1st Airdrie Rotary Concert Series 2023-10-20 06:00:00Z 0
Dragon's Den 2023 KERRY BOSTICK 2023-10-20 06:00:00Z 0

September first meeting

Our first meeting of the fall Will be Tuesday September 5th. This will be a noon meeting at Genesis Place. We will have some new potential members coming out so please come and meet them.
September first meeting Cam Christianson 2023-07-27 06:00:00Z 0
2023 Lobster Boil 2023-06-03 06:00:00Z 0
Lobster Boil 2023 2023-05-10 06:00:00Z 0
May Meetings 2023-04-14 06:00:00Z 0
April Meetings 2023-04-14 06:00:00Z 0
March meetings 2023-04-14 06:00:00Z 0
February Meetings 2023-02-07 07:00:00Z 0
What's up?! 2023-01-04 07:00:00Z 0

Dragon's Den 2022

Our Annual Giving Tuesday celebration DRAGON'S DEN is back on November 29th. 
Dragon's Den 2022 KERRY BOSTICK 2022-10-25 06:00:00Z 0
Annual Highway cleanup KERRY BOSTICK 2022-10-15 06:00:00Z 0
Lobster Boil 2022 KERRY BOSTICK 2022-05-24 06:00:00Z 0

Giving Tuesday 2020

Posted on Dec 01, 2020
Giving Tuesday was a wonderful one for 2020! 
 
We were able to give $10,000 to local charities in this years Airdrie Rotary Dragon's Den
 
We paid out 2 of our project grants as well for a Giving Tuesday total of $30,000!
 
Giving Tuesday 2020 2020-12-01 07:00:00Z 0
Highway Clean up 2020 2020-10-31 06:00:00Z 0
Hike & Bike - Fellowship Meeting 2020-09-13 06:00:00Z 0
Fellowship Hike 2020-08-15 06:00:00Z 0
Rotary Youth exchange 2019/20 Kerry Bostick 2020-06-22 06:00:00Z 0
Rotary's Casino for a Cause Kerry Bostick 2020-02-29 07:00:00Z 0
Lip Sync Battle 2019 Kerry Bostick 2019-11-16 07:00:00Z 0
Discon 2019 at Olds Pieter Taljaard 2019-05-04 06:00:00Z 0

Proudly Canadian Energy!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard

The Rotary Club of Airdrie watched Chris Slubicki's video on Canadian Energy today at their lunch hour Meeting.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raMwTUjB224&t=18s

The message is to be proud of the Canadian Energy Sector, invest and build, conserve and advocate for efficiency and sustainability. They all go together!

Proudly Canadian Energy! Pieter Taljaard 2019-02-26 07:00:00Z 0
Casino Event Pieter Taljaard 2019-02-26 07:00:00Z 0

Bread Beyond Borders

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
Moved by the conditions they discovered during a family visit to the homeland after 16 years away, and motivated by the poverty conditions under which his wife grew up in the care of her grandmother, together Leonor and Wilner Pagaling started ‘Bread Beyond Borders’ to end hunger amongst children in the Philippines.

Wilner presented to the Rotary Club of Airdrie the work that the Bread Beyond Borders does under the Lighthouse Missions Society, a registered non-profit charitable organization. They have a children feeding program, clothes donation, school supplies distribution, seed distribution, items for personal hygiene and help people with recognizing and cultivating personal values. He appealed to the club for donations for this cause so close to the hearts of many other donors.
 
They have their own fundraising efforts in the form of FaceBook promotions, bottle drives, cash register boxes for 'Change for Change’ and a Dessert Night event. They partner in the Philippines with educational institutions, local government, churches, communities, organizations and individuals.
 
Bread Beyond Borders Pieter Taljaard 2019-01-22 07:00:00Z 0

Dr Fozia Alvi - Medical Camps for Refugees

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
Fozia Alvi is a family physician in Airdrie and volunteers with ICNA Relief Canada in refugee camps in Bangladesh for Myanmar’s displaced Rohingya Muslim ethnic minority. Based on what she has learned firsthand, she is of the opinion that the treatment of this nation is a genocidal program. The Rohingya people’s medical need is great, but their plight much bigger. She spoke to the Rotary Club of Airdrie.
 
Conditions on the ground shook her. Most of the camps’ inhabitants were victims of assault or sexual violence, unsure if they’d been the lucky ones to still be breathing. As a woman, as a doctor and as a mother, she is horrified at the plight of this community of hundreds of thousands of traumatized survivors of murder, rape, torture, sexual slavery, persecution and enslavement, in a makeshift refugee camp, trapped by geography and political deadlock.
 
Since 1962 the Myanmar government policy was to systematically isolate the Rohingya population, deny them secondary education, deny them their own crops, deny them access to hospitals, deny them the ability to get middle-class jobs, deny them marriage licences, even deny them the ability to turn on lights after sunset, with the intent that the Rohingya would leave of their own accord. When this failed against their resilience, the active violence was started causing desperate survivors to flee.
 
Canada – with our reputation for generally being on the right side of history – what will we do about it? Dr Alvi called on the members of the Rotary Club of Airdrie to be a voice for these people and speak out against what a UN fact-finding mission recently concluded as genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. Dr Alvi also started a Foundation to continue work in the camps.
 
Dr Fozia Alvi - Medical Camps for Refugees Pieter Taljaard 2018-12-18 07:00:00Z 0

Airdrie Day with the Calgary Hitmen!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard


Calgary Hitmen vs Victoria Royals - 1st January 2019 – Saddle Dome
The Rotary Club of Airdrie and the Calgary Hitmen are making entrance tickets to this game available for Airdrie organizations to sell at a discount price of $15/p, with $5/ticket sold going to your own organization’s funds. Contact Rotarian Perry Logan at perrylogan04@gmail.com for your tickets to sell, no cash layout required, pay for the tick...ets as you sell and start adding to your funds.

Bussing between Airdrie and the Saddle Dome is also available @ $5/p.

New this year is the AIRDRIE DAY – Player Cards Series! Every week we make three cards available for you to get to know the players in advance. Enjoy collecting and sharing the eCards. Use it during the game to identify the players or for Hitmen trivia questions.

See here under for all the player cards.

Airdrie Day with the Calgary Hitmen! Pieter Taljaard 2018-12-17 07:00:00Z 0

Airdrie LIP SYNC BATTLE!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
Thank you to all the LIP SYNC BATTLE performers for supporting MENTAL HEALTH in Airdrie!
 
The evening was filled with one excellent performance after another winner:
The ‘Meatpies’ John & Pam Hodson – Meatloaf’s Paradise by the Dashboard Light
Cathy Perrotta – Pink’s Let’s get this Party Started
Stacey Lush & Katelyn Bollum – Nancy Sinatra’s These Boots are made for Walking
Justin Soutar – NF’s Mansion
Taryn Szediak – Miranda Lambert’s Little Red Wagon
Sheley Bitz, Christie Doyle, Korin Lemay & Jeanette Eglington – Tina & Ike Turner’s Proud Mary
Zada Sauder & Will Townsend – Electro Velvet’s Still in love with you
Wendy Bates & Mariann Wong – Cardi B’s I Like It
Lenora Collins & Kaidy Morgan – Lady Gaga’s Born this Way
Jared Atkin – Britney Spears’ Oops! I did it again
The ‘French Connection’ Bernard & Dianne Dumont – Bradley Cooper & Lady Gaga’s Shallow
Kim Cheel – Bonnie Tyler’s Holding out for a Hero
Tracey Forbes – Mark Ronson, Bruno Mars’ Up Town Funk
Brittany Harcus, Kerry Bostick, Theresa Shenkaurik & Nayely Sedlacek – Backstreet Boys’ Everybody.
 
Watch all the videos by clicking here
 
Airdrie LIP SYNC BATTLE! Pieter Taljaard 2018-12-02 07:00:00Z 0

Airdrie’s 2018 Dragons’ Den

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
What a superb event to celebrate the wonderful people and organizations in Airdrie. $24,000 to fourteen deserving organizations!
 
The organizations all made a pitch for funding for their project, and each one of them walked away with a check at the end of the evening.
 
See here below for the Organizations and their Projects.
Airdrie’s 2018 Dragons’ Den Pieter Taljaard 2018-11-27 07:00:00Z 0
Dragons' Den Pieter Taljaard 2018-11-22 07:00:00Z 0

Fire Truck for Acayucan, Mexico

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
Rotarian Randy Smith gave feed-back to the Rotary Club of Airdrie at the regular Tuesday lunch-time meeting on his trip to Mexico to hand-over a donation of emergency equipment. The equipment was purchased and donated by the Rotary Club of Airdrie through the Rotary Lethbridge Sunrise Club and District 5360 program. A fire truck and other equipment were donated to the Municipality of Acuyucun, Veracruz, Mexico, in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Acayucun.
It is a project that was long in the making and involved cleaning the equipment, preparations for expatriation, and driving it to Mexico before presenting it to the new owners. Randy’s wife, Donna, met him in Mexico, after the cross-border drive, and they both enjoyed the hospitality and generosity of their Mexican Rotarian hosts and other officials for the duration of their stay. A project that makes a real difference in many people’s life and lots of Rotary friendship and fellowship along the way.
 

 
Fire Truck for Acayucan, Mexico Pieter Taljaard 2018-11-13 07:00:00Z 0

New program for Airdrie Youth! 

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
The Rotary Club of Airdrie had Jodie Eckert speaking at today’s lunchtime meeting about the Rotary Alberta Youth Entrepreneurship Camp (RAYEC). The Club is proud to sponsor two students for the next training camp.
 
Jodie helps build strong business communities through her key contributions to a wide range of economic development projects. Jodie believes that learning should be something you do your whole life and that training and education for entrepreneurs build strong business communities. She has been involved with the youth entrepreneurship camp for 11 years as a team leader as well as camp manager.
 
RAYEC is for youth aged 13-15 and have an interest in business.  This one-week entrepreneurial-based camp combines the education of business training with a summer camp atmosphere. Campers hear from guest speakers and participate in workshops to learn the components of a business plan such as marketing, advertising, cash flow and record keeping.
 
Students are put into business teams where they come up with a business idea, meet with suppliers and bankers and build a product or a service.  On the final day of camp these youthful ventures are open for business. Campers pay back their business loans and split their profits amongst their business team.  It’s not only about numbers and business plans, though. The youth get to participate in a variety of summer camp experiences and recreational activities as well.
 
Campers attend for free, thanks to the generous support of community sponsors within Rotary District 5360. Sixty youth from South and Central Alberta will attend the camp during the week of August 17th, 2019, which will be held at Eagles Nest Ranch in Cypress Hills, Alberta.
 
Interested students can get more information or can apply to join the camp at www.ayec.ca from January onwards, and applications close in May.
Rotary members can volunteer to help at the camp or can visit the camp during the ‘Business Day’ on 17th August 2019.
 
New program for Airdrie Youth!  Pieter Taljaard 2018-10-23 06:00:00Z 0

We loved RYLA & RYPEN!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
The Rotary Club of Airdrie hosted students from Airdrie schools who attended the RYLA & RYPEN events. The Club sponsored the students, and the two Rotarians who helped the students to register, arranged transport and ensured that all plans run smoothly were Theresa White and Cindy Mayer. They were ably assisted by school representatives from CW Perry, Good Sheppard, Muriel Clayton, OLQP, WG Murdoch, Meadow Brook, George McDougall, Bert Church, St Martin De Porres and WH Croxford.
 
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is a leadership development program run by Rotary. While participants can be any age, most events focus on secondary school students, university students, or young professionals. RYLA events are typically 3–10 days long and include presentations, activities, and workshops that cover a variety of topics, including:
  • Leadership fundamentals and ethics
  • Communication skills
  • Problem-solving and conflict management
  • Community and global citizenship.
Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment (RYPEN) is a Rotary-sponsored District 5360 Youth Service program. Students from across the Southern Alberta District attend a weekend-long camp designed to develop their potential through a mixture of lecture style sessions and adventure-based learning. Its aim is to communicate to young people a series of ideas, problems and social experiences which will assist them in forming their own values and moral standards.  A program of thought-provoking speakers, social situations, and personal challenges is offered. 
 
The students reported that this was an experience that they would recommend to all, and each of them benefited tremendously from it.
 
We loved RYLA & RYPEN! Pieter Taljaard 2018-10-17 06:00:00Z 0

Rotary Scholarship at Bert Church

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
Bert Church High School - 34th Annual Awards Night
 
Rotary Club of Airdrie Outstanding Student Scholarhip was awarded Carter Jones, and presented by Rotary's representative, Pieter Taljaard & Bert Church's Laurie Johnston.
 
This Scholarship recognizes students in any grade who exemplifying leadership, citizenship, volunteerism and community service traits.The Scholarship is for $350.00 
Carter Jones is an incredible young man who was a definite asset to Bert Church High School. He is earnest, helpful, considerate, and polite. Carter was positively involved in both the school community and in the wider community of Airdrie. He participated in Unified Bocce Ball and Unified Bean Bag Toss for the past two years. His bright smile and determination were an asset to our team. Carter was a member of the Link Crew team to help support the entering grade nine students to Bert Church High School. Carter decided to take Leadership to become more involved at school. He implemented a new recycling program into our school with newly painted bins. Carter has an optimistic personality that contributes to the positivity of those around him. He is always willing to help a fellow student. As part of Leadership he was a mentor for a younger student at one of the middle schools. He was also a mentor, friend and support to students in our life skills program at school.
 
Carter is a good team player. In his grade 11 year, he was the captain of his Calgary Power Hockey League team and he scored the winning goal that led his team to win the championship. His team won the regular season championship as well as the playoff championship. Carter won a trophy for runner up for Most Improved Forward, as well as a trophy for being the league playoff MVP.
 
Carter has a strong work ethic and takes pride in his work. He applied himself to his studies and was diligent and thorough during his Work Experience time at Genesis Place and Ramada Inn and Suites. He takes personal responsibility for things within his realm. Carter is an advocate for accessibility at school and in the community. He does not complain and has overcome many obstacles in life with his positive attitude.
 
Rotary Scholarship at Bert Church Pieter Taljaard 2018-10-09 06:00:00Z 0

AIRDRIE Day # 4 - 1st Jan '19

Posted by Pieter Taljaard

 

Airdrie Rotary is making tickets available to deserving Airdrie Organizations to sell at $15/person of which a $5 commission/ticket goes towards the selling organization's own funds.

Bussing services from and back to Airdrie is available at an additional $5/person.

For tickets and bus vouchers to sell, contact Rotarian Perry Logan @ 587-229-1779 or perrylogan04@gmail.com.

AIRDRIE Day # 4 - 1st Jan '19 Pieter Taljaard 2018-10-09 06:00:00Z 0

New Member: Dr Emmanuel Gye

Posted by Pieter Taljaard on Sep 20, 2018
 
Rotary in Southern Alberta District’s Governor, Dan Doherty, inducted Dr Emmanuel Gye as a new member of the Rotary Club of Airdrie on Tuesday. Ema grew up in Northern Nigeria where he qualified as a physician, lived in England and trained to become a family doctor before coming to Airdrie in 2010 where he feels honored in take part in his patients' life journey. His life partner is Pamela and they are blessed with two sons.
 
Ema is keen about community development and improvement. He defines community as where he lives and the world at large. He joined Rotary because of the community service work done locally and across the globe. He takes reassurance out of Rotary’s ethics and discipline on projects, and the integrity of the participating members.
 
New Member: Dr Emmanuel Gye Pieter Taljaard 2018-09-20 06:00:00Z 0

Community Service first & foremost!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
Rotary’s Alberta-South’s District Governor Dan Doherty visited the Rotary Club of Airdrie, and was welcomed by President Dale Rathgeber. Dan led the meeting through some of the club’s current projects and reminded all that Rotary is part of what established Airdrie's community spirit, and that this club have touched thousands of lives positively over the past 35 year of the club's existence. He addressed the sustainability of Rotary as a force in the community. Dan also inducted Dr Emmanuel Gye as a new club member and challenged the club to help Emma fulfill his community service aspirations.
 
Photo: Dale Rathgeber (L) and Dan Doherty (R)
 
Community Service first & foremost! Pieter Taljaard 2018-09-19 06:00:00Z 0

Meals-on-Wheels wheels-out Airdrie Meals!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard on Sep 11, 2018
 
No-one deserves to be without a nutritious hot meal every day. This was the message from Lois Jones from Meals-on-Wheels who spoke to the Rotary Club of Airdrie today during their regular lunch-time meeting.
 
Meals-on-Wheels delivers up to 700 subsidized meals in Airdrie each month. They have a moving window of about 50 clients at anytime. They have about 40 volunteers to prepare and deliver the meals. It is a service for people who are physically not able to prepare and cook a meal due to temporary or conditions or passing circumstances.
 
The organization has a yearly operating budget of about $60K , which is mainly for the purchase of food items. This year (2018) the organization had to use some of their buffer funds to supplement their cash-flow and they predict a similar situation for 2019 and would appreciate any financial assistance to remain sustainable. Meals-on-Wheels is running a raffle currently with sponsored cash-prizes and the details are on their web page:
Meals-on-Wheels wheels-out Airdrie Meals! Pieter Taljaard 2018-09-11 06:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Airdrie for Airdrie's Youth

 
The Rotary Club of Airdrie accepted RAP as a project today. The Restorative Action Program (RAP) is a holistic service for the youth, and is brought to them in the save environment of schools. Rotary will partner and actively collaborate with Airdrie organizations and business, authorities connected to Airdrie schools and participating schools to initiate and sustain the program for the youth in the Airdrie community. The program consists of the following aspects:
 
Basic conflict management training provides students with skills to manage conflict and deal with bullying in school, at home, or in the community. it gives students practical skills to resolve conflict peacefully on their own. It teaches students how to communicate clearly and effectively; prevent and de-escalate bullying and conflict; develop better listening skills, and apply conflict management strategies in school, at home, and in the community.
 
The development of leadership in youth is a core component of RAP. RAP workers organize Leadership opportunities throughout the year to support a solid link between RAP’s core values and the community’s culture. A variety of activities focusing on teamwork and personal growth are conducted. The opportunities include offsite camps, presentations, and training to develop leadership and citizenship. The leadership opportunities range from those provided to a select number of youth to those provided to an entire grade. All leadership opportunities focus on promoting empathy, respect for self and the community, and fostering healthy relationships. Leadership opportunities have the additional benefit of championing a culture of non-violence, unity, and charitable service in the school and community.
 
Mediation services help students resolve conflict related to bullying, discrimination, harassment, relationship breakdown, and misunderstandings. Through mediation students can safely explore issues of conflict through guided communication and develop resolutions to repair harm.
 
Our RAP Facilitators engage in presentations to promote the program and offer training on managing youth conflict to school staff (Administrators, Teachers, Educational Assistants, and other Support Staff). On request, RAP Facilitators engage in presentations or training programs for parents on parenting and effective communication with their teen. These presentations are very well received by parents who identify the benefit of having a common set of skills for themselves and their teen to practice and integrate into their household.
Rotary Club of Airdrie for Airdrie's Youth Pieter Taljaard 2018-08-28 06:00:00Z 0

Medical Centre for Negril, Jamaica

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
Gerry Darichuk brought an army of friends of Jamaica to present the 2nd phase of a five phase project to us as an Airdrie prospect. This second part is to improve first response, child and maternity medical services to the town of Negril on the most western point of the island. 
 
The proposal is to make a donation of $250 000 for equipment, facilities and training. Starting with an initial seed fund from the Rotary Club of Airdrie, which will be matched by Jamaican Society in Canada, adding all the multipliers from the Canadian Government foreign programs, District and The Rotary Foundation, the full amount for the donation could be made available in June 2019. 
Medical Centre for Negril, Jamaica Pieter Taljaard 2018-08-21 06:00:00Z 0

Airdrie hears from Ottawa

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
The MP for Banff and Airdrie, Blake Richards, spoke to the members at the Rotary Club of Airdrie’s regular Tuesday lunch-time meeting on the economic issues affecting Alberta and the current key activities of Parliament.
 
He highlighted the complexities of approvals for mega capital investments, and the lack of certainty surrounding the pipeline projects, including the government taking over the Kinder-Morgan pipelines. Blake is the Conservative representative for tourism, which interfaces strongly with the sustainability of small businesses, as well as for the file on the democratic processes in Canada. He has repeatedly taken up the interest of small businesses when it is threatened by tax and other regulatory changes affecting the viability of this sector.
 
 
Ending on a positive note, Blake celebrated the success of passing a motion in the House of Commons to study what Canada can do to help parents grieving over the loss of an infant.
 
 
Airdrie hears from Ottawa Pieter Taljaard 2018-08-14 06:00:00Z 0

Exchange Student Program

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
Courtney Clarke spoke to the Rotary Club of Airdrie at the regular Tuesday lunch meeting about all her positive experiences as a Rotary Exchange student in Zambia in Africa. She not only loved the cultural shock out of her natural shyness to a vibrant ambassador, but got involved with all the Rotary projects that her host club undertook. The one project’s impact really left an impression on her was a water project, freeing the village girls and women’s time up for other more productive activities than just fetching water. Courtney and her partner, Chris, are now resident in Airdrie, and with her deep rooted community service drive, they’re here to make a difference. Welcome to Airdrie!
 
Exchange Student Program Pieter Taljaard 2018-07-25 06:00:00Z 0

Airdrie speaks Rubbish!

Airdrie’s Team Leader, Waste & Recycling Services, Susan Grimm spoke to the Rotary Club of Airdrie today about the City’s program and successes in reducing waste and increasing recycling. July is Rotary’s sustainable month internationally, and Airdrie can be proud of our contribution: We have achieved a 45% reduction of waste to landfill over the past 5 years.
As of today, 41% of all material collected at the curbside is landfilled, 34% is re-processed as organics and the remaining 25% is recycled. The aim is to reduce the landfill material in 2023 to only 20% of all collected.
Future opportunities are:
  • Continue to identify new opportunities that may exist for diverting additional material from landfill
  • Consider opportunities to expand the use of the current depot facility to the Industrial, Commercial and Institutional sectors
  • Explore opportunities to combine Recycling Depot and Transfer Site operations on one site within Airdrie City limits and establish the land as an Eco Park for future waste diversion opportunities
  • Partner with a third party organics processor for a facility to be sited at the Eco Park
  • Consider landfill alternatives – explore technology that takes waste and converts it into alternative sources (fuel, energy) with a possibility to site such a facility at the Eco Park
Airdrie speaks Rubbish! 2018-07-17 06:00:00Z 0

July: Sustainability Month for Rotary!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
The Rotary Club of Airdrie was honored today with Sean Royer speaking to us about sustainability of the Alberta Agricultural Industry. Sean is currently the Executive Director of the Environmental Stewardship Branch in the Ministry of Alberta Agriculture and Forestry. His responsibilities in this role include leading the development and implementation of the social license strategy for the Ministry, environmental agriculture policy development and analysis and applied research, extension, and programming to encourage the use best practices to improve stewardship on the farm.
Agriculture no longer enjoys the confidence of consumers that it once did. Since 1968, increasing expectations related to social license issues such as environmental sustainability, responsible resource use, food safety, animal welfare, and farm safety is changing how food is produced.  He discussed the drivers behind social license, how food companies, producer organizations, and government is responding and what it will meant for the future of the food industry and lessons for the forestry sector.
 
July: Sustainability Month for Rotary! Pieter Taljaard 2018-07-10 06:00:00Z 0

Another year: Change of the Guard!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
The Rotary Club of Airdrie celebrated a successful year under the leadership of 2017/2018 President Cory Tretiak last night at the Woodside Club. 2018/2019 President Dale Rathgeber took over the reign for this Rotary year. Thank you Cory for your service! Looking forward to an enjoyable year Dale!
Another year: Change of the Guard! Pieter Taljaard 2018-06-20 06:00:00Z 0

One County, many Rotary Clubs!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
The Rotary Club of Airdrie was honored today by the 14 year veteran Rocky View County Reeve, Greg Boehlke (right), speaking at the  regular Tuesday lunchtime meeting about the County and where its future will take it. Grant Kaiser (left), manager of the County’s Communication Services, accompanied Greg.

The Rocky View County consists of about 1 million acres, and includes the area from Bragg Creek in the West to Beseker in the East, Madden in the North to Dalemead in the South. It includes 1,270 country farms, accommodates 40,000 residents with a median household income 62% higher than in Calgary and 217% higher than the Canadian average. Rocky View is a net contributor of jobs in the greater Calgary region. Taxes are 0,25% for residential properties and 0,74% for non-residential properties of their assessed value.

Rural municipality management is challenging and over-and-above the normal municipal services that are operated and maintained, Rocky View’s portfolio includes ‘Agriculture’ for support services and weed & pest control. 92% of the county is agricultural land and legislated taxes are $450/acre, with resulting county income to keep the county operating for just two days of a year. Residents pay at least twice the amount of education taxes per capita than other municipalities in the region.

The County has just taken occupation of a new County Hall. They are busy developing a new Strategic Plan, as well as a new Economic Development Plan, and have embraced the Calgary Metropolitan Regional Board project. There is a current initiative to streamline planning and building permitting.

Although the growth in the region is currently less than historically, Greg remains cautiously optimistic in the prospects of growth, especially in the area of Transportation and Warehousing.
One County, many Rotary Clubs! Pieter Taljaard 2018-06-19 06:00:00Z 0

Develop & Empower the Youth!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard

The speakers at today's Rotary Club of Airdrie's Tuesday lunchtime meeting were Don Schapira and Winston Blake from an organization, Peer Mediation & Skills Training (PMAST). They work with youth to develop and practice conflict management, relationship management, and leadership skills using an approach that focuses on prevention, intervention and re-connection. PMAST is responsible for the 'Restorative Action Program' in W.H. Croxford High school in Airdrie, and Don is working at the school.

PMAST is a registered charity which operates community-based initiatives that are hosted in high schools and is sustained through shared responsibility of community partners and by other supportive organizations and citizens.

It is a much needed service, with proven results and a program with independently verified statistics by the University of Saskatchewan. It is PREVENTION training programs and awareness events to help youth develop communication and conflict management skills, as well as to develop awareness of the negative impacts of hate, violence and discrimination. Through INTERVENTION, victims of bullying take an active role in the process, while offenders are encouraged to take responsibility for their actions. Intervention focuses on a dialogue between victims & offenders. This method has proven highly effective in developing knowledge and accountability of all those involved. Trained mediators supports youth in RECONNECTING  with their school, family and peers, assisting schools and advocating for youth.

Develop & Empower the Youth! Pieter Taljaard 2018-06-12 06:00:00Z 0
Airdrie Rotary Charity Golf Day Pieter Taljaard 2018-05-24 06:00:00Z 0

Water Filters for Mexico!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
Becca & Alan Pohl swopping banners with President Cory.
 
Alan Pohl, 30 years as finishing carpenter, in 2010 received a degree in Pastoral Ministry and is a Rotarian from the Chapala Sunrise Club. Together with his wife, Becca, a nurse, they are operating as Alivio International, a humanitarian aid organization under the umbrella organization Bridges of Hope. They are working in the area surrounding the Lake Chapala in the Guadalajara region of Mexico. Their main objective is to educate communities about the need for clean water and proper sanitation practices, and to provide effective, inexpensive water filters. In the process they also seek to provide families with micro business opportunities ranging from assembly of filter systems to sewing cooperatives. There is a great need for clean water in these communities, the lack of which is causing serious illness among the young and elderly.
 
Alan & Becca addressed the Rotary Club of Airdrie at their regular Tuesday lunchtime meeting at Genesis Place. They demonstrated the assembly and use of a practical ceramic water filter proven to be highly effective in eliminating 99.98% of parasites, viruses and bacteria. It has a flow rate of up to 5 liters an hour. It is simple to clean and maintain, and can last for up to 5 years. The cost of each unit is about $50. For more information on the ceramic water filter system check out Caminos de Agua. The Rotary Club of Airdrie donated $2000 to a fund to be administered by the Rotary Club of Fountain Hills in Arizona, and this donation will provide filters for clean water to between 250 to 400 people over the next 5 years.
 
The Pohl’s goal is not only to provide families with inexpensive and easy to use water filters, but in the near future to provide rain water capture systems in order that these families have a safe, sustainable water source.
Water Filters for Mexico! Pieter Taljaard 2018-05-23 06:00:00Z 0

Airdrie's Festival of Arts

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
Jen Harbour told the Rotary Club of Airdrie today at Rotary’s regular Tuesday lunch time meeting about the successes of the recent Airdrie Rotary Festival of Performing Arts, which was sponsored by Rotary.
 
The total number of performers over the eleven days was 1573, performing 444 numbers to 2713 people in the audience. The performances were adjudicated by ten judges over 32 sessions. Our thanks go out to the 381 volunteers who help the board members and contributed to this enormous success.
 
As a result of the festival, twenty soloists are being sent to the provincial festival, and 62 scholarships were awarded to the value of just under $5000.
 
A fantastic event, great value to the community!
Airdrie's Festival of Arts Pieter Taljaard 2018-05-15 06:00:00Z 0

AIWC Aerial Insectivore Enclosure

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
The Alberta Institute for Wildlife Conservation (AIWC), accredited through the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association, has been a champion for the rehabilitation of injured and orphaned wildlife since 1993. They welcome injured, orphaned, and affected wildlife, small and large.
The Rotary Club of Airdrie visited the facility and had a tour of the clinic, once a church in Didsbury. The Rotarians went for a tour through the surgical suite, laboratory, x-ray room, and various care units, as well as outdoor enclosures and flight-conditioning spaces for raptors, songbird enclosures, pasture and corral for young deer and moose, a waterfowl pen, shorebird enclosure, and mammal enclosures.
 
The Rotary Club of Airdrie sponsored the building of one of the new aerial insectivore enclosures, which will be used for swallows and bats. The group in the photo was hosted by AIWC’s Holly Duval (second from the right).
 
The AIWC team of wildlife biologists and technicians receive critical assistance from one staff and other volunteer veterinarians. More than 130 highly trained volunteers provide rehabilitative animal care and support the release of wildlife back into the wild.
The AIWC believe in cultivating a strong co-existence between humans and wildlife animals, through developing awareness by education, instilling a love for nature in children, and encouraging environmental stewardship.
AIWC Aerial Insectivore Enclosure Pieter Taljaard 2018-05-08 06:00:00Z 0
Lobster Boil! Pieter Taljaard 2018-05-07 06:00:00Z 0

The Quest of Hanover Jamaica

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
Angela Haye, Principal of the Hanover Educational Institute, in Hanover Jamaica, spoke to the Rotary Club of Airdrie about the dire needs in the community where her school is based, and a five part project that can benefit from Rotary’s help: Education; Transport; Health; Water & Sanitation.
 
Their community is very much affected by extortion, guns and the drug trade, which have become part of the commerce of the area. To the young minds that discard the associated dangers, these alternatives for money and power are perceived to be more attractive than the benefits of education or an honorable existence.
 
As part of providing opportunities, Angela started the school and clinic, and has built these as the start of implementing her vision, with the support of some global institutions. Her quest now is to expand on it.
 
The project is:
Education: Alternative and supplement to overcrowded and discriminatory system
Transport: For pupils & staff to assist with attendance and participation.
Health: Clinic, not just for local first response treatment, but also general health education and promoting healthier life style.
Water & Sanitation: To improve the provision of these services and in support of the school and clinic.
 
We thank Cliff, Gerry, Linda and Jim from the Rotary Club of Calgary North for introducing Angela to us.
The Quest of Hanover Jamaica Pieter Taljaard 2018-05-01 06:00:00Z 0

Welcome back Past-President Sue!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
Sue Couchman was the first lady to lead the Rotary Club of Airdrie as President. After some time away, Sue has re-joined the club again today.
 
In 1989, the Rotary Council of Legislation removed the provision that Rotary was for males only. In 1991 Sue joined. She is an active supporter of the youth exchange program, through hosting and counseling, and wants to work towards getting it reinstated for the Airdrie community.
 
Wecome back Sue!
Welcome back Past-President Sue! Pieter Taljaard 2018-04-17 06:00:00Z 0

Thinking of you Humboldt!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
The Rotary Club of Airdrie today observed a minute of silence to honor the Saskatchewan Humboldt Broncos bus crash victims. The club also donated a $1000 to the fund established for the community, the victims’ families and the survivors, wishing them strength to deal with such an unimaginable loss.

The picture is of flowers in memory of those who lost their lives, in Sagewood, Airdire, AB.
Thinking of you Humboldt! Pieter Taljaard 2018-04-10 06:00:00Z 0

$1,500 for Guatemala!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
Bill Skinner, from the Rotary Club of Calgary Heritage Park, received a check for $1,500 for the financing Guatemala Society ongoing project, providing education, clean water and sanitation, and supporting sustainable self-help schemes. The Rotary Club of Airdrie is the 10th Rotary club contributing to this project this year, and Airdrie’s International Representative Randy Smith handed Bill the check with well wishes.
$1,500 for Guatemala! Pieter Taljaard 2018-03-28 06:00:00Z 0

Anita has her own brand now!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard

 

 

Anita Lemke's own new brand is called ‘Anita Mortgage’, but she hears: ‘I need a Mortgage!’ Something she considers as a pleasure in helping people achieve their dream of home ownership.

As a mortgage professional, licensed through RECA and a member of AMBA, Anita is personable, knowledgeable, and adept at managing tricky situations that can sometimes occur on a mortgage file. She has partnerships with dozens of lenders to offer the best rates and options for her clients....

Anita spoke to the Rotary Club of Airdrie this week, and confesses that she was a little nervous, but no-one noticed. Once she started her confidence as an almost decade old mortgage professional, and building a business around referrals, repeat business and top notch service came through very strongly. She is a Rotarian and very involved in her community in particular Airdrie and truly cares about each and everyone of her fellow Rotarians and clients!

Anita started the first half of her career off as a computer programmer and analyst. Working long hours, it prompted her to re-evaluate her priorities. As a busy mother of two, Anita understands the importance of being available for her children and having a clear financial goal. She opted for a new career in mortgage broking which affords her more flexibility and control. She is probably more busy now, but on her own terms. In her free time, Anita focuses on family, fitness, and her community.

Anita believes that work is not just about the business but fancies herself as a financial educator, talking her clients through the financing and refinancing or mortgage renewal processes. She especially likes serving first time home owners, because it is like starting with a clean slate.

Anita’s advice when shopping around for a mortgage is to not go to institutions that will offer only one product line or may have less training than members of a mortgage brokers association. There are many products out there to design a mortgage that is right for any client. Upon determining long term goals; she uses her knowledge of the mortgage products currently offered by multiple lenders, to give clients the best choice.

When it comes to lenders, the differences are becoming less, and decisions are no longer made just on rates, but focuses on total cost to customer. Irrespective of credit history, there could be a product and conditions that fit, and Anita is determined to work with the client and guide them through the process of establishing the best position to borrow, or to prepare to borrow in the future.

We wish Anita all the success with her own new brand!

Anita has her own brand now! Pieter Taljaard 2018-03-21 06:00:00Z 0

We're steadily growing!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
New Member! Rotarian Eric Peterson welcomed to the Rotary Club of Airdrie by President Cory Tretiak.

The Rotary Club of Airdrie family welcomed Eric Peterson as a new member today. Eric has been a Rotarian for 20 years, and relocated with his wife Sue to Airdrie to be closer to his two sons and brand new grand-daughter.

Eric is a pilot in his spare time when he is not playing trumpet in a jazz band. He is passionate about the Rotary Youth Exchange Program and would like to see this program re-ignited in Airdrie.

We’re lucky to have Eric, and looking forward to many hours of fellowship!
We're steadily growing! Pieter Taljaard 2018-03-20 06:00:00Z 0

Airdrie Rotary Festival of Performing Arts Equipment

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
Brand new equipment!
 
The Rotary Club of Airdrie provided a grant of $10,000 this year to the Airdrie Rotary Festival of Performing Arts and the Festival purchased equipment and banners for the Festival. This grant is in addition to the yearly sponsorship for the festival.
 
Rotary visited the festival on Spring Day to go and see and ‘try-out’ some of the equipment. The Festival culminates in the highlight of the two weeks with the the last concert as the festival showcase benefit concert, with Rotarians as the 'guests of honor'.
 
Airdrie Rotary Festival of Performing Arts Equipment Pieter Taljaard 2018-03-20 06:00:00Z 0

Airdrie Mayoral Address!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
The Rotary Club of Airdrie was honored today to have the Mayor of Airdrie, Peter Brown, address the club on the activities in Airdrie and the Council.
 
Growth in Airdrie is continuing, with significant investment in commercial developments, the establishment of businesses including the creation of about 750 jobs, and the building of over 900 residential houses and apartments, in 2017.
 
The Council is actively supporting three main initiatives, namely: The Economic Development Strategy for community leaders to have a voice in land-use and report inhibitors, Growth Management Board for cooperation and coordination between neighboring local authorities, and the Healthcare Co-operative to address comprehensive cooperative physical and mental health care for the community.
 
A taxes increase was unavoidable after a long period of low taxes, and in accordance with a standing agreement with Calgary, water & waste water rates have increased, but it is still a good comparable rate.
 
Two major road projects are on the cards, subject to some provincial funding. The first is an rail underpass in Yankee Boulevard, and the second the extension of 40th Avenue across the canal and over the Deerfoot highway.
 
It was a privilege to hear firsthand what the opportunities and challenges are. Thank you Mayor Peter Brown.
 
Photo: President Cory Tretiak and Mayor Peter Brown
 
Airdrie Mayoral Address! Pieter Taljaard 2018-02-20 07:00:00Z 0

Partnerships with Rotary!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
A great story of Airdrie service organizations working together for their causes.
 
Airdrie Pro Rodeo and Volunteer Airdrie teamed up with the Rotary Club of Airdrie to raise funds during the Calgary Hitmen's  Airdrie Day Hockey Game at the Saddle Dome in December. The Rotary Club of Airdrie annually creates opportunities for all the organizations in Airdrie to raise monies for their own use by selling entrance tickets in advance and helping on the night with raffle and 50/50 tickets sales.
 
Cheryl Rockwell (left) and Helen Nelson (right) from Airdrie Pro Rodeo received their check from Perry Logan. Ultimately the greatest help is self-help! Thank you Airdrie Pro Rodeo, and all of the very best for the 2018 season!
 
Partnerships with Rotary! Pieter Taljaard 2018-02-15 07:00:00Z 0

Honduras Project - Building on a Good Foundation

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
A two-part sustainable development project including micro-finance and sustainable water
 
These sustainable community development projects build health, education, and economic opportunities into families, neighborhoods, and complete communities – in a dignified, stewarded, and sustainable way. This was the opportunity presented at today's meeting!
 
The Rotary Club of Airdrie was instrumental in the initiation of this project 2012, and it has grown and delivered more than expected. Stage V will be launched in April 2018. Bill Fitzsimmons and Duncan Stanners, from the Rotary Club of Calgary West, relayed some very heartwarming success stories, wonderfully illustrated with photos of the people and ventures that not only benefitted from the schemes, but are prospering to help others.
 
Honduras Project - Building on a Good Foundation Pieter Taljaard 2018-02-13 07:00:00Z 0

Three speakers for the price of one!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
At the Rotary Club of Airdrie's lunch time meeting today we had three presentations, crisp to the point, all excellent presenters and fascinating projects.
 
The Airdrie Rotary Festival for Performing Arts also received a cheque of $5 000 for the annual sponsorship of the Festival.
 
Three speakers for the price of one! Pieter Taljaard 2018-02-06 07:00:00Z 0

Casino-for-a-Cause: A winner!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
Casino-for-a-Cause! What a good way to start the year: fun & money! Whether you attended the event or you’ll be receiving some of the proceeds, the Rotary Club of Airdrie is proud to be the catalysis to bring those with open hearts & hands together in such an enjoyable way.
 
This was the second year the event was held, and the numbers promises to be bigger and better with a slightly improved format. The silent auction was replaced with two raffles: A wine hamper raffle that gave people who could not attend an opportunity to contribute, and a balloon raffle to add to the excitement for those attending.
 
We thank all the sponsors for the event, namely: The Co-operators; Ultimate Lights; Bavarian Master Works; FortisAlberta; Watches ‘N More. Your support to service in the community is highly commended and appreciated!
 
Next year, more & more of same, the same time and place!
 
 
Casino-for-a-Cause: A winner! Pieter Taljaard 2018-02-03 07:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Airdrie donates a fire truck to the Los Amigos Project!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard

 

The Rotary Club of Airdire has purchased a fire truck and handed it over to Lethbridge Sunrise to get it's paperwork ready. The truck is to be taken over to Mexico and handed to one of the Mexican local authorities for use by their emergency services.

The Los Amigos Project is a Rotary International service project organized by the Rotary Club of Lethbridge Sunrise and supported by Rotary clubs from a...cross Southern Alberta. Each year since 2011 Los Amigos has coordinated the donation of decommissioned Canadian vehicles to Mexican communities. These vehicles include ambulances, fire trucks, handi-buses and school buses. All vehicles go directly into regular use for medical emergencies, firefighting and the transportation of students and disabled individuals in Mexico.

Mexican communities receiving these donations will benefit in many ways. The vehicles will provide ambulance and bus service to both urban and rural centers and will play a vital role in developing safe, healthy communities.

Along with the donated equipment, an advanced training program was launched in 2015 and delivered in Mexico to help emergency medical technicians and fire fighters develop their skills. The Los Amigos training team consists of experienced trainers including firefighters, licensed health-care practitioners and emergency medical technicians.

At the hand-over were (L-R):
Grant Henning, RC of Fort MacLeod,
Karl Samuels, RC Lethbridge Sunrise,
Barrie Orich, RC of Lethbridge (in cab of truck),
Randy Smith (International) & Cory Tretiak (President), RC of Airdrie,
Berga Moen, RC Lethbridge Sunrise,
Wayne Stewart RC of Lethbridge,
Jim Campbell RC Lethbridge Sunrise,
Jack Yaeck RC of Lethbridge,
Henry Van Hierden RC of Fort MacLeod.

Rotary Club of Airdrie donates a fire truck to the Los Amigos Project! Pieter Taljaard 2018-01-29 07:00:00Z 0

Breakfast at Muriel Clayton Middle School!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard

 

Every year, the Rotary Club of Airdrie supports the breakfast program at the Muriel Clayton Middle School finacially with donations. In appreciation of this ongoing support, a Rotary sign is being put up in the breakfast serving area.

The Breakfast Program is an in-school program five days a week that ensure that children start their day with a healthy breakfast in a conducive environment.

Doors open for the students at 8:30 am every day of the week, Monday to Friday. The students go straight to the kitchen to get a simple but nutritional breakfast. They stay there until 8:45am when they go to homerooms. Students that take the bus and do not arrive at school timely and needs something to eat, will be able to get some food from the breakfast kiosk and eat in class. Every few weeks a hot breakfast is provided.

In the Photo, fltr: Milt, Kerry, Len, Jeff (Muriel Clayton Middle School Principal), Bev, Nikki (Rocky View Schools Representative), Sue (Muriel Clayton School Breakfast Coordinator).

Breakfast at Muriel Clayton Middle School! Pieter Taljaard 2018-01-25 07:00:00Z 0
Rotary Foundation is a Giving Organization Pieter Taljaard 2018-01-23 07:00:00Z 0

Breakfast Program at AE Bowers in Airdrie

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
The Rotary Club of Airdrie supports the the breakfast program at AE Bowers School with a cash donation yearly and actively preparing and serving the breakfast each Tuesday morning. It is a most enjoyable experience watching the friendly faces picking up their snack, and the volunteer pupils helping. 
 
From left to Right: Past-President Bev, Nancy, President Cory, Michelle, Pam and school principal Barb.
 
 
Breakfast Program at AE Bowers in Airdrie Pieter Taljaard 2018-01-16 07:00:00Z 0

FortisAlberta - Our employees are our community strength!

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
 
 
Deb Bowering (left) and Aura Leigh Anscombe (right) from FortisAlberta’s Community Investment visited the Rotary Club of Airdrie today. Michelle StJohn (middle) introduced them and Deb presented their community investment program to the Club, and expanded on some projects.
 
Deb emphasized the value and enthusiasm of their employees, across the whole organization, are the key drivers of their success and their vast community involvement. Employees are encouraged to personally nominate deserving organizations for FortisAlberta’s community focus, and the exciting examples were pointed out throughout the Deb’s talk.
FortisAlberta’s ‘Empowering Communities’ program is underpinned by four avenues: Safety, Education, Environment and Wellness. There are multiple projects across Alberta varying in size and support in each of these avenues, but each with the involvement of the FortisAlberta employee volunteers. Further, FortisAlberta has six main corporate partners:
  • STARS – mobile human patient simulator for training remote emergency responders
  • Alberta Birds of Prey – bird rescue and treatment organization
  • Habitat for Humanity – hands on construction of domestic dwellings for deserving people
  • Junior Achievement of Southern Alberta – high school students mentored on career choices
  • Alberta 4-H – summer camping program
  • Canadian Parks & Wilderness Society , school program informing on grizzly bear conservation & safety.
 
In Airdrie Fortis Alberta is involved and supports the following organizations and events:
  • Airdrie P.O.W.E.R.
  • Airdrie Festival of Lights
  • Airdrie Lifestyles Show
  • Airdrie Business Awards
  • Airdrie Health Foundation
  • Airdrie Pro Rodeo
  • Airdrie Chamber of Commerce
  • Breakfast program
  • Creative Airdrie - Mayor’s Night of the Arts
  • Community Links Wine Down Event
  • Drugs and Alcohol magazine
  • Eco Youth Awards
  • Habitat for Humanity
  • Junior Achievement
  • Nose Creek Riparian Naturalization
  • Parades: Canada Day & Christmas
  • Pink Shirt Day – Boys and Girls Club of Airdrie
  • Rocky View Reads
  • Stephen’s Backpack Society
 
There are a lot of parallels and overlaps between FortisAlberta and the Rotary Club of Airdrie service and we’re looking forward to explore some synergies and opportunities going forward. We thank Deb for the very professional and informative introduction, and thank all the dedicated employees for the difference they make.
FortisAlberta - Our employees are our community strength! Pieter Taljaard 2018-01-16 07:00:00Z 0

Hitmen Players promote Airdrie Day

To promote 'Airdrie Day', four Calgary Hitmen players visited Airdrie and met with about 150 fans at the Ron Ebbison arena on Monday night, 30th October. Andrew Fyten, Beck Malenstyn, Matt Dorsey and Mark Kastelic delighted all with their skating and signing of memorabilia.

Thank you for your support!

Qualifying community organizations can get discounted tickets to sell as fundraising for their own organization from the Rotary Club of Airdrie for the Calgary Hitmen vs Lethbridge Hurricanes on the 30th December 2017 at the Saddle Dome! Contact Perry Logan at perry@gpsstrategies.ca for your tickets to sell. The Rotary Club of Airdrie will also provide buses to and from the venue at a sponsored discount price for all bus ticket and Airdrie Day ticket holders.

Hitmen Players promote Airdrie Day 2017-11-30 07:00:00Z 0

2017 Dragons' Den

The Rotary Club of Airdrie Dragons’ Den event was held on Tuesday evening, 28th November, at Bert Church Theatre, and $20 000 was given away to deserving Airdrie organizations. The presentations made by the organizations were of a very high standard and rewarding to listen to: What great work is being done in our community. A comment was made that it is not the amount of money that matters, but it is the number of lives that are positively affected that is significant above all.
2017 Dragons' Den 2017-11-29 07:00:00Z 0
Rotary Club of Airdrie Dragons' Den 2017-11-23 07:00:00Z 0

Hank Popoff on the Rotary Foundation

Hank Popoff addressed the Rotary Club of Airdrie today on the Rotary Foundation. The Foundation is administered by Rotary International and it makes grants available to Rotary clubs to do approved projects.
 
The Foundation received its ninth consecutive annual four-star rating from Charity Navigator for exceeding industry standards and out-performance of most charities in similar fields of endeavor: Last rating (2016) was 100 pts/100pts. It was recognized by the Association of Fundraising Professionals in 2017 with its annual Award as the Outstanding Foundation for commitment and leadership through financial support, innovation, encouragement of others and involvement in public affairs. It also received the Gates Award for Global Health, and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has already support the Foundation’s Polio Eradication to the tune of $US 880m.
 
In Canada the Foundation is recognized by the Government for its integrity and governance by a medium term matching grant program by the Government for charitable projects.
Hank Popoff on the Rotary Foundation 2017-11-21 07:00:00Z 0

Rotary Challenger Park - James Zackowski

Posted by Pieter Taljaard
The Rotary Club of Airdrie has contributed to this project over the past 15 years, and presented another cheque of $2500 today towards the construction of the pending new stage of the Rotary Challenger Park development.
Rotary Challenger Park - James Zackowski Pieter Taljaard 2017-11-14 07:00:00Z 0

First Rotary Scholarship Award at WH Croxford High School

The first ever Rotary Club of Airdrie Scholarship Award at WH Croxford High School was presented on 2nd November 2017 at the school to Chloe Pilon by Rotarian Pieter Taljaard.

Chloe is a grade 11 student at WH Croxford High School, and a grateful recipient of the Rotary scholarship. She has what people call a bubbly personality; she is a consistent, optimistic character and has a positive smile in and outside of the classroom. Some people find it hard to believe, but she has a passion for learning new information, and enjoys expressing excitement when things make sense. As an eager student, she is always curious but also motivated to be involved in the world around her. Chloe constantly searches for more ways to reach out to others with the best of intentions. As an active leadership member in our school and second year in Leadership Academy Chloe strives for excellence in all that she pursues; academically and extra-curricular based. She has a heart for serving others in any way possible, whether it be little acts of kindness or big gestures of compassion, and always anticipates new ways to bring smiles out of others. Chloe is completely accepting and encouraging of others, and has an endless enthusiasm for creating positive change. She is an active, cooperative, self-motivated, and effective leader who will bring her many passions and skills with her into future endeavours, leaving a legacy behind her.

Congratulations to Chloe and to Tracey Sweetapple for the wonderful awards ceremony!

First Rotary Scholarship Award at WH Croxford High School 2017-11-13 07:00:00Z 0

Speaker:  Sgt Andrew Boxall - 'Domestic Violence'

Airdrie was mentioned to have the fourth highest rate of reported domestic violence in Alberta. It is not something to be ashamed about, because shame drives to a culture of cover-up. The statistic is a reflection of the authorities and society facing the issue head-on and dealing with it.
 
All reported domestic disputes are followed-up, irrespective, although less than a fifth is found to involve a criminal offence. And that is the 'good' news, because it helps with prevention and continued care. 
Speaker: Sgt Andrew Boxall - 'Domestic Violence' 2017-10-17 06:00:00Z 0

Breakfast Program Donation

Welcome to the 2017-18 Rocky View School Year! 
 
The Rotary Club of Airdrie presents a $2000 cheque to Jeff Smith, Principal of Muriel Clayton Middle School in Airdrie. The Rotary Club is pleased to support both A.E. Bowers & Muriel Clayton Schools breakfasts programs and volunteers every Tuesday morning to serve breakfast to the kids to start their day off right!
 
Pictured left to right: Cindy Mayer, Rotary Club of Airdrie; Jeff Smith; Bev Chinnery, Past President Rotary Club of Airdrie; and Nikki Demyen, Community Relations Manager, Rocky View School Division
 
Breakfast Program Donation Bev 2017-08-24 06:00:00Z 0

Welcome 2017-2018 President Cory Tretiak

Posted on Jun 20, 2017
Congratulations to Rick Grass on his Monty Audenart Special Recognition Award.. and welcome to our 2017-2018 President, Cory Tretiak. Thanks again to everyone for another successful Rotary year!
 
Welcome 2017-2018 President Cory Tretiak Bev Chinnery, 2016-2017 President 2017-06-20 06:00:00Z 0

Another Great Lobster Boil Success!

Posted on Jun 03, 2017
 
Another fabulously successful sold out Lobster Boil Dinner & Dance put on by the Rotary Club of Airdrie! Raised over $20,000 for the Airdrie community & had a great time! Special thanks to ALL Rotary volunteers & the Airdrie Sky-High Twirlers team who always pitch in like heroes!
 
Another Great Lobster Boil Success! 2017-06-03 06:00:00Z 0

Governor's Achievement Award

Posted on May 06, 2017
We did it! Congratulations to the Rotary Club of Airdrie for achievement in Rotary Foundation & Polio Plus contributions. As Club President this year, so proud to receive the Governor's Award at the District Conference, recognizing our hard work & accomplishments in the 2016-2017 Rotary year. Together, we make a difference!
Governor's Achievement Award 2017-05-06 06:00:00Z 0
Los Amigos Team Presentation Bev Chinnery 2017-04-18 06:00:00Z 0
Calgary Hitmen Thanks Rotary Club for 2nd Successful Airdrie Day Bev Chinnery 2017-04-18 06:00:00Z 0
Building Futures in El Salvador Len Brossart 2017-04-17 06:00:00Z 0

El Salvador Build - 10 Homes for Local Families

Posted on Mar 22, 2017
Rotarians from the Rotary Clubs of Airdrie, Cochrane and Brooks invested $33,000 CAD to build 10 metal fabricated homes for some of the poorest families in El Salvador. The team was led by Shelter Canada, who has built 2300 homes in the country over the last 15+ years. It was a hard working group effort by Rotarians, Shelter teams and locals all working side by side in 38 degree heat - and one of the most heartwarming experiences of a lifetime. Highly recommended to all who ever wonder if giving a hand up to those in need makes a difference - it does!
 
 
Pictured from left to right: Harry Voth (Shelter Canada), Donna Smith (Rotary Airdrie), Eric Rubia (Blanca's son), Mario Rubia (Blanca's son), Bev Chinnery (Rotary Airdrie), Blanca Rubia (54 years old), Randy Smith (Rotary Airdrie, standing), Len Brossart (Rotary Airdrie), Leona Ferguson (Rotary Brooks), Shirley Voth (Shelter Canada)
El Salvador Build - 10 Homes for Local Families 2017-03-22 06:00:00Z 0
Airdrie Public Library Receives $6000 2017-03-07 07:00:00Z 0
Casino For A Cause - Success! 2017-02-05 07:00:00Z 0
Airdrie Rotary's Casino For A Cause 2016-12-10 00:00:00Z 0

Nominate An Unsung Hero!

The Rotary Club of Airdrie is asking for your help in nominating a resident (adult or youth) who exemplifies the Rotary motto “Service above Self”.
 
There are many local citizens who assist, volunteer their time, and contribute to the community who don’t seek recognition but are simply “Unsung Heroes” and we’d like to say thanks!
 
To download a nomination form, please click here and e-mail to Randy Smith at randy_s@shaw.ca . Nomination deadline is December 8, 2016.
 
The Award will be presented at Rotary’s Casino for A Cause Fundraiser on Saturday evening, February 4, 2017 at the Town & Country Centre.
 
And please come and join us at the casino, everyone is welcome! Tickets are $45 each, available at Watches ‘N More Promotional Products Inc., Bay 2, 99 East Lake Cres NE Airdrie, or call Bev @ 403-948-0103.
 
 
Nominate An Unsung Hero! 2016-11-08 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary Scholarship Award - W G Murdoch School Pieter Taljaard 2016-10-26 00:00:00Z 0

Airdrie Rotary Dinner Club 

Posted on Oct 21, 2016
The Airdrie Rotary Dinner Club had a great start with Joan, Pam, Pieter & Rosemary, and Rod & Joanne, enjoying great fellowship at Pieter & Rosemary's place... and Cathleen (Cat), Perry & Sandra, Don & Lennora, and Bev sharing a great time at Perry & Sandra's place.
 
Thanks so much to our hosts, and a special thanks to Don for organizing the Dinner Club.. what a great idea!
 
Cheers to all,
Bev 
 
Airdrie Rotary Dinner Club 2016-10-22 00:00:00Z 0

Another Successful Dragon's Den!

Posted by Bev Chinnery on Oct 17, 2016
The Rotary Club of Airdrie was pleased to welcome 14 not-for-profit groups to Rotary lunch today to participate in our annual Dragon's Den event.
 
Each group had 2 minutes to 'pitch' to the Rotarians on their worthy cause and the amount & use of funds requested, as well as how they would acknowledge Rotary as a sponsor or contributor where possible.
 
We're pleased to announce the following results - and congratulations to all! 
You each make a valuable difference in our community. 
 
Destiny Martial Arts $470; Airdrie Sky High Twirlers $675; Soap for Hope - Disaster Aid Canada $830; Swat Bots Robotics $900; Second Airdrie Scouts $930; Airdrie Seniors Week $950; Volunteer Airdrie Leadership Program $980; Airdrie Meals on Wheels $1,000; Airdrie Project Linus - Blankets/Hugs for Children in Need $1,100; Airdrie P.O.W.E.R. for Women of Domestic Violence $1,100; Stephen's Backpacks Shoes for Kids $1,130; Kids Up Front Meal Program $1,260; Airdrie Angel Program for Families in Need $1,325; Airdrie Bethany Care $1,350 - Total Funds $14,000
 
Thanks again to Dale Rathgeber for all his efforts in organizing the Dragon's Den and to all of our Rotarians for their ongoing support of the Airdrie Community. You Make A Difference!
 
Another Successful Dragon's Den! Bev Chinnery 2016-10-18 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary Club of Airdrie supports Boys & Girls Club Community Garden Pieter Taljaard 2016-09-24 00:00:00Z 0

Airdrie Rotarians Support Calgary Rotary Challenger Park Fundraiser Golf Tournament

Posted on Aug 30, 2016
The Rotary Club of Airdrie has been a long time supporter of the Calgary Rotary Challenger Park .. a place where everyone can play!
 
A great day of golf and fellowship. Pictured are Airdrie Rotarians Dale Rathgeber, Milt & Maureen Brandson, Don Thomas (Team 1); and Derek Lalonde, Reg Hihn, Rod Allen & Dean Walker (Team 2)
 
 
 
Airdrie Rotarians Support Calgary Rotary Challenger Park Fundraiser Golf Tournament 2016-08-31 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Airdrie - Community & International Giving

Posted on Jul 25, 2016
It's amazing what a team of 30 - 40 people with the motto 'Service Above Self' can achieve over time. Pictured are recent Rotary Past Presidents Wendy Wiebe, Cam Christianson and Derek Lalonde unveiling the updated project list. Since 1983, over $650,000 in donations to community and international projects, and countless volunteer hours. Making a difference in the world! 
 
 
 
 
Rotary Club of Airdrie - Community & International Giving Bev Chinnery 2016-07-26 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Friendship Exchange with New Orleans

Posted on Jul 13, 2016
A great time was had by all with our New Orleans Rotarians! Airdrie Rotary was the second club to meet our friends after they enjoyed a few days with the Drumheller Club. We learned a lot about Louisiana, their clubs and so many terrific Rotary projects and ideas. Good fun was enjoyed over a delicious lunch at the Calgary Tower, a beer-tasting evening, and of course, two days of rodeo events and chuckwagon races at the Calgary Stampede. The Airdrie portion of the Friendship Exchange was topped off with a night of food, drink, music and fellowship as we gave our new friends a warm send-off to continue on to Pincher Creek and Canmore. Let's do it all again soon!
Rotary Friendship Exchange with New Orleans Bev Chinnery 2016-07-14 00:00:00Z 0
Francis Kyaluzi from Rotary Club in Uganda Derek Lalonde 2016-05-17 00:00:00Z 0
Rotary Club of Airdrie recognized at District Conference Derek Lalonde 2016-05-17 00:00:00Z 0
Airdrie Rotary Club supporst Airdrie Rotary Festival of the Performing Arts Cam 2016-03-23 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Recognition: Local Volunteers and Community Leaders receive Paul Harris Fellows

Rotary Recognition: Local Volunteers and Community Leaders received a Paul Harris Fellow from the Rotary District Assistant Governor Earl Huson at an awards presentation February 9 at Woodside Golf Course. Paul Harris Fellows were presented to Al Jones (chair 2014 Alberta Games Committee), Councilor Fred Burley, Trudy Eyre with Meals on Wheels, MP Blake Richards, former MLA Rob Anderson, Mayor Peter Brown, Ennio Ricci with Citizens on Patrol, Rotary Exchange Students Max Pape (from Germany spent a year in Airdrie) and Jenna Bocking (from Aidrie who spent a year in Thailand), Family of Hugh Hamilton as a founding member of the Rotary Club of Airdrie, and Rebecca Nielsen in memory of domestic violence victim Andrea Conroy.
Rotary Recognition: Local Volunteers and Community Leaders receive Paul Harris Fellows Derek Lalonde 2016-02-21 00:00:00Z 0

Paul Harris recipients

On Tuesday Dec 8th the Airdrie Club welcomed 5 new members as well as handed out Paul Harris awards to Derek Lalonde, Cameron Christianson, Mike Acheson, Rick Grass, Cindy Mayer, Lori McRitchie. Congratulations to all and welcome to our new members.
Paul Harris recipients 2015-12-09 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Exchange Student Presents Today

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Jenna Bocking spent a year in Thailand on Rotary Student Exchange. Today we got to see and hear about her travels. She was and will be a great ambassador for Rotary!
Rotary Exchange Student Presents Today Derek Lalonde 2015-10-14 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Airdrie gives $10,000 to local Charities

Rotary Club of Airdrie gives out $10,000 to charities in Airdrie through it's Annual "Dragon's Den". Various charitable organizes make a presentation on a need they have to the Rotary Club members at their weekly lunch meeting. At the end of the meeting the Rotarians vote on how to divide up the $10,000 allocated to the various charitable organizations.

Here is a list of Recipients for 2015:

 

...

Stephen’s Backpacks Society

Airdrie Public Library

Creative Airdrie Society

Bethany Care Foundation

S.L.A.M

Swat Bots

Project Linus

Airdrie Angel

Senior’s Week Planning Committee

Airdrie Boys and Girls Club

Kids Up Front

Rotary Club of Airdrie gives $10,000 to local Charities Derek Lalonde 2015-06-16 00:00:00Z 0

Airdrie Economic Development Guest Speaker

Kent Rupert was the guest speaker at Rotary Club of Airdrie ' s lunch meeting. Kent presented the results of the Airdrie Business Satisfaction Survey. 91% of Airdrie Businesses rated Airdrie as a great place to do business.
Airdrie Economic Development Guest Speaker Derek Lalonde 2015-06-02 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Youth Exchange, Jenna Bocking in Thailand

I Found The Answers
 
Before I left on my exchange previous exchange students, and people who where involved in the program kept telling me how much this single year would change me. They mentioned how I would discover myself, become more independent and most of all how much I would mature. I remember my Grandpa saying to me “every one year of exchange, is like maturing five years in one”. So by his count, I guess I am almost twenty-two years old (if you are reading this Kendra, we are basically the same age now). I was forewarned that when I returned my family may struggle to understand me, and I would most likely return to the loosing a majority of my friends. I understood I would change, but I didn't understand that my reasoning for going on exchange would change with that. Pre exchange I was not actually fully aware of why I had this strange desire to leave my entire life behind and start new. I didn't know myself as well as I really thought I did. 
 
Rotary Youth Exchange, Jenna Bocking in Thailand 2015-02-14 00:00:00Z 0

How Rotary is Succeeding with a Global Grant for Microcredit in Honduras

Posted by David Belle on Feb 24, 2014

Image

The idea behind an ongoing microcredit project, is that the funds are loaned out, often in amounts as small as $100 to $500, paid back with interest within a short time period (often 3 to 6 months), and loaned out again, creating the successful, sustainable cycle.

A portion of the loan interest is used to cover small loan losses and the costs of training and educational materials, with the remainder added into the growing loan pool.

Statistics show that most microcredit borrowers are women. In the absence of collateral, the borrowers cross-guarantee each other in what is known as a 'trust group', like the group of Honduran women shown here who we had the pleasure to meet during our trip there in January 2013.

Within this trust group for example, one lady sold clothing, another sold jewellry, another skin products and another sold specialty food products. They are supportive of each other in their community and learn as a group, building success and confidence along the way.

The 'trust group' participates in weekly training sessions arranged by the microfinance institution (MFI) that is handling the loan portfolio under the direction of the Host Rotary Club.

It's important for each Rotarian involved in the project to work hard to build strong relationships within the team, to generate good communications and ongoing discussions, and to gain a solid understanding of the commitments made in the Foundation Grant application.

It's also important to understand that solid teamwork makes all the difference in the success of your project. All parties, including the participating Rotary Clubs, the Rotary Foundation, and the MFI principals and staff who must monitor and report on a regular basis, are responsible for the ongoing sustainability and success of the project.

Our team's diligence enabled us to succeed in securing the microcredit Global Grant we applied for and we have now dispersed half of the funds to local Hondurans to date. The total project, including matching grants, is $135,000.

Bev Chinnery, International Chair 
RC Airdrie, Canada
D5360

How Rotary is Succeeding with a Global Grant for Microcredit in Honduras David Belle 2014-02-25 00:00:00Z 0

Airdrie Rotary Festival of Performing Arts

Posted by Derek Lalonde on May 13, 2013
Great Presentation by Murray and Nadine Low from the Airdrie Rotary Festival of Performing Arts. So proud of the Rotary Club to be the Presenting Sponsor for two years and committed already for next year. They are fundraising to have a piano permanently at Bert Church Theatre for all of Airdrie to use. You can go to their website to learn more at http://airdrierotaryfestival.org/sponsors.php or like them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Airdrie-Rotary-Festival-Of-Performing-Arts/153338924772561 . 

Our Mission Statement

The Airdrie Rotary Festival of Performing Arts promotes the appreciation of music and speech arts by organizing and operating an annual festival that encourages amateur performers and students to participate and perform in a non-competitive environment, leading toward further personal growth and excellence.

About the Festival

Teaching and learning is the focus of the Festival. Highly qualified adjudicators share the benefits of their training and experience in a workshop atmosphere. Entrants come away with new skills and ideas, as well as increased motivation and enthusiasm about their area of interest.

Our inaugural year was very successful and well-received by the community. Disciplines this year include; PianoVocalMusical TheatreChoralStringsSpeech and Band Instrumental. Our focus will be on learning and teaching in a non-competitive environment.

Our Festival was accepted into the Alberta Music Festival Association. Therefore, in 2013, participants will be eligible to compete at the Provincial Music Festival in Edmonton.

Registered Charity number: 817661481 RR0001

Airdrie Rotary Festival of Performing Arts Derek Lalonde 2013-05-14 00:00:00Z 0

Airdrie Rotary Club Now on FACEBOOK!

Posted by Chris McNicol on Sep 19, 2011
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 The Airdrie Rotary Club has a Facebook Page!  Get event updates, share pictures and correspondance with the your local service club via the planets most utilized form of social media.
Airdrie Rotary Club Now on FACEBOOK! Chris McNicol 2011-09-20 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary International Responds to Huckabee's Reference to Rotary Clubs

Posted by Rick Grass on Mar 09, 2011

EVANSTON, Ill., March 10, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Rotary International General Secretary Ed Futa has contacted FOXNews personality Mike Huckabee to remind the former Arkansas governor that Rotary clubs  -- established in the United States more than a century ago -- now thrive in more than 200 countries.

The letter comes in response to a statement made by Huckabee in a March 2 radio interview that most Americans "grew up in communities filled with Rotary clubs, not madrassas (Islamic seminaries)," during a critical assessment of President Barack Obama's "world view." Obama spent a portion of his childhood in Indonesia, home to the world's largest Muslim population. It also is home to about 89 Rotary clubs.

While stressing that Rotary is a non-political humanitarian service organization that does not take sides in partisan debates, Futa said he wanted to clarify to Huckabee and the public that Rotary is an international institution that transcends the boundaries of any one country and welcomes as club members business and professional leaders representing all faiths, races and cultures.

In the letter emailed to Huckabee's FOXNews address March 8, Futa agreed that Rotary "has maintained a solid presence in thousands of U.S. communities, large and small," since the organization was founded in Chicago in 1905. The United States has more than 7,850 Rotary clubs with a total membership of about 353,000 men and women, the most in the world.

"But that's only part of the Rotary story, and to leave it at that might create the erroneous impression that Rotary's reach and impact are limited to the United States," Futa wrote, adding that more than two thirds of Rotary's 1.2 million members now live outside of the United States.

Among Muslim-majority states, Turkey has the most Rotary clubs with 223, totaling about 6,000 members. Pakistan is second with 155 clubs and more than 3,000 members, followed by Malaysia, 109 clubs; Indonesia, 89 clubs; and Egypt, 74 clubs. Others include Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Jordan, Morocco, and United Arab Emirates. In 2010, a Rotary club was chartered in Palestine.

India, where the population is 80 percent Hindu, is the second largest Rotary nation with 3,000 clubs and 112,000 members. Japan, largely Shinto/Buddhist, and Brazil, mostly Roman Catholic, follow with about 2,300 clubs each. Israel, where the state religion is Judaism, is home to 59 Rotary clubs.

Rotary is an organization of business and professional leaders who provide humanitarian service and help to build goodwill and peace in the world.  There are 1.2 million Rotary members in 33,000 Rotary clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas.  Rotary clubs have been serving communities worldwide for more than a century.

 

SOURCE Rotary International

Rotary International Responds to Huckabee's Reference to Rotary Clubs Rick Grass 2011-03-10 00:00:00Z 0

Print your own Rotary business cards

Posted by Jean-Marc Lacasse on Feb 07, 2011

Would you like to hand out a Rotary business cards when you are working a Rotary event? Would you like to recruit a new member but not use your own business cards?

You can now create your own business cards. Rotarian Jean-Marc has uploaded a word template to the website. You can download the template and fill in your own information. You can adapt it to include your own picture if you wish.

To access the template, login to clubrunner. In the admin section, click on VIEW CLUB DOCUMENTS and then download the file. If you have issues downloading the document or accessing clubrunner, please contact Jean-Marc. To login to clubrunner, go to your web browser and website www.AirdrieRotary.com. The login link is on the right side of the header. 

Print your own Rotary business cards Jean-Marc Lacasse 2011-02-08 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Friendship Exchange oportunity- Second one for England and one for Taiwan

Posted by Jean-Marc Lacasse on Jan 04, 2011
The positive response from Rotarians in this District has lead to two more great opportunities for Rotary Friendship Exchanges (RFE) in 2011! The first is an additional exchange to England and the second is to Taiwan.
 
England – District 1080
 
In the fall (2010) we canvassed for participants for the Exchange to England's District 1110 next July (2011) and the great response resulted in more interest than we could accommodate.
 
As a result we have organized a second Exchange to England, this time to District 1080 at exactly the same time. This Exchange is partially subscribed but we have room for at least two more couples.
 
Details are as follows:
  • July 6 to July 17. July 5 and July 18 would be the travel days.
  • You will be hosted by four different Rotary Clubs for three days each.
  • District 1080 which is Northeast of London with 77 mainly small clubs, consists of what is known as East Anglia, the bulge on the eastern side of England. Norwich is a main city.
  • Target numbers are 8 – 10.
  • Available spots are for couples as singles spots have been filled.
  • Geographically, the district is small and it will handle transportation from host to host.
 
Anyone wishing to apply for this British exchange or to be a back up couple/single should submit the attached application to Donna Code at the following address.The application should include a deposit of $250 per couple and cheques should be made payable to Rotary District 5360

Mrs Donna Code Castillo
74 Sandringham Way NW
Calgary, AB
T3K 3V6
403-275-2925   403-275-2925 
     
See below (following Taiwan) for general information.
 
Taiwan – District 3530
 
This District is located in Taipei City, Taiwan, Republic of China and the Taiwanese District is extending an invitation for a special Rotary Friendship Exchange program linked to the centennial celebration of the Republic of China.
 
The District was invited by their government to participate in the Centennial celebrations and they have responded with a plan to invite 200 Rotarians and spouses from around the world to visit Taiwan between July 2011 and March 2012.
 
This notice is a call for interest by Rotarians or Clubs and sufficient interest will lead to further development by the District RFE Committee with Rotary in Taiwan.
 
Some details:
  • Home stay arrangements will be arranged with one of the clubs in the District.
  • Exchanges will be for 7-9 days unless otherwise arranged between the host club and the visiting Rotarians.
  • These exchanges could be Team Exchanges or Vocational Exchanges.
  • Reciprocation by the District is not required but individual Rotarians and clubs could host a reciprocal exchange
  • Official language is Mandarin but English is also commonly spoken as a second language.
  • Points of Interest: centennial celebrations, The National Palace Museum (Chinese artifacts), beautiful scenery, Chinese cuisine, night markets, old temples etc.  http://Taiwan.net.tw
 
Those who may be interested should email or call Pat Killoran, District RFE Chair at Killoran.Rotary@shaw.ca. 403 328 7600
 
General Information
Rotary Friendship Exchange is an International Travel Program that allows Rotarians and partners to travel to another country and enjoy a cultural and friendship orientated travel experience. We encourage you to review the pictures and report of a recent exchange from our District to New Zealand.
 
 The following are some basic details about the Rotary Friendship Exchange:
  • Must be a Rotarian in good standing.
  • Must pay all costs excepting the billeting provided by host Rotarians.
  • Participants must be team players as the group will travel together for the duration of the exchange.
  • Must be a good ambassador for Rotary and Canada.
  • Must be prepared to complete the full exchange
  • Travel is booked individually (not as a group) so your plans can include pre and/or post Exchange travel.
  • Must be in reasonable physical condition as the exchange will involve tourism activities that may require some moderate walking.
  • The Rotarian must be part of the traveling group.
General information can be found on the RI website at the following link

Pat Killoran
District RFE Chair
403-328-7600    403-328-7600
Rotary Friendship Exchange oportunity- Second one for England and one for Taiwan Jean-Marc Lacasse 2011-01-05 00:00:00Z 0

Exchange Tahseen present facts about her country

Posted by Jean-Marc Lacasse on Dec 05, 2010
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It was to a full house that Tahseen made an excellent presentation about her country, India. More than 50 Rotarians, spouses and guests attended the special evening meeting on Nov 30th.
Exchange Tahseen present facts about her country Jean-Marc Lacasse 2010-12-06 00:00:00Z 0

Our exchange student is here

Posted by Jean-Marc Lacasse on Sep 05, 2010
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Tahseen arrived on August 29 just in time for school registration (   :-( for her) but :-) for us. She is a lovely young lady and we are looking forward to seeing her (and hearing from her) at our regular meetings. Thank you to all the Rotarians that were able to brave the abnormally cold weather to give her a warm Canadian welcome.
Our exchange student is here Jean-Marc Lacasse 2010-09-06 00:00:00Z 0

Rotary Club of Airdrie gives out money at Annual "Dragon's Den"

Posted by Dale M Rathgeber

Rotary Club of Airdrie set's aside money for an annual event we have now called "Dragon's Den".

This year organizations came to a Rotary Luncheon and presented a need they have for a portion of the $10,000 being given. Then the members of the Rotary Club voted on allocations of monies to the charities.

Here is a listing of the recipients of this years event.

Airdrie Aces Athletics Club, Bethany Care Foundation, Airdrie Robotics, Project Linus, Stephens Backpack Society, Airdrie Meals on Wheels Society, Airdrie Public Library, Nose Creek Players, Community Links, The Airdrie Edge Gymnastics Club, Creative Airdrie Society.

This event is one of many ways we continue to give back to the community throughout the year. 

Thank you for supporting your local Rotary Club.

Dale Rathgeber

Chair of the annual Dragon's Den

 

Rotary Club of Airdrie gives out money at Annual "Dragon's Den" Dale M Rathgeber 0

Maximilian Pape, Previous Incoming Rotary Exchange Student

Posted by Derek Lalonde

Our German Incoming Exchange Student from two years ago visited the Rotary Club of Airdrie today. Max is doing very well as now has graduated and found employment with a Global Company doing international logistics. A pleasure to have Max visit us and update on how he is doing and how the exchange changed his life in a positive light.Image

Maximilian Pape, Previous Incoming Rotary Exchange Student Derek Lalonde 0

Rotary Club of Airdrie Supports Many Local Community Initiatives

Posted by Derek Lalonde

As we look forward to a new year in our growing community we would like to reflect back on Community Initiatives supported by the Rotary Club of Airdrie.

Airdrie Public Library, Boys & Girls Club, Airdrie 2014 Alberta Summer Games, Community Links, Victims Assistance, Rotary Music Festival, High School Scholarships, Rotary Challenger Park, High River Relief, Airdrie Food Bank, Creative Airdrie, Airdrie & District Hospice Society, Airdrie Rodeo Ranch Assoc , SLAM, Rockyview 4H District, Airdrie Meals on Wheels Society, and Airdrie Citizens on Patrol.

Rotary Club of Airdrie Supports Many Local Community Initiatives Derek Lalonde 0

Rotary Club of Airdrie Gives out Money to Local Community Groups

Posted by Derek Lalonde

At the Rotary Lunch meeting on June 11 presentations were made from community groups requesting funding for local initiatives. Rotary Club of Airdrie gave out $15,000 in total divided amongst the following Community Groups.

Creative Airdrie, Airdrie & District Hospice Society, Airdrie Rodeo Ranch Assoc , SLAM, Rockyview 4H District, Airdrie Meals on Wheels Society, Airdrie Citizens on Patrol, Airdrie Public Library, and Boys & Girls Club of Airdrie.

The success of fundraising events make it possible to give back to our community.

Thank you for your support of the Rotary Club of Airdrie. We look forward to putting money to good use in your community.

Rotary Club of Airdrie Gives out Money to Local Community Groups Derek Lalonde 0

Rotary Club of Airdrie Sponsors a Club in Didsbury / Carstairs

Posted by Derek Lalonde

A letter to District Governon Fran Leggett from Assistant Governor Pat Romerman

Fran;

I am happy to report that Ernie Ryckman, Wayne McCune and myself attended the Rotary Club of Airdrie meeting today. My goal was to introduce Ernie and Wayne to Derek and Shelley and have a discussion about what the plans are around the Didsbury/Carstairs Club.

There was some extra time near the end of the meeting and Derek asked us to tell the Club directly what the plans were. Wayne got up and gave some history about getting the Club going and some of the road blocks they have encountered.

The Club members asked some questions and then whole heartedly agreed to Sponsor the new Club. I did not expect this at all. We now have a Sponsoring Club.

There will be a meeting next Wednesday at 5PM at the Country Nook Restaurant in Didsbury and I believe that some Airdrie members will be there as will I. Hopefully we will be able to confirm additional interested potential Rotarians and start to review the Standard Rotary Club Constitution for adoption.

I will work with Ernie and Wayne over the next week to develop an agenda for the meeting that will include a guest speaker, just so the meeting won't be all Rotary business.

Pat Romerman
Rotary Club of Airdrie Sponsors a Club in Didsbury / Carstairs Derek Lalonde 0
Derek Lalonde, President of Rotary Club Nominated for $100,000 Grant for Local Charities Derek Lalonde 0

Airdrie Rotary Festival of Performing Arts

Posted by Chris McNicol
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Airdrie Rotary Club is the Proud Title Sponsor/Supporter of

The Airdrie Rotary Festival of Performance Arts

http://www.airdrierotaryfestival.org/

Airdrie is growing into a vibrant community and with many young people who are developing talents in the arts. Having a Festival in Airdrie will mean that those youth need not travel to Festivals outside of our county for an opportunity to perform.

The Festival will serve the Rocky View county area. This year we are pleased to offer sessions in piano, voice, musical theatre and choir. We anticipate adding more disciplines in coming years. Our focus will be on learning and teaching in a non-competitive environment. This first year adjudicators will not recommend to Provincials.

We feel this event will be of great benefit to Airdrie and the surrounding area as we provide an opportunity to encourage and support the developing talents in the performing arts community.

Airdrie Rotary Festival of Performing Arts Chris McNicol 0

Mexico Becas Project

Posted by Jacqueline Brown
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The main objective of the program is to minimize the cost to the family of having their children in school. The students in this program are children who, without the aid of this Becas (Scholarship) would be forced to drop out of school at the age of 12 years.
 

Mexico Becas Project Jacqueline Brown 0

What is Rotary?

Posted by Darren Grierson
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Rotary is a worldwide organization of business and professional leaders that provides humanitarian service, encourages high ethical standards in all vocations, and helps build goodwill and peace in the world. Approximately 1.2 million Rotarians belong to more than 31,000 Rotary clubs in 166 countries.

Check out www.aboutrotaryalberta.ca for a GREAT explanation about Rotary.

What is Rotary? Darren Grierson 0

THE EASE OF CLUBRUNNER

Posted by Darren Grierson
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ClubRunner makes it easy to publish your eBulletin, and send to all your members and friends.

ClubRunner will also include a reminder to each recipient for all registrations and club related commitments including event attendance, volunteering, weekly meeting roster, and any responsibilities associated with new membership tasks. The eBulletin will automatically include the club's future speakers and have a link to the club web site to promote awareness.
THE EASE OF CLUBRUNNER Darren Grierson 0