Play Catch the Ace Every Week! Click Here!
Club Information
Welcome to our Website!
Port Arthur Rotary

Service Above Self

We meet In Person
Tuesdays at 12:00 PM
on Zoom until further notice, In Normal Times: Prince Arthur Hotel
17 Cumberland Street North
Thunder Bay, ON P7A 4K8
Canada
District Site
Venue Map
Home Page Stories
May 17, 2022: Spotlight on our Fellow Rotarians
President Elect Brian Walmark chaired today's meeting highlighting the lives of six current Rotary members.  Warren Philp found a nostalgic O Canada from a 1978 NHL Canadiens game, sung by Roger Doucet – nice - and Brian Walmark provided a meaningful reflection on reconciliation.
 
Shelley Crawford thought of a fun and novel way for our members to get to know each other better.   Rod Morrison and Brenda Winter teamed up first, followed by Shelley Crawford and David Legge, and finally Paul DeBakker and Brian Walmark.  They gave us a touch about their careers and their lives - and tossed in interesting anecdotes and smiles!
 
Shelley thought this format was worth a try and she was right – we'll do it again soon!
 
Brian Walmark thanked those who stepped in front of the spotlight for this unique and dynamic glimpse.  Members and guests can be proud of their fellow Rotarians.

Hats off to today's contributors and we look forward to the Rotarians who are lining up for next week! 
May 10th Speaker Notes
AT OUR CLUB  May 10, 2022

Matt Villella chaired today's meeting, which featured a fine reconciliation "reflection" by Brian Walmark and an outstanding presentation from Thunder Bay Police.

Members should refer to Matt's May 9th meeting communique for a full bio on today's speaker.

FEATURE PRESENTATION

Veteran officer Wendy R presented a very enlightened no-holes- barred "Day in the Life of a TBPS Officer: a Personal Experience." 



This was an all encompassing account from a very positive (and unjaded) police officer with 25 years experience on the Thunder Bay Police Force( and more prior to that).

Having experienced every sort of challenge in policing, her account did much to verify her work excellence and dedication to public service in law enforcement. And the ever challenging, even worsening status of the job demands was covered succinctly and honestly.

Her calm and friendly demeanor and wealth of experience shone through further in the lengthy question and answer period.

Her old school chum president-elect Brian Walmark, introduced her and also thanked her on behalf of the club. We hope she returns to the podium

 
Welcome Rita Komendant, Welcome back Jim Crooks!
Rita Komendant was introduced by Jaro Kotalik and officially inducted to our Club today.  Her biography shows she will be an eclectic, service-oriented, sociable addition to the Club interested in bees, architecture and activism: A hearty welcome and congratulations Rita!


Jim Crooks was welcomed back to the Club with open arms after a few years' hiatus.
Past President Warren Philp provided a great summary of Jim's experience in the Club and in Thunder Bay.  Welcome back Jim!
 
 
May 3, 2022:  Matt Villella on Social Media
Matt Villella on Social Media: Where Do We Go From Here?


Matt gave us a report and some recommendations using his own knowledge as Professor at Confederation College and his students's class project doing a case studay of our Club's social media.  Matt's polled us on a few areas then explained Social Media Purpose, Awareness, SWOT analysis, goals of engagement and marketing.  We may have won an award in District 5580 but we can do better!  We look forward to recruiting one of Matt's students to lead us forward.  We'll be learning how to use the platforms better.  Thank you to all of Matt's students for their great work on the project!
 
#socialmedia #ConfederationCollege #digitalmediaproduction  #MattVillella
April 26, 2022
Guest Speaker Kimberley
 
 
Jim Madder and Matt Villella co-hosted our meeting. O Canada was played by Matt from Jurassic Park Raptors Game. Jim gave the Land Acknowledgement.
 
Kimberley Kennedy, Leadership Thunder Bay Recruitment and Engagement Manager, was our guest speaker today.  Her bio is in our email newsletter.   She was introduced by Matt Villella, a recent president of Leadership Thunder Bay.
 
 
Her talk was titled "Re-Imaging Leadership Together, Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence".  We heard about the programming with over 300 alumni including many from our Club. She spoke of her own leadership story, how she became involved herself.
 
Leadership Thunder Bay is unique in the city.  Its vision is that everone has leadership potential, regardless of position or status.  Participants engage with all types of people, it is very incluisve. They strive to connect with other leaders especially those in charity and non profit. She described two sample "CAPs" – Community Action Projects.  First was "I Have a Voice" which engaged homeless youth in liaison with Thunder Bay Drug Strategy and Thunder Bay Crime Prevention.  Another was the "Age Friendly Snow Angels" with Age Friendly Thunder Bay helping low-income seniors with snow removal.
 
Kimberley talked about the mechanics of the organization and encouraged all of us to help spread the word.  Some benefits for Rotarians are the action projects and speaking engagements.  There is an upcoming tuition course of 8 learning days.
 
Leadership Thunder Bay's website is https://www.leadershiptb.com.
 
Announcements:
 
Jim Madder and other Rotarians attended the District Conference 5580.  See their updates on some of the fine presentations and awards.
 
David Legge on Field of Greens 2.0:  An excellent team was organized at meeting held in the Journey for Hope Building.  Planting may be done early to mid-June at the he new grounds which are fully equipped and very esthetic. New recruits are welcome for hands-on work!
 
John Stevenson on Rotary Exchange:  A student from Thailand will be coming.  We still urgently need ask three host families and a Club Counsellor Youth Exchange Officer to check in monthly on the student and help out when John is away.  Contact John.
Bob Tomlinson spoke on the Dew Drop Inn Painting Project.  Things are going extremely well, with just the stairs to finish this afternoon. Bob and everyone at the Dew Drop Inn are very pleased with the results!
 
Bob Tomlinson spoke on the students selected for RYLA.  Port Arthur has three (from St Ignatius and Superior HS), Fort William Club has three and Lakehead one.
 
Shelley Crawford reminded us that incoming Rotary International President Jennifer Jones will be speaking in Winnipeg on July 6th.  Please consider going to Winnipeg for this.
 
Warren Philp spoke on the Waterfront Trail Action Committee.  The WTAC may joining our Club for a Spring Cleanup at the usual sites.  Stay tuned!
 
David Silliman is looking for members to help out at the Dew Drop Inn on Thursday, April 28th - morning or afternoon shifts.
 
Happy Dollars donations were masterfully encouraged by Bill Everitt.
Read more...
April 19, 2022: Two speakers at Hybrid Meeting
We had two excellent speakers at our hybrid meeting!     Anton Waschuk is a third generation Ukranian Canadian speaking to us from Toronto on his very diverse work with Western NIS Enterprise Fund which is an economic leadership program working across Ukraine and Moldova. 
 
And The Honourable Patty Hajdu, Federal Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario gave generously of her time to speak to our Club.
 
 
Read more...
April 12, 2022:  The Painting Crew etc.!
President Jim Madder presided at today's hybrid meeting in the Oliver Rd Community Centre.  Tech was handled by Kevin Holloway and Mark Tilbury on site and Matt Villella on Zoom.  Matt played the TSO's O Canada.  Jim Madder gave a Land Acknowledgement.

Announcement and Updates: 
(1)  Dew Drop Inn Painting Project  (2) Rotary Student Exchange  (3)  Catch the Ace   
(4)  St. James School Speakers Series   (5) RYLA Camp    (6)  Field of Greens  and more
 
Read more...
April 12, 2022: Paul Harris Fellows
Paul Harris Fellowship Recognition!

Foundation Chair Jaro Kotalik welcomed and congratulated members who have earned Paul Harris fellowship pins and certificates.  We were delighted to have Dan Brown, Assistant District Governor 5580 (Nipigon Rotary club) assist in the presentations.  Many were present in person or by Zoom.  The Club and the Rotary Foundation is much indebted for their generosity:

 
Read more...
April 12, 2022: New Member Dr. Marg Woods
Past President John Stephenson introduced his spouse Dr. Marg Woods, who was inducted into the Club as a new Family Member.

Marg is delighted to be joining this wonderful organization and the Club is delighted to have her join! Past President Kevin Holloway read the Charge and Jim Madder and Secretary, Past President  Brenda Winter presented her pin and membership materials.  Congratulations and warm wishes Marg!
At Our Club Tuesday April 5, 2022
President Jim Madder welcomed a large audience today; many guests keen to hear our esteemed guest speaker Samantha Smith:
Guest included: Kristi Robins, Diane Walker, Angela Vistorino, Dawn Unwin, Shabaaz Kahn, Sherry, tbarrett, Varsha Lama, Carla Sereda, Frank Wilson, Karshan Kharel, Laura St. Jacques, Lisa, Pardeep Harry, Rebecca Johnson, Rhonda H, Dana Lamminmaki.

 Cohosts: Mary-Anne Mackett, Matt Villella, Kevin Holloway, Brian Walmark

O Canada: played by Matt Villella (from a Raptors playoff game night)

Land Acknowledgement: Jim Madder.

FEATURE PRESENTATION

The meeting commenced with an extraordinary presentation by Samantha Smith whose bio follows (www.samanthasmithofficial.com), speaking from her home in Houston Texas. 

Samantha Smith brings a unique and diverse perspective to her audiences, being a former Police Officer and current Volunteer Firefighter, her stories are impactful and relatable. She has shared her stories of mental health and the LGBTQIA+ community with thousands of people from around the World. Samantha is a proud Lesbian, Wife and Mother who was recently named one of the top 28 speakers in the World at the 2021 World Championship of Public Speaking. She is passionate about mental health awareness and breaking down the barriers, specifically in the LGBTQIA+ community to ensure their voices are heard. Samantha is also a speaking coach who leaves her audiences not only empowered to tell their own story, but calls on them to take action, to be accountable and to effect positive change in their communities to protect those whose lives depend on it.

Samantha's skill as a public speaker was on it's full glorious display today.

She commenced with a powerful video of her semi-finalist talk that recalled a tragic encounter (involving mental health) she experienced as a police officer. 
Lessons learned were immediately apparent when building her case for:

Being Vulnerable
Being Courageous
Being Heard.  

Whilst unpacking the meaning of these phrases it became apparent there was an equivalency of all three in a temporal dimension.
Inclusivity is a vital outcome, and we all share personal vulnerabilities, usually with some degree hesitancy "to speak out" when faced on a daily basis with interpersonal challenges.



Samantha was particularly up front in discussing her own challenges in the past and laterally with the international Toastmasters Judges Code of Ethics. 
Her recommendations led to significant changes in the wording to include inclusivity for members of all sexual orientation groups.

Samantha's presentation was  dynamic and very well received. Under the guidance of fellow Toastmasters Matt Villella and Brian Walmark (who officially thanked her), there was an excellent Q and A session.
The club is indebted to Matt and Brian for organizing this session (it was recorded and Samantha is quite happy to share it as well as respond to more queries) ((speak@samanthasmith.com).

CLUB UPDATES (in brief)

1. See JIm Madder's communique for further details.
2. In addition a wee video on the contingent at work at the Dew Drop Inn Painting Project was shown (Kevin Holloway) with commentary and appeals from Bob Tomlinson, the big Chief.
3. Rotary Youth Exchange: an opening for an inbound girl from Thailand is presented for this upcoming year. Potential Host parents please take note and act (John Stephenson)
4.Rotaract Club Lovely Ladies social was a big success (Karissa and Shelley Crawford).
5. Next week 's speaker is MP the Hon. Patty Hajdu, live in person at the (hybrid) meeting emanating out of the Oliver Rd Community Centre
6. Happy Dollars: Shelley Crawford is a born fund raiser!
AT OUR CLUB March 29, 2022: Speaker Cherie Kok, Exec. Director, Hospice Northwest
What is Hospice Northwest?  
  • Hospice Northwest is a Hospice Without Walls: there is no one location but rather, volunteers visit and provide care in homes, LTC homes and even shelters
  • It is a stand-alone organization in Thunder Bay, with regional partners in Nipigon, Terrace Bay, Manitouwadge and Geraldton
  • It is not part of St Joseph's Care Group Hospice per se
  • Hospice Northwest volunteers provide a wide palette of support in palliative care, grief and bereavement, caregiver support and education events and workshops like the excellent "Die-alogues"
  • The homeless and vulnerably-housed receive care.
  • Newer programs are "HUUG" (Help Us Understand Grief) for children coping with loss and Indigenous-led programs
  • One client likened it to "Massage therapy for the heart"
Their website provides greater detail:  https://www.hospicenorthwest.ca/
 
Read more...
AT OUR CLUB March 22, 2022:  Club Activity Updates
President Jim Madder welcomed members today including those Zooming in from away:  Past President TBay Rotaract Club Karissa in Germany, Paul DeBakker in Scottsdale AZ and Warren Philp in warm, sunny Calgary.  The Vernal Equinox was yesterday – today it is snowing hard - and it's National Introverts Week in the US.

Matt Villella played an O Canada. Jim Madder gave a Land Acknowledgement.  Co-hosts were Jim Madder, Matt Villella, Krysta Logozzo.  Thanks, all!
 
We heard Club Activity Updates from the St. Patrick's Day Coming Out Party, Joint ToastMasters SpeechCraft Course, Allocations, Dew Drop Inn Service and Dew Drop Inn Painting Project, Board Nominations, Catch the Ace, Waterfront Trail, Catch the Ace and Rotaract projects.

 
Read more...
AT OUR CLUB March 8, 2022:  ANNOUNCEMENT HIGHLIGHTS
President Jim Madder welcomed members and guests including Cindy Kisken (guest of Shelley Crawford) and Klarissa, Past President of the TBay Rotoract Club who is in Germany doing applied cancer research.  Co-hosts were Bob Tomlinson and others.
O Canada was a reprise of the Canadian Women's Hockey Team gold medalists in Beijing.  Land acknowledgement by Jim Madder.
  • Dew Drop Inn Painting Project, a "HANDS ON" opportunity to paint the Dew Drop Inn walls over the next weeks before Easter: 8:30-11AM prep, 4-8PM painting shifts available. Contact Bob Tomlinson to sign up at 628-9599.
  • TBay Rotaract Club (Karissa Kilby et al) is launching a drive to collect feminine hygiene products for Beendigen.  Also: A bar night at Shooters to support the Red Cross effort in Ukraine on March 18th. Rotarians are welcomed to join!
  • Catch the Ace: The Ace is close, the jackpot nearing $8200. Go for it!! (A. Brulé)
  • St. James School: the mentoring resumes!  Members are invited to give short talks on inspiring topics of your choice: see previous email from M.A. Mackett and Angelina Tassone
  • Matthew Villella is working on diverse projects including a SpeechCraft session for Rotarians, social media plans with his students for PA Rotary and Rotoractors and is going to be working on a project with all 3 clubs to celebrate Easter Seals 100th in an event in September, Matt is looking for one more committee member from our club for Easter Seals 100th, and sign-ups to SpeechCraft.
  • St. Paddy's Day Coming Out Gala at The Chanterelle, Thursday, March 17! Tickets $40 pp includes a food, live music and fellowship!!! For real, not Zoom! Sign up ASAP from Shelly Crawford or Chris Bailey. Jim Madder and Kevin Holloway are helping out.
  • Happy Dollars: Bill Everitt brought an excellent response as usual.
AT OUR CLUB March 8, 2022: Guest Speaker Todd Kennedy, March of Dimes
Matthew Villella introduced our hard-working guest today,Todd Kennedy.  Todd is the Manager of Community Programs at March of Dimes Canada in Thunder Bay.  
 
Todd has been with March of Dimes for 22 years in a variety of roles in employment services, volunteer management, peer support and community program development for persons living with disabilities, survivors of polio, stroke and for their family caregivers.  Todd actively works with community stakeholders and health professionals. They develop and support a variety of programs and resources for local and regional MODC clients. They have a wonderful team of staff delivering client-focused services.  
 
    
Read more...
AT OUR CLUB TUESDAY MARCH 1, 2022
AT OUR CLUB March 1, 2022

President Jim Madder welcomed a healthy crowd celebrating a successful Rotary Family Radio Day, recently broadcast on February 21st.

Cohosts today: Kevin Holloway, Mary-Anne Mackett and Krysta Logozzo Daniele. 

 Notable guests today: Nicole and Noah (from the Dougall Team); Rita Komendant, Marg Woods

O Canada: a brilliant rendition from the 2022 Gold Medal women's hockey team medal presentation in Beijing.

Land acknowledgement: Jim Madder

FEATURE PRESENTATION

Matt Villella and Krysta Logozzo Daniele were Masters of Ceremonies, in a celebration and big thank you to a huge plethora of folks on a successful Rotary Family Radio Day (Feb 21).

We were delighted to have Hector Dougall, President and CEO of Dougall Media (and lead for our community membership therein) with his team today.
Matt commenced with a rousing "Celebration" (thanks to Kool and the Gang).

The entire process was reviewed in words, testimonials and even video and audio clips:

56th year (PA Rotarian (and Hector's dad) Fraser originated the fundraiser)
  • over $1 million donated to assist our many beneficiaries
  • this year: 709 ads, $37,000 plus received, 21 family hour sponsors, 24 x 60 second sponsors, 300 x 30 second ads, over 21 hours on CKPR 91.5
  • Our top 2 sellers with amazing results: Bill Everitt (144), Warren Philp (126). How impressive indeed!
  • major contributions from Brian Walmark, (the "mentor"), Kevin Holloway, Matt Villella, Jim Madder, Albert Brulé, Shelley Crawford
  • ad readers
  • Money Men (A. Brulé), Chris Bailey
  • Copious members out selling and connecting

Hector Dougall provided an eloquent thank you to all; his leadership in this venture exceptional

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS

1. The Canada Club Anniversary Dinner of February 25th (End Polio Now) garnered almost $4000. Big success
2. Dew Drop Inn (Feb 24th): 350 recipients (D. Silliman). Contact Judi Turner if available for next session March 24th
3. Catch the Ace: week 22 sees the elusive card still available, $7900 jackpot is awaiting!
4. Rotary Youth Exchange: John Stephenson confirmed the club will be participating again!! Good news.
5. Field of Greens: Our upcoming season is approaching: prelim meeting tbd (D. Legge and P. De Bakker). Helpers most welcome.
6. Happy Dollars: expedited by a happy golf addict in South Florida (Doug Shanks)
AT OUR CLUB February 22, 2022: Club Announcement Highlights
DewDropInn DougallMedia EndPolioNow RYLA UWayTBay WTRCAT
AT OUR CLUB February 22, 2022:  CLUB ANNOUNCEMENT HIGHLIGHTS

1. Rotary Radio Family Day yesterday was a huge success! Matt Villella and Krysta Logozzo Daniele thanked the many members who made this another triumphant fundraiser. Special thanks to Hector Dougall and staff/team at Dougall Media for significant enhancements - promotion being a great example. A formal "Thank You" celebration will be coming soon.
 
2. Virtual Rotary Anniversary Dinner this Friday, Feb 25, will feature an End Polio Now update, fellowship and a great auction: Jim Madder
 
3. RYLA: Bob Tomlinson reports the selection process is starting with local interviews.
 
4. Dew Drop Inn: this Thursday's Feb 24 shifts need volunteers: call D. Silliman.
 
5. Catch the Ace with TBay United Way jackpot is $7,365 as of today: all tickets give a chance to win and the certainty of helping charities!  A. Brulé
 
6. WTRCAT, the Waterfront Trail Rotary Community Action Team: Warren Philp is meeting with Chief Peter Collins of FWFN. A fine essay on the project by Janine Chiasson appeared in the recent Walleye magazine.
 
7. The 4 Way Test Essay Contest award presentations are upcoming: A. Warwick.
 
8. Happy Dollars. Warren Philp proved yet again that PAR members are generous.

 
AT OUR CLUB February 22, 2022: Guest Speaker Joan Zhao, SunHub Inc.
AT OUR CLUB FEBRUARY 22, 2022: Guest Speaker Joan Zhao, CEO, SunHub Inc.

President Jim Madder welcomed a cheery snow-blown crowd today.  Thank you co-hosts: Matt Villella, Jim Madder.  Today's O Canada was a from the 2022 NBA Basketball All Star Game (M. Villella) and Land Acknowledgement by Jim Madder.

FEATURE PRESENTATION: Joan Zhao, CEO of SunHub Inc.

Our speaker today was the unique, visionary Joan Zhao, CEO of SunHub Inc. (www.sunhub.com) who spoke on the fundamentals of her international for-profit social enterprise system.  This consultancy strives to find " common ground" between diverse people. SunHub is headquartered in Ottawa. There are many lessons for organizations like Rotary International. There are links to PARO, the TBay centre for women's enterprise that spoke to PA Rotary in the past.  Joan has lived in Thunder Bay and has international experience and academic credentials supporting her mission.

  
Read more...
Rotary Radio Day
DougallMedia PARotary
Hopefully you tuned into the great Rotary Radio Day on 91.5 CKPR in Thunder Bay.  We are happy to announce we had sold 709 ads that brought in over $35,000 for Port Arthur Rotary club and the programs we support.  Please check out our Family Hour Sponsors in the attached picture, we fully appreciate your support. Special thanks to Dougall Media that made this all happen, we appreciate the long partnership we have with such a great community leader. 
 
 
 
Read more...
At Our Club February 15, 2022: Patrick Morash, Fort William Historical Park
CatchtheAce DougallMedia EndPolioNow FWHP FortWilliamHistoricalPark PortArthurRotary UWayTBay
President Jim Madder chaired an enthusiastic crowd for today's meeting during Flirtation Week.
Special guest welcomed back: Dr. Michel Beaulieu of Lakehead University hosted by Mark Tilbury. Michel has spoken to our group many times in the past.

O Canada today presented by Mary-Anne Mackett - KW Glee Club was superb.  Co-hosts Jim Madder, Mary-Anne Mackett, Matt Villella and John Stephenson.  Land acknowledgement: Jim Madder.

FEATURE PRESENTATION:
 
Patrick Morash, is a Family Rotary Member with spouse Janine Chiasson and the General Manager of Fort William Historical Park. He provided a fine overview today of its history, present status and future plans as a world class "Living History Museum."
  
Read more...
At our Club February 9, 2022


President Jim Madder welcomed a healthy crowd of members and guests today: notable of the latter: Dan Brown (Nipigon Rotary Club and ADG), Stephen Margarit (Past President Fort William Rotary Club and current co-chair District 5580 Public Image Committee), Alyson MacKay (Lakehead University and guest of Mark Tilbury), Rita Komandent (prospective new member), Karissa (past president Rotaractor Club of Thunder Bay--- direct from Tübingen, Germany).
 
O Canada was played (from Jurassic park Toronto 2019).
 
A land acknowledgement was read by Jim Jim Madder.
 
Co-hosts thanked today: John Stephenson, Matt Villella, Jim Madder, Kevin Hollloway

GUEST PRESENTATION

The distinguished MLA (for Thunder Bay-Superior North), Michael Gravelle returned to our virtual podium for a very fulsome update on a huge spectrum of challenges facing our Thunder Bay area. He is currently the Critic for Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry. His knowledge and expertise on all these areas of importance, garnered over many years, is nonpareil.

https://michaelgravelle.onmpp.ca/biography/



Video

Michael has always been very generous of his time and fondness for (all) Rotary clubs in Thunder Bay: his overview today and kind words about Rotary were much appreciated.
(Hear his recorded presentation)

 Major topics reviewed (including those raised in the question-answer period):
  • the plethora of challenges and changing world in Covid times with emphasis on this part of Canada.
  • specifically, the local opioid epidemic and mental health crises, highway road maintenance, inadequate child care, public service wage gaps, long term care restructuring necessity, communication with elected officials.
  • LU (and Sudbury) and NOSM , the local District Jail and Corrections Facility, the TB  Expressway, upcoming election issues
  • and more! 
Michael will be seeking re-election. This area has been blessed by his ceaseless toil in public service over the years.
He was generously introduced and thanked by Jim Madder

ANNOUNCEMENT HIGHLIGHTS

1. Following procedure protocol, the new President -Elect-Elect is Shelley Crawford (Krysta Logozzo-Daniele). The club congratulated her.
2. Rotary Radio Day: The home stretch sees 643 ads tallied as of this meeting: the goal is 700 and members are urged to push to meet this goal (Matt Villella)
3. Catch the Ace: the jackpot is at $7000. Important recipients are beneficiaries and the prize is still out there (A.Brulé)
4. The One Summit 5580 Rotary took place this last weekend. Several members attended. Jim Madder spoke of positive outcomes. Small projects are perfectly desirable and attractive-they needn't be massive.
    Stephen Margarit lobbied for members to self promote Rotary for enhancing our public image.
5. The (virtual) anniversary dinner is slated for February 25th (End Polio Now remains top priority). Auction items are requested (contact Jim or Don McDonald at Lakehead Club)
6. Happy Dollars were encouraged with success by a thankful Brenda Winter.
 
 
At Our Club Tuesday Feb 1, 2022
 
President Jim  Madder welcomed members (including Lakehead Rotary Club President Don MacDonald) to an informal business meeting,( a.k.a Update Meeting), which contained so much good discussion on our activities, that several planned elements had to be deferred to the future because of timing limitations.

 Jim thanked our co host team, read a Land Acknowledgement  ( see below) and commenced the program with a fine O Canada (see pic), with thanks to Mary-Anne Mackett and Kevin Holloway.
The Kitchener Waterloo Glee Club is a delight.


UPDATE HIGHLIGHTS

(NB: see also President Madder's extensive pre-meeting communique for further details).

1. Past-President Krysta Logozzo Daniele announced that Shelley Crawford has accepted an offer to be nominee for President -Elect-Elect for 2023-24.
The floor is open over the next week for additional nominations (stay tuned).

2. Canada Club Deliberations: 
  • The Rotary Santa Claus Parade appears to be a go for next year (next planning meeting Feb 1)
  • PETS (for Presidents-elect) District training session is open for registration (to be held Feb 24th)
  • PA Rotary Centennial Committee (S. McAuley) will try and engage future Rotary International President Jennifer Jones (of Canada) as a guest VIP of Honour to visit here 
  • the 5580 ROTARY ONE SUMMIT (virtual) should appeal to all club leaders. Link: https://rotary5580.org/event/one-rotary-summit-5/
  • the Canada Club Anniversary Dinner (End Polio Now) is scheduled for February 24. Auction Donations welcomed: details to follow re admission.
  • "Diversity Thunder Bay is proud to welcome Jody Wilson-Raybold as our 2022 keynote speaker.  Jody's presentation is entitled “Taking Steps to Advance True Reconciliation.” and she will be discussing a variety of topics related to this important public policy issue, including why governments struggle to advance true reconciliation, UNDRIP, racial justice for Indigenous peoples, and addressing our legacy of colonialism, challenges that we may face as a community/individuals, and creating safe spaces to have these important conversations."                    Registration Link: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/diversity-thunder-bay-presents-jody-wilson-raybould-registration-230502708807
  • Rod Morrison's fine interview with Sean VanderKlis , on the CBC morning show went very well (on our club making bridges with Indigenous peoples in this area) https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-391-superior-morning
3. Dew Drop Inn:
 Dave Silliman reported on another eventful session January 27th

4.Waterfront Trail /Rotary Community Action Team (W. Philp) has new Action Team membership and an expected infusion of significant funding from the City. Rotarians Jim Madder, Donna Ostrom and Janine Chiasson along with lead Warren form a strong core. The Action Team concept has a bright future looking at many other community projects.

5. RYLA (Youth Leadership in Crookston MN) appears to be going ahead in 2022 (3 reps from Thunder Bay) (B Tomlinson)

6. Catch the Ace: Entering week 18 with a jackpot of $6400, Albert Brulé is encouraging ongoing support. Dougall Media is assisting with in kind promotion (thanks to Hector Dougall)

7. Allocations Committee (Chair Judi Turner) has 5 applications in hand and decision making will take place this month.

8. Rotary Radio Day :Our RD ad campaign is doing very well, with the Early Bird segment now terminated, we are about 90 ads short of the 700 goal (Rosa Tucci, Matt Villella, Brian Walmark, Krysta and many more)

 9. DISCUSSION PERTINENT TO OUR RECENT SPEAKERS:
President Madder led a fulsome discussion on the complexities of Land Acknowledgement in today's world of earnest attempts at reconciliation.
 Many members had relevant and well thought out opinions, with a consensus emerging that the most meaningful path is to continue same, with timely modifications reflecting positive relationships and intended actions to follow up, not so much a rote or boiler plate statement. It should be thought of as a beginning not an end. Guest speakers in the recent past including Chief Louie (Osooyos FN in B.C.) and Derek Fox (NAN) have been important stimuli for the club to move forward. Hard work by Rod Morrison on the club Diversity, Equity and Inclusivity Committee is helping to propel this end.

10. Happy Dollars: Warren Philp read out 7 months worth of Birthday Greetings and we sang our praise (almost to a symphony back up). This should generate  needed monies to the cause.

 The meeting adjourned right on time at 1300h!
AT OUR CLUB January 25, 2022: Chief Louie
President Jim Madder welcomed 41 plus attendees to today's meeting on Robbie Burns Day.

Guests today included:  Kay Biga (DG Elect 5580), Robert McLean (5580 Past DG), Ida Rowe, Dan Brown (ADG 5580 from Nipigon), Don MacDonald (President Lakehead Rotary Club), and from Thunder Bay news media Cory N of TBT News and James Murray News Net.

O Canada was played by Matt Villella; Jim Madder made the Land Acknowledgement.

FEATURE PRESENTATION: Chief Clarence Louie

Chief Clarence Louie, CM and OBC, distinguished Chief for 24 years of the Osoyoos Indian Band in British Columbia, was our dynamic speaker today from his office in B.C.
 

Chief Louie is recognized internationally for his exemplary leadership within his community including very successful economic and business development therein. He is a tireless advocate for Indigenous reconciliation as tied to positive relationships with the many layers of government and non government organizations.

 
Read more...
At Our Club January 18, 2022: Toastmasters
AT OUR CLUB  January 18, 2022: Toastmasters

President Jim Madder welcomed a very healthy crowd of 46 plus to today's joint meeting featuring Rotary and Toastmasters (International and Nanabijou locally) in partnership.

There were many guests from the local Nanabijou Toastmasters Club: Debbie Cashmore, Rami El Mawd, Ken Boshcoff (also President-Elect of Lakehead Rotary) and Jean Mirowski.  Neighbours to the south: Kimberlee Redington (a TM District Director), Harold Osmundson (keynote speaker, International TM Director from Minneapolis), David Goldsworthy, Dana Lamminmaki, Katy Hursch (a DFG Elect), Kay Biga (Rotary District 5580 DG Elect from Duluth, Jeremy, Kim and Michael (TMs from Minnesota).

The Canadian National Anthem was played by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.

Jim Madder read the Land Acknowledgement.

FEATURE PRESENTATION: Toastmasters

PA Rotarian and Toastmaster from Nanabijou Club Matt Villella presided today.
 
 
Read more...
At our Club January 11, 2022
AT OUR CLUB JANUARY 11, 2022

Our first (Zoom) meeting got off to a good start with socializing, a welcome from President Jim Madder, and then call to arms with O Canada (a rousing ketchup laden version played by Walk Of The Earth), played by Matt Villella.
 Jim then read a thoughtful land acknowledgement.

FEATURE PRESENTATION

Matt Villella (PA Rotarian and Toastmaster leader in Thunder Bay) introduced Greg Bjorgo, business consultant and inveterate storyteller with Storyteller's Toastmasters in the U.S. (currently in Las Vegas Nevada). https://lvstorytellers.toastmastersclubs.org/



Greg has extensive experience in public speaking. And, he has mastered the art and science of storytelling (principally through membership in Toastmasters) and then extrapolated that into consulting and teaching all manner of companies (including real estate and marketing start-ups) as well as not for profits. The goal is self improvement through the power of storytelling.
He outlined the 2 simple pre-requisites: empathy and offer to help, then the 3 pillars:  identification, definition, then solving the challenge ( a "crisis" let's say).

Put to the test with examples relevant to Rotary (starting with his own and others preconception of what Rotary does, and then analysis of PA Rotary and it's Radio Day fundraiser), Greg and President Jim made this technique come to life.

Greg will provide materials to us on storytelling as a compelling communication tool. He was thanked by President Jim Madder.

ANNOUNCEMENT HIGHLIGHTS

1. The Waterfront Trail-Rotary Community Action Team #wtrcat under Warren Philp, is active  with a deputation to City Council upcoming (telecast on Shaw Cable 10 at 6:30 pm this Thursday), and input from the revitalized City of TB Waterfront Development Committee. Bravo Warren and his many adherents!! Find info on the WTRCAT under the "Get Involved" Heading of www.parotary.com. Contact wtrcat21@gmail.com for more information.
2. Rotary Radio Day: Krysta Logozzo Daniele reviewed current progress. Members are encouraged to do ad readings in their homes (A. Warwick)
3.Catch the Ace: Steady plodding: the pot is about $5300 currently (A. Brulé)
4. Wounded Warriors report (J. Dojack)
5. Happy Dollars: there were quite a few thankful members this week (B. Winter)
 
At Our Club Tuesday January 4, 2022
Starting off the New Year, there was a catch-up, congenial, Zoom social followed by President Jim Madder's noon gavel and the meeting itself.

 Co-hosts: Jim Madder, Matt Villella, Mary-Anne Mackett and Kevin Holloway.

O Canada was played by Mary-Anne Mackett (a lovely multicultural rendition).
 Jim Madder read a land acknowledgement.

FEATURE
Matt Villella introduced (and later thanked) our guest speaker, Rhonda Harrison, Manager of Community Engagement, Northern Region for Easter Seals Ontario (about to celebrate it's 100th anniversary). Rotary helped to instigate the organization in 1922 with a successful Easter time stamps for envelopes fundraiser. 


Easter Seals' Mission is to support (permanently) physically disabled children under 19, to achieve independence and success, by providing mobility and accessibility equipment and socializing (principally at camps).

Approximately 80% of the clients have cerebral palsy and other neurodevelopmental disabilities. 

Rhonda used a Power Point overview ( and also a video) to outline the Mission, Impact, Mechanics and Fundraising standbys to make this an important resource for the more than 100 affected kids in the northern TB District. 

Many are familiar with annual fundraisers such as Snowarama (snowmobiling), the Celebrity Hockey Classic (with retired NHL players), Wine and Cheese, and the Celebrity "Roast." 

As expected, the Covid pandemic has meant adjustments, but success has been nevertheless achieved therein.

There was a fulsome Q&A session. The club is indebted to Easter Seals and Rhonda for the information. A complete overview is available on the website.

___http://www.easterseals.org/__________________________________

UPDATES

Among the announcements were: 
Dew Drop Inn Report for December 23 (D. Silliman), Rotary Radio Day progress (steady-Matt Villella), Catch the Ace (A. Brulé), Wilderness Discovery Camp (B. Tomlinson), Rotary Foundation Giving (J. Kotalik with more details next week), update on Laurier Tulloch (J.Dojack), and January meeting speakers preview (B. Walmark-see communiques).

 A relaxed and "fun" Happy Dollars was executed to perfection by Doug Shanks.
May 2022
S M T W T F S
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
01
02
03
04
President

Jim Madder

member photo
Home Page Download Files
Meeting Responsibilities
Zoom Meeting Responsibilities
TBA
 
Happy Dollar Facilitators
Doug Shanks, First Tuesday of the Month
 
Bill Everitt, Second Tuesday of the Month
 
Warren Philp, Third Tuesday of the Month
 
Brian Thompson, Fourth Tuesday of the Month
 
TBD, Fifth Tuesday of the Month
 
Club Executives & Directors
Secretary
Brenda Winter
President
Jim Madder
President Elect
Brian Walmark
Treasurer
Chris Bailey
Past President
Krysta Logozzo Daniele
Community Service
David Silliman
Vocational Service
Art Warwick
Rotary Foundation
Jaroslav Kotalik
Membership
Shelley Crawford
Public Relations
Mark Tilbury, MA, CFRE
Co-treasurer
Albert Brule
President Elect Nominee
Shelley Crawford
Co-treasurer
Leslie Savitsky
Fund raising
Brian Walmark
Photo Albums
Play Catch the Ace Every Week! Click Here!
Enter your email address and the message you want to send.
fields are required
Club Address
Mailing Address
Port Arthur Rotary
PO Box 33016
Thunder Bay, Ontario
P7B 0B1
www.parotary.com
www.facebook.com/PARotary
 
Upcoming Events
View More...
RSS
Ukrainian clubs help others in need in their country

Rotary members in Ukraine are helping neighbors return to their homes, distributing supplies from other countries, and organizing long-term aid — all despite being affected by the war

European Rotaract clubs organize to help Ukrainian refugees

Across Europe, Rotaract members are using digital tools to share information and coordinate to help people who have been affected by the war in Ukraine

Rotary projects around the globe - May 2022

Learn how Rotary clubs are taking action in Belize, Italy, Rwanda, the Philippines, and the United States.

A little bit of salt

A surgeon in Spain finds a way to treat patients in Nigeria

Rotary members honored as Champions of Girls’ Empowerment

Six Rotary members were honored in March as People of Action: Champions of Girls’ Empowerment during Rotary Day with UNICEF in New York City. This distinction recognizes the honorees’ commitment to improving girls’ access to education, health, and sanitation and hygiene resources, as well as their work to create environments where girls can flourish.

Rotary Links