Rotary is a worldwide organization of more than 1.2 million business, professional, and community leaders. Members of Rotary clubs, known as Rotarians, provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations, and help build goodwill and peace in the world.
Summary of Club meeting news for regular meetings held March 18th, March 25th and board meeting on March 25th (No Meeting held on Monday April 1st).
President Ken welcomed Victoria Kuteyi, Sheila Akputa, Cynthia Stell and Funmi Fatona and sent greetings to our absent Snow Bird members. On March 25th via Zoom, Victoria introduces Babatunde Shola incoming president of Rotary Club of Badore, Lagos, Nigeria
Rotary Information: District approved Conroy Lau, grade 11 student at St. Augustine CHS, for RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership) on April 18-21 at Ganaraska Forest Centre; Michael Von Keitz , 2024-5 President, asked new members and officers to hold date of June 1st for District Training Assembly. President Ken said our participation in Unionville Festival Parade on June 1st had also been confirmed - will be a busy day.
Club Business: Sunrise Club invited to participate in this years Great Lakes Clean-up on April 27th; Club to expand this year's Food Bank Food Drive to 2,000 bags and also will ask club to consider York Region Food Bank as beneficiary; Board also approved continuation of High School Leadership awards, a club tradition since 1963.
District Governor's Visit, March 18th: DG Burns, John Burns, aka agent 7070, welcomed to our in person meeting at Jakes - DG Burns introduced RI President Gordon McInally's theme for 2023-4, Create Hope in the World, presented Theme pins for all members as well as the Theme Banner for President Ken; DG Burns brought us up to date on the End Polio Now campaign and Rotary Foundation achievements and opportunities. He encouraged new members attend Part I of Rotary Leadership Institute. on April 20th.
With Environmental Sustainability taking root within Rotary as the 7th Area of Focus, Rotary has designated April 2024 as the Environment Month. Check the link below to see what Rotarians around the world are doing to improve the health of planet.
Within District 7070, most clubs are participating in the Great Lakes Watershed Cleanup. On Saturday April 27, 2024, together with Markham Sunrise Rotary, we will join thousands of Rotarians & Non-Rotarians alike, on both sides of the Canadian and U.S. , roll up our sleeves and collect refuse along the Rouge River in Milne Park, one of the tributaries to the Great Lakes basin......
Summary of Club meeting news for regular meetings held January 15th, 22nd, 29th, February 5th & 12th, and board meeting on January 22nd.
President Ken greeted visiting Rotarian Victoria Kuteyl, welcomed Peachman Akputa, Sheila Akputa and Sam Azad, and introduced Cynthia Stell and Funmi Fatona.
Rotary Information: Club inviting candidates for RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership) on April 18-21 at Ganaraska Forest Centre; District reminded that applications for 2024 Global Grant Scholarship due February 29th. Michael Von Keitz confirmed for 2024-5 President Elect Training (PET) . New members and officers asked to hold date of June 1st for District Training Assembly (as well as Unionville Festival Parade).
Club Business: Ken reported year end Wine Sales contributed over $1,000 to club coffers. Ken and Sharda are working with Lions Club to expand this year's Food Bank Food Drive - members asked to help find new sponsors for this year. Socks collected at Christmas party delivered to 360 Kids.
Program: On January 22nd, in respect of Holocaust Memorial Day, club viewed recorded presentation by late Markham Rotarian Louis Laufert on his experiences in France and finally Buchenwald. On January 29th, Nadeem Hussain, President of World Parkinson's Program , discussed Parkinson's disorder and this Canadian charity's mission to provide medication and advocate for Parkinson's patients and caregivers.
Fellowship: Peter and Ken confirmed invitation to Rotary Club of York's Chinese New Year celebration of February 23rd. Confirm your attendance by transfer of $100 to clubs email account .
Board Meeting: President Ken presented Paul Harris Fellowship to Thomas Chu. District Governor will present club with a 100% PHF banner on upcoming visit (March 18th?),
Deadline for transfer of corporate registration to new Ontario Not For Profit Corporations Act remains October 19th, 2024; Ontario Registry has been updated for required Annual filing and Notice of Changes in directors and officers. By-Laws to be updated to conform with Rotary Recommended By-Laws , which will require Membership approval. Car Raffle due to be wound up with City and BNS account closed, pursuant to AGCO rules and City letter authorizing termination. Ken also noted 2023-4 board vacancy following termination of Amit Talreja's membership as well as vacancy in Vice President (President-Elect) position for 2024-5.
The 2024 Rotary Youth Leadership Symposium (RYLS).
The 2024 Rotary Youth Leadership Symposium (RYLS) will be taking place, April 18-21, 2024 at the Ganaraska Forest Centre! The 3-night, 4-day experience is geared toward youth between the ages of 16-20 and will offer an inspiring program: Conflict Resolution, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Reconciliation and Land Based Education, Leadership, Hands-on Activities, Group Dynamics, Public Speaking, Outdoor Survival along with campfires, friendship and tons of fun and learning!!!
Rotary Clubs are encouraged to find and sponsor eligible participants within their community, as well as members of the Rotaract and Interact Clubs that they host. There are only 30 spots available - so act fast!
Applications are due by March 1, 2024. To apply click HERE.
Markham-Unionville Rotary Club President Ken Chin and Past President Neil Thomas placed club's wreath at the MDVA Remembrance Day ceremonies held at Markham's Veterans Square and Cenotaph on Saturday November 11th, 2023.
District Governor John Burns and his District Conference Committee hosted the 2023-2024 District Conference at the Oshawa Marriott Courtyard over the prior weekend. With about 200 respectfully distanced Rotarians, Exchange Students, Partners and Guests in attendance, and excellent conference speakers, a vibrant program focused on the theme Building a Better Tomorrow. Be sure to go to the District 7070 Website Photo Albums and see just some of the photos from a great District Conference.
Hats off to DG John (Agent 7070) for an excellent conference. All were invited by DGE Virginia O'Reilly to register for next year's conference, Be Irresistible, to be held at the Nottawasaga Inn in Alliston on October 25, 26 & 27, with 'early bird' pricing available.
In Person Meeting at Jakes on Main, Attendance 12 + 3 under Rule of 85 for 75%.
President Ken welcomed visiting Rotarian Victoria Kuteyl-Ogundemuren, from Rotary Club of Victoria Garden City, D9110, Nigeria. A past club president, AG and Polio Chairman Emeritus, Victoria discussed the experience of Ending Polio in Nigeria.
Club Business included updates on Remembrance Day coordinated by Neil and MDVA at Markham Cenotaph; Santa Claus Parade coordinated by Art Moad, an invitation to join Rotary Club of York's Christmas Party, and final arrangements for World Polio Day flag raising at City Centre on 24th.
Sal, Ross and Thiva noted highlights of 2023 District 7070 Conference last weekend in Oshawa, lead by DG John Burns (aka Agent 7070). Our club received banners for EREY contributions to the Foundation and will receive a one-time 100% Paul Harris Fellowship recognition. DG also thanked Thiva for his work on websites for Conference as well as Foundation Walk
Next week, October 30th, will be a board meeting; November will follow 1st & 3rd In-Person and 2nd & 4th Zoom schedule. UPDATE- board meeting will follow regular Meeting on Monday November 6th.
Tuesday October 24, 2023. Markham Rotarians raise the End Polio Now flag at Markham Town Centre and receive the Mayor's Proclamation on World Polio Day citing Rotary's efforts to eradicate polio.
Think polio is a thing of the past? Not quite, but it will be. Join Markham Rotarians at Markham Town Centre on World Polio Day to raise the End Polio Now flag and receive the Mayor's Proclamation on Rotary's efforts to End Polio Now. Tuesday October 24, 2023, 09:00.
In our history making era We promised the world a healthy, polio-free future...and we’re almost there, 99.9% to be exact. This World Polio Day, let’s make history and shrink that number to zero.
Club's return to regular meeting format complete with visiting Rotarians from Richmond BC and Hong Kong, and exchange of club banners.
President Ken reminded us that club will not meet on Thanksgiving Holiday Monday (October 9th) and will meet in person Monday October 16th.
Attendance 8 of 20, (10 including 2 under Rule of 85).
Ken discussed evolution of Rotary's meeting and attendance expectations and the First Object of Rotary "The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service"
Thomas said overdue member accounts will be presented to the board, reminding members that club dues represent dues and insurance paid to RI as well as costs of operating a Rotary club.
Art reported on Santa Claus Parade - still need volunteers to carry banners, assist with costume characters, be float "road guards'. Unionville BIA is also sponsoring a parade on December 9th and members may walk in it.
Neil Thomas is coordinating clubs participation in Remembrance Day parade and ceremony, including placement of club's wreath, at the Markham Cenotaph. Details to follow.
Foundation Walk: Sunday October 15, Milne Park, Markham: Register on line (no cost, meal requirements) and let Thiva know if you are available to help.
District Conference: October 20-22 , Oshawa Marriott. Sign up for partial or full agenda on Club Runner.
World Polio Day; application filed with Town and new flag ordered for Flag Raising on October 24th
Monday September 25, 2023 Zoom Meeting -attendance 11 of 20 - Next Meeting October 2nd - In Person - at Jakes on Main
President Ken Chin welcomed guests Ngoli and Peachman Akputa, and thanked Brampton Rotary for their letter of introduction.
Ken also congratulated Peter Wong and Amar Banerjee for representing Markham in an area ping-pong tournament organized by Lions Club.
Ken asked Art Moad to discuss the clubs support for the Santa Claus Parade on November 25th - members asked to let Art know their availability - need float assembly, banner carriers, road guards, costumed characters etc. - artmoad@bell.net
Rotary Events: Foundation Walk October 15th, and District Conference October 20-22. Sign up using Club Runner links on either club or District 7070 sites.
World Polio Day : Club will participate with Sunrise Club in annual flag raising at Markham Town Centre on October 24th. All welcome, time TBA
Treasurer Thomas Chu reviewed accounts and said statement will be sent to members with outstanding balances for Rotary dues paid by club to RI.
Donation of backpacks and school supplies to Aldergrove PS.
Thomas Chu - Treasurer/Youth Director, and Kenneth Chin - President, accompanied by Ron Lynn - YRDSB School Board Chair, Ed Law - YRDSB Trustee, Superintendent, and school administration staff.
Treasurer Thomas Chu and President Kenneth Chin presented this year's Mitch Mitchell Award to Unionville High School graduate Aidan Wong at the 2023 Markham Jazz Festival. Aidan's primary instrument is the alto saxophone and he is enrolled in the concurrent music education program at Queen's University. At UHS Aidan participated in the UHS Jazz Band, the Showtime pit-orchestra/ class and also formed his own Jazz quartet
See p. 17 of the Festival program for full description of award and this year's recipient:
In President Gordon McInally's July 2023 Message, he says that Rotary takes care of its members and those we serve, works to build lasting peace, and embeds belonging and inclusion in everything we do. That is why he is asking everyone in Rotary to Create Hope in the World as we prioritizeprojects to support mental health, continue our journey in diversity, equity, and inclusionand as we build peace within, we become more capable of bringing peace to the world..........
The Markham-Unionville Rotary Club is proud to partner with Amica-Unionville and the Markham Food Bank on a food drive in this community.
The Markham Food Bank is a registered non-profit charity working to alleviate food insecurity for Markham community members. With the help of volunteers and donations, the Markham Food Bank offers food supplies and other basic necessities to community members. The Markham Food Bank is committed to creating a welcoming environment of fairness and equality for everyone that walks through our doors.
During the pandemic the needs of the Markham Food Bank has increased. Food bank usage has increased by about 46% since the start of the pandemic. The current inflation caused by pandemic supply-chain issues and the war in Ukraine will make this even worse.
2023 Rotary Great Lakes Watershed Cleanup - April 22, 2023
Our 3rd Annual Great Lakes Watershed Cleanup Event (GLWC) was another great success as many clubs in District 7070 helped the clean ups on Saturday April 22 (Earth Day). Thank you to Rotary District 7070 GLWC Chair Dan Coombes and Nilam Bedi of the District 7070 Environmental Action Committee. Be sure to see the New photo album of the District website ( https://rotary7070.org/PhotoAlbums/great-lakes-watershed-cleanup-april-2023 )
April Area of Focus is Maternal and Child Health .Every day mothers risk their lives giving birth and millions of children die each year from treatable, preventable causes.At least 7 million children under the age of five die each year due to malnutrition, poor health care, and inadequate sanitation. To help reduce this rate, Rotary provides immunizations and antibiotics to babies, improve access to essential medical services, and support trained health care providers for mothers and their children. Rotary projects ensure sustainability by empowering the local community to take ownership of health care training programs.
PEACEBUILDING AND CONFLICT PREVENTION Rotary supports training, education, and practices related to peacebuilding and conflict prevention through initiatives that help transform1 conflict in our communities and around the world.
Since 1945 Rotary and the United Nations have a shared history of working toward peace and addressing humanitarian issues around the world. Today, Rotary holds the highest consultative status offered to a nongovernmental organization by the UN’s Economic and Social Council, which oversees many specialized UN agencies. The Rotary Representative Network maintains and furthers its relationship with several UN bodies, programs, commissions, and agencies. This network consists of Rotary International representatives to the United Nations and other organizations.
February 23, 2024, Rotary's 119th Birthday is also World Understand and Peace Day
Vocational Service, sometimes referred to as the 'forgotten Avenue of Service", is the foundation of Rotary. The January District 7070 Newsletter includes the following excerpts on Vocation Service. https://rotary7070.org/stories/january-is-vocational-service-month-1/
Prior to the 11:00 Remembrance Day ceremonies, Rotarians and family gathered at the banner placed to honour the memory of late Rotarian Michael Cubitt.
President Sal and past President Neil represented the club and placed the Rotary memorial wreath at the Markham Cenotaph.
For those who missed the marching of the Nov 5th 2022 Remembrance Day parade, here is the link that we had live streamed.
Back by request - The Rotary Club of Markham Sunrise with the Markham City Council will again be organizing the annual Santa Claus parade on Markham Main Street
With deep regret, we report the death of Dr. Ed Meade on Thursday October 13th, 2022. A charter member of the Unionville Rotary Club, Ed was club President in 1993-1994, received a Paul Harris Award and was a member and director of the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club for several years. Visitation 6:00-9:00 p.m., Sunday October 16th at Dixon Garland, 166 Main Street, Markham; Funeral 10:30 a.m. Monday October 17th at St Patrick's, 5633 Hwy 7, Markham.
On Monday July 4th club members and guests will congratulate President Anthony Abhumhen for navigating club through our 60th year and emergence from Covid restrictions as the gavel is passed to 2022-23 President Sal Vella.
After two years of online changeover formalities, Rotary has renamed July from Changeover to Transition Month. Markham-Unionville's 2022 Transition will be a traditional partners night at The School. Details to be sent to members and friends.
District Governor Ron Dick and the Oshawa Rotary Club hosted the 2021-2022 District Conference at the Oshawa Marriott Courtyard this past weekend. With about 200 respectfully distanced Rotarians, Partners and Guests in attendance, and excellent conference speakers, a vibrant program focused on the theme Be a Driver for Change was delivered to the first D7070 in person audience in two years.
Incoming RI President Jennifer Jones delivered closing remarks on a video and introduced her Imagine Rotary Canada Tour. Incoming DG Iosif Ciosa invited everyone to participate in Toronto area projects when she will be in Toronto, July 5th.
Hats off to DG Ron Dick for an excellent conference. All were invited by DGE Iosef to register for this year's conference, We Have A Dream, to be held at the Nottawasaga Inn in Aliston on October 14,15 & 16, with 'early bird' pricing available.
The Markham-Unionville Rotary Club is proud to partner with the Markham Food Bank on a food drive in this community.
The Markham Food Bank is a registered non-profit charity working to alleviate food insecurity for Markham community members. At the Markham Food Bank, we strive to create a welcoming environment of fairness and equality for everyone who walks through our doors. With the help of volunteers and donations, the Markham Food Bank offers food supplies and other basic necessities to community members. The Markham Food Bank is committed to creating a welcoming environment of fairness and equality for everyone that walks through our doors.
During the pandemic the needs of the Markham Food Bank has increased. Food bank usage has increased by about 25% since the start of the pandemic. The current inflation caused by pandemic supply-chain issues and the war in Ukraine will make this even worse.
Due to the Covid 19 pandemic we have been unable to continue with our Rotary car raffle. Pursuant to the cancellation plan filed with the City of Markham, as Licensor of raffle M716910, we are in the process of confirming the name and mailing address for refund by cheque of the $20 face value of each ticket. Ticket holders are being asked to send confirmation by email to markhamcarraffle@gmail.com or by mail to Markham-Unionville Rotary Club, PO Box 54079, RPO Galsworthy/Hwy 7, Markham, ON L3P 7Y4.
April 2022 UPDATE: refund cheques have now been mailed to confirmed ticket holders. Holders of tickets 71, 73, 82, 169, 173, 176, 321, 603, 655 & 760 requested to confirm correct name and address by email to markhamcarraffle@gmail.com or by mail to Markham-Unionville Rotary Club, PO Box 54079, RPO Galsworthy/Hwy 7, Markham, ON L3P 7Y4.
Vocational Service, sometimes referred to as the 'forgotten Avenue of Service", is the foundation of Rotary. The January District 7070 Newsletter includes the following excerpts on Vocation Service. https://rotary7070.org/stories/january-is-vocational-service-month-1/
Rotarians and Friends In this most joyous of seasons, I want to extend a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to Markham-Unionville Rotarians and their families. Also, in this season of reflection and looking forward I thought it would be a good opportunity to review where we’ve been and where we’re going. Despite Covid, this past year, the Rotary Club of Markham-Unionville has grown and thrived. We met the challenges of this time in our history and figured out ways to achieve our goals while meeting virtually. 2021 saw the continuation of Markham-Unionville – Saturdays walk in the woods, we provided school supplies to 3 schools in Markham (Little Rouge, Coppard Glen, and St. Kateri) to be distributed to deserving students by respective schools and just recently we were able to make a $1000 donation to help Markham Food Bank in its food drive program. We distributed over 300 bottles of water in our community outreach initiative (Framer’s market in Markham and Unionville) and was able to interact with members of the community to spread the gospel of Rotary and reintroduce who we are and what we stand for and because of this initiative, we have 1 confirmed and 1 prospective member. Internationally, we donated 1030 reading glasses to a community in Nigeria, in partnership with a resident Rotary club (Rotary Club of Ogba, Benin City) for testing and distribution to those in need. We raised $2200 in wine fundraising to support the various projects we have undertaken. I would be remised if I didn’t mention the passing to glory of Wally Buczkowski, who served the club for decades in various capacities, and most importantly, he introduced me to the club and was my sponsor. Our pray is, God will give the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. As we look forward to the year ahead and the next big initiative, the 60th-anniversary celebration, I want to thank each and every one of you for the support you have given the board and to implore you to remain steadfast in our drive to ensure, the Rotary Club of Markham-Unionville is present and relevant in the city of Markham.
Here’s to another great year! President Anthony Abhumhen
President Anthony Abhumhen presented a $1,000 cheque to the Markham Food Bank today, great to see our club contributing to the wellness of our community.
Rotary's top priority is the eradication of polio, but our members take on far greater responsibilities to fight disease.
Rotarians set up health camps and training facilities in undeveloped countries and in communities struggling with HIV/AIDS and malaria. They also design and build the infrastructure for doctors, nurses, governments, and partners to reach the one in six people in the world who can't afford to pay for healthcare.
Rotary's top priority is the eradication of polio, but our members take on far greater responsibilities to fight disease.
Rotarians set up health camps and training facilities in undeveloped countries and in communities struggling with HIV/AIDS and malaria. They also design and build the infrastructure for doctors, nurses, governments, and partners to reach the one in six people in the world who can't afford to pay for healthcare.
The Rotary Foundation As the charitable arm of Rotary, we tap into a global network of Rotarians who invest their time, money, and expertise into our priorities, such aseradicating polio and promoting peace. Foundation grants empower Rotarians to approach challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, and malnutrition with sustainable solutions that leave a lasting impact. To get ideas how the Rotary Foundation transforms your gifts into projects that change lives both close to home and around the world, please Read more.......
On Saturday, November 6, 2021, Rotary club members participated in Markham's Remembrance Day Ceremonies. President Anthony Abhumhen and Past President Neil Thomas placed the Rotary wreath at the 11:00 MDVA Service at the Cenotaph. The Markham Remembrance Day Service is organized each year by the Markham District Veterans Association and is held at the revitalized Veterans Square and Cenotaph in historic Markham Village, to pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for Canada's freedom.
Sunday October 24th, 2021 is United Nations Day. "Rotary and the United Nations have a long history of working together and sharing similar visions for a more peaceful world.
"Rotary has a seat in the General Assembly of the United Nations in recognition of the efforts of its membership to foster goodwill and peace across national boundaries. Rotary is the world's largest Non-Government Foundation providing educational and humanitarian aid."
In 1942, Rotary clubs from 21 nations organized a conference in London to develop a vision for advancing education, science, and culture after World War II. That event was a precursor to UNESCO. In 1945, 49 Rotarians went to San Francisco to help draft the UN Charter. Rotary and the UN have been close partners ever since, a relationship that’s apparent through PolioPlus and work with UN agencies. "
From the history of Rotary and the United Nations, https://www.rotary.org/en/history-rotary-and-united-nations
Rotary supports activities and training to improve education for all children and literacy for children and adults.
The Rotary Foundation enables Rotarians to ensure that all people have sustainable access to basic education and literacy by: 1. Involving the community to support programs that strengthen the capacity of communities to provide basic education and literacy to all; 2. Increasing adult literacy in communities; 3. Working to reduce gender disparity in education; 4. Supporting studies for career-minded professionals related to basic education and literacy.
MARKHAM, ON – July 13, 2021 – As of Friday, July 16 at 12:01 AM, the Province of Ontario will enter Step Three of its Roadmap to Reopen. The decision to move to Step Three of the reopening plan is based on the continual improvement to public health and health care indicators, province wide vaccination rates and consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health.
Step Three of the Roadmap to Reopen focuses on the resumption of additional indoor services with larger numbers of people and restrictions in place.
This includes, but is not limited to:
Outdoor social gatherings and organized public events with up to 100 people with limited exceptions
Indoor social gatherings and organized public events with up to 25 people
Indoor religious services, rites or ceremonies, including wedding services and funeral services permitted with physical distancing
Indoor dining permitted with no limits on the number of patrons per table with physical distancing and other restrictions still in effect
Indoor sports and recreational fitness facilities can open and are subject to a maximum 50 per cent capacity of the indoor space
With deep regret, we report the death of Wally Buczkowski on Friday June 4th, 2021. A member of the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club since 1998, Wally was club President in 2004-5 and 2006-7, received a Paul Harris Award in 2003 and served as a Director for over 20 years.
What Is your Rotary Club doing to focus on Rotary Fellowships in the month of June 2021, or anytime of the year for that matter? Rotary Fellowships are groups of Rotary members, spouses, and Rotaractors who: Share a common interest in recreational activities, sports, hobbies, or professions, Further their vocational development with others in the same profession or field and enhance their Rotary experience by exploring new opportunities and making connections around the world.
The three steps of the Roadmap, which will be applied provincially, are the following :
Step One
Step One ........ the government expects to enter Step One of the Roadmap the week of June 14, 2021. The province will confirm closer to the expected start of Step One.
Step One will permit the resumption of more outdoor activities with smaller, well-managed crowds where risk of transmission is minimized and will permit retail, all with restrictions in place, including but not limited to :
Outdoor gatherings up to 10 people;
Outdoor dining up to 4 people per table;
See full list below
Step Two
Ontario will remain in Step One for at least 21 days.........Step Two will further expand outdoor activities and will resume limited indoor services with small numbers of people where face coverings are worn, with other restrictions in place, including but not limited to :
Outdoor gatherings up to 25 people;
Indoor gatherings up to 5 people and other restrictions;
Outdoor dining up to 6 people per table;
See full list below
Step Three
Ontario will remain in Step Two for at least 21 days. ........Step Three will permit the resumption of indoor services with larger numbers of people, with restrictions in place, including but not limited to :
Outdoor gatherings with larger capacity limits;
Indoor gatherings with larger capacity limits and other restrictions;
No gatherings are permitted indoors or outdoors. Everyone is required to remain at home except for essential purposes, such as going to the grocery store or pharmacy, accessing healthcare services (including getting vaccinated), for outdoor exercise, or for work that cannot be done remotely.
Ontario’s case numbers have gradually declined as vaccinations have increased. However, the threat of COVID-19 variants to the public and to the province’s healthcare system remains high, and more time is required before transmissions in the third wave can be controlled and the Stay-at-Home Order can be safely lifted. The variants are more infectious and result in a higher risk of death and hospitalization, including in younger populations.
Library, recreation and fitness programs continue to be offered virtually
City-owned community centres, arenas, pools, fitness centres, the Markham Museum and the Varley Art Gallery will remain closed
The Flato Markham Theatre is streaming select virtual performances
The Varley Art Gallery continues to offer virtual school programs and will offer online exhibitions and related programs
Markham Public Library will continue to offer select online services
Markham Public Library curbside pick-up of holds and returns will be available at Markham Village, Thornhill Village and Unionville locations
The City continues to provide critical services to residents and businesses virtually and in-person (services requiring in-person assistance require an appointment)
April Area of Focus is Maternal and Child Health .Every day mothers risk their lives giving birth and millions of children die each year from treatable, preventable causes.At least 7 million children under the age of five die each year due to malnutrition, poor health care, and inadequate sanitation. To help reduce this rate, Rotary provides immunizations and antibiotics to babies, improve access to essential medical services, and support trained health care providers for mothers and their children. Rotary projects ensure sustainability by empowering the local community to take ownership of health care training programs.
April Area of Focus is Maternal and Child Health .Every day mothers risk their lives giving birth and millions of children die each year from treatable, preventable causes.At least 7 million children under the age of five die each year due to malnutrition, poor health care, and inadequate sanitation. To help reduce this rate, Rotary provides immunizations and antibiotics to babies, improve access to essential medical services, and support trained health care providers for mothers and their children. Rotary projects ensure sustainability by empowering the local community to take ownership of health care training programs.
Due to the current covid-19 pandemic we have been unable to continue with our Rotary raffle. We are in a holding pattern until we have authorization from the City of Markham to terminate our license. All funds will on termination be paid to the purchasers of the tickets to date.
January 7, 2022 : City of Markham requested plan to issue refunds.
Due to the Covid 19 pandemic we have been unable to continue with our Rotary car raffle. Pursuant to the cancellation plan filed with the City of Markham, as Licensor of raffle M716910, we are in the process of confirming the name and mailing address for refund by cheque of the $20 face value of each ticket. Ticket holders are being asked to send confirmation by email to markhamcarraffle@gmail.com or by mail to Markham-Unionville Rotary Club, PO Box 54079, RPO Galsworthy/Hwy 7, Markham, ON L3P 7Y4.
April 2022 UPDATE: refund cheques have now been mailed to confirmed ticket holders. Holders of tickets 71, 73, 82, 169, 173, 176, 321, 603, 655 & 760 requested to confirm correct name and address by email to markhamcarraffle@gmail.com or by mail to Markham-Unionville Rotary Club, PO Box 54079, RPO Galsworthy/Hwy 7, Markham, ON L3P 7Y4.
Committee Reports: Club Service: Discussed speakers, program and social events - planning a bowling evening (5 pin) as well as Blue Jays game; Fundraising: Car Raffle success depends on every members support in publicizing event and selling tickets. (The car raffle was approved by full membership)
Program: Sal recently attended the Grow Rotary Workshop and lead a discussion of Rotary's Vision Statement and strategic priorities for next five years. The plan recognizes the challenges faced by Rotary in it's 2nd century as well our club in its 2nd 50 years. The objective: Increase our Impact, Expand our Reach, Enhance Participant Engagement and Increase our Ability to Adapt.
Pre Meeting Fellowship: Members demonstrated First Object of Rotary "The development of acquaintance as an opportunity for service" and Matt sold 50:50 tickets.
Open Meeting: Returned to traditional Opening, with former Choir members Peter and Harvey leading us in an enthusiastic Ô Canada
Rotary Information: President Sharda: Noted Rotary International Theme for March: WASH (see above); District 7070 's "A Mil for Bill" campaign at $794,696 (with cancellation of Chinese New Year fundraising, members encouraged to donate directly and keep District 7070 in 1st Place); President-Elect Thiva will attend PETS II this weekend and District Training (PETS III) on May 9th and invited new members, officers and directors for 2020-2021 to attend.
Sergeant-at-Arms Art reported Attendance, 9 of 23, no recorded March Birthdays or Anniversaries to announce, and conducted a rousing Happy Bucks round.
Committee Reports: New Generations - Anthony reminded that RYLA applications due this week; Community Service: George reminded us that 360 Kids is holding their annual "Out in the Cold " experience this Thursday and, while club is not contributing directly, members are supporting event. Foundation: Anthony attended last week's Grant Writing Workshop (qualifying our club for this year) and distributed summary explaining District and Global Grant process. Club Service: Peter Wong, Ross and Sharda meeting Friday to work on Program; Car Raffle: Harvey reported sales to date (see graph on CarRaffleLetter) and Sal outlined process to involve full membership to ensure clubs ability to continue critical community activities.
Program: Anthony demonstrated links (see above) to Rotary materials on this month's WASH Theme, including short video clip.
Next Week Reminders: Regular meeting at Old Country Inn; Sal will present Grow Rotary Workshop
Weather so pleasant for our first regular meeting since January 20th, 'snowbirds' were in town. By coincidence, Wiarton Willie predicted an early spring this year.
Sgt-at-Arms Art collected Happy $ for Canadian Nick Taylor's win at Pebble Beach, as well as prospect of Raptors 15th win tonight. Art circulated Certificates from City for club's 1st place Santa Claus Parade float and for Peter Still's contribution to organization of 2018 and 2019 parades. Art also noted that the clubs float each year has been made possible by Griffith Landscaping. President-elect Thiva discussed PETS I and will report on District 7070 and RI's 2020-2021 program at future meetings.
To recognize Rotary's February focus on Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution, Thiva played Rotary clips from Rotary.Org, including one on Nova Scotia Rotary clubs hosting of Syrian families under the same program Markham Rotary Refugee Response used in sponsoring a Syrian family two years ago. Club has also participated in Rotary Youth Exchange programs and, a couple years ago, successfully sponsored a Global Grant scholar. Thiva discussed opportunities for club to promote the Global Grant Scholarship program and has registered for the upcoming Global Grant training session.
Meeting closed with reminder that there will not be a meeting on the 17th, Family Day in Ontario , and that meeting on the 24th will be in Board Meeting format.
Members welcomed our speaker Francis Xavier Ssempiira and visiting Markham Sunrise Rotarian Tim Aliev to the 2nd Program meeting for 2020. Tim briefly updated on the changes to the Sunrise club's Rib Fest format, to incorporate a Food Truck festival. Stay tuned for invitation to Sunrise "Open House" meeting.
Sal, Peter, Sharda and Thiva attended Saturday's Grow Rotary workshop and will be sharing ideas at next Board and Fireside meetings. Members invited to attend presentation of Santa Claus Parade awards at Civic Centre, 1:00 pm January 28th. District reports U$735,000 contributed to date to the "Mill for Bill" challenge. Our club and York Rotary are holding a joint Chinese New Year fundraising celebration on February 7th - at least $30 of the ticket price will be donated to the challenge (and tax receipt issued).
Francis Xavier spoke on the Transformation of Africa through Education and specifically on Verona High School, which he founded in Kampala, Uganda. The school's goals align with Rotary's Areas of Focus. To accomplish literacy objectives they developed programs for water and sanitation, nutrition, maternal & child health, and even micro finance for economic development. Francis is a graduate of and works with Makerere University in Kampala. Coincidently, Rotary International recently announced its first Peace Centre in Africa, at Makerere University in Kampala.
The next meeting will be a board meeting on January 27th, and reminder that the February 3rd meeting has become the Chinese New Year celebration of Friday the 7th.
Members welcomed Ken's guest, Grace Tsang, Past President of the Richmond Sunset club, to the first of our planned 2020 'Firesides" (our legacy term for Rotary's Club Assembly meeting format, which includes new member inductions, classification talks, ). Grace outlined her clubs impressive record in establishing Earlyact, Interact and Rotaract clubs.
Harvey led the Induction of Sal Vella to membership in our club. Already demonstrating commitment to service, Sal will be represent the club at the District's Grow Rotary Workshop on Saturday. Welcome to Rotary Sal!
George asked for volunteers to deliver donations to 360 Kids on Wednesday and Harvey reported first Car Raffle meeting will be on Thursday. Peter Wong reported on Saturday's planning meeting with York Rotary for joint Chinese New Year celebration. Ticket price includes a minimum $30 tax deductible donation to "A Mil for Bill" RI Foundation challenge. Please confirm attendance to Peter or Ross prior to 20th. Also, reminded that CNY Celebration will be in place of that week's Regular meeting.
Members also previewed the January-June meeting schedule, with planned rotation of regular meetings, firesides, social events and of course holidays. Seven remaining 2019-2020 meetings reserved for speakers aligned with monthly Rotary Theme. Lastly, mark your calendars for tentative Changeover on June 15th.
Art sent word that Markham-Unionville Rotary Club's entry in the Markham Santa Claus Parade was selected as First Place Non-Commercial. This year’s award ceremony will be on January 28, 2020 at 1pm, at the Markham Civic Centre Council Chambers. A certificate presentation will be made by Mayor and Honorary Rotarian Frank Scarpitti.
Club welcomed Rotarians Subhash and Jugdan Verma, Rotary Club of Gurgaon South City, India. After exchanging Rotary Banners, Subash and Jugdan outlined their club projects, with focus on their founding of Rotary Blood Bank Gurugram. http://www.rotarybloodbankgurgaon.in/motivation.html
Following Sergeant-at-Arms Art's happy bucks, Peter Wong introduced Emily Harper and Peter Maddox, from Orbis Canada, member of Orbis International "... an international non-profit bringing people together to fight avoidable blindness. ... they also have a Flying Eye Hospital ... The Orbis Flying Eye Hospital is a state-of-the-art teaching facility complete with operating room, classroom and recovery room" . Amazing fact - 20% of Orbis International volunteer medical specialists are from Canada.
50;50 Draw had new feature - winner had to spell "ophthalmologist" to collect (or regift pot to club).
Vocational Service, sometimes referred to as the 'forgotten Avenue of Service" is the foundation of Rotary. The January District 7070 Newsletter includes the following excerpts on Vocation Service by Ian Lancaster, for consideration by all Rotarians. https://rotary7070.org/stories/january-2020-is-vocational-service-month/
This year's raffle is for a 2020 Ford Escape and will be held in August 2020, so please CLICK HERE to buy your tickets now!
Due to the current covid-19 pandemic we have been unable to continue with our Rotary raffle. We are in a holding pattern until we have authorization from the City of Markham to terminate our license. All funds will on termination be paid to the purchasers of the tickets to date. January 7, 2022 : City of Markham requested plan to issue refunds.
The last meeting of the year followed board meeting format and was open to full membership. The next regular club meeting will be on January 6th, with a speaker from Orbis Canada - Orbis is an international non-profit organization that brings people together to fight avoidable blindness.
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Former member and past president Yogi Suri was a welcome visitor - a pleasure to introduce to our newer members - lots of catching up to do and already volunteered to help with Car Raffle ticket sales. Fun Fact - Yogi and Harvey share same birthday.
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Club Elections - postponed from last week - completed but to be complimented by email ballots - Vice-president & president-elect Thiva Kulasingam has tied down the presidents position for 20-21 (or was he tied down in-order to accept?). Nominating committee continues to keep the names of both next year's president-elect and treasurer in sealed envelopes.
Good news from the Coast: past president Aziz Saleh has transferred his membership to the Port Moody BC Rotary Club. Not surprisingly, he has been active with the club since his relocation to BC. Port Moody "Every Member an Active Member" . https://portal.clubrunner.ca/257
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Last WHEELMARK for 2019 - Best wishes to all for a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Holiday.
Member News: Neil welcomed back from recent business trip to China. Happy bucks alert for next week - Neil announced arrival of granddaughter and Ross announced arrival of great-granddaughter. Club members expressed their best wishes and concern for Wally's mother, who is in hospital. Many remembered her brave talk to the club several years ago about surviving the invasion and occupation of Poland.
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Elections: The Nominating Committee continued to hold us in suspense, so scheduled elections postponed until next week. Could requirement for "consent of the nominee" be slowing the process again?
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Voting: To comply with Rotary by-laws, 20-21 election will be held concurrent with the board meeting on the 16th (this meeting satisfies RI requirement for an Annual General Meeting). All members will receive a ballot by email and, if unable to vote in person on the 16th, may provide their vote by email ballot ahead of the meeting.
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Car Raffle: Harvey reported sales now over $3,000, following his successful visit to a Markham baseball league gathering on Saturday (thanks to Art and former member Kane for introduction). Committee will continue to work on website, sales locations and media campaign over the holidays.
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Program: Discussion of program opportunities for 1st quarter of 2021 included a Chinese New Year celebration and or a Burns Supper; possibly topics to go with Rotary calendar: January - Vocational Service, February - Peace building and conflict Prevention, March - Water, Sanitation & Hygiene.
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Ed. Note: Three Dot format a tribute to the late Herb Caen -
A couple November 1970 "Wheelmark's" from Mike Crompton's files were passed around during Pre-meeting Fellowship - entertaining bits on Santa Claus Parade, two Christmas parties (one for kids), $605 profit from Raffle of a SkiDoo; "meat loaf again", speaker cancelling at last minute so a member filled in with impromptu talk on legal contracts - and the bulletin cost $0.06 to mail out!
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Continuing last week's weather theme, our speaker from Orbis Canada - an international non-profit bringing people together to fight avoidable blindness in Africa, Asia and Latin America - asked to be rescheduled in January. Our members filled in with discussion of their own ophthalmologic experiences.
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Happy Bucks all around for Saturday's Jingle Bell Rockout - The Tone Dogs succeeded in getting everyone on the dance floor! Sal Vella was welcomed as a new member and we look forward to welcoming him in person on return from his winter holiday. Art did the Sgt-at-Arms Happy $, reported attendance 46% YTD, announced December birthdays (Wally & Aziz), anniversaries (Ken & Martina, Alan & Alice, Matt & Elly). (If any missed, please update your Member Profile in members only section of Club Runner.)
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The Nominating Committee kept us in suspense - withholding names of nominees for President -Elect and Treasurer; will hopefully have in time for elections next Monday and RI's December 15th reporting deadline.
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Harvey reported that $2,600 already deposited in Lottery Trust Account and that Car Raffle committee will meet Thursday to plan winter sales locations and electronic media marketing strategy. The first two unsolicited on-line orders received - members asked to send Car Raffle link to their contacts.
Art also recommended a committee be established to coordinate next year's Santa Claus Parade with the Sunrise Club and the Town - first challenge will be dealing with the new weekend GO service that stopped the parade 3 times.
Thiva reported a $300 contribution to Markham Rotary Foundation for Interact Club was matched by Rogers!
Markham's 47th annual Markham Santa Claus Parade, organized by the Rotary Club of Markham Sunrise and Markham-Unionville Rotary Club in partnership with the City of Markham, was held on Nov. 23 on Markham's Main Street. This Holiday Season tradition brings together our community for a joyful celebration. We had over 80 floats, including marching bands, supported by local businesses and many civic and cultural groups.
8 January 2020 Breaking News:
Markham-Unionville Rotary Club's entry in the Markham Santa Claus Parade was selected as First Place Non-Commercial.
This year’s award ceremony will be on January 28, 2020 at 1pm, at the Markham Civic Centre Council Chambers.
A certificate presentation will be made by Mayor and Honorary Rotarian Frank Scarpitti.
November's 4th meeting followed the board meeting format and agenda, with membership invited to observe "sausage making" in real time.
Minutes of this and prior meetings will be emailed to membership and posted in Documents section of Club Runner. Key committee reports and reminders:
*Nominating Committee: President Sharda asked committee to work with President-elect Thiva on nominations due 1st meeting of December (by-laws require consent of Nominee).
*Christmas Party: Anthony reported Crystal Fountain will work with us even though late in confirming #'s - 'rsvp' in email era to be perfected. Decorations organized, band ready to go, and members and guests will have chance to thank The Tone Dogs for performing on our float in the past 10 + Parades.
*Car Raffle Committee; Meeting every Thursday since early June, reported initial ticket sales of $2,210 at Markham and Unionville Main Street locations - Peter and Amar reminded us full membership support in selling tickets key to success of the club's principal fundraising activity for 2019-2020,
*Santa Claus Parade: Art thanked members and volunteers that made it a success - smiling faces along Main Street danced to Run Run Rudolph from start to finish.
Program Committee: Sharda and Peter said 1st Quarter is opportunity to plan program based on Rotary calendar: January is Vocational Services Month, February Peace building and March Water & Sanitation, with special events such as Chinese New Year and Robert Burns Day .
Following a recap of DG Beth Selby's District Newsletter review of the role of the Rotary Foundation, George noted that, for the 12th consecutive year, The Rotary Foundation has received the highest rating — four stars — from Charity Navigator, an independent evaluator of charities in the U.S. President Sharda attended district leadership meeting Saturday and said focus was on Foundation, and District's "A Mil for Bill" campaign.https://www.rotary7070.org/Stories/a-mill-for-bill-campaign-to-raise-1-million-for-the-rotary-foundation-where-are-we-now
A welcome break in November's winter-like weather improved attendance and provided time for recognition of Rotary Foundation Month, club business and committee reports.
Club Business and Committee Reports Sunrise Rotarian Susan relayed a short report on achievements of the family sponsored under 2017-2018's Markham's Rotary Refugee Response. The meeting was then opened for Committee Reports: Harvey reported on last Saturday's Car Raffle Kick-Off at Markville Ford (https://markham.snapd.com/), arrangements to sell tickets at Friday's Festival of Lights and that Markville Ford will provide a 2020Escape as part of our Rotary entry in Saturday's Santa Claus Parade. Art advised float assembly will start at 07:30 Saturday, as truck/float needs to be in Hwy 7 line-up early. Current weather forecast for the parade is sunny and clear. Anthony was welcomed back from his early winter holiday and said he is still waiting for responses for our November 30th "Jingle Bell Rockout" - please confirm (with entree selection) to Anthony ( abhumhen@gmail.com ) as club must commit #'s to Crystal Fountain by Monday. Santa's Elves have reportedly been busy with decorations.
Notwithstanding first major snow of the year, club held annual Remembrance Day program on Monday November 11th. Past President Neil Thomas presented excerpts from They Shall Not Grow Old , a 2018 documentary film directed and produced by Peter Jackson. The film was created using original footage of World War I from the Imperial War Museum's archives, most of it previously unseen, all over 100 years old by the time of release.(Wikipedia).
President Sharda Still welcomed Sal Vella to his second meeting and Amar Banerjee confirmed Kick-Off for Car Raffle this Saturday, November 16th, at 11:00 - to introduce the newly released 2020 Ford Escape - media, members and guests invited. Art Moad sent copy of the banners designed by John Traczyk for the club's float in the Santa Claus Parade featuring this year's theme "Music Makes Christmas" (pdf attached?) .
On Saturday, November 9, 2019, Rotary club members participated in Markham's Remembrance Day Parade from Veterans Hall to the Markham Cenotaph, where President Sharda Still and Past President Neil Thomas placed a Rotary wreath in the 11:00 Service at the Cenotaph. The Markham Remembrance Day Parade and Service is organized each year by the Markham District Veterans Association and is held at the revitalized Veterans Square and Cenotaph in historic Markham Village, to pay tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for Canada's freedom.
November 9th 2019: Rotary Day at the United Nations celebrates two organizations’ shared vision for peace and highlights the critical humanitarian activities that Rotary and the UN lead around the world.
With the theme Connecting for Good, this year’s event will focus on community-based solutions to the global refugee crisis. We’ll also honor six members of the Rotary family as Rotary People of Action: Connectors Beyond Borders and see how their inspiring work has addressed the crisis.
Monday November 4th meeting was our first 'Social' meeting at Jakes on Main. Coincidentally, Jakes front lawn has been the site for the last two Saturday Car Raffle ticket sales events. Guests included Elly Stam and Sal Vella, who is interested in Rotary and community service, and looks forward to meeting the membership at upcoming meetings and events.
As a Social, our regular meeting formalities were skipped. However Art and Harvey filled in with impromptu committee reports. Harvey reported on our Car Raffle and said the first online sale was received Sunday aft. Total sales to date nearing $2,000. If you don't yet have tickets to sell, please contact Ross. Art said volunteers are still needed for the Santa Claus Parade on Saturday the 23rd, for both riding and walking roles. Please reply to Art at artmoad@bell.net Anthony sent in report that so far only 19 members and guests have responded to the Christmas Party invitation, noting that Crystal Fountain expects a minimum of 40 (plus The Tone Dogs, of course). Please confirm to Anthony at abhumhen@gmail.com, or respond to his email (and note your choice of entree).
Join us on Thursday October 24, 2019 at 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM at the Markham Civic Center when The END POLIO NOW flag will be raised.
October 24th is proclaimed World Polio day to raise awareness of polio, its impact on our lives and efforts to eradicate this disease as we fulfill our promise to the children of the world.
Amar Banerjee outlined a project developed by Rotarians and others in Puerto Escondido, Mexico, to protect a lesser known endangered species - the sea turtle - from poachers. Coincidentally, the October Rotarian featured a story about "Piggy Bank", a sea turtle that was, incredibly, fed coins for "good luck" , but not for her. https://www.rotary.org/en/viewpoints-small-change
Toronto, ON (September 8, 2019) – Over 200 members of Rotary clubs in District 7070 (South Central Ontario, Canada) and their families joined together today in the annual Rotary District 7070 Rotary Foundation Walk to raise money for the Rotary Foundation. This year’s Walk was held at 9 a.m. on Sunday, September 8, at the Humber College Lakeshore Campus and in Colonel Sam Smith Park in Etobicoke......
The Mitch Mitchell Award is presented to an up-and-coming young jazz performer by the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club at each year's Markham Jazz Festival A Festival co-founder and Past President of the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club, Mitch was an accomplished musician and major Jazz fan This year, the memorial plaque and cash go to Alexander Mak. Alex is a string bass major in the Arts Unionville program at Unionville High School. This classically based program has allowed Alex to explore both traditional and contemporary music as well as develop ing his true love, guitar. He has been an active member of many ensembles at UHS and has organized jazz combos for several years, playing the drums. Alex has become an incredible advocate for music of all genres. He is pursuing his interest in jazz and contemporary music by attending the Berkley School of Music in Boston. Congratulation Alex! We're confident you will continue to grow as a performer and an advocate!
With deep regret we report the death of Arch Evans on Monday August 5th, in Nova Scotia. A long time Rotarian and recipient of two Paul Harris Awards, he was a member and past president (1981-2) of the Markham Rotary Club and has been a member of the Port Perry Rotary Club since 2010. http://smithsfuneralhome.com/19042.htm
Club members supported Rotary Rib Fest events in Etobicoke and Markham over the last two weekends - weather was favourable and events successful fundraisers for local causes. Markham Sunrise Rotary RibFest was in support of Markham Stouffville Hospital's Dr. Bear Fund, which helps children prepare for their hospital experience..
Markham Rotary Community Rotaract Club . The Rotary Club of Markham Sunrise and the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club are proud to announce that the Rotaract Club of Markham received a Certificate of Organization on May 21, 2018.
What’s Rotaract Club? There are roughly 10904 Rotaract clubs 250792 Rotractors from 184 countries. Rotaract clubs bring together people ages 18-30 to exchange ideas with leaders in the community, develop leadership and professional skills, and have fun while providing service. In communities worldwide, Rotary and Rotaract members work side by side to take action through service. From big cities to rural villages, Rotaract is changing communities like yours.
What is an Interact Club ? Interact club brings together young people from the ages 12 – 18 to develop leadership skills, discover the power of service to others above self and at the same time have fun while implementing initiatives and projects. There are more than 20372 Interact Clubs and 468556 Interactors from 159 countries as of April 2018.
The club's annual joint Chinese New Year celebration was held with Rotary Club of York on Friday February 11th at the Golden Abalone Restaurant in Richmond Hill. Attended by more than 200 Rotarians, partners and friends of Rotary, the Year of the Pig kicked of with twin dragons and prizes for all.
At our regular meeting on January 21st. Ms. Jan Pearce, Executive ,Director Evergreen Hospice, updated the club on the operations and goals of Evergreen Hospice and also received a modest cheque, as named beneficiary of the recent 50:50 Raffle held at Markham Fair. Markham Rotary has supported Evergreen (formerly Hospice Markham Stouffville), since it was founded more than 20 years ago.
Club President Kenneth Chin, President Elect Sharda Still and Community Service Director George George at 360 Kids delivering much needed supplies for youth at risk in time for Christmas 2018.
Orders placed at https://fundraising.purdys.com/644827-57279 or telephoned to Aziz Saleh at (647) 231-7761 are available for pickup after December 3rd in Markham, just in time for Christmas 2018 Gift giving and exchanges..
The Rotary Clubs of Markham presented the annual Main Street Santa Claus Parade. Nearly 100 floats, bands and groups braved the inclement weather and participated in this years parade, which marched north on Main Street from Highwy 7 to the Markham Museum at 16th Avenue.
The City of Markham officials and staff alongside Rotarians from the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club, Markham Sunrise Rotary Club, Richmond Hill Rotary Club to commemorate World Polio Day 2018. The END POLIO NOW flag was raised at the Markham Civic Centre by the Kenneth Chin and Markham's Deputy Mayor Jack Health. We were also honoured to have Councillor Alan Ho in attendance.
Club members welcomed our 2018-2019 Rotary Youth Exchange student from Chile. Enrolled in grade 11 at Markham District Secondary, she is one of 12 inbound students expected to be hosted by Rotary clubs in District 7070 this year. Last year our club sponsored an outbound student to Taiwan as well as an inbound student from Germany.
Rotary Youth Exchange is a RotaryInternational student exchange program for students in secondary school. Since 1929, Rotary International has sent young people around the globe to experience new cultures. Currently, about 9,000 students are sponsored by Rotary clubs every year
Martkham-Unionville Rotary Club, as a Constituency Group under the Mennonite Central Committee Ontario, a Citizenship and Immigration (CIC) Sponsorship Agreement Holder, formed the Markham Rotary Refugee Response (MRRR) to sponsor a family under the CIC program for refugees processed by the UNHCR. A family of five. assigned to MRRR under this one year program, arrived July 18, 2017 and successfully completed their transition to life in Canada during the sponsorship year - children in school and loving it - father well on his way to resuming his career as a heavy equipment operator, To mark the year, the family welcomed a new son in June and are living quite independently. Our sponsorship agreement with the MCC(O) and CIC was formally concluded at the end of the sponsorship year. Our thanks to members, friends and all who contributed to this worthwhile humanitarian project.
The Markham-Unionville Rotary Club invites you enjoy a dinner and watch the comedy "Confessions Of A Dirty Blonde" to raise funds for the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club's literacy, youth and other community outreach projects. Get your tickets for only $65 from one of our club members today.
Rotary has come a long way in ending Polio, currently prevalent in only two remaining countries, Afghanistan and Pakistan. We invite you to come out to our awareness and proclamation session as Markham celebrates the 2016 World Polio Day. The "End Polio Now" flag will be hoisted at the Markham Civic Centre.
Welcome to the 2016 Markham Fair! We are now open to serve you treats from around the world for the next four days. Markham Fairgrounds @10801 McCowan Rd, Markham, ON L3P 3J3
Each year, the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club recognizes and supports student graduating from local high schools, for their leadership and excellence and community involvement. Five amazing individuals from Markham were recognized by the Club for 2016. The evening also include an incredible presentation by our youth exchange student following her return from Belgium!
Wounded Warriors Canada is dedicated to helping our soldiers and first responders deal with PTSD and we are very proud of our Markham Unionville Rotary Club for a donation to the cause.
MRRR's Syrian refugee fundraiser is already 70% sold. Don't miss out on a great opportunity to have a great night out, support a family in need and who knows even make some new friends...
MRRR
The Markham Rotary Refugee Response (MRRR) is a Constituent Group (CG) formed by the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club to sponsor a Refugee family in our community.
The MRRR group will sponsor a refugee family on behalf of a Sponsorship Agreement Holder (SAH) and we have selected the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) as our SAH.
The next MRRR meeting will be Thursday, January 7th, at 6:30PM in the Milliken Mills Community Centre, Room A, located at 7600 Kennedy Rd, Markham
The club welcomed its newest members, Neil, Paul and George as Rotarians at the Induction Night on February 23rd, 2015. The club also celebrated by cutting a cake for celebrating 110 years of Rotary and 30 years of the Polio Plus campaign to eradicate Polio.
Rotarians, family, friends and student volunteers all enjoyed four days of fellowship and fundraising for our community at our Rotary Food Booth during the 2014 Markham Fair. Long an integral part of the Markham community, the annual Markham Fair provides an introduction to Markham`s heritage and rural atmosphere, from livestock to live bands, fiddling contests and family fun to long time residents, newcomers and international visitors to Markham. For over fifty years, Rotary Fair Food Booth profits have funded Rotary community projects in Markham. Over this traditional “weekend before Thanksgiving” event, Markham-Unionville and Markham Sunrise Rotarians again lived the Object of Rotary in all four Rotary Avenues of Service. 2015 Billed as Canada’s largest and oldest four day agricultural fair, the 171st Annual Fair will be held, as always, “the weekend before Thanksgiving” , October 2,3,4 & 5, 2015. Mark your calendars!
Every year millions of Rotarians come together on or around October 24th to celebrate World Polio Day and to increase awareness to enable to complete and final eradication from the world.
Vocational Director Kenneth Chin and the Vocational Service Committee, the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club, have proudly organized its 4th annual University Preparation Fair, which took place on Sunday, September 28th, 2014. It was an immense success in providing insight into university programs, professional fields, and career options. Coordinated as a joint effort by the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), and Education Power Inc., the fair was received with great interest and attendance by secondary school students and parents of the Markham and Richmond Hill communities.
Steve Rutledge and Michael Yap's presentation on the devestation in Laos and efforts to revive and introduce hygiene and literacy in many of the remote areas...
DG Valie Wafer and Kenneth Chin presented the Paul Harris Award to Mayor Frank Scarpitti. Rotarian Peter Wong took over from Nirmala Armstrong as the Club President.
Click on the link to see pictures from the change over meeting.
This past Saturday afternoon, the Markham-Unionville Rotary Choir was out once again, this time at Bethany Lodge. The residents responded a 1000 fold to the Choir's hard work, great hearts, Rotary spirit and musical gift to bring good cheer.
Thanks to our Past President Kenneth Chin and the Vocational Service Committee, the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club has organized its second University Preparation Fair, held Sunday, November 25th. The goal of this Fair is to help high school students gain insight into some of the professional fields that may be of interest to them and prepare them to make the best decision in the selection of a university or college.
A little over a year ago, the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club choir took shape. Today this 20 plus member group is performing incredibly and touching the hearts of anyone within an earshot.
To see pictures of the group, please click on the link.
The annual Santa Claus Parade took place this year on Saturday November 24, 2012 on Main Street Markham. There was bright sunshine and a fresh cool breeze to accompany, but kids and adults alike lined up along both sides all the way from Highway 7 to north of 16th Avenue, patiently waiting for the main with a white beard, and a twinkle in his, dressed in red, yes SANTA!
Click on the link to see pictures from the parade.
50 years of community engagement with the Markham Fair, which celebrated its 168th year this year!
Read all about how the core Rotary values, Club Service, Vocational Service, Community Service and International Service were brought to life by our Rotary Club at the Fair.
District Governor Ted and his wife Maureen visited the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club, as part of his tour of visiting the 59 clubs in 7070! The evening was a lot of FUN with great fellowship, food and company. PEACE was the underpinning message and direction of DG Ted, which has been given to Rotarians around the globe by the RI President Sakuji Tanaka.
Changeover 2012-2013, held at Willow Springs Winery, was outstanding. President Kenneth Chin handed the gavel to President-Elect Nirmala Armstrong, and Rotary year 2012-2013, our 51st year, was officially launched. The suprise highlight of the evening was the presentation of Paul Harris Fellow awards to Mike Cubitt, Alan Ho and Art Moad. reflecting long overdue recognition of their commitment to our club and to Service Above Self.
Rotary International 2012-2013 President Sakuji Tanaka, in the July Rotarian Rotarian, asks us to put Peace Through Service at the forefront of our Rotary work this year,and to commit to a Rotary goal of a more peaceful world.
On Monday, June 18th, Markham Fire Chief Bill Snowball was welcomed as an Honourary Member in recognition of his lifelong service to the Markham community. Chief Snowball presented an interesting and informative review of the development of our town's (soon to be city) fire and emergency services, from a small volunteer service to a fully functioning full time force of 270. Rotarian Mike Crompton, who has known the Snowball family for more than 50 years, introduced and thanked the Chief for his service and presented him with his Rotary pin and plaques.
The club's 9th Annual Charity Golf Tournament was held Monday May 28th, 2012 at Meadowbrook Golf and Country Club. With a fresh format including a Ball Drop, Argo Cheerleaders selling raffle tickets, and excellent weather, more than 125 golfers and friends of Rotary participated in making this years tournament and dinner a fundraising and fellowship success. The 2012 Tournament Honourary Chair, Andrew Haley, is truly a champion at all levels - a Gold Medal Paralympic athlete, he was also the events Master of Ceremony. A sincere Thank You to all our sponsors. participants, volunteers and contributors as well as club and committee members for making this, our 9th charity tournament, a memorable event. Proceeds from this year's event will be shared with the Trauma, Emergency and Critical Care Program at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre.
To all 2012-2013 incoming officers and directors and new members of Markham-Unionville Rotary Club:
Please join President-Elect Nirmala Armstrong at District 7070's annual training assembly to be held Saturday April 21st at the BMO Institute for Learning (Steeles and Pharmacy) in Toronto. On line registration under Events on the club website.
On behalf of our Honourary Chair, Mayor Frank Scarpitti, Gala Co-Chairs Nirmala Armstrong and Alan Ho, we want to thank our entire club membership and the Rotarians and Friends of Rotary that made our 50th Anniversary Gala Celebration a success. We are happy to report that over 400 people were able to join us on Saturday March 31st at Crystal Fountain Banquet Hall in Markham for a wonderful evening of dining, prize wining draws and raffles, music and dancing. "Where Were You in '62?" exceeded our fundraising and community service goals and expectations. Proceeds will be contributed to the club's Buy-a-Bed program for Markham-Stouffville Hospital and to Rotary International's PolioPlus campaign. Click on this link for Photos
On Friday March 2nd, Rotarians and friends of Rotary held a Press Conference at Markham Town Centre to announce "Where were you in '62?", the gala celebration of 50 years of service to the local and international community by Markham-Unionville Rotary Club.
The
Year of The Dragon and an evening of Rotary fun and fellowship was celebrated
by 24 Markham-Unionville Rotarians and
Partners during the Rotary Club of
York’s Chinese New Year’s Dinner held Friday February 3rd at Emperor
Chinese Cuisine. OurWinter visitor from Norway, RolfJul Strand, presented his Skjberg Rotary Club banner to
York Rotary Club PresidentJoseph Lukand he
was valkomnade
by Rotarians that had lived or worked in Norway.The York Club also graciously allowed our
Gala Committee chair Nirmala Armstrong to ask the audience to reflect on Where
Were You in ’62 and the accomplishments of Rotary since, andpresent invitations to the 250 Rotarians and
friends of Rotary present to our club’s 50th Anniversary Gala on March 31st (with the Golf Tournament announcement on the other side).A contingentfrom our club choir raised the bar in the evenings song competitions
although it appeared that everyone left with a prize.
On January 23rd, the first day of Chinese New Year holiday, this was the theme for our Burns Supper, a traditional "roast beaste and haggis" celebration of Scottish Poet Robert Burns' 253rd birthday.
On November 28th, York Region Chief of Police
Eric Jolliffe shared his vision for making a difference in our community. Born in York Region and a graduate of York
University, Chief Eric Jolliffe was sworn in on December 13, 2010.Following a distinguished 30 year career,
Chief Jolliffe was presented the Member of the Order of Merit by the Governor
General of Canada in 2007.
Thanks to President Kenneth Chin and the Vocational Service Committee, the Markham-Unionville Rotary Club has proudly organized its' first University Preparation Fair, held Sunday, November 27th. The goal of this Fair is to help grade 10 - 12 students gain insight into some of the professional fields that may be of interest to them and prepare them to make the best decision in the selection of a university or college.
Markham-Unionville Rotarians, as the Wicked Queen, Snow White and Seven Dwarfs, were 'Rockin 'Round the Christmas Tree' in Markham's 39th Santa Claus Parade. Thanks to Rotarians, family and friends, and to Griffith Property Services Ltd., for making this years entry a hit with the crowds. Good weather resulted in record numbers enjoying the first event of Markham's Festival of Lights weekend. The annual Santa Claus Parade is organized by the Markham Sunrise Rotary Club and this year the parade topped 100 floats and entries.
`"Rotary and the United Nations have a long history of
working together and sharing similar visions for a more peaceful world.
In 1942, Rotary clubs from 21 nations organized a
conference in London to develop a vision for advancing education, science, and
culture after World War II. That event was a precursor to UNESCO. In 1945, 49
Rotarians went to San Francisco to help draft the UN Charter. Rotary and the UN
have been close partners ever since, a relationship that’s apparent through
PolioPlus and work with UN agencies. "
On October 29th, more than two dozen Rotarians, partners and friends enjoyed an evening of fellowship, dinner and entertainment at Herongate Theatre's final performance of "Sex Please, We're 60!", described as an American Farce or "Giggle fest for people of a certain age." written by Michael and Susan Parker. Many thanks to Amar Banerjee for organizing what is becoming an annual dinner theatre evening.
“Cold bleak weather on Thursday and a heavy rain on Friday was what Markham Fair was up against this year. Naturally the attendance fell off heavily – about two-thirds...”( Markham Fair 1911, T.R. Gardham).
Fast forward to 2011 and Saturday’s excellent weather brought 26,000 through the gates, but heavy rain on Sunday reduced the four day attendance – about two-thirds - to 50,000.
Another extremely successful Foundation Walk, over 500 Rotarians, families and friends enjoyed a beautiful day in the forest, an amazing lunch and raised over $115,000 for the Foundation. Sponsored this year by the Rotary Clubs of Northumberland County (Brighton, Colborne, Campbellford, Port Hope, Northumberland Sunrise, and Cobourg) and chaired by Ian Lancaster of the Cobourg Rotary Club, the Walk demonstrates Rotarians commitment to advance The Rotary Foundation and it goals.
Every Rotarian around the world is asked to contribute at least $100 US Dollars every year to the Annual Programs Fund through the Every Rotarian Every Year request. Your contributions are the primary source of funding Foundation programs which cover more than 160 countries from digging wells for villages in Africa to teaching basic literacy skills to children in Latin America, during any given moment, thousands of Rotarians volunteer their time and expertise.
Participation in The Rotary Foundation, through our own District 7070 Foundation Walk, help attract and retain members. It was so much fun to walk along with area club presidents, Rotaract and Interact members and even Earlyact members. And did you know that Foundation Grants are supported solely by voluntary contributions from Rotarians like us and friends of The Rotary Foundation who share our vision of a better world.
After a great walk through the Ganaraska Forest, the 500 participants had a great steak dinner (sponsored by Past District Governor Bill Patchett, this year’s Chair of The District Rotary Foundation Committee and the Zone 24 $200 Million Dollar Coordinator) at the Ganaraska Forest Centre.
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Next year’s Foundation Walk is in Bowmanville, Ontario - -Time for you and your Rotary Club to support this great event..
Our annual Rotary Charity Golf Tournament was held Monday June 6th, 2011 at Meadowbrook Golf and Country Club. The day was a fellowship and fundraising success, with perfect weather, on one of the area's premier private golf clubs. A sincere Thank You to all our sponsors. participants, volunteers and contributors as well as club and committee members for making this, our 8th charity tournament, a memorable event. Special thanks to our Honourary Chair, Markham Councillor Carolina Morretti and to our entertaining Master of Ceremony, Phil Howes.
Over the April 9th and 10th weekend, Markham-Unionville Rotarians, Elmo and friends raised over $2,100 for Shelter Box Canada disaster relief in Japan. Each Shelter Box, which costs $1,000 including delivery, contains a tent, camp-stove, water filter, blankets, tools and utensils to provide shelter for up to ten people. Shelter Box committed over 1,500 units to Japan following the recent earthquake and tsunami. At the request of the Japanese Government, ShelterBox Special Response Teams from Canada and the U.K. were on site arranging delivery through Rotary Districts in Japan within 24 hours.
Markham-Unionville Rotary Club`s 7th Annual Rotary Charity Golf Tournament was held June 28th, 2010 at the Meadowbrook Golf and Country Club. Our club members and community wish to thank the generous sponsors, donors, volunteers and participants who made this event an outstanding success.
Markham-Unionville Rotary Club hosted a dinner to support the Canadian Landmine Foundation on Monday Mar. 8, 2010. Previously known as Night of A Thousand Dinners, this event was the world's original philanthroparty. Friends join together in one of the world's oldest rituals - breaking bread together. Instead of them bringing flowers or dessert, We make a donation. The proceeds will be used to clear minefields and aid landmine survivors.
A ShelterBox was displayed at Markville Mall on Sat Mar 6 & Sun Mar 7. This fund raising effort for disaster relief was provided by The Markham Unionville Rotary Club. The children enjoyed playing in the tent, while their parents generously donated so we could exceed the current number of over 4,000 boxes sent to Haiti and more recently to Chile. Click here for more photo's in the Photo Journal area
The Markham - Unionville Club Celebrated Chinese Near Year at The Elegant Restaurant in Markham. Members and partners came out to enjoy a traditional multi-course Chinese dinner that allowed time for members to catch up on what has been happening in everyones lives between courses. President Alan Ho invited Philip Wong, from the Today Daily News, who alloso enjoyed dinner while covering the event.
We had the pleasure of having The Mayor come to visit our Rotary Club and update us with many of the plans the Town will be unfolding in the near future.
The members of our Club, Family, Friends & Student Volunteers worked very hard in the cold, rainy & windy conditions at this years Fall Fair. The fellowship was well worth it and it means next year has to have better weather! We still had customers lined up for our Best at The Fair Back Bacon on a Bun & the New Hot Noodle Soup was a winner.
Another reported sighting of a merry band of outlaws in the Rotary Forest on Saturday May 9th - growing in number, some were said to resemble not only Robin, but also Friar Tuck, Little John, and Maid Marion - as they sought shelter from the weather at the Sheriff's favourite refuge, the village Tim Horton's across from the Sherwood Forest area of Markham.
We had the privilege of Ross' grandson Matthew Bowser's photo presentation of his just completed tour of Germany and France on Monday, August 25th. He effectively blended some really neat war-time pictures with current scenes throughout much of both countries and provided an excellent running commentary to go along with the presentation.
The Third Annual Rotary Classic Car Show at The Markham Museum on Aug 11, 2007 was a success! Great weather, good food, oldies music & beautiful cars all made it happen again.
Markham - Unionville Rotary Club has run 4 successful Annual Charity Golf Tournaments to date. Proceeds from our June 4, 2007 event were donated to The Markham Stouffville Hospital, Union Villa Long-term Care Facility and The Markham Museum.
Fifth Annual Markham-Unionville Rotary Charity Golf Tournament was held June 2nd, 2008 at the Meadowbrook Golf and Country Club. Although attendance was reduced from previous years, the event was another success. Our volunteer MC, Tony Murphy made a spectacular evening and Craig Riley also carried the auction off with good participation and fun.
Proceeds from this year's tournament have been donated Markham Stouffville Hospital, Union Villa - Long Term Care Facility and Markham Museum.
Thanks again to everyone who contributed to making this important fundraiser a success and special thanks to the committee members.
Sunday October 24th is World Polio Day. 
Annual Student Awards Night - presentation of high school leadership awards to 2019 Markham area high school graduates.
Milne Park.
Markham Rotary Community Interact Club
The club's annual joint Chinese New Year celebration was held with Rotary Club of York on Friday February 11th at the Golden Abalone Restaurant in Richmond Hill. Attended by more than 200 Rotarians, partners and friends of Rotary, the Year of the Pig kicked of with twin dragons and prizes for all. 
Rotary has come a long way in ending Polio, currently prevalent in only two remaining countries, Afghanistan and Pakistan. We invite you to come out to our awareness and proclamation session as Markham celebrates the 2016 World Polio Day. The "End Polio Now" flag will be hoisted at the Markham Civic Centre.
Welcome to the 2016 Markham Fair! We are now open to serve you treats from around the world for the next four days. Markham Fairgrounds @10801 McCowan Rd, Markham, ON L3P 3J3
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Wounded Warriors Canada is dedicated to helping our soldiers and first responders deal with PTSD and we are very proud of our Markham Unionville Rotary Club for a donation to the cause.
Rotarians, family, friends and student volunteers all enjoyed four days of fellowship and fundraising for our community at our Rotary Food Booth during the 2014 Markham Fair. Long an integral part of the Markham community, the annual Markham Fair provides an introduction to Markham`s heritage and rural atmosphere, from livestock to live bands, fiddling contests and family fun to long time residents, newcomers and international visitors to Markham. For over fifty years, Rotary Fair Food Booth profits have funded Rotary community projects in Markham. Over this traditional “weekend before Thanksgiving” event, Markham-Unionville and Markham Sunrise Rotarians again lived the Object of Rotary in all four Rotary Avenues of Service. 2015 Billed as Canada’s largest and oldest four day agricultural fair, the 171st Annual Fair will be held, as always, “the weekend before Thanksgiving” , October 2,3,4 & 5, 2015. Mark your calendars!
