[Editor's note: thank you to Bob Miskelly for pointing out that our speaker is an Otolaryngologist not an Ophthalmologist - ear, nose and throat doctor, not an eye doctor. Now corrected.]
🌿 Opening Ceremonies
Guests: Uche Okugo, District Governor-Elect, Dr. Mabini, Celeste and Peggy Dodds
Land Acknowledgement – Mike Fisher Mike delivered a poetic and heartfelt land acknowledgement, honouring the sacred territories of the Anishinaabe, Attawandaron, and Haudenosaunee peoples. He recognized the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation as treaty holders and stewards of the Oakville region, and paid tribute to the natural world and ancestral spirits.
National Anthem – Led by George Farrow Members joined in a proud and unified rendition of “O Canada,” guided by George.
Toast to the King and Canada – Lynn Childs Lynn offered a respectful and spirited toast to King Charles and to Canada, celebrating the country’s values and Rotary’s place within its civic fabric.
Invocation – George Farrow George closed the opening with a warm invocation, expressing gratitude for fellowship, service, and the opportunity to gather.
🎖️ Awards Presentation
Paul Harris Fellow Recognition: Mark Dawber was honoured for his exceptional service, including his role as Treasurer and board member during the merger of Oakville West with RCO. His leadership in financial stewardship and fundraising was applauded.
🎹 Intros, Happiness & Updates
DGE intro: Uche Okugo, District Governor-Elect, introduced himself and talked about his plans to listen and learn from club members.
Happiness & Thanksgiving: Mike Fisher led Happy Bucks.
Friendship Exchange: Susan Sheppard provided a warm and engaging introduction to Rotary’s Friendship Exchange, a great opportunity to explore the world from the comfort of other Rotarians’ living rooms. International opportunities include Nigeria, Mexico, Taiwan and India. Members were encouraged to express interest in hosting or traveling.
🌍 Committee Announcements
Youth Committee – Ed Sweeney: Please help us to help Ed to help Interact students at Iroquois Ridge IHS, with a focus on mentorship and leadership development. If you would like to know more please contact Ed.
Trafalgar Senior Homes – Bob Dodds gave us an update on Centennial Towers.
International Committee - Michael Conover vicariously reported on two global grant applications in progress:
Dr. Mabini shared her inspiring journey as an Otolaryngologist and president of a nonprofit providing surgical missions in the Philippines.
Her team has performed thousands of procedures, including dental extractions, biopsies, and major surgeries.
She emphasized the importance of dignity, compassion, and service in global health outreach.
Her story was met with admiration and gratitude from the club.
đź“Ł Final Announcements
Rotary Learning Institute: Members encouraged to complete levels online or in person.
Holiday Dinner: Scheduled for Monday, December 15th with guests including the Rotary Club of Oakville Trafalgar.
Mental Illness Series: Three sessions remaining—info available from organizers.
Global Medic Volunteer Opportunity: Saturday, 10 AM–12 PM at 1494 Wallace Road, Oakville.
World Polio Day Pizza Fundraiser: Gino’s Pizza will donate $1 per pizza sold on Thursday and Friday (October 23 & 24). To order you pizza please phone: 905-825-9075. Exclusively at 1131 Nottinghill Gate location. (This offer is not available online).
Bowling Fundraiser: Friday November 14, 6-9pm at Hopedale Bowl. $40 per person. Please contact James Montegue for further information.
🧠Closing
Lynn led us with reciting the Four-Way (or Five-Way!) Test.
The evening concluded with gratitude, laughter, and renewed commitment to service (Let’s Go Jays!).
