Oct 21, 2013
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At our October 17th meeting, Elizabeth Marsh reported that Arlaine Monaghan is much better, but still recuperating from surgery at home.  Get totally well soon!

GOOD NEWS! Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-10-22 00:00:00Z 0
AACL BREAKFAST: ROTARY WAS THERE! Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-10-22 00:00:00Z 0
SAM SILENT AWAKENS! THE "DOOR" WRITES AGAIN! Anthony (Tony) Zeglen 2013-10-22 00:00:00Z 0