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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
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At Our Club April 13, 2021
President Krysta Logozzo Daniele welcomed 35 attendees today, including special guests Donna Ostrom and Janine Chiasson (Warren Philp) and Dr. Marg Woods (John Stephenson).

Today's hosts (also welcoming everyone): Warren Philp and Jim Madder.

Our Guest Speaker today: Rebecca Johnson, Councillor At Large for the City of Thunder Bay.
 
O Canada was played followed by an acknowledgement of the meeting being held on the territory of Fort William First Nation.

ANNOUNCEMENT HIGHLIGHTS:
  1. This Saturday: Spring Up to Clean Up – a solo exercise due to Pandemic rules - with supplies courtesy of Eco Superior (Steve McCauley)
  2. Catch the Ace Raffle Update: this important fundraiser is entering week 3 and is in "progressive" jackpot mode. It is going well and all members were provided tips on promotion (Albert Brulé, Rod Morrison, Mary-Anne Mackett, Bill Everitt). Every Rotarian needs to pitch in.
  3. Update and reassurance that NOSM’s status seems secure, per our local med school dean, Dr. Sarita Verma (recall her recent presentation), not the same as the tenuous situation at Laurentian University (Jim Madder).
  4. Dew Drop Inn service opportunity coming up April 22 (D. Silliman).
  5. Wilderness Discovery Camp May 22 cleanup service opportunity (Bob Tomlinson).
  6. 5580 District Conference (it was held here in 2018): no tuition fees, virtual format, excellent lineup (see details supplied by President Krysta)
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FEATURE PRESENTATION
 

Thunder Bay Councillor at Large Rebecca Johnson presented on the City of Thunder Bay CLEAN, GREEN and BEAUTIFUL initiative ( https://www.thunderbay.ca/en/city-hall/clean-green-and-beautiful.aspx ) many years in development and gaining steam with an outstanding and diverse collection of members on board.

Rebecca was introduced by our own club’s Beautiful Thunder Bay lead Mary-Anne Mackett (president-elect-elect): Rebecca is a highly respected, very progressive advocate for the city. With 30 years of experience, a special, forthright candor and an extensive knowledge of the city and people involved, she is well-placed to lead this very challenging project.
Read more...
At Our Club Today, Tuesday April 6, 2021
AT OUR CLUB April 6, 2021

President Krysta Logozzo Daniele welcomed 38 members on a fine spring day. In addition, John Stephenson welcomed his spouse Dr. Marg Woods (stationed at her clinic), indicating to all that Marg is keen to join this fine club ( we are thrilled!).

Mary-Anne Mackett played O Canada, and President Krysta acknowledged our presence on Fort William FN Territory.

 Co-Hosts today with thanks were: Mary-Anne Mackett, Bob Tomlinson.

ANNOUNCEMENT HIGHLIGHTS
 
  1. TB Rotoract Club is putting on a virtual Lovely Ladies Social: Sat. April 10 (see email communique)...all ladies are welcome. Support this amazing club.
  2. Steve McCauley for EcoSuperior, welcoming volunteers for spring Clean Up Saturday April 10 (contact Steve)
  3. Wilderness Discovery Centre May 1 long weekend clean up crew volunteer opportunity (contact Bob Tomlinson)
  4. Rod Morrison and Albert Brulé: Catch the Ace Week 1 was "brilliant", with over $8000 in ticket sales. Keeping up the effort and momentum is critical moving forward. Buy tickets and help find supporters please! Bill Everitt is ceding to Brian Walmark on the committee (big thanks to Brian and Bill)
BOARD OF DIRECTOR REPORTS/UPDATES
 Our club is working full tilt on multiple planes, and the Director reports were received eagerly:
  1. MIke Nitz on FELLOWSHIP (pictured): numerous challenges, Covid notwithstanding were more than met with a fine array of mainly virtual events recalled and savoured. Thanks for the great energy and creativity Mike.
  2. Brian  Walmark (CLUB SERVICE (pictured) focussed his remarks on a detailed overview of the club's new Corporate Member Fort Severn First Nation. Despite enormous challenges (geographic, financial, climate change and more), Chief Burke and his people remain committed to PA Rotary in a  unique way. The service to the community mutual relationships and respect (with PA Rotary,albeit with difficulty attending meetings) is recognized and appreciated.
  3. Art Warwick (VOCATIONAL SERVICE, YOUTH NEW DIRECTIONS AND INTERNATIONAL SERVICE-pictured) is wearing a number of hats and with Covid times adapting well. Ongoing success with the 4 Way Essay Test (St. Ignatius seems to hold the upper hand), the Citizenship Awards (yes watches still have a caché with young people), the Student Exchange program (with John Stephenson as new lead), and international service projects such as Lifewater Canada assisting developing countries, are highlights in Art's big portfolio.
  4. Chris Bailey (TREASURER-pictured) highlighted the financial position, which is solid. Covid times elimination of meal costs (and inevitable losses now "gains") and an excellent Rotary Radio Day campaign return, combined with a slick Allocation machine, highlight a healthy next few years. (Allocations for the big Centennial project are wisely being factored in early).
  5. Steve McCauley (COMMUNITY SERVICE - pictured)  highlighted the many community success stories over the past year (and imminent): including:the Cumberland St clean up, SA Kettle Campaign, Carol Sing for the Christmas Cheer Fund, Dew Drop Inn, Allocations Committee, the St. James School project and more. Our future has changed. Hybrid meetings may be an option. We continue to do great work.
  6. SECRETARY (Brenda Winter-pictured): reported on her many tasks, modestly saying it is easy with everyone pitching in. One area to review for members would be their RI Account bios for accuracy.
  7. PAST PRESIDENT Rod Morrison will report on a subsequent meeting agenda to ensure adequate time for a discussion primarily on "membership initiatives."

Happy Dollars were fruitful today...with Doug Shanks at the helm...all for the good of the Dew Drop Inn!
At Our Club March 30, 2021
AT OUR CLUB March 30, 2021

President Krysta Logozzo Daniele welcomed 36 Rotarians for Virtual Talent Fellowship Day.
Zoom hosts and Co-hosts aplenty: Kevin Holloway, M.A. Mackett, Jim Madder, Bob Tomlinson and Mike Nitz.

There was talent even in the opening zany O Canada played on ketchup bottles by Walk Off The Earth (found by M.A. Mackett).  Krysta acknowledged our presence on Fort William First Nation Territory.

ANNOUNCEMENT HIGHLIGHTS:
  1. District Awards applications are ongoing - contact Krysta. Late nominations considered, the District deadline is April 9th.
  2. Dew Drop Inn on March 25th: our stalwarts fed 356 individuals and the club spent $147 (D. Silliman).
  3. Jackie Dojack reported on the Wellness Committee and is lead for April
  4. David Legge invited new keeners to work on the revitalized Field of Greens Project. An on site meeting will take place shortly. Paul DeBakker is co-chair( David and P.DeBakker)
  5. Catch the Ace: off to an excellent start on the first round with $6600 realized to date. Update and promotion from (R. Morrison, A. Brule and Bill Everitt)
  6. Extensive report on Wilderness Discovery Camp ramp replacement project: the District Grant request was denied (criteria issue) but Bob Hookham, Dan Brown and others are rallying support (Roly Turner)
  7. Readers are requested to peruse President Krysta's Events and Meeting email preamble circulated to members yesterday for completeness
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VIRTUAL TALENT on DISPLAY 

Heartfelt regrets to Dave Silliman and Brian Walmark: the fun lasted so long we couldn’t reach their acts so it looks like we need another Talent Show!  President Krysta thanked Chair Mike Nitz for yet another great fellowship event and all those participating.   We will do this again next year.   Tech engineer-in-chief Kevin Holloway is also to be congratulated for his many hours in making this event successful. Thank you, Kevin!
 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Thanks, Everyone.  That was a lot of fun!
 
 
 
At Our Club Tuesday March 23, 2021
 
AT OUR CLUB March 23, 2021
 
President Krysta Logozzo Daniele welcomed 36 members and guest speakers (see intros below) today.
Included were Lakehead Rotary club members Gail Brescia and Sandy Lychowyd (welcome) and Rotoract president Mal Balachandran.
 
Co-hosts (with thanks): Jim Madder and Steve McCauley with tech assistance from Kevin Holloway.
 
O Canada rendition this week was a performance by The Tenors at a Toronto Raptors basketball game (in their halcyon era). Thanks for this lively beginning to Kevin Holloway and Steve McCauley.
President Krysta acknowledged our presence on the Fort William First Nation Territory.
 
RECENT CLUB HIGHLIGHTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
 
  1. Kevin Holloway produced a highlight reel from the recent Virtual Anniversary Dinner featuring a Live Auction. Mike Nitz cleverly entertained and encouraged over $3500 from generous players all to help eradicate polio (the final push is ongoing). Well done Mike.
  2. World Rotoract Week (was last week), but we continue to celebrate the fine current work done by our local Rotoracters.
  3. District Conference 5580 Awards for clubs is being vetted and a number of categories are still up for grabs (contact Krysta or Jim Madder).
  4. Next week’s meeting features a Virtual Rotary Talent Show (Mike Nitz).
  5. March 25th commitment to Dew Drop Inn: the afternoon service is being withheld pending relief in the Covid 19 crisis (D. Silliman).
 
FEATURE PRESENTATION
 
The CATCH THE ACE RAFFLE has commenced: a well designed and time tested fundraiser concept (throughout the province) linking the United Way of Thunder Bay and the Port Arthur Rotary Club.
United Way of Thunder Bay ED and PA Rotarian Albert Brule and his team consists of ErikaMikkola (United Way of TB Special Events Coordinator; pictured) and Jake Behse (Co-op Intern from Con College Business and Marketing program; suited up and pictured as he twirled around!) have  been concocting this exciting new venture with our own committee of Rod Morrison, Bill Everitt and Shelley Crawford.
Cooperation between PA Rotary and the United Way developed with warp speed, said RodMorrison, who walked us all through a Power Point Summary of the Raffle mechanism and along with Albert Brule answered most of the queries. Jake stole the show with his flashy Catch the Ace suit and tie which was a winner in recent media coverage.
 
Their presentation today identified the 4 dedicated beneficiaries (at this time) of the raffle: Dew Drop Inn, Our Kids Count, Shelter House and Roots to Harvest.
This is a progressive draw, that should draw ever increasing participation (i.e. ticket sales) with (an expected and hoped for) prolongation before the Ace of Spades is finally drawn (could be 52nd week or any Thursday evening before!). Individual Rotarians and all their friends and contacts are urged to participate by a) buying tickets, b) sharing this info throughout their networks, and c) helping find weekly supporters ($500 will get a great deal of publicity). This support by businesses will help defray certain event costs and Rotarians are asked to help find supporters as part of our Club’s commitment to the raffle. Contact Bill Everitt if you have ideas.
 
The first week is already underway with over $600 in the till as of this meeting and upticking this afternoon (March 23). The first draw will take place Thursday April 1st.
 
Tickets at www.tbayace.ca
 
A guaranteed jackpot minimum of $5000 (covered by United Way) should be a great incentive, and 50% of the entire input goes to the charities cited (if the pot gets very large, our club Allocation Committee will recommend new beneficiaries).
 
Committee member Bill Everitt reminded us that active participation should be a logical outcome: it is fun, it is easy on-line, and best of all helps our designated beneficiaries greatly. Of course we can all win for ourselves as well. Covid times at home should raise the ante for club members.
 
The meeting concluded with a lively Q & A and “Happy Dollars” session with a number of Rotarians commending the Uway team.
 
Upcoming events/reminders:
 
- Diversity Thunder Bay presents 'New Understandings:  Diversity, Inclusion and COVID with Presenter Jesse Wente - Wed Mar 24th from 12 to 1:30 pm  Free virtual even by registering at:   https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/jesse-wente-new-understandings-diversity-inclusion-and-covid-tickets-139151599179
 
- Monthly Dew Drop Service - This Thurs Mar 25th - Please contact David Silliman at silliman@tbaytel.net or 768-5848 if you are available to volunteer this month.
 
- PA Rotary Virtual Talent Show - We need your help!  Please contact Mike Nitz (michael.nitz@td.com) to participate in this fun fellowship event planned for our March 30thRotary meeting.  We look forward to your contributions.  Please see attached poster.  Kevin Holloway may also be reaching out to you directly! :)
 
- Women in Rotary - 5580 District event - April 1st, 2021 - DGE Kay Biga is promoting an upcoming Zoom virtual event  titled a "Frank conversation on how to attract and retain women members".  Everyone is welcome to attend. There is a Facebook page if you are interested: https://www.facebook.com/groups/womeninrotarydistrict5580
 
- Rotaract Sleeping Mat Project needs your help!  The Rotaract Club is currently creating Sleeping Mats for the homeless community of Thunder Bay. They are collecting old plastic bags (such as grocery bags from Walmart, Safeway, Superstore, ext) to cut into plastic yarn (called "plarn") which are then crocheted into rectangular sleeping mats.   If you are interested in helping crochet they will provide you with the proper sized crochet hook and you will not have to cut your own plastic bags. If you have any questions, please email Andrayaat andrayacolistro@gmail.com or call/text at 807-631-3588. Attached poster for more information.
 
- Register for the 2021 Rotary District 5580 Conference today!  Go to: www.bemidji2021.com and register for free!  There are MANY fantastic sessions planned, and guests are free as well!
 
At Our Club Tuesday March 16, 2021
AT OUR CLUB March 16, 2021
 
President Krysta Logozzo Daniele welcomed a full house of 47 (maybe more), including distinguished guests from the health care sector (President and CEO Dr. Rhonda CrockerEllacott and Glenn Craig from TBRHSC, President and  CEO Tracey Buckler from St.Joseph’s Care Group), social services (Joanne Kemball), our energetic Rotoracters (Mal Balachandran, Andraya Colistro, Catherine Kibiuk), and of course our special guest the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health and her team including Jacqueline Dyck and Paul Field. Out of town guest from Kent County, Rotarian  Jack Rigby (guest of Bill Everitt) was back, and of course Maria Hudolin (B.C. and former PA Rotarian and ADG -5580 District).
There were also several other guests that were unfortunately missed in introductions (our apologies).
 
Hosts today on Zoom: John Stephenson and Kevin Holloway.
Kevin played a fine O Canada featuring multicultural Canadian performers.
Krysta acknowledged our presence on Fort William First Nation territory.
 
GUEST PRESENTATION 
Our distinguished guest, returning to the club with a very extensive update was the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health ( MP for Thunder Bay- Superior North). She was introduced by Dr. Paul DeBakker, highlighting her extensive pre-politics background and expertise in the field of harm prevention, homelessness and substance misuse prevention: (members are aware of her prior position as ED of Rotary Shelter House).
 
Minister Hajdu was warmly greeted by members and in return thanked PA Rotary for its good work.
 
Admitting she became immersed in a “tumultuous “role with Covid 19, she reminded us of her work prior and ongoing with issues like Pharmacare, Primary care and the Opioid Crisis, and has been quite able to rise to the challenge.
 
The  constant refrain outstanding in her mission is that of addressing the many costs of inequality and systemic exclusion in our country. It is bad for us all and the cost of doing nothing is enormous.
Her government did well in quickly supporting the needed economic supports for the vulnerable, and early on. The current huge health portfolio is in good hands with light at the end of the tunnel albeit along with uncertainty.
 
A very robust Q&A period tackled, succinctly, many issues. Highlights included: an overview of the mechanism of transfer of supplies, vaccine, monies etc. from federal to provincial hands along with distribution challenges; coping with negativity on Facebook and other social media platforms (more than just coming with the territory, it involves a balance between acceptable free speech and that beyond the pale); vaccination “passport” or “certification” schemes; what Rotarians, including docs et al can do to assist including being pro-immunization advocates; the Astra Zeneca controversy (consensus in Canada, our regulators are top notch, the vaccine is safe); the Canada -US border issues.
 
Dr Crocker Ellacott and Tracey Buckler both obliged us on updates from their vantage points...much appreciated..
 
Thank yous equivalent to heartfelt tributes to Minister Hajdu came from President Krysta and Past President Laurie Tulloch. We are certainly blessed to have her skilled presence working on our behalf.
 
ANNOUNCEMENT HIGHLIGHTS
 
See President Krysta’s communique from yesterday re upcoming events and links summarized below:
 
- Diversity Thunder Bay presents 'New Understandings:  Diversity, Inclusion and COVID with Presenter Jesse Wente - Wed Mar 24th from 12 to 1:30 pm  Free virtual even by registering at:   https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/jesse-wente-new-understandings-diversity-inclusion-and-covid-tickets-139151599179
 
- Monthly Dew Drop Service - Thurs Mar 25th - Please contact David Silliman at silliman@tbaytel.net or 768-5848 if you are available to volunteer this month.
 
- PA Rotary Virtual Talent Show - We need your help!  Please contact Mike Nitz (michael.nitz@td.com) to participate in this fun fellowship event planned for our March 30thRotary meeting.  We look forward to your contributions.  Please see attached poster.
 
- Rotaract Sleeping Mat Project needs your help!  The Rotaract Club is currently creating Sleeping Mats for the homeless community of Thunder Bay. They are collecting old plastic bags (such as grocery bags from Walmart, Safeway, Superstore, ext) to cut into plastic yarn (called "plarn") which are then crocheted into rectangular sleeping mats.   If you are interested in helping crochet they will provide you with the proper sized crochet hook and you will not have to cut your own plastic bags. If you have any questions, please email Andraya at andrayacolistro@gmail.com or call/text at 807-631-3588. Attached poster for more information.
 
- Register for the 2021 Rotary District 5580 Conference today!  Go to: www.bemidji2021.com and register for free!
 
-Next week...we hear about the Cath the Ace Raffle!
 
HAPPY DOLLARS
 
Warren Philp ; surrounded by Guinness draft is in the mood for St Paddy’s day. Be happy, make a donation!
 
Vocalist from the O Canada in 11 languages:
 
At Our Club March 9, 2021
President Krysta Logozzo-Daniele welcomed 39 participants – Rotarians, Rotaractor, and Dougall Media guests to a celebration meeting today. We paid tribute to those have been involved in the 55-year partnership with Dougall Media producing Rotary Radio Family Day. 
 
Thanks go to our Zoom co-hosts today: Warren Philp and Jim Madder.
 
Special guests from DougallMedia were Rosa Tucci, Ann Snell, Daryl Bolton, Crystal Shields, Noah Madore.  Our favourite BC guest was Lake Country B.C. Rotarian Maria Hudolin.
 
Warren Philp played a rousing O Canada put together by many Armed Forces military bands.
Krysta acknowledged our presence on territory of the Fort William First Nation.
She also gave strong salute to yesterday’s International Women’s Day noting the global needs and accomplishments of women, mirrored by the changes in the Rotary family and accomplishments of women in our Clubs.
 
ANNOUNCEMENT HIGHLIGHTS:
  1. Wilderness Discovery Centre (Shebandowan) ... slated to start clean-up work or opening on the May long weekend. Volunteers welcome. (Bob Hookham, FW Rotary)
  2. FW Rotary is investigating volunteer opportunities for assisting at local Covid immunization clinics (stay tuned)
  3. Dew Drop Inn last month February 25th: 315 people served, at Club cost $280. (D. Silliman). Volunteers were thanked. Covid concerns are being addressed including introduction of face shields for our Club workers. DDI staff and many clients have been vaccinated.
  4. A new and exciting fundraising partnership between PA Rotary and United Way Thunder Bay: “Catch the Ace” virtual raffle. Launch at end of March or April (Rod Morrison, Albert Brule)
  5. New fundraising ideas always welcome (contact President Krysta).
FEATURE PRESENTATION:
Rotary Radio Family Day: Under the leadership of Chair Brian Walmark, the whole club pitched in as a team.  It couldn’t happen without the generosity and extraordinary toil of Dougall Media.
  
Pictured are:
Radio Day Chair Brian Walmark explaining results in detail, Rosa Tucci: DougallMedia Traffic Manager/Supervisor and Ann Snell  Dougall Media coordinator.
From the archives – an earlier congratulatory meeting with founder of this unique relationship, the late PA Rotarian Fraser Dougall with PA club member Gerry Gothard.
 
The campaign sold a record 800 ads, eclipsing the previous record of 647 in 2011. There were 21 sponsored “hours” and 65 sixty-second spots, the latter being a very successful innovation. Rosa Tucci was the key Traffic Manager/Supervisor. She gave her account of the success story, complete with areas for improvement.  Ann Snell and Daryl Bolton also spoke of their work in coordinating everything including the “at home” voicings of many ads...deemed very successful. We are welcome, even urged, to go further in the next campaign set to air February 21, 2022. New and tighter deadlines will be imposed to make the work easier for DougallMedia!
 
There were many heroes this year on both sides of the aisle. Many Rotarians were top sellers, with the crown this year going to Warren Philp. There were 7 exceptional “reflections” - stories and kudos from: Warren Philp, Dave Silliman (“sweating it out as president til last minute sales of 400 by Jim McDonald, as well as being driven by Don Chase on the principle of “leverage” in sales success), Shelley Crawford (a newbie), Bill Everitt (invigorating and rejuvenating his colleagues), treasurers Chris Bailey and Leslie Savitsky for shouldering the money end, and President Krysta summarizing her gratitude for all when her own leadership was so vital.
 
Needless to say the club is exceptionally grateful to DougallMedia for once again supporting our club and making it possible for us to raise the much-needed funds for our service work.
 
Bill Everitt had no trouble today eliciting Happy Dollars on the heels of the activities mentioned above.
 
Meeting adjourned at 13:01 hours.
 
#Rotary  #PortArthurRotary #DougallMedia
PA Rotary supporting St. James Elementary School
Yes, there are smiles under those masks!   Principal Angelina Tassone, St. James Elementary School, accepted Port Arthur Rotary Club's cheque today from Rotarian Mary-Anne Mackett - covering some of the extra expenses supporting student enrichment. We're happy to help support education, literacy, numeracy and fitness!
 
 
#StJamesElementarySchool  #PARotary
At Our Club March 2, 2021
Today, PA Rotary joined forces with the Rotary Club of Sault Ste Marie.  President Megan Wigmore, pictured, who welcomed all and highlighted her very active club’s successes. From our end President Krysta Logozzo Daniele returned the favour with greetings and highlights from Thunder Bay.
 
 
A very healthy 49 Rotarians joined in for today’s informative presentation, see below.  Co-hosts were Nilah Moss (SSM) and Kevin Holloway (PA Rotary).
 
Dr. Jaro Kotalik introduced our accomplished and well-regarded speaker, Dr. Sarita Verma, who began as Dean, President and CEO of the Northern Ontario School of Medicine in July 2019.  https://www.nosm.ca/ 
 
 
Dr Verma, is hailed by her peers as one of the true “top docs” in Canada, having had a distinguished career first in law with the foreign service (the UNHC for Refugees) then medicine with a major focus on medical education at U of T and elsewhere. She is clearly well-placed to lead NOSM.  Her talk laid out NOSM’s great success as a unique, stand-alone not-for-profit medical school whose mandate is to address the challenges of providing medical care in Northern Ontario. 
 
With refreshing candour, she stated simply that when it came to health, “everything is worse” in Northern Ontario.  Then she delved in what NOSM is doing about that, how it is succeeding and what more it wants to do.
 
She dealt with the new NOSM Mission, Vision and Values Statement and how the unique focus on student demographics matter:  the current class profile shows 92% are from Northern Ontario, 38% from Remote and Rural location, 12% are Indigenous and23% Francophone.  Furthermore, 68% are female, 32% male. Many have gone on to practice in Northern Ontario – a staggering 235,200 patients in Northern Ontario have a family physician who completed their MD at NOSM!
 
NOSM has a model of “Distributed Community Engaged Learning” with extensive partnerships and collaborations throughout the north with some 100 participating organizations based out of the 2 LUs (Lakehead and Laurentian Universities).  The 2021- 2025 Strategic Plan looks at many challenges going forward.  The North is still plagued by higher rates of health care provider burnout, chronic diseases, alcohol and drug abuse, suicide and more. Specialist consultants are in chronic shortage.
Another of NOSM’s interesting initiatives is the “Rural Generalist Pathway – with the long-term aim of recruiting potential rural doctors straight out of high school to follow a ten year path through undergrad through medical school and residency if they commit to practice in rural or remote locations. 
 
Dr. Verma directs her considerable energy on a variety of issues to meet the challenges. 
 
The presentation was immensely informative. A stimulating Q & A followed and Dr. Verma was thanked by SSM Rotarian Daniel Sharp.
 
A break out session then allowed each Club to wrap up chat separately – with the odd cross-pollinator happy to meet and learn from the sister club.  A great meeting for all concerned!
 
#NOSM  #LakeheadUniversity #LaurentianUniversity #DrSaritaVerma #RotarySSM  #Rotary #PARotaary
At Our Club February 23, 2021
President Krysta Logozzo Daniele cheerfully welcomed 34 members today and thanked our Zoom co-hosts Kevin Holloway and Jim Madder our and guest Mal Balachandran (President of the Thunder Bay Rotoract Club).
 
Our anthem was a unique rendition of O Canada “sung” by a young woman using sign language.  Kevin Holloway has a new take on our national anthem virtually every week!  Her signing was so clear Kevin thinks we will learn ASL before the year’s out!
 
Krysta played a video celebrating UK’s 116th year Rotary birthday hosted by Scottish Rotarian Tom Griffin. Polio Plus and Covid-19 Rotary contributions to world health were featured. It was a nice reminder of what we do (service to the community) and why we do it (fun, personal growth and for the results achieved).
 
ANNOUNCEMENT HIGHLIGHTS
  1. Mal Balachandran presented on another ambitious and timely local Rotoract project: “Plastic Bag Drive-Sleeping Mats for the Houseless”...the crocheted mats are for use to help protect and keep warm “houseless” individuals in need. Plastic bag drop-off sites include the UPS Store 1100 Memorial Ave.  Training available. Thanks to Dave Everitt (UPS) for his support. Mal is doing yeoman service with his Rotoractors.
  1. Well-Being Committee: Rotarians and families going through rough patches and mourning were acknowledged by Laurie Tulloch.  Let’s reach out to each other and keep us all in the loop.  Next month: Jackie Dojack is the Well-Being lead.
  2. Dew Drop Inn service upcoming this Thursday – call Dave to sign up, especially for the afternoon serving shift. (D. Silliman)
  3. Wrap-up from D. Silliman on a very successful Christmas Carol Sing held virtually at St Paul’s United Church. This great show got a lot of well-deserved exposure and the Christmas Cheer Fund got a lot of donations from this and other efforts.
  4. Next Week we have a joint meeting with the Sault Ste Marie Rotary Club: Presenter will be Dr. Sarita Verna new Dean at NOSM.
  5. Reminder of Anniversary dinner this coming Friday at no fee: see link and details. (Mike Nitz is MC).
 
FEATURE PRESENTATION
Brian Walmark, Chair of the very successful 55th Rotary Family Radio Day campaign (with ads airing on Family Day, February 15, 2021), presented an overview.
 
This year was unique in many ways not the least being the challenge during a pandemic:
  1. We sold a record 800 ads aired by our friends at CKPR-Dougall media. Revenue estimated at around $40,000. These funds will be available for Rotary projects.
  2. Brian paid tribute to many Rotarians who stepped up, with multiple ad sales: the new sellers, new clients of many stripe, many innovations all of which were successful. Prominent people were too numerous to mention, except for the very top contributors including Bill Everitt, Warren Philp, Jim McDonald. Art Warwick, and Brenda Winter. Mr. Modesty himself, Brian Walmark was the lead and sparkplug advocate. The production team of Albert Brule, Shelley Crawford, Jim Madder, and Kevin Holloway also are to be congratulated.
  3. Brian covered the basics of How We Achieved this Success, Where Do We Go From Here and invited us to join in on the strategic "Zoom Circles Debriefing” and strategic planning for next year.
  4. Constructive questions included:  Is this a repeatable feat? What is the maximum number of ads Dougall will allow? Are we going to continue voicing at home rather than studio? Can we address challenges such as the 60 second ad productions: these take a lot of time and energy if only going to be aired once?
  5. All in all, a happy, celebratory presentation. President Krysta paid tribute to Brian and the whole club team.
The meeting ended with Happy Birthday greetings (Art Warwick and his wit notable) and “Happy Dollars” (one very notable donation from Jim Madder remembering the long and amazing life of his now-late104 year old mom)
 
The reader is encouraged to revisit President Krysta’s communique of yesterday for many other events and links.
Written as always by the inimitable David Legge and posted this week by Mary-Anne Mackett
At Our Club February 16, 2021
 
Another fully subscribed meeting today with 38 attendees!
 
President Krysta Logozzo Daniele welcomed everyone, especially Rotarians Dan Brown (Assistant District Governor for 5580 from the Nipigon club), Mark Tilbury, David Richards and Kathryn Davidson (LU community members) and Kathleen Lynch, President and Rob Zuback, Director Advancement, Communications & External Relations (Confederation College...see highlight presentation below).
 
Thanks to co-hosts John Stevenson and Kevin Holloway (Zoom).
 
Thanks also to Kevin Holloway for a brilliant O Canada rendition by a Toronto Gospel choir performing at a Leafs-Jets hockey game at Scotiabank Arena (during Black History Month).
 
Krysta acknowledged our meeting site on First Nation Territory (Robinson Superior Treaty of 1850).
 
ANNOUNCEMENT HIGHLIGHTS
 
  1. There was a wellspring of heartfelt thanks for the end product and great success ofRotary Radio Day 2021 (yesterday). All were very appreciative of the  big team effort. It was the most successful campaign in our 55 year history with Dougall Media (a full briefing is in store next week). Time to celebrate.
  2. Past-President Rod Morrison conducted the follow-up prerequisite nomination exercise that ended in Mary-Anne Mackett being acclaimed as President elect-elect for 2022-2023. Congratulations to Mary-Anne are extended by all.
  3. Assistant District Governor Dan Brown joined us from Nipigon and provided insight into the Rotary Foundation need for members to contribute monetarily. There was also a serious business update on the (prolonged) Global District Grant process involving funding for ramp replacement at the Wilderness Discovery Centre (Shebandowan).
  4. Advanced notice re club service at the Dewdrop Inn coming up February 25th
  5. Please refer to President Logozzo Daniele’s February 15 communique linking members to a host of other activities.
  6. Next meetings feature: Feb 23 Brian Walmark with RRD “Debrief” and March 2: a joint meeting with a Sault Ste. Marie Rotary Club with guest, Dr. Verna, Medical Director of NOSM.
 
FEATURE PRESENTATION
Past President Rod Morrison introduced (and later thanked) our distinguished guest speaker today, President Kathleen Lynch of Confederation College (www.confederationcollege.ca)
 
The club is delighted to have the College on board as new Community PA Rotary members. Kathleen was accompanied by Rob Zuback today.
 
Her presentation provided a fine overview of the College in all its iterations commencing with the New Strategic Plan (Kaa-arokaatekin).
 
Starting with the “Numbers” (see screenshot), she expanded on the Impact on the Region, the 4 Pillars in the Negahneewin Vision, all with emphasis on the huge territory served (size of France, including 88 Indigenous Communities).  Advanced Flexible Technology makes programming so influential (of course the new TEC HUB Centre on the Thunder Bay campus, whose vision was realized by our President- elect Jim Madder), is a large factor in this evolution.
 
The entire presentation is available at the following link:
 
 
A brisk Q & A followed.
 
The meeting concluded with Past President Warren Philp handling the “Happy Dollars” (including his own tribute to Con College and LU attendees as well as Rotary Radio Day and Dan Brown (ADG) bright lights.
 
At Our Club Tuesday February 9, 2021
President Krysta Logozzo Daniele welcomed 30 (plus) members including a full compliment of distinguished Lakehead University PA Rotary Community-corporate members (see below) on a chilly but bright winter Zoom meeting day.
Cohosts were Warren Philp, Jim Madder.
 
Member Matt Diegel provided a unique O Canada rendering with a proud Canadian doing the sign language for the anthem.
 
Krysta acknowledged our presence on land of the Fort William First Nation.
 
Announcement Updates:
  1. Rotary Virtual Anniversary event reminder: February 26 at 7 pm: a free admission Rotary fundraiser supporting Polio and Covid (see President Krysta’s communique)
  2. Rotary Radio Day: Brian Walmark is understandably thrilled to announce as at today, we have approximately 800 ad submissions---our best return ever. Well done club, all team members, and Dougall media.
  3. Past president Rod Morrison spoke of the recent Past President dinner success and eventual acceptance of her name to stand as nominee for President Elect-elect Mary-Anne Mackett. The club is extremely pleased with this news. Protocol for additional name submissions was outlined by Rod.
  4. Next week we welcome President Kathleen Lynch of Confederation College and members of her team (now PA Rotary Community members)
Feature Presentation:
A full contingent of Lakehead University members of our club welcomed our guest speakers Dr. Moira McPherson: President and Vice Chancellor (pictured), and Dr. David Barnett: Provost and Vice-President Academic. Mark Tilbury: Annual Fund and Alumni Engagement Director, introduced our speakers as well as his colleagues on the team, Toby Goodfellow: Chief of Staff in the President’s Office (pictured), who was lead on the fine Power Point presentation, Alyson MacKay: Manager of Ingenuity, Economic Development and Innovation, Dr. David Richards: Dean/Associate Professor in the Faculty of Business Administration, and Kathryn Davidson: Alumni Engagement Director.
 
Past President Warren Philp introduced Dr. McPherson (they have common denominator daughters et al), citing her strong background at the school academically and in administration. He later thanked her (and team) appropriately for the  strong and professional overview of Lakehead University (LU). It was noted that a number of our club members are alumni of distinguished repute including President Krysta Logozzo Daniele, Jacki Dojack, Vonnie Cheng, Shelley Crawford and also new LU Board of Governors member Michael Nitz.
 
The presentation commenced with the “North Star” LU STRATEGIC PLAN, with a strong weighting now recognized internationally for academic and research excellence.
 
The 5 PRIORITIES were dealt with in an expanding discussion leading to ACHIEVEMENTS.
Priorities include: 1.Academic excellence 2. Social Responsibility, 3. Local and Global partnerships, 4. Entrepreneurships and Innovation (an annual impact on GDP of $1.6 BN) and 5. Capacity Development.
 
LU is particularly well known as a leading research university and in world ranking systems is in the top 100 universities of 768 universities in 85 countries based on UN sustainable development goals.
 
Of the 8505 students, 1,459 self identify as indigenous; programming and success with indigenous and international students (still interacting during the pandemic) is a big highlight.
 
There is $3.4 M in philanthropic revenue.
 
A fine video was shown and can be accessed through the Lakehead University website.
The Interactive Annual Report “Hope and Resilience” is also available online.
 
The Power Point presentation is available as well on line (see links below)
 
 
 
There was a great deal to celebrate in todays meeting.
It was capped off by “Happy Dollars” and Birthday wishes, chaired by Bill Everitt.
2021 Rotary Radio Family Day Update
Well...it's all over.......our 55th Radio Day!!!! thanks for continuing to support our efforts to support community groups around our city. And special thanks to all companies that purchased Ads to make Rotary Radio Day a success during an extraordinary time.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Clow Darling has been Thunder Bay’s source for plumbing, heating, and air conditioning for over 80 years. Port Arthur Rotary can relate to this! We have been a service organization in Thunder Bay since 1924, 96 years. Both Clow and PA Rotary are still going strong! We each have our role in making Thunder Bay a great place to live, work and play.
 
 
Thanks to Charlene and Shawn at on Memorial Avenue for becoming a "FAMILY HOUR" Sponsor for our Rotary Radio Family Day on 91.5 CKPR Official. This means Dulux will be the featured company in advertising during one hour of programming on 91.5 CKPR on Family Day in February.
 
 
Thanks to Patrick Trevisanutto and Half Way Motors group for three "Family Hour" Sponsorships of our ongoing Rotary Radio Family Day fundraising campaign.
 
Half-Way Motors Nissan, Half-Way Motors Powersports and  Half-Way Motors Mazda has stepped up in a big way to be part of our annual fundraiser. 
 
Rotary Radio Family Day on 91.5 CKPR Official is Port Arthur Rotary's biggest annual fundraiser. Visit www.parotary.com  for more information or email parotary@tbaytel.net if you would like to buy an Ad. #serviceaboveself Take advantage of Early Bird Specials if your ad(s) are purchased before December 30th. Help us help the community!! #RotaryRadioFamilyDay
 
 
Thanks to two "Family Hour" Sponsors of our ongoing Rotary Radio Family Day fundraising campaign.
 
First, Memorial Home Hardware  and secondly, Rotarian Leslie Savitsky and her Memorial Avenue businesses Super 8 by Wyndham and Choice Hotels EconoLodge
 
Rotary Radio Family Day on 91.5 CKPR Official is Port Arthur Rotary's biggest annual fundraiser. Visit www.parotary.com  for more information or email parotary@tbaytel.net if you would like to buy an Ad. #serviceaboveself Take advantage of Early Bird Specials if your ad(s) are purchased before December 30th. Help us help the community!! #RotaryRadioFamilyDay
 
 
 
“Rotary Radio Family Day” Ad Rates for 2021 Campaign
  1. “Family Hour” – (15 ads x 30 seconds) $975 donation,
    1. Early Bird ($750 if order placed before Dec 30th, 2020).
  2. “All in the Family” – (1 ad x 60 seconds) $100 donation,
    1. Early Bird ($85 if order placed before Dec 30th, 2020).
  3. “Family Ties” - (1 ad x 60 seconds) $65 donation,
    1. Early Bird ($50 if order placed before Dec 30th, 2020).
* Rotary Radio Day will air on 91.5 CKPR on Family Day, Monday February 15, 2021.
 
Port Arthur Rotary wants you to know why we raise money through fundraisers like #RotaryRadioFamilyDay.
 
Looking back to 2000, we have supported upwards of 80 organizations and causes.
 
Simply put, WE LOVE THUNDER BAY!  #serviceaboveself #peopleofaction #rotary
 
 
 
At Our Club February 2, 2021
President Krysta Logozzo Daniele welcomed 41 members and guests today.
 
It was a busy job for hosts Kevin Holloway, Bob Tomlinson and Mary-Anne Mackett.
 
Mary-Anne Mackett played O Canada and Krysta acknowledged our presence on Fort William First Nation Territory.
 
Announcement Highlights:
1.  Dew Drop Inn service of January 28th:  280 patrons served at club cost of $197 (D. Silliman)
2.  Rotary Radio Day Update (February 15th): Thanks are certainly in order to the many making this year one of the best - over 700 ads sold nearing the deadline!
3.  Fellowship Quiz Night of January 26th. A fun time had by all 30 members who joined in - thanks to Rod Morrison for organizing it.
 
Keynote Presentation:
 
PA ROTARY CLUB ALLOCATIONS for 2020-21 Budget year cycle: Allocations Chair and Past President Kevin Holloway (pictured) honoured our recipients in an effective Zoom style presentation. $9625 was approved for the very worthy organizations.
All were present to accept and thank the club except Peter Panetta of the Underground Gym who was unable to join our virtual meeting.
Kevin put together and chaired a most interesting, enjoyable and meaningful celebration. World Community Services Chair Steve MacAuley called the Allocation Committee a “well oiled machine.”
 
Here are the Allocations made:
Organization
Attending the meeting:
DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT FUNDED
Underground Gym and Youth Centre-
(Peter Panetta)
Provide Gym Equipment such as workout equipment - previous equipment was destroyed in the fire. 
Canadian Children’s Asthma Society (NW ON Branch)
 
Claudio Monteleone
And Kim Coreau
 
Asthma Education Program.  Support requested for resource packages for classroom presentations on asthma to local school children - age 7-9. Hope to visit 50 classrooms (about 1750 children) (When allowed due to pandemic) 
Childcan (Childhood Cancer)
 
Kathleen Barnard
Early Literacy Project for Children with cancer.  Support for mailing costs of one book per month for the 3 children in NW Ontario. Childcan has a partnership with Dolly Parton Imagination Library.
United Way of Thunder Bay
‘Facing Forward Mask Initiative’
 
Albert Brule
This project will help underwrite the cost of providing reusable masks to vulnerable community members to help reduce risk of wider community spread. Funds donated will be used to purchase and distribute reusable masks.
LU Scholarship
 
Rotarian Mark Tilbury,
 and Kathryn Davidson
LU Silver Jubilee Scholarship Top Up– an award to a high ranking student entering Lakehad University in any program.  Funds to top up the amount.
Northwestern Ontario Regional Science Fair
 
Brieanne Olibris
Funds typically support 2 Rotary-sponsored awards as well as the general operation of the science Fair. The awards are Rotary Preserve Planet Earth Award and Peace & Sustainable Development Award. Our funds also support the bids for 5 students to compete at the Canada-Wide Science Festival, and purchasing the materials for the Science Olympics – a group science challenge activity for the participants of the non-competitive Beginner fair. The Gold level of support ($500) has been the traditional level of support by our club.  For 2021 The local contest will be virtual, but the national contest may be in person.  TBA
Thunder Bay Robotics
 
Kai Fucile Ladouceur and Jaden Niivila
 
Funds to purchase robotic equipment to be used to prepare students for next years to STEAM competition (STEAM fields are defined science, and technology, interpreted through engineering, and the (liberal) arts, and based in mathematics)
Eco Superior
 
Sue Hamel
Three Projects funded:
1. Eco Superior would  offer Re-Wilding for Wellness Forest Therapy Walks for 3  small groups of youth or, front line workers, in the Spring of 2021.
2. Beautify Eco Superior 562 Red River, support for a local artist to paint a mural on their building
3. Initiate a Paper straws project. donate to local restaurants, to support their transition out of using single use plastic straws.
Beautification of Thunder Bay
Project
Rotarians: M.A. Mackett, J. Madder, B. Winter, B. Green, S. Crawford
To work with the city planner – identify 5 spots that Rotary could assist in beautifying,
 
Some views from our meeting:
 
ChildCan with Kathleen Barnard: provides a book a month to kids up to age 5, as educational and support aides.
 
 
  • United Way Thunder Bay providing 3000 multi-layered masks to individuals otherwise unable to utilize Covid protection masks in the “Facing Forward” For You For All program (Albert Brule).


    •  
NWO Regional Science Fair projects (Brieanne Olibris)
 
All recipients gave us a good overview of their respective missions and thanked P.A. Rotary for the financial assistance.
 
The meeting concluded with a spirited “Happy Dollars” session, all positive news.
 
Next week the Club will welcome Moira MacPherson of Lakehead University as guest speaker.
 
A great meeting!
 
At Our Club Tuesday January 19, 2021
President Kysta Logozzo Daniele welcomed 36 members and guests to this jammed packed mid-winter meeting. Notable guests included our guest speaker, Sudbury Rotarian Ian Lane (see bio below), David Roberts (Dean of Business School, LU), Rob Zuback (Confederation College), Nick Nyman (Chartwell Retirement Residences), Lori Mitchell, former ED at the Salvation Army Journey to Life Centre and club member ( now in Toronto) and former Assistant District Governor and club member Maria Hudolin (B.C.)
Rob (Con College), Nick (Chartwell) and David (LU) are all representing PA Rotary Community partners with notably, Confederation College and Chartwell becoming recent members. The club is thrilled with these new partnerships.
NB:  a suitable celebration and (novel) “induction” ceremony for these esteemed new members will be executed at an appropriate date going forward.
 
Co-hosts (with thanks today) were: Kevin Holloway, John Stephenson and Krysta Logozzo Daniele.
 
A fine O Canada with 11 language groups was played by Kevin Holloway and showcased Canadian diversity.
Krysta acknowledged our meeting being held on Fort William First Nation territory.
 
Announcement Highlights:
 
  1. Rotary Radio Day (55th edition) campaign is moving along nicely. Chair Brian Walmark is encouraged by sales. A CKPR produced videom was shown.  It was remarked that each ad takes combined HR of 6-8 hours production time. Many of the Family Day Hour donors (sold out) had FB logos shown today..
  2. Dew Drop Inn service upcoming: January 28. Volunteers to contact D. Silliman.
  3. Club meeting January 26th is a fellowship style Quiz Night...in lieu of a noon meeting. (Rod Morrison).
 
Induction of New Members:
 
Dr. Paul DeBakker and Gary Ferguson (ED of the Salvation Army Journey to Life Centre) were welcomed into the fold with introductions by Dave Legge and the formal charge being read by Past President Kevin Holloway. Gary and Paul bring strong new impact to the club, both with extensive prior experience in helping people in diverse capacities.
GUEST PRESENTATION
 
Ian Lane, Rotarian from the Sudbury Sun Rise club and Business Manager (Clinical Research Administration) with the Health Sciences North Research Institute (Sudbury) presented remotely from his home base, on the Northern Ontario Health Innovation Cluster.
Ian was introduced and thanked by President-elect Jim Madder, who has interacted with Ian through Confederation College’s Innovation Centre.
 
The “Cluster” is a great “coming together partnership” consortium, seeking to address the underfunded ($295M) gap in research funding in the north. The skillful docs and scientists are certainly available at the various sites. Ian discussed details of the various Phases, with for example a Registered Persons Database (with appropriate privacy ensured) and Indigenous Data Profile system being highlights. The concept, dynamics and early results a extremely encouraging. Our club is impressed. Thank you Ian.
 
The meeting closed with a heads up on upcoming meetings: Quiz night (Jan 26), Allocations Presentation (Feb 2) and a special Lakehead University presentation Feb 9)
Ian provided a bio overview of himself and his message:
Read more...
At Our Club January 12, 2021
President Krysta Logozzo welcomed a big crowd today of 41, including several guests and new Rotary members from Chartwell Retirement Residences (see below feature presentation), as well as Dr. Paul DeBakker and Corinne Dystevick-Graham.
 
Warren Philp and Mike Nitz were co-hosts. Mike proved his fancy bookcase backdrop was real by showing off his fancy Michael Jordan Rotary TD sneakers – neato!
 
O Canada was played and Krysta acknowledged our presence on the Fort William First Nation.
Two relevant videos were played with Warren Philp’s help: Rotary and Covid-19  (which also highlighted the Rotary Polio Plus campaign), and Rotary membership, international and local (see screenshot of a Rotary Peace Fellow).
Announcement Highlights:
  • Rotary Radio Family Day update by Brian Walmark: sales are moving nicely and we are shortly entering the production phase. Thanks to all in this big endeavour.
  • Upcoming events include PA Rotary Quiz Night at 7 pm January 26th (no noon meeting) and virtual anniversary dinner for the Canada Club Rotary clubs February 26th (contact Mike Nitz).
Feature Presentation:
 
Past-President Rod Morrison introduced and thanked our newest Community Member Rotarian, Chartwell Retirement Residences (Thunder Bay).
 
Manager Nick Nyman (pictured) exchanged greetings and introduced fellow managers K.C. Craig (also pictured) from Chartwell Isabella, Rena Maxwell (Chartwell Hilldale) and Collen Fayle (GM of two properties). This new partnership is very exciting and enlarges the Club’s reach to relevant important community organizations.
Read more...
At Our Club Tuesday January 5, 2021
President Krysta Logozzo Daniele welcomed back into the new happier year 34 members and guests, thanked our co-hosts (Bob Tomlinson, Mary-Anne Mackett), and paid respects to a much liked Rotarian, Fred Baker who recently passed away after a lengthy illness. Others who knew and loved Fred well also paid tribute (Mo Nelson, Bill Everitt and Martti Tenander).
 
Special guests today included Dan Brown (Nipigon Rotary Club and Assistant District Governor 5580), Mal Balachandran (Rotoract president) and Dr. Paul DeBakker (prospective new member).
 
As per custom, O Canada was rendered and President Krysta acknowledged the land we are living on (Fort William First Nation).
 
Announcements:
 
  1. Mal Balachandran reported on the Rotoract Clothing et al drive for Teen Challenge, as well as the Deck your Biz Challenge: both very successful.
  2. Brian Walmark updated us on ROTARY RADIO DAY (Feb 15, 2021). Several prominent members (including Bill Everitt and Art Warwick) are promoting novel ideas for sales. It is essential that all members contribute in various ways to reach our goal ($27,000 last year was a benchmark). We do have a way to go. Over the next 2 weeks , members should reach out to a minimum of 5 prospects for ads.
  3. Rod Morrison on “membership”: the club is looking at welcoming Matawa Education Centre, Chartwell Residences, and Confederation College as potential members in several forms in the new year. Stay tuned. The club is paving the way to exciting partnerships in the community.
  4. David Silliman reported on our service at the Christmas Eve Dew Drop Inn: David particularly thanks all the volunteers there who do daily service throughout the year...quite remarkable.
  5. Rod Morrison previewed some novel social oriented meetings on the new year calendar; as much as one per month. This January 26th, the meeting will be in the evening—a Quiz Night...Rod confirms it will be a blast.
And also, Rod is looking at Zoom tutoring from Kevin Holloway to make his upcoming meetings more efficient and enjoyable.
 
Presentation 1
 
Warren Philp has his thinking cap on and is doing the heavy early lifting on proposals for our club’s 100th anniversary in 2024. He has a fine team already assembled under him.
He circulated to all members a fulsome list with a diverse spectrum  of tangible possible projects , some with substantial price tags, but with many possible partnerships aiding the cause, examples, the City of Thunder Bay (with Werner Schwar), Magnus Theatre and the Waverley coalition (for projects at Waverley park) and many more. 
Areas like the waterfront, the Salvation Army Field of Greens renewal, natural Rotary playground, splash pads and more are all under preliminary consideration. Integrating the club interest in Indigenous partnership is seen in others such as a monument to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, and the Thunder Bay Art Gallery.
Kevin Holloway, Allocations Chair, reminded us that some funds have been awarded (to be ratified soon) for beautification project work.
Members are encouraged to read Warren’s full communique for all the other ideas. Warren welcomes all those who can contribute...sign ups have occurred already.
 
Presentation 2
 
President Krysta presented on the club: 2020 “A Year in Review”
 
Life is different: the club has done admirably, given the reality of Covid. She gave a thoughtful fulsome list of successful projects, engaging fellowship events and a commendation to those who aided us in the virtual interaction at so many levels that kept us motivated and grounded regardless of the new realities.
Her Power Point presentation summarized our year admirably.
Happy Dollars
 
Doug Shanks was Happy Dollars Facilitator today (not Sargent at Arms).
Numerous members contributed with a wide variety of personal, fond thoughts and thanks.
 
 
At Our Club December 22, 2020
President Krysta Logozzo-Daniele cordially welcomed 30 Rotarians and guests to a very festive, fun-filled fellowship style meeting today - our last meeting for 2020.
Special guests included Assistant District 5580 Governor Dan Brown (Nipigon), Past-Presidents Maria Hudolin (B.C.) and John Stewart, as well as Dr. Paul DeBakker.
Thanks go to our Zoom hosts doing the essential tech work: Jim Madder, Kevin Holloway and Steve McCauley.
O Canada was sung by an inclusive First Nation youth choir, with heritage shots from Winnipeg (with thanks to Brian Walmark).
Krysta acknowledged we meet on the lands of the Fort William First Nation Territory following the Robinson Superior Treaty of 1850.
Business Highlights:
  • Dew Drop Inn service is on...December 24th (David Silliman)
  • Rotarian Fred Baker is in our thoughts at this time
  • The 4 way Test Essay resulted in all 3 winners being students of St. Ignatius School (Mary-Anne Mackett our rep on the committee, Ken Boschoff that school’s liaison)
  • The St Jame’s School virtual Pen Pal experiment is off and running and early results are very promising and novel (Mary-Anne Mackett at the helm, thanks all for submissions!)
  • The Allocation Committee (thanks to Kevin Holloway as Chair) has completed their recommendations and Board approvals are being considered, with results to come.
  • The Rotary Carol Sing on behalf of Christmas Cheer Fund was very successful. Revenue figures are pending (Dave Silliman)
  • District requests for contribution suggestions were circulated by President Krysta.
  • Keep up efforts to support Rotary Radio Family Day!
 White Elephant Gift Exchange
Under the direction of Fellowship Chair Mike Nitz and elf-aid Albert Brulé, this was a blast! Lots of fun, laughs and surprising gifts were enjoyed by all (see screenshots of a few of them). Jim Madder seemed the most gobsmacked, and can we say pleased? by his secret Santa gift🤣.
           
The Rotary House Band Re-incarnated
Our annual Christmas party required an extraordinary effort at virtual carolling. Kevin Holloway was very much up to the task with new VIDEO PAD technology. He spliced together the voices and guitar accompaniment for Feliz Navidad and We Wish You a Merry Christmas (special thanks to Kevin, Bill Ulakovic and Doug Shanks (guitars and vocals), Daves Legge and Silliman (voice), and President Krysta (tambourines and smiles). Well done, team, and a big hand for countless hours of toil for Kevin. Watch ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas’ https://vimeo.com/493917750
Watch ‘Felix Navidad’. https://vimeo.com/493921970
Happy Birthdays and Happy Dollars:
Brian Thompson was again in rare form with birthday greetings and humour giving us a whole new meaning to “Carols / Carol’s” at Christmastime.  He generated some funds for Dew Drop Inn with “Happy Dollars”. This was an opportunity for members/friends/family to thank their chums for a great job done in a precarious 2020.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all:
Be safe, be wise, considerate and loving...
 
Essay Contest Winner Announced

ROTARY ESSAY CONTEST WINNERS ANNOUNCED!

Amanda Pacholczak,  a Grade 12 student at St. Ignatius High School, was awarded the $500 top prize in the Rotary 4-Way Test Essay Contest.   She applied the principles of the 4-Way Test in her essay titled “Vacationing Abroad: Ethical or Not”.   In addition to this top award, Pacholczak’s essay will be entered in the Rotary District 5580 Essay Competition for an opportunity to win another $1,100 USD.

In addition to Amanda Pacholczak’s first place prize, Veronica Pacholczak was awarded a $200 prize for second place, and Spencer Lenardon was awarded a $100 prize for third place.   All three prize winners are Grade 12 students at St. Ignatius High School.

Rotary is the world’s largest and oldest humanitarian service network.   There are four local Rotary clubs in the Thunder Bay and Nipigon area and a Thunder Bay Rotaract club.   Membership includes and welcomes individuals who are interested in serving their community and making a difference in our world.   Our clubs work to serve and financially support local and international initiatives with a primary focus on health, water and sanitation, literacy and education, community development and peace.

Rotary Clubs around the world offer this Essay Contest as an incentive to young people  to develop their skills of self-expression and as evidence of a sincere interest in the ideals of our youth.   All students in their final two years of high school are eligible to participate.

The essay can deal with any topic of the student’s choosing, but it must apply the principles of the Rotary 4-Way Test:

●   Is it the TRUTH?

●   Is it FAIR to all concerned?

●   Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?

●   Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?

The Rotary 4-Way Test was first conceived in 1932 at the height of the Great Depression by a Chicago businessman who was faced with the challenge of saving a major company from bankruptcy.   Looking for a way to save the company, he sought a short yardstick of ethics that could be used.   Company personnel were asked to learn the test and to observe it as a guide to every aspect of business.   As a result, a climate of trust and goodwill gradually developed among dealers, customers and employees, and the 4-Way Test was credited with returning the company to a thriving status.

The 4-Way Test has inspired safe driving programs, crime and drug reduction activities, and has been the subject of countless secondary school essays.   The message has appeared on roadside billboards, bronze plaques and has been translated into more than 100 languages.

Amanda Pacholczak’s winning essay was chosen by a panel of judges from the four local Rotary Clubs and the local Rotaract Club.   Her essay is now being submitted to compete against essays coming from the remainder of the Rotary 5580 District , which includes North Dakota, Northern Minnesota, and Northwest Wisconsin.

For more information, please go to www.rotary5580.org and the Social Media channels of the four local Rotary Clubs and Rotaract, or contact Cynthia Judge, Essay Contest Chair, President, Fort William Rotary Club.

Well done all essay writers!

 

At Our Club December 15, 2020
Today’s meeting was hosted by Kevin Holloway with Bob Tomlinson and Mary-Anne Mackett co-hosting.
 
President Krysta Logozzo-Daniele acknowledged our place on 1850 Robinson Superior Treaty Lands, and welcomed 35 members on the Zoom platform. Guests included today’s speakers Jeff Gibson and  Ryleigh Dupuis as well as Linda Penner all of the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra, Rotarian Bill Bartley of Canmore Alberta and Dr. Paul de Bakker.
 
Kevin Holloway shared an outstanding version of O Canada by The Tenors, formerly known as The Canadian Tenors. Truly uplifting!
 
Announcements:
 
Bill Green reported on the successful Salvation Army Kettle drive participation. Contact Salvation Army directly as they could use more volunteers in this last week.
 
David Silliman reported on the success of the wonderful Virtual Carol Night. Some 352 people tuned in and money was raised for the Christmas Cheer Fund.  Access the presentation on Vimeo at will; it will also be aired on Shaw Cable and on Rotary Radio Family Day! Terrific exposure. David noted Diana Hannaford-Wilcox’s dedication to the production of this event with many fine local musicians and personnel creating excellent content. Great work by musicians and well put together by Kevin Holloway! 
 
Mark Tilbury reported on the Global District Scholarship grant – who won it and how. A Masters student from Fargo, N Dakota will head to Edinburgh to her degree Occupational Therapy with  District and national funds of up to $50,000.
 
Warren Philp stepped in for Brian Walmark whose mother recently passed away to report on Rotary Radio Family Day ad sales: 15 of over 40 members have sold 300+ ads. We need more participation so we are exhorted to help tackle some 450 past prospects and our own immediate networks to seek support. Bill Everitt has tips on getting out there and challenged us all to even give $100 personally to support this effort.  Think of how much we have saved paring down all our typical social activities during the Pandemic… Good point, Bill!
Reminder: Re Volker & Sandi Culinary Adventures cooking demo this Wednesday at 7 pm: see Website for details.
Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra (TBSO)
 
Guest presenters Ryleigh Dupuis (GM and Executive Director) and Jeff Gibson (retiring Comptroller and former principal horn) were introduced by Mary-Anne Mackett. Their joint presentation was spirited, frank and encouraging. Covid-19 required a big shift from live to virtual performances and interestingly enough the virtual offerings meant not only significant local viewing but audiences from across Canada and as far away as Chile and Switzerland.  Our orchestra has the highest level of support from the community of any orchestra in Canada; other orchestras rely more on ticket sales and government support.  The Hilldale Church and Magnus theatre are strong partners as well.  Great to hear!
 
 
           
      
Rotarians were then privileged to view the premiere of an outstanding Christmas video ‘Imagine the Town of Bethlehem’ arranged by TBSO resident conductor Maria Fuller. Musicians played in the Hilldale Church and the choir sang in outdoor venues throughout the city.  Beautiful, inspiring, moving - it was all of those things. There was a lively Q&A before Mary-Anne Mackett thanked them both for their talk to our Club on relatively short notice.
 
Warren Philp made a pitch for happy dollars and members responded: shout-outs to the TBSO and Covid vaccine roll out getting started.
President Krysta reminded us tomorrow is the Holiday Event Cooking with Volker, next week is a social Zoom meeting with a White Elephant gift exchange and music. There is a break after that with no meeting on December 29th.
 
Upcoming events/reminders:
 
- Wed Dec 16th, 7 to 8 pm – NEW DATE Rotary Holiday Event Virtual Cooking Class "Adventures in Cooking with Volker and Friends" Volker Kromm and Sandi Krasowski will prepare a European Christmas dinner.  Cost $20, all proceeds to RFDA, recipes sent out after.
 
- Fri Dec 18th NEW DATE to leave gifts on porch – for the Dec 22nd Holiday Meeting White Elephant Gift Exchange -  LAST CHANCE to join in - michael.nitz@td.com.
 
- Dec 29th Meeting cancelled.
 
- PA Rotary CENTENNIAL - Its hard to believe that our club's 100 year anniversary is around the corner!  At this week's meeting Warren will tell us about a committee that is forming and will be looking for Rotarians to get involved.
 
- Rotaract Holiday Drive - Our local Rotaractors are hosting a Gift Drive in support of Adult and Teen Challenge Thunder Bay.  Items can be dropped off until Dec 20th, 2020.  Details included on the attached photo. 
 
- Deck Your Biz - Thunder Bay Rotary Clubs and Rotaract are hosting "Deck Your Biz" a Festive Business Window decoration contest! We are asking local businesses to decorate their storefronts and submit a picture. The winning business window will win $1000 dollars to the charity of their choice. This also comes with bragging rights!  Details included on the attached photo.   
 
- Radio Day Family Day -  2 weeks left before 2020 pricing ends!    Please email campaign Chair Brian Walmark if you have any questions  bwalmark@tbaytel.net.   
 
At Our Club December 8, 2020
President Krysta Logozzo-Daniele welcomed 36 Rotarians and guests today. Guests included Bill and Jan Dickerson and their Dana who was our Guest Speaker, Paul DeBakker, Mal Balachandran and Mary Durward (Rotary District 5580 Youth Exchange lead from Minnesota).
 
Zoom Co-hosts: Warren Philp, Bob Tomlinson, Kevin Holloway. Thanks, Gents.
 
President Krysta commenced with a respectful land acknowledgement after O Canada was played – thanks Bob Tomlinson.
 
FEATURED PRESENTATION No. 1:
 
Kevin Holloway played the Dew Drop Inn video, a small masterpiece created by Kevin Holloway and a host of Rotarians showing how prep is done by our cheerful club members in the current Covid-19 environment with screens, PPE and “take out” style lunch. 
 
Kevin Holloway was M.C. of the show and our Fort Severn FN community member, Chief Paul Burke joined in as well as Past President Vonnie Cheng and Rotarian Brian Walmark and others.  Lots of fun!
  
 
Port Arthur Rotary has served at this site for 25 years.  Our Club is a well-oiled machine here with consistent good spirits.  Thanks go out to the large number who made this video possible.
 
FEATURED PRESENTATION No. 2
 
Back in 2005-2006, Dana Dickerson was chosen by the District to be our Club’s Rotary Outbound Exchange Student to France.  Today she recapped “A Year in (not Provence) Romans” which was an exhilarating experience in three host homes in southeastern France in the foothills of the Alps.
 
Dana was introduced by a former and veteran Thunder Bay host parent for inbound students, Past President Warren Philp.  Rotarian Doug Shanks, another former host, provided a summary of our involvement in this program.  The first Rotary Exchange Intern in Rotary generally was in 1929.  Our Club’s first Exchange Student were in 1979 and it remains a vitally important program. These young people have been great ambassadors in promoting world peace and understanding, and Dana was and is great example.
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At Our Club December 1, 2020
President Krysta Logozzo-Daniele welcomed 35 members and guests today. There was a highly-anticipated presentation by Georjann Morriseau, Chair of the Thunder Bay Police Services Board (see picture). Guests included Mal Balachandran (Rotoract President), Dr. Paul DeBakker, Frank Daniele and David Richards (corporate member from Lakehead University).

Thank you Zoom hosts Bob Tomlinson, Mary-Anne Mackett and Kevin Holloway.

After our national anthem O Canada was played,  President Krysta acknowledged the Indigenous nature of the land we live and work on.

FEATURE PRESENTATION

Georjann Morriseau is the current Chair of the Thunder Bay Police Services Board and the well-known former Chief of the Fort William First Nation. She has an extensive and well-recognized background in aboriginal law, including policing, native justice and teaching. Georjann has worked with and consulted at all levels of federal, provincial and municipal government. She was eloquently introduced and later thanked by PA Rotary Past-President John Stephenson, who has had a long-time relationship through FORM Architects with Ms Morriseau.

Given her extraordinary schedule and responsibilities, she responded off the top, that "sleep is overrated these days," thanking our Club for the invitation and indicating that a brief overview concerning her role and the current situation in Thunder Bay was in order, followed by a more meaningful Question and Answer style interactive dialogue. Pretty soon, the Zoom "Chat Box" was overwhelmed with questions!

 
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At Our Club November 24, 2020
AT OUR CLUB NOVEMBER 24, 2020

President Krysta Logozzo-Daniele welcomed 33 members and guests (the latter including Roger Drcar of Lakehead Public Schools Student Success Teaching Department, Frank Daniele, Alyson MacKay of Lakehead University, Shelley Crawford (see below), and our special guest speaker John Mason).

Cohosts (with thanks today): Bob Tomlinson, Steve McCauley and Jim Madder. Tech lead again was Kevin Holloway.

O Canada and land acknowledgements by President Krysta were followed by:

A) Induction of new member to Port Arthur Rotary: Shelley Crawford



Shelley was introduced by proposer Mary-Anne Mackett, who outlined Shelley's long career in arts administration including consulting and teaching as well as fund raising and arts development in Canada and abroad. The "charge" was delivered by Past-President Brenda Winter who welcomed her with an overview of Rotary and its obligations and rewards and will act as her Mentor. President Krysta did a virtual "pinning" and the Club informally welcomed her with open arms.
Shelley thanked the members for their kind reception and looks forward to fellowship and service within this organization.

B) GUEST PRESENTATION

Former government geologist and current Project Manager for Mining Services with the Thunder Bay Community Development Commission John Mason (http://www.thunderbay.ca/cedc.htm) provided a wide ranging overview of the many mining operations in play in northwestern Ontario. He mentioned included current producers and exploration companies and major highlights of many important mines. In all, they have a big impact on economic life in this huge geographical area of Northwest Ontario.

    
Photographs showing:  1. John Mason and associate going over mining maps.   2. Screen shot showing the significant scope of business inter-relationships at one business alone (Newmont Musselwhite) with 390 suppliers!   3. Overhead view at the mid tier New Gold Rainy River site.

 
 
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At Our Club Tuesday November 17, 2020
AT OUR CLUB November 17, 2020

President Krysta Logozzo Daniele today (on Zoom) welcomed 30 members and guests (including Mal Balachandran, Shelley Crawford and former 5580 Assistant DG and PA Rotarian Maria Hudolin (in B.C).
 Co-hosts today were Kevin Holloway, Brian Walmark, Warren Philp and Krysta Logozzo Daniele
Krysta properly acknowledged the land we are living on.

Kevin Holloway played an invigorating O Canada from Toronto Raptor's Jurassic Park...enjoyed by all.

Our lead presentation today was on the subject of Rotary Radio Day (February 15, 2020-Family Day), by esteemed Chair Brian Walmark.


Brian's enthusiasm is palpable. His "Sales Pitches"are already generating some early returns and helpful messaging tips were provided.
The target sales milestones and many rewards were again mentioned.

 Some of the dedicated sales members such as Bill Everitt spoke on individual success strategies, based on a personal approach to prospects.
Albert Brulé, ED and CEO of Thunder Bay United Way has suggested a mechanism for the club to direct assignment of Rotary donated dollars to charities allowing for individual donor charitable tax receipts--stay tuned. Can this be worked into RRD?

Materials have been circulated and members are encouraged to contact Brian at bwalmark@tbaytel.net. Preferred payments are via e-transfer to Chris Bailey (Treasurer) at parotarytreasurer@gmail.com . Sellers should email scanned completed sales forms to portarotary@gmail.com.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

 Note: Members should (also) peruse President Krysta's fulsome communique of November 16th for a more fulsome overview of the club' s many activities

1. The Rotary Christmas Social this year (recall last year's rocking good time with Danny Johnson et al) will be different. It will be virtual with the Lakehead Rotary Club as lead.
On December 9, via Zoom, Adventures in Cooking will be presented with Chef Volker Kromm (Lakehead club and RFDA CEO) along with journalist Sandi Krasowski putting on a great culinary show. Tickets will ben $20 per attendee and charitable receipts available. 

2. The club Salvation Army Kettle service needs a few more sign ups. (Bill Green at bgreen@tbaytel.net)

3. Dew Drop Inn Service is November 22 with 0930-1200 noon and 1230-1530h slots (contact D. Silliman)

4. The St. James Project is moving ahead slowly but surely. A partnership between the local kids and a school at Fort Severn FN is promising (thanks to Brian Walmark, Chief Paul Burke and Mary-Anne Mackett)

5. The Wellness Committee report involved some discussion on the scope and nuance involved in keeping our kin together in uncertain times, emphasizing many variations such as individual sensitivities and circumstances  (J.Dojack, D. Legge, K. Holloway). Covid times can exacerbate the issues.

6. The Allocation Committee structure and function was reviewed by Chair Kevin Holloway with a vision tba for this years cycle. Committee members will be coalescing soon.

7. Interesting meetings upcoming were outlined. The December 29 Rotary meeting will be cancelled...all can take a breather. December 22 is still on.

8. Certain members will be involved in video promos for the club (Warren Philp gave a fine demo today on the spot... WE are Rotary//WE are People of Action...thanks W.P.)
 
9. An update on the District grant process for the Wilderness Discovery Centre and channeling of pledges indicated a stay tuned approach.
At Our Club Tuesday Novenber 10, 2020
President Krysta Logozzo Daniele chaired a very moving Remembrance Day Service meeting engineered by co-hosts Warren Philp, Mike Nitz, Bob Tomlinson and with special thanks to Kevin Holloway and Jim Madder for organizing:

1. A moving video of Elgar's Nimrod (Enigma Variations) performed by an Irish string quartet.

2. A stirring O Canada performed by multiple Canadian Armed Forces Bands

3. The Last Post, Minute of Silence and Reveille

4. Port Arthur Rotarian M.O. Nelson, WW 2 Canadian Navy Veteran reading In Flanders Fields at the Lake Superior Scottish Regiment Memorial to the 52nd NW Ontario Battalion Canadian Expedition (North Cumberland St)


3. A heartfelt and educational presentation by special guest Lt. Commander Nathanael Moulson, Commanding Officer, Canadian Naval Reserves headquartered at HMCS GRIFFON.(nathanael.moulson@forces.gc.ca). The presentation enlightened everyone on the scope and impact of the Griffon throughout it's history and strong partnership within the community.  See pictures of :LtC Moulson, the Griffon regiment of yore, the HMCS Port Arthur, and a modern reservist, part of the "Force Generation" Lt Camille Hamm (a NOSM med student). The club is very much indebted to LtC Moulson for this high energy overview of the HMCS Griffon and it's many important manifestations to life locally and all of Canada.

-------------------------------------------------

The meeting also discussed important club initiatives including stepping up to support the Salvation Army Kettle Drive Service (Steve McCauley and Bill Green), Rotary Radio Day (Brian Walmark) and "Happy Dollar" contributions for excellence (Bill Everitt)

 
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Krysta Logozzo Daniele

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