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Welcome to our Website!
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
Thunder Bay, ON P7A 4K8
Canada
Country on the Bay was a great event for Thunder Bay! Local Rotary Clubs and others volunteered to run the busy beer tents in return for loads of community fun and music with a side-order of fundraising. Here's just one of those three tents, and a view of the stage:
Centennial Committee Report – new logo, ongoing progress on the 2024 Centennial Project at the new Thunder Bay Art Gallery.
Catch the Ace – Jackpot is large, only 10 cards remaining!
Dew Drop Inn – call Judi Turner to sign up for our monthly community service Thursday July 28th.
President Brian Walmark began this spirited meeting with his personal Land Acknowledgement and Indigenous-themed reflection.
Werner Schwar, Supervisor of Parks and Open Space Planning for the City of Thunder Bay has extensive experience as a landscape architect and more! He outlined the many excellent city projects underway, all greatly enhancing Thunder Bay’s landscape:
Werner Schwar, Supervisor of Parks and Open Space Planning for the City of Thunder Bay has extensive experience as a landscape architect and more! He outlined the many excellent city projects underway, all greatly enhancing Thunder Bay’s landscape:
AT OUR CLUB July 19, 2022
A special meeting was held at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery, chaired by President Brian Walmark.
Once again Brian presented an exceptional and meaningful land acknowledgement, especially in this setting.
FEATURE PRESENTATION
Past President Bill Everitt and Centennial Committee member, presented on the findings and consensus leading the club to our substantial donation to the TBAG, towards a community room in the new waterfront gallery.
A wine and cheese reception took place at this present TBAG location at Confederation College. Executive Director Sharon Godwin presented on the very exciting progress, especially given the recent federal grant government commitment. Members were able to peruse the plans for this wonderful new carbon neutral building on the waterfront.
A special meeting was held at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery, chaired by President Brian Walmark.
Once again Brian presented an exceptional and meaningful land acknowledgement, especially in this setting.
FEATURE PRESENTATION
Past President Bill Everitt and Centennial Committee member, presented on the findings and consensus leading the club to our substantial donation to the TBAG, towards a community room in the new waterfront gallery.
A wine and cheese reception took place at this present TBAG location at Confederation College. Executive Director Sharon Godwin presented on the very exciting progress, especially given the recent federal grant government commitment. Members were able to peruse the plans for this wonderful new carbon neutral building on the waterfront.
Shelley Crawford spoke briefly on the importance of this club's commitment to this project which will be a huge boost to the city and country.
The lovely physical ambience of this night's meeting was apparent to all. The current exhibits were viewed and admired.
Sharon and the Committee will keep the club informed regularly into the future.
See picture including Director Sharon Godwin.
NEW MEMBER INDUCTION
The club welcomed (Past President of TB Rotaract club) Karissa Kilby (3rd from the left) as a bona fide new member of the "senior" PA Rotary club. Karissa was on hand and pictured with members at the induction ceremony.
Her colleague Elyse Pither attended as well (the incoming Rotaract President).
The club is thrilled to have Karissa on board and she will be assisting in furthering the club social media platform development.
This event is a unique membership induction of a recent TB Rotaract member and augers well for us into the future.
The club thanks Sharon Godwin for hosting us for this exciting event.
PA Rotary News:
Bob Tomlinson and Doug Shanks look very happy getting ready for the Country on the Bay July 22-24 where Rotarians will be serving as volunteer bartenders. (T-shirts provided and parking passes)
Leslie Savitsky reported about driving 3 local High School Students to the RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Award) event in Crookston MN. Find more info at RYLA 5580.
Warren Philp reminds us about the good works of City of Thunder Bay Landscape Architect and Parks Planner Werner Schwar in regards to Thunder Bay’s City Parks and future waterfront trail development.
John Stephenson invites Rotarians to open up their homes to incoming Student Exchanges, September looms! More info: https://www.rotary.org/en/our-programs/youth-exchanges
Brenda Winter was commandeered (happily) once again to seek out Happy Dollar$ from a not too shabby Summer Tuesday meeting of 22 souls.
At the Club July 12th: Hector Dougall’s offering for O Canada was showcased by operettic trio, ‘The Tenors’ at a Toronto Raptors game. Very flamboyant, very in tune.
President Brian reminded us of the good works of Rotarian Anton Waschuk towards the Ukrainian struggle against modern day tyranny. Please support what you can. To learn more, follow this link: https://www.rotary.org/en/rotary-responds-support-ukraine
Dougall Media Mogul and PA Rotary member Hector Dougall presented an overview clip of all that Dougall Media offers Thunder Bay in our realm of a true north before he handed over the screen to 18 year veteran Leith Dunick whom Hector introduces as navigating all of us into the world of the 22nd century of journalism in all its guises. 3 websites (2 new, to serve west to Kenora and east from Nipigon to Wawa, and 4 radio stations.
Leith reflected on aspects of the Dougall Media’s mission statement:
- the immediacy of the internet, “seconds after something happens” demands they get it right, even if they were not first;
- admitting the ”big platform” of the internet has changed our world and how we all behave in it;
- being held accountable to true and accurate information;
- always striving to tell the complete stories, giving perspective to both sides;
- “our stories” the right way, not showing bias.
A typical Day is outlined by Leith :
- Every day begins with a 30 minute story meeting with the reporters;
- stories are vetted and discussed, relevance to the region;
- to draw upon other resources and organizations sand monitor national interests, both Provincial and Federal sources;
- then reporters “hit the pavement”;
- heavy-heavy editing, 2 or 3 pairs of eyes review all stories;
- Breaking News just a few lines, never publish until complete, the news is about people’s lives!
A Documentary is in progress about “our own”, Thunder Bay’s residential school story.
A First Nations youth reporter has been assigned in Rocky Bay FN. (!) Will be in constant contact, representing their story sensitivities.
Leith advises not to spend too much time on social media!
Brian thanked Hector and Leith for their presentation and thanked the Dougall family for their long time involvement in Rotary Radio Family Day fundraiser on 91-5 CKPR
.
President Brian Walmark chair his first Rotary meeting of his year.
Our guest speaker was Gail Brescia, Executive Director of the St. Joseph’s Foundation, (sjftb.net) and distinguished Lakehead Rotarian, provided a comprehensive overview of the huge scope and diversity of care dating back 140 years provided by the Sisters of St. Joseph.
A recently developed video highlighted the history, with narration by Sister Bonnie McLellan.
Currently, the St. Joseph’s Care Group has an expanded care mandate encompassing seniors care, rehab care, complex care, addictions and mental health in a renowned multiple service to all citizens in the northwest. Sister Bonnie says: “we work with people on the fringe and embrace everyone.”
Acute care at St. Joes moved to chronic care in 1999. Now there are many sites including the main hospital, Hogarth Riverview Manor, Sister Margaret Smith Centre (addiction care), Dawson Road Lodge and Bethammi Nursing Home.
The leadership in all aspects of development were outlined in the fine video. The great work of the Foundation was highlighted, through thick and thin.
There were many accolades and questions from the audience members.
There were many accolades and questions from the audience members.
Gail was introduced and thanked by President Brian Walmark.
AT OUR CLUB June 28, 2022
Incoming President for 2022-23 Brian Walmark presided today, with assistance from co-hosts Warren Philp, Matt Villella, and outgoing president Jim Madder.
Members acknowledge the excellent Newsletter communiques executed by Jim over the past Rotary year.
Thus, please review Jim's June 27th communique for a fulsome overview of this week's news.
Special welcome guests today included Frank Wilson (WT RCAT) and Mike den Haan (VP External Relations at LU)
Brian's expanded land acknowledgement today was special. It was meaningful, relevant and what he termed " the first step only, in true reconciliation"
Warren Philp introduced our distinguished speaker today. Fort William FN Chief Peter Collins spoke to us from his office, (whilst juggling other significant demands) on economic development : past, present and future at Fort William First Nation.
See pic
Chief Collins is the long serving Chief of Fort William First Nation. He will be stepping aside at the end of this his tenth and final term. He has overseen a massive transformation of Fort William First Nation in terms of economic, social and educational development. Chief Collins is one of those rare leaders who balances the economic needs of his people with social development. He is a strong champion of education and its potential to empower members of his community. He previously served 9 years as Regional Grand Chief of the Northern Superior Region, chair of Dillico Child and Family Services and currently holds a Board position with the, Anishnawbek Nation, formally know as the Union of Ontario Indians.
He was first elected chief in 1998, following several years on band council. His extensive experience covered relations between Anishnabwek peoples (and non) in this area and by sheer determination, resulting major economic successes over the years. The accompanying photo shows him wearing a Resolute ball cap. The original Fort William FN agreement with (then) Bowater resulted in the mill build, principally by his people. A number of other accomplishments were then discussed. FWFN members are treaty rights holders, not "opponents" They work hard to succeed as a community.
Chief Collins reaffirmed in addition his commitment to education of his youth and a special desire to assist members with disabilities.
The club is indebted to Chief Collins for his taking the time from his busy schedule to address us. There are many positive commonalities between our organizations. He was thanked by Brian Walmark.
__________________________________
CLUB NEWS ADDENDA:
(refer to Jim Madder's communique June 27th)
1. (Warren Philp): Waterfront Trail Rotary Action Team: acknowledgements abound to contributors including President Madder.
An economic and tourism impact study is moving ahead on this big project, as well as a website.
2. (Bob and Joanne Tomlinson): Wilderness Discovery Centre: final electrical and plumbing touches are completed at the staff quarters. Bob showed slides-very professional results.
RYLA transportation salutes Leslie Savitsky (front leg to Duluth) and Brenda Winter (returnees arriving back from Duluth).
Country on the Bay at FT William Historic Park; preparations being finalized with club volunteer assignments forthcoming.
3. (John Stephenson): Our Thai incoming student Fern will be attending St.Ignatius High School. Matt Diegel and John are working on final touches and Shelley Crawford is coming on board as Youth Exchange Student Counsellor. A 2nd potential host family is identified. Two more host families need to step up.
4. (Brian Walmark) thanked Kim Gurnett and Jim Madder for a wonderful Passing the Gavel afternoon at Jim's residence.
Kevin Holloway showed a variety of videos including the spoof Rotary Philharmonic Band and Choir effort. All fun.
5.(Shelley Crawford) encourages participation in a big funding announcement at TB Art Gallery (3:30 p.m.) Thursday, June 30th.
6. Happy Dollars: Once again nice contributions engineered by Warren Philp.
Incoming President for 2022-23 Brian Walmark presided today, with assistance from co-hosts Warren Philp, Matt Villella, and outgoing president Jim Madder.
Members acknowledge the excellent Newsletter communiques executed by Jim over the past Rotary year.
Thus, please review Jim's June 27th communique for a fulsome overview of this week's news.
Special welcome guests today included Frank Wilson (WT RCAT) and Mike den Haan (VP External Relations at LU)
Brian's expanded land acknowledgement today was special. It was meaningful, relevant and what he termed " the first step only, in true reconciliation"
Warren Philp introduced our distinguished speaker today. Fort William FN Chief Peter Collins spoke to us from his office, (whilst juggling other significant demands) on economic development : past, present and future at Fort William First Nation.
See pic
Chief Collins is the long serving Chief of Fort William First Nation. He will be stepping aside at the end of this his tenth and final term. He has overseen a massive transformation of Fort William First Nation in terms of economic, social and educational development. Chief Collins is one of those rare leaders who balances the economic needs of his people with social development. He is a strong champion of education and its potential to empower members of his community. He previously served 9 years as Regional Grand Chief of the Northern Superior Region, chair of Dillico Child and Family Services and currently holds a Board position with the, Anishnawbek Nation, formally know as the Union of Ontario Indians.
He was first elected chief in 1998, following several years on band council. His extensive experience covered relations between Anishnabwek peoples (and non) in this area and by sheer determination, resulting major economic successes over the years. The accompanying photo shows him wearing a Resolute ball cap. The original Fort William FN agreement with (then) Bowater resulted in the mill build, principally by his people. A number of other accomplishments were then discussed. FWFN members are treaty rights holders, not "opponents" They work hard to succeed as a community.
Chief Collins reaffirmed in addition his commitment to education of his youth and a special desire to assist members with disabilities.
The club is indebted to Chief Collins for his taking the time from his busy schedule to address us. There are many positive commonalities between our organizations. He was thanked by Brian Walmark.
__________________________________
CLUB NEWS ADDENDA:
(refer to Jim Madder's communique June 27th)
1. (Warren Philp): Waterfront Trail Rotary Action Team: acknowledgements abound to contributors including President Madder.
An economic and tourism impact study is moving ahead on this big project, as well as a website.
2. (Bob and Joanne Tomlinson): Wilderness Discovery Centre: final electrical and plumbing touches are completed at the staff quarters. Bob showed slides-very professional results.
RYLA transportation salutes Leslie Savitsky (front leg to Duluth) and Brenda Winter (returnees arriving back from Duluth).
Country on the Bay at FT William Historic Park; preparations being finalized with club volunteer assignments forthcoming.
3. (John Stephenson): Our Thai incoming student Fern will be attending St.Ignatius High School. Matt Diegel and John are working on final touches and Shelley Crawford is coming on board as Youth Exchange Student Counsellor. A 2nd potential host family is identified. Two more host families need to step up.
4. (Brian Walmark) thanked Kim Gurnett and Jim Madder for a wonderful Passing the Gavel afternoon at Jim's residence.
Kevin Holloway showed a variety of videos including the spoof Rotary Philharmonic Band and Choir effort. All fun.
5.(Shelley Crawford) encourages participation in a big funding announcement at TB Art Gallery (3:30 p.m.) Thursday, June 30th.
6. Happy Dollars: Once again nice contributions engineered by Warren Philp.
President Jim Madder chaired his penultimate meeting today, the summer solstice, and celebrating National Indigenous People's Day.
There is a healthy movement within the club referencing partnership, inclusion, and reconciliation with our Indigenous brothers and sisters.
Commencing with the O Canada sung by FN students in Manitoba, and a land acknowledgement, Jim reflected on the above and the many current club business activities, past, present and future including a healthy roundtable discussion on our direction into the future.
(Members : consult Jim's fulsome June 20th communique (by email).
Business Addenda/Updates
1.Catch the Ace: This important fundraising event has done well with the elusive prize climbing and proceeds available for needy organizations. A number of new candidate fund recipients were brought forward today (Albert Brulé).
There is a healthy movement within the club referencing partnership, inclusion, and reconciliation with our Indigenous brothers and sisters.
Commencing with the O Canada sung by FN students in Manitoba, and a land acknowledgement, Jim reflected on the above and the many current club business activities, past, present and future including a healthy roundtable discussion on our direction into the future.
(Members : consult Jim's fulsome June 20th communique (by email).
Business Addenda/Updates
1.Catch the Ace: This important fundraising event has done well with the elusive prize climbing and proceeds available for needy organizations. A number of new candidate fund recipients were brought forward today (Albert Brulé).
2. Rotary In-Bound Student Exchange: Progress is made made with 2 host families on board. A "counsellor" position still needs to be filled (contact John Stephenson, Matt Diegel). Our Thai student will be attending Superior CVI in September.
3. Meeting format: of considerable importance: current thinking is: weeks 1 and 3, hybrid/ weeks 2 and 4 social and service/ and where a 5th week occurs, business.
4. Dew Drop Inn: Service for June 23 requires members to step up (D. Silliman)
5. Volunteer hours feedback: (Jim Madder) is accessing data on total hours served: quite impressive
6. Jim Madder passes the gavel this coming Saturday at his residence: details in communique. A unique opportunity for socializing and paying respect for Jim's fine year at the helm as president.
7. Happy Dollars: This has become an excellent fundraising activity that is fun and and satisfying for all (Bill Everitt today in charge). It helps our treasury as well. (C. Bailey)
1) Driver needed to bring our RYLA students back from Duluth July 17th: Bob Tomlinson
2) More volunteers please for Country on the Bay at Ft William Historic Park, July 21 through 24. Rotarians, your friends and family can be servers. Our Club earns $ for our charity fund! Smart Serve required: Bob Tomlinson.
3) During June, Rotaract gets 15% of all Sleeping Giant orders including non-alcohol via link: https://sleepinggiantbrewing.ca/pro…/thunderbayrotaractclub/ Win-win for Rotaract!
4) Rotary Youth Exchange hosts and counsellor urgently needed: John Stephenson.
5) Catch the Ace in Week 37! Jackpot approaches $19,000. Over $50,000 to local agencies so far. It’s a win-win!
6) Port Arthur Rotary with U Way of Thunder Bay is offering an NOHFC internship, see Jim Madder’s email and flyer and spread the word!
7) Save the Date for a Social on July 19th at the TBay Art Gallery: Shelley Crawford
8) Passing the Gavel at Jim Madder’s home, social 2–5PM on June 25th. RSVP to Krysta Logozzo-Daniele.
9) Garden Boxes will be set up and planted at Red River Road and St Paul's Street on Friday June 17th: Mary-Anne Mackett, Shelley Crawford, Jim Madder if you have soil mix, water jugs, plants, helping hands.
Today we put the spotlight on Art Warwick and Warren Philp then Bill Everitt and Matt Villela. What a diverse and accomplished membership we have!
Each speaker gave us snapshots of their very interesting lives, Rotary ideals and history of service. We had a romp through history including a too-close encounter with the Klu Klux Klan, being in the Boston Marathon the year of the attack, induction in the Chatham Baseball Sports Hall of Fame, and Toastmasters International to name a few.
Thank you, Shelley Crawford for introducing and thanking all our members involved in this and the previous two sessions. Thank you Zoom hosts Bob Tomlinson and John Stephenson, Happy Dollar host Brenda Winter and scribe David Legge!
1. Spring Clean Up at Current River Park then the Waterfront Trail area near Great West Timber all on June 4th. Thank you all volunteers! (D. Silliman and W. Philp
2. Fun in the Sun at Coral Bay pitted Rotarians against TB Rotoractors in a friendly networking social. Great fun! (S. Crawford and Elyse Pither, President-Elect Rotaract Club)
3. Big Plant Day at Field of Greens II on June 6th went well. Rotarians, and Salvation Army Journey to Life staff and residents worked together. (G. Ferguson, D. Legge, P. DeBakker, K. Logozzo-Daniele with videos and many more). Media awareness was excellent. We need sourcing and planting in a special tribute box in memory of Joe VanderWees: medicinal herbss like sweetgrass are needed. (P. DeBakker, D. Legge)
4. Happy Dollars...excellent response from generous members (D. Shanks)
"Indigenous perspectives on Money."
President Jim Madder chaired today's meeting with a guest presentation and spotlights on recent service and fellowship activities. Members: see Jim newsletter for more details.
K. J. (Jules) McCusker philanthropist, Indigenous Educator, philosopher, special advisor, social activator and Senior Creative Director of Mixed Blood Inc. He graduated from the Vancouver Film School and is vice president of the Métis Artists’ Collective Graphic and Métis Artists’ Collective, to encourage and facilitate Métis Arts and Culture and increase public awareness and engagement of Métis artists, with a pan-aboriginal focus. He is a regular contributor to the Toronto Star.
President Jim Madder chaired today's meeting with a guest presentation and spotlights on recent service and fellowship activities. Members: see Jim newsletter for more details.
K. J. (Jules) McCusker philanthropist, Indigenous Educator, philosopher, special advisor, social activator and Senior Creative Director of Mixed Blood Inc. He graduated from the Vancouver Film School and is vice president of the Métis Artists’ Collective Graphic and Métis Artists’ Collective, to encourage and facilitate Métis Arts and Culture and increase public awareness and engagement of Métis artists, with a pan-aboriginal focus. He is a regular contributor to the Toronto Star.
President-Elect Brian Walmark introduced our guest speaker, Mr. George Stanois, Senior VP, Toronto and Western Canada of the successful consulting firm BNP GOLDIE Canada: https://www.bnpperformance.com/en/george-stanois/
George is an effective fundraising consultant and author of The Vigilant Fundraiser. His talk was “The Vigilant Fundraiser: 12 Steps to Fundraising Success”. Here are those steps:
George is an effective fundraising consultant and author of The Vigilant Fundraiser. His talk was “The Vigilant Fundraiser: 12 Steps to Fundraising Success”. Here are those steps:
HOME CLUB STORIES
President Jim Madder chaired today's meeting that featured a stellar "interview" pitting the wit and grace of fellow Rotarians Krysta Logozzo Daniele and Hector Dougall (pictured).
President Jim Madder chaired today's meeting that featured a stellar "interview" pitting the wit and grace of fellow Rotarians Krysta Logozzo Daniele and Hector Dougall (pictured).
Shelley Crawford introduced Krysta and Hector as part of her quest for club members to get insight and energy by getting to know their colleagues better.
This was a lively duel that covered many life experiences and learned values (Hector used his interview guide). It was noted that the strong family legacies of both play a major role in moving the club along successfully.
Club News
1. Dew Drop Inn commitment for this upcoming 26th of May (contact Dave Silliman)
2. (Bob Tomlinson) reported on several major activities including: the Wilderness Discovery Camp Day (work and appreciation) May 21st (see photo);
2. (Bob Tomlinson) reported on several major activities including: the Wilderness Discovery Camp Day (work and appreciation) May 21st (see photo);
Country on the Bay Festival at FT William Historical Park- up to 75 volunteers needed and excellent financial rewards anticipated. Smart Serve required. And also, driver volunteer required to return RYLA students back home from Duluth (Crookston) July 17th.
3. Field of Greens II big plant day tentatively booked for Monday June 6, 1000h at Salvation Army Journey to Life (D Legge and Paul DeBakker)
4. Clean Up Day at Current River Park (0900 h-Dave Silliman). Then move over to WRCAT clean up at Marina (W. Philp).
5. Fun in the Sun Day June 5th at 1625 Coral Bay Dr. Shuniah (3 pm to 8 pm) social and networking interaction with TB Rotaract Club (Shelley Crawford) Informal and pot luck... lots to do especially meeting and interfacing with Rotaractors
6. Catch the Ace: (Albert Brulé): there are fewer cards left and a much bigger winning jackpot approaching $16,000.
7. Happy Dollars (Brenda Warner and Bill Everitt).
3. Field of Greens II big plant day tentatively booked for Monday June 6, 1000h at Salvation Army Journey to Life (D Legge and Paul DeBakker)
4. Clean Up Day at Current River Park (0900 h-Dave Silliman). Then move over to WRCAT clean up at Marina (W. Philp).
5. Fun in the Sun Day June 5th at 1625 Coral Bay Dr. Shuniah (3 pm to 8 pm) social and networking interaction with TB Rotaract Club (Shelley Crawford) Informal and pot luck... lots to do especially meeting and interfacing with Rotaractors
6. Catch the Ace: (Albert Brulé): there are fewer cards left and a much bigger winning jackpot approaching $16,000.
7. Happy Dollars (Brenda Warner and Bill Everitt).
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!
Hats off to today's contributors and we look forward to the Rotarians who are lining up for next week!
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
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
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!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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
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:
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:
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!
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!
President Jim Madder welcomed a large audience today; many guests keen to hear our esteemed guest speaker Samantha Smith:
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