Stories
50/50 TICKETS ON SALE NOW!! Proceeds to support literacy programs. Purchase your tickets on the following link http://rotarycumberland.rafflenexus.com/ The Rotary Club of Cumberland Centennial and The Imagination Library are dedicated to inspiring a love of reading by gifting one book a month to children from birth to age five residing in the Village of Cumberland. All net proceeds from this 50/50 draw will be used to help fund the Imagination Library program in Cumberland. Chances of winning are 1 in 12,300. BC Gaming Event Licence #132003 |
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Humanitarian Aid to Mexico
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Youth and Ecological Restoration
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Random Act of Kindness
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Extravaganza 201915 Years & We've "Still Got It"![]() |
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Golf SocialFore!![]() In August club members held a “golf social” at Sunnydale. The golfing consisted of chipping and putting contests. The event was well attended by 11 members and 4 guests. A great big thank you to our members Kathy & Dave Stevens for organizing this fun time. The winner of the chipping contest was Leslie Baird (front and center of this picture). The putting contest was a draw won by Roberta Evans (2nd from left front row) & Debbie Lemire (sporting pink ball cap). The delicious buffet was catered by the chefs at Sunnydale. |
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Long Time Rotarian HonouredBob McQuillan HonouredCumberland Rotarians Roberta Evans and Caroline Bradfield welcomed Bob McQuillan as the newest Honourary Member of the Rotary Club of Cumberland Centennial. Bob has been a long time member of Rotary Club of Strathcona Sunrise and we are thrilled to have Bob join his wife Judy in our club. |
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X-Ray Machine for NepalX-Ray Equipment for NepalInternational Director Dave Stevens presents a cheque to Rotary Club of Strathcona Sunrise Director Bayne Mann with a cheque for $500 (US) to help with their project of X-Ray Equipment for Nepal. |
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John & Jennifer HedicanHonouring Ryan's StoryIn June, John and Jennifer Hedican told of us their plan to reach as many students as possible on Vancouver Island to tell “Ryan’s Story”. John left his job to devote his time to this quest. Touching the hearts of Cumberland Rotarians we donated $1,000 from our “Heart Fund” to help with his transportation costs. Presenting the cheque is our Community Services Director Linda Oprica. Our Club has also written a letter to our government representatives in support of the Hedican’s mission. |
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15th Annual Extravaganza ItalianaTickets Available Now!![]() Don't miss this popular fundraising event in it’s 15th year. The proceeds earned from the generosity of attendees, donors and other contributors are used for our local and international projects. Thank you for supporting us in the past and we look forward to seeing you again this year. Saturday October 5th – Cumberland Recreation Hall – Doors open at 5:30 p.m. – Tickets are $40 and available by contacting Keith Tatton 250-334-7895 or at keithathow@gmail.com |
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Rotary Friendship ExchangeSpecial Visitors from Australia![]() In July we had the privilege to receive fellow Rotarians from Australia. These Rotarians were on a Rotary Friendship Exchange touring District 5020. In the foreground on his knee is the Team Leader Paul Denmeade Rotary Club of Lismore NSW. From right to left in this picture is Rotary Friendship Exchange Coordinator from our Club Liz Phillipson, Chris & Mary Bell Rotary Club of Lismore NSW, Franz & Catherine Huber Rotary Club of Surfers Sunrise, Bill & Di Stewart Rotary Club of Warwick Sunrise, Lynn Gray President Rotary Club of Courtenay, Jane Flood Rotary Club of eClub NextGen, Ron & Lyn Chittick Rotary Club of Lismore West, International Director Dave Stevens of our Club (holding box of world famous Cumberland Doughnuts), Arne Einarson Youth Services Director Rotary Club of Courtenay. |
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Proceeds of Mexican FiestaPresident Keith Accepts Cheque |
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Empire Days Parade 2019Some Heavy Reading For Parade![]() |
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RCMP BOOT CAMP 2019Cumberland Rotary Supports Valley Youth![]() |
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Clothing ExchangeHaving Fun For "Too Good To Be Threw"Munchies, drinks and new clothes to try on. Club members (l-r) Ellen Klassen, Margaret Neal, Barb Giroday, Judy McQuillan and guest Lill Tosoff, Deborah Nolan, Frawley and Debbie Lemire (behind camera) gathered at Margaret's home recently to have some fun for a good cause. Surplus clothing will be donated to the Comox Valley Transition Society thrift shop "Too Good To Be Threw". |
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Advocate for MarginalizedAdvocacy for Marginalized People |
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World Immunization Week Apr. 24-30Painting Pinkies Purple for World Immunization Week |
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Merville Community AssociationMerville Community Association Says Thank You! |
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Days for GirlsThank You Cumberland Rotary! |
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Dawn to DawnDollars for Jerseys |
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Comox Valley Child Development AssociationSupporting Children & Families Since 1974![]() Our speakers on April 2nd were Joanne Schroeder, Executive Director and Pam Crowe of The Comox Valley Child Development Association. The Comox Valley Child Development Association (CVCDA) is a non-profit society that has served children and youth with special needs since 1974. The Comox Valley Child Development Centre, later changed to Child Development Association, opened its doors in downtown Cumberland on July 12, 1974. |
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MARSRescue, Recovery, Rehabilitation & ReleaseThese are the 4 R’s of MARS Wildlife Rescue. We had the pleasure of meeting MARS ambassador Ottis Jr.Volunteer handler Terry Chaney spoke at length about Ottis Jr. and other owls who inhabit the forests in the Comox Valley area. Ottis Jr. is a Pacific Northwestern Screech Owl. Our club has been a supporter of MARS for over a decade. Also visiting was MARS Vice President Pearl McKenzie who thanked us for our continued support and spoke extensively on the new Visitor’s Center at their facility on Williams Beach Road in Merville. We have auctioned Raptor Releases at many Extravaganzas, a very popular item. |
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Coldest Night Winner"...the most money raised......."Past District Governor Richard Clarke visited our club on March 12th to present us with a certificate for 1,000 Paul Harris Points for being the Rotary Club raising the most money per capita on the 2019 Coldest Night of the Year Walk. Accepting on behalf of our Club is Deborah Nolan. We raised over $1000. Our club was represented on the walk by Margaret Neal who carried our torch for our Club on quite a cold and rainy night. |
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Mexican Fiesta 2019Mexican Fiesta A Huge Success |
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ME to WEAisha Hunter-Bellavia Gives Excellent Account of Her Trip to Kenya with Me to We |
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Youth Exchange Thank YouBig Thank You From Island Exchange Students Attending 2019 Rendez-Vous |
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Byron HornerGreat Bear Rain ForestTo watch the "trailer" of this amazing film scroll down to LINKS and click on the Great Bear Rain Forest. |
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Mexican Fiesta FundraiserStrathcona-Sunrise & Cumberland Centennial Join Forces for Mexican Children's Education and Health Care.![]() We are working to provide school supplies, clean water, replace old toilets with clean proper working toilets, helping to construct a place to live for the teacher and more in Cabo Corrientes, Mexico. - just south of Puerto Vallarta. The silent auction component is a great way to raise significant dollars for this very worthy cause. (and get some great deals) Tickets $30.00 pp - Tickets available from President Keith. |
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Rotary Club of Jaltemba Bay, MexicoInternational Services Director, Dave Stevens "on the ground" in MexicoRotary Club of Cumberland Centennial donates $500 to Rotary Club of Jaltemba Bay for improvements to schools in the area. Pictured here is Jaltemba Bay Rotary Club President Gilberto Sanchez (L); Schools Chair John Spry (C) and Rotary Club of Cumberland Centennial International Services Director, Dave Stevens. |
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HER InternationalRon Quilter - Adventurer & Humanitarian![]() Our speaker for our February 5th meeting was Ron Quilter. Ron made a presentation about HER International. The Mission of HER International is to empower women and girls through education. Their Mandate is to provide for the advancement of education and educational opportunities for people living in poverty in Canada and abroad, by increasing relevant knowledge, abilities and life skills of individuals and family members, with a focus on helping girls and women when doing so. Ron spoke about recent builds he has been on in Nepal and local plans to develop a School In A Box. Ron also gave us a pictorial account of his mountain climbing excursions while in Nepal. |
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Networking Rotarian benefits Days for GirlsCourtenay Team of Days for GirlsRotary Club of Cumberland Centennial Rotarian Deborah Nolan, seen here "holding the bag", surprised the Courtenay Team of Days for Girls. Days for Girls is a global movement that prepares and distributes sustainable menstrual health solutions to girls who would otherwise miss school during their monthly periods. Deb presented a $500 cheque from Cumberland Rotary held in this picture by Helen Cox. Other members of the team pictured here are Greg Meynert (foreground), seated behind Greg is Karen Milward and Mary Cowan, standing Jean Sibbald & Maria Box, Gail Jones far right. These folks meet every Wednesday from 10-2 to sew kits that are sent around the world. |
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Cumberland Rotary enters a team in Coldest Night of the YearJoin the Team - Walk and/or Donate![]() Rotary Club of Cumberland and Friends will be walking on Saturday, February 23rd. The Coldest Night of the Year is a walk that raises money for people in our community who need our help. Some of them hungry, more than a few hurting and regrettably, some who are homeless too. Adults, moms and kids, seniors and youth as well. Coldest night of the year is a lot of fun and so valuable - would you join us or make a donation to our team? Just click our team page link below to begin. Thanks! |
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ROTARIANS ROCK GALAAnd the winner is............![]() |
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Cumberland Rotary Supporting Lions Club Special Needs GolfersRoyston/Cumberland Lions Club |
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Cumberland Centennial Supports Merville Community AssociationROTARY CLUB OF CUMBERLAND CENTENNIAL "YELLOW GUMBOOT" CONTRIBUTOR |
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Working "Hands On" in our Community, Cumberland Centennial Rotary Members visit Extended Care Monthly providing Dinner & Fellowship.Residents enjoyed Fish and Chips |
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The Paul Harris Society recognizes Rotary members and friends of The Rotary Foundation who elect to contribute $1,000 or more each year to the Annual Fund, PolioPlus Fund, or approved global grants.Contributing to Paul Harris Society demonstrates a commitment to serve others. |
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Courtenay Little Theatre - Providing Opportunities for the Community to Experience the Joy of TheatreThank You To Cumberland Rotary |
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International Director Dave Stevens and Honoary Member Kathy Stevens visit Rotary Club of El Tuito - if you look closely you can see our Club Banner on the board.![]() Amanecer El Tuito Cabo Corrientes Club - Dave is presenting paperwork for the firetruck Ryan is driving down. ![]() ![]() Dave presenting our Club International donation to Ignacio Palomera, presidente del club rotario “amanecer El Tuito” |
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On The Road with Dave & KathyKathy & Dave Visit Rotary Club of El Tuito
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Dave Picks Ace Of SpadesA New Year is on it's way and so is a new deck!![]() The odds were against him, there was still a fist full of cards but Dave stuck in his thumb and pulled out a plum and said "it's the Ace of Spades"! Way to go Dave! |
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Christmas Dining-In 2018Santa's Elves Play Cumberland LodgeAll tuned up Cumberland Rotarians sang carols at this month's Dining-In at Cumberland Lodge Extended Care Facility in Cumberland. From left to right, Honorary Member Kathy Stevens, Club Secretary Ellen Klassen, International Director Dave Stevens, Public Image Director Debbie Lemire, Club Treasurer John Jones, Finance Director Margaret Neal. A Brilliant Surprise! |
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Club Meeting December 4, 2018Local Realtor Explains Changes To Buying/Selling Real Estate in British Columbia |
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A Mountain of ScarvesCUMBERLAND CENTENNIAL ROTARY GIVES E.D.A.S. A HELPING HAND THIS CHRISTMAS |
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Firetruck to MexicoRyan Thorburn will be off to Mexico with 2nd Firetruck |
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Dining-In at Cumberland LodgeGood Food & Good CompanySpecial Guest From Calgary |
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Restor International 2018 MIssisonFirst Day at Hospital in Bahir Dar
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Lest We ForgetRemembrance Day 2018 in Cumberland
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RESTOR 2018 TO EthiopiaDeb & Keith's Great Adventure![]() |
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RESTOR 2018 Mission EthiopiaDeb Nolan & Pres. Keith Tatton off to Ethiopia on Nov. 9th on RESTOR Mission![]() Pictured here is Deb Nolan on the 2016 RESTOR Mission to Ethiopia. Deb is leaving for her second mission to Ethiopia on November 9th. Accompanying Deb on his first Mission is our President Keith Tatton. RESTOR International (formerly Rotaplast Canada) is a non-profit humanitarian organization that provides free reconstructive surgery to disadvantaged children and adults in developing countries. With the support of Canadian medical and non-medical volunteers, they work to build local health care in the countries where they work. RESTOR International’s roots date back to 2004. |
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November 6th MeetingWelcome New Member Stephanie Sorensen, AG Stu Tunheim, Guest Speaker Grant Schilling Outreach Worker for Dawn to Dawn Action on Homelessness Society
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Haunted House TourCourageous Rotarians![]() On a rainy Tuesday evening, Cumberland Centennial Rotary went on a walking Haunted House tour of our historic village. Undaunted by the weather the brave Rotarians visited many locations and listened and shared stories of many haunted properties in locations around the village. |
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October 23rd SpeakerIs Cumberland Prepared for a Disaster?![]() |
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MC DC GillisDistrict Governor Craig Gillis and Gerry GillisYou know you've got a "good guy" for District Governor when he is willing to arrange his very busy schedule to MC your club's annual fundraiser with very little notice. DG Gillis did a bang up job to boot! Didn't know he could sing either! |
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WestJet Winner 2018Happy Recipient of WestJet Raffle![]() Please, edit and modify your text as well using functions and menu of this Editor. Vis id dico vivendum, labitur utroque periculis no qui. Has in semper delenit temporibus. Purto quaestio assentior at eum, qui aliquip dolorum cu. Et vis zril definiebas, mei an viris tation soluta. Has no quas numquam nusquam, voluptua voluptaria at nec, modus perfecto elaboraret mea et. |
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Cumberland Lodge
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Vancouver Island PaddlingCumberland Centennial Donates $1,000 Towards 10 person Dragon Boat for Comox Lake![]() |
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Forbidden Plateau Reclamation Society |
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2018-2019 Installation![]() 2018-2019 Executive & Directors The Installation was held at the Fallen Alders Hall in June 29, 2018. Pictured from left to right is President-Elect 2019-2020 - Robb Flannery, Immediate Past President - Judythe McQuilllan, Club President 2018-2019 - Keith Tatton, Sergeant-at-Arms - Barb Giroday, Extravaganza Co-Chair - Deb Nolan, International - Dave Stevens. Literacy - Leslie Baird, Orchard - Steve Galbraith, Finance - Margaret Neal. All were installed by Assistant Governor Stu Tunheim. Missing from this picture are Secretary - Ellen Klassen, Community Service - Linda Oprica, Membership - Chris Becir, Treasurer - John Jones |
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14th Extravaganza Italiana![]() Tickets are now available for our 14th Annual Extravaganza Italiana. To get tickets contact cumberlandrotary@shaw.ca or call Deb 250-792-3107 or Donna 250-465-8179 A fun filled evening of family style dinning with great food and live and silent auctions. We would like to thank you all for your continued support of this event. Please contact us for ticket information or to make a donation for our auction. |
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Club Has Changed Meeting TimeTimes They Are A Changing ![]() |
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Thirteenth Annual Extravaganza FundraiserTHE CLUB'S THIRTEENTH ANNUAL EXTRAVAGANZA ITALIANA WAS ANOTHER SELLOUT AND A VERY SUCCESSFUL FUNDRAISER THANKS TO THE TREMENDOUS GENEROSITY OF DONORS AND PARTICIPANTS! On Saturday, 30 September 2017, the club held its 13th annual major fundraiser at the Cumberland Recreation Centre. Funds raised will be used for club projects. |
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Club Participated in Cumberland Victoria Day Parade |
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Cumberland Rotarians Manning Telephones During Variety Club Radiothon |
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Rotary ReadsRotarians promote Literacy
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Director of Wheels for Wellness SocietYWheels for Wellness Society![]() The guest speaker at last week’s meeting was was Don Bucner, founder and Executive Director of Wheels for Wellness Society.
The Society Driver will pick you up at your home, take you where you need to go, wait for you and return you to your home. We will take you to any out of town medical appointment, for example Victoria, Nanaimo, Campbell River that exceeds 60 KM (one way) from your point of departure.
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Sock It To Polio!![]() Rotarians have been fighting to eradicate polio for more than 20 years.
Top 5 Reasons to Eradicate polio:
The human cost:
It’s achievable: It’s a good investment: It strengthens the system: It sets the stage:
Souce www.rotary.org |
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West Jet Tickets Featured at the Extravaganza ItalianaA feature at the 2015 Extravaganza Italian was the donation by West Jet of two return tickets to any destination the airline flies. Pictured are West Jet's Comox Station Manager with the winning couple, Meghan Haas and Tyler Alderson and event organizing committee chair, Rotarian Linda Oprica.
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Eleventh Annual Extravaganza Italiana a Sellout
Thanks to all who have donated auction items and those who have bought the tickets for the event. |
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Canadian Tire Jumpstart CharitiesCanadian Tire Jumpstart CharitiesIt was our pleasure to welcome Bert Herring owner of Courtenay Canadian Tire Store!
![]() Bert spoke this morning about Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, a project launched to address an issue of national concern - the inactivity of children. National in scope, but local in its focus, Jumpstart helps children in financial need in organized sports and physical activities by assisting with the costs associated with registration, equipment and/or transportation.
Canadian Tire Corporation (CTC) has been a part of communities large and small for more than 90 years.
Prior to Jumpstart Canadian Tire had a program called Foundation for Families providing a helping hand to families in need, to ensure that life’s basic needs were met: food, shelter, clothing and essential goods. The dealers felt very strongly that there should be program more focused on children and activities along with community partners.
Last year Jumpstart helped out 550 children with a maximum of $300 per child. The average was about $100/child. This year there will probably be about 700 children helped out.
The program is anonymous and a wonderful investment in the community and the child’s self-esteem.
The biggest fundraiser is a 24 hour “Spin-a-thon” at Comox Rec Center. All the monies raised in the Comox Valley stays in the Comox Valley. Canadian Tire also do a national fundraiser bike ride in different parts of the country. |
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Mia Bradfield returns from Thailand ExchangeMia Bradfield - exchange student in Thailand!![]() She gave us a good look into the life of an exchange student in a foreign country and had a lovely photo presentation of her school and Rotary friends. She took Japanese class, Thai dance, Thai music & of course Thai language and art classes.
She advised us that speaking Thai is challenging as it is a “tonal” language. Mia was also able to go with one class on a school trip to Singapore and Malaysia. She introduced us to Thai food which was even more challenging to her because she left Canada as a vegetarian and had to practice eating meat before she left. There were 15 students in her district.
She was able to visit exotic locals like Cambodia with her exchange student group. We are grateful to Mia for allowing us this brief but interesting insight into her year as a Rotary Exchange Student. Thank you Mia!
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It's a Wonderful World!It's a Wonderful World!![]() Club Members and Guests gather around to record the well known Louis Armstrong favourite "It's a Wonderful World!"
Our recording will be blended with 39 other videos to make up one virtual choir to be showcased at the Dalai Lama Center in Vancouver's annual conference in October at UBC
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Becky Kiser - Trampled Rose,Trample
![]() A few months later she was traveling to Africa for another purpose but she stopped in Ethiopia to express her gratitude to the tour guide and his family. At that time she helped his sister who had a condition called fistula. His sister needed someone to take her to the hospital for treatment. Becky had never heard of fistula and thought it must be an Amharic (the main language in Ethiopia) word. She tried to look it up in different translation dictionaries with no success. But when she arrived to help husbands, and their social position, but they have also lost their hope for the future and they think even God left them. They all suffer from obstetric fistula, a hole in the bladder and/or rectum causing them to leak waste for the rest of their lives unless they are one of the lucky ones that can be fixed with surgery.
It broke her heart. She knew she had to help on some small scale. At that time she worked as an independent sales director with Mary Kay Cosmetics. Her small team and some friends decided they had to do something and sent Becky back to Ethiopia. The original goal was to help five woman and then go back to her normal life. The program was first started to shelter women who were waiting for their fistula surgery but Becky soon realized that the problems of fistula are so very much deeper and that rehabilitation was what is needed for these women to ever begin a new life.
Every woman is a tragedy. Becky now realizes that prevention has to be the main focus. Even if the woman can be cured, even if she can be taught to read and write and a way to empowerment by having her own income she has still suffered a tragedy no human should ever have to endure. Especially since we know fistula is a preventable problem.
It’s been virtually eradicated in our own countries for more than 100 years. Now Trampled Rose, Inc. is still focused on its original three activities:
The Ethiopian Government recently legislated and enforced a law against early marriage (the legal age is now 18). This has resulted in a great drop of new fistula cases but it has left those girls who were planning to get married with a whole new future. Becky is passionate that “prevention really is better than a cure”. The crisis has moved from housing women with fistula to how to keep them from developing fistula in the first place. The most effective way is keeping girls in school and giving their little bodies and minds a chance to mature.
Source: www.trampledrose.org
Photo: John Challender
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Orchard MeetingANOTHER BEAUTIFUL MORNING IN THE ORCHARD!
Our last meeting was held in our orchard.There is still lots of fruit on the trees and no appreciable signs of the bears that frequent the orchard.
We had two special guests Peter Buisman, a retired apple grower who wowed us with his expertise on cultivation of apples and gave us good information about planting and buying trees.
![]() Our second guest was baby Samuel Haas. He was out with his mom Meghan enjoying the fresh air.
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District Governor Rose visits our club![]() It was our pleasure to welcome 2015-2016 District Governor Rose Bowman and her husband Leon Bowman.. DG Bowman began her presentation to us by thanking AG Robert Buckley for his contribution to District 5020 and also to our own John Challender for his years of service at the District level in Public Relations and also to our guest Chip Ross who serves as the Vocational Services Chair for the District. She also thanked her husband of 53 years Leon for his support and encouragement.
She brought us greeting from RI President K.R. Ravindran. “Each one is made because so many people have helped us become who we are, we are molded by family, by community, by country and by Rotary” That’s why the focus for his year as RI President is about giving back and that’s why the focus for you and I should be all about giving back. How do we do that? There are many, many opportunities, we just have to recognize them when they come along. DG Bowman asked a very interesting question “Are you a member of Rotary or are you a Rotarian”? She said that she was a member of Rotary when she started in Rotary in 1996 and through many “Rotary Experiences” became a Rotarian. DG Bowman also announced that the District Conference in June 2016 will be held in Olympia Washington and encouraged everyone to make plans to attend. |
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New Rotaract Club formed in the Comox Valley!Rotatract Founding Committee![]()
The Comox Valley Rotaract Club is a Rotary sponsored service club for young adults interested in giving back to their local and international community.
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Golf at SunnydaleGolf at Sunnydale.It could not have been a more perfect afternoon/evening for the golf “9 & Dine” get together. Blue skies, not to hot and a beautiful evening stroll along manicured lawns.
Dave S had efficiently sorted us into teams of four (which was not too much disrupted by the few no-shows - S at.A, contact me to make them pay big!!!!)
![]() After all this exercise (which included scrambling in the rough looking for lost balls) we unwound with a glass in our hand and a good dinner. This was accompanied by much humour and prize giving.
Many thanks to Kathy, Linda and the two Daves!
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Chris inducted as a new member!![]() We had the pleasure of welcoming into the Rotary Club of Cumberland Centennial, Chris Becir, a Cumberland Dentist, pictured here with his wife Kelsey. Chris was inducted by Caroline Bradfield. Caroline reminded us that the object of Rotary is to encourage and foster the ideal of service as a basis of worthy enterprise and in particular to encourage and foster:
Caroline charged Chris to judge himself by the Rotary 4 Way Test
Of the things he thinks, says or does:
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ELK FALLS SUSPENSION BRIDGEELK FALLS SUSPENSION BRIDGE - A MUST SEE ON VANCOUVER ISLAND![]() Lorrie Bewza, a Past President of the Rotary Club of Campbell River and Chair of Elk Falls Suspension Bridge Project was our speaker this morning. He gave a very interesting presentation on the building of the suspension bridge and also information on the upgrades to the John Hart Dam.
The Elk Falls Suspension Bridge officially opened on May 9th. The bridge is 90 metres long and hangs 60 metres above the Campbell River canyon floor offering a top to bottom view of Elk Falls. The structure includes two viewing platforms and cantilevered platform that provides an extension over the falls. The first 40 metres of the bridge on the south side of the canyon is in the tree canopy. This will allow the suspension bridge to start slightly below the elevation of the existing trail along the south side.
This project is a partnership between BC Hydro, BC Parks and the Rotary Club of Campbell River and is expected to be a must-see tourist destination for visitors on Vancouver Island. There is parking for approximately 83 vehicles, and the walk from the parking lot to the suspension bridge is approximately 800.
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New Member InterviewsLinda Oprica interviews our two newest members!Roberta Evans![]() Way to go Roberta!
Caroline Bradford![]() Caroline owns her own Marriage and Family Therapy practice in Courtenay. Doula, mother of 3 and partner to Tom, Caroline moved to Cumberland in 2000 and lives on Camp Road.
Tom and Caroline will be getting married in Tofino on the beach, next month.
Caroline grew up in Ontario as the youngest of 4 children and has been associated with Rotary since she was 5 years old, through her dad. Caroline’s interests include mountain biking, running and travelling.
Thanks to Linda for helping us get to know Roberta and Caroline a little better.
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David DickinsonDavid Dickinson![]() Our last meeting began with two minutes of silence for David Dickinson, husband of our member Christine Dickinson. David will be missed by us all and our sincerest condolences go out to Christine, Joanne, Becky, James and their extended family. A celebration of life will be held on at Piercy's-Mount Washington Funeral Home on Friday July 17, 2015 at 2:00 p.m.
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As You Like It Products & Catering![]() Local business owner, Laura Agnew of “As You Like It Products & Catering” believes you cannot.
Located in the kitchen at the old school in Union Bay, her goal is to supply the local region with gourmet food and food products using local, sustainable and ethically harvested all natural foods, prepared “As You Like It” at a reasonable price.
Laura’s apprenticeship included attending the Culinary Olympics in Frankfort Germany the first year Canada won a gold medal. She achieved her Red Seal certification with the Hilton and Delta hotels and has worked with several other top quality hotels and fine eateries around the world for over 30 years. With extensive traveling she has done, it makes her the ideal candidate to offer you these diverse flavours.
She has a product line which is available at the Comox Valley farmer’s market most Saturdays and in stores around Vancouver Island.
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$40.3 Million in new funding from Rotary for polio eradication$40.3 Million in new funding from Rotary for polio eradication![]() The continued fight to stamp out polio will receive an additional $40.3 million boost from Rotary in support of immunization activities and research to be carried out by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative. The funds will be used by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF for polio immunization, surveillance and research activities in ten countries, as well as to provide technical assistance to additional countries in Africa.
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$1,500 for RotaplastCumberland Centennial Rotary Club Donates $1,500 to Rotaplast |
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Cumberland Rotarians present cheque to Cumberland Forest SocietyMORE SUPPORT TO SAVE OUR FOREST![]() |
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Donation to Cumberland YouthCumberland Centennial Rotary Club Donates $1,000 to Cumberland Youth. |
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Community Recipe BookletON LINE RECIPE BOOKLET CREATED BY ROTARY CLUB OF CUMBERLAND CENTENNIAL![]() Our Social Committee, Cathe Egan, has created this beautiful recipe booklet comprised of favourite recipes of our club members and community members. You can view the complete booklet by clicking on the Community Recipe Booklet under Downloads on the right hand side of this home page. Enjoy!
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Mobile Library ProjectCUMBERLAND ROTARIANS SUPPORT MOBILE LIBRARY PROJECT IN MEXICODave Stevens presents a cheque from the Rotary Club of Cumberland Centennial to Club Rotario Bahia de Jaltemba, LaPenita. Left to right is Club President Carlos, Kathy Hankins of Stetler Rotary Club, Sydney Richomond - Champion of the bookmobile program and Dave Stevens on the far right. This program is for kindergarten children aged 3,4 & 5 in which Hema, the licensed teacher goes to 2 schools a day. There are 10 schools in total involved in this program. The money donated goes to buy books and some craft and writing materials.
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School Library ProjectCUMBERLAND ROTARIANS SUPPORT MOBILE LIBRARY PROJECT IN MEXICO |
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Breakfast ProgramROTARY CLUB OF CUMBERLAND CENTENNIAL SUPPORTS
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Caroling at the LodgeSanta's Singing ElvesOn Wednesday December 17th Santa's Elves sang Christmas carols and songs for residents of Cumberland Lodge after their monthly "Dining Out". Pictured here from left to right in the front row Anne Tressler, Penny Vroom, President Liz Phillipson, Cathe Egan, Hendrika Stigter and two of her children, back row right to left, Paul Vroom, Barb Giroday, Elmer Phillipson and Dave Stevens. Missing from this photo are Kathy Stevens, Bill Tressler and Debbie Lemire. |
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StefanTAKEN FROM US SUDDENLY OUR DEAR FRIEND AND FELLOW ROTARIAN - STEFAN PLETSCHERStefan’s life was taken away from us too soon and it is hard to understand why tragic things like this happen to such good people. However, this is a question without an answer and we should not dwell on the loss of our dear friend. Let’s celebrate that he was a part of our lives for 10 years; for some of us even more, and remember all of the remarkable things Stefan accomplished and how wonderful his life was.
Stefan was a Charter Member of the Rotary Club of Cumberland Centennial. He continued to be an active member until his death.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, December 13th, 2 p.m. at Comox Valley Funeral Home, 1101 Ryan Road, Courtenay.
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Basics For Babies 2014HELP SUPPORT COMOX VALLEY FOOD BANK - PLEASE ATTEND BASICS FOR BABIES SUNDAY DECEMBER 7TH 10 A.M-12:30 P.M. |
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Annual In-House Auction & DinnerFOOD, FUN AND FELLOWSHIP AT OUR ANNUAL IN-HOUSE AUCTION AND DINNER
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Paul HarrisPENNY VROOM BECOMES A PAUL HARRIS FELLOW |
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Service Award RecipientCONGRATULATIONS DEB NOLAN FOR BEING AWARDED ROTARY CLUB OF CUMBERLAND CENTENNIAL "CLUB SERVICE AWARD" |
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Remembrance Day 2014ROTARY CLUB OF CUMBERLAND CENTENNIAL HONOUR THE FALLEN![]() On a beautiful sunny November 11th, 2014 Rotarian Margaret Neal lays a wreath on behalf of Cumberland Centennial Rotary Club at the foot of the Cumberland Cenotaph. Please see the photo album for more pictures of this event.
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Hallowe'en Parade 2014CUMBERLAND ROTARIANS DON THEIR TRAFFIC VESTS TO HELP KEEP CUMBERLAND'S GHOSTS AND GOBLINS SAFE THIS HALLOWE'EN
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END POLIO NOW EVENT AT THE WAVERLEYMARK R. ISFELD SECONDARY INTERACT CLUB ASSISTS CUMBERLAND CENTENNIAL ROTARIANS IN END POLIO NOW EVENT AT THE WAVERLEY HOTEL IN CUMBERLAND.
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Light Up Rotary - End Polio NowJOIN US - COME ON DOWN - ORDER SOME DINNER INSIDE FROM THE "WAVE'S" SCRUMPTIOUS MENU OR HANG OUTSIDE ON DUNSMUIR WITH A DELICIOUS CUP OF HOT CHOCOLATE. EVERY $1 DONATED WILL BE MATCHED BY AN ADDITIONAL $2 FROM THE GATES FOUNDATION TO END POLIO NOW! |
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10TH ANNUAL ITALIANA EXTRAVAGAZAWORKING HARD FOR OUR LOCAL & WORLD COMMUNITY
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Cumberland Rotarians Support Cumberland Community Forest SocietyPresident Liz presented a cheque for $250 to Caroline Timchuk of the Cumberland Community Forest
Society at our meeting on 12 August. |
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Adventures in CitizenshipOur guest speakers on Tuesday August 5th were Heather Wilson, Matt Ehrler
and Quinna Laver who participated in the Adventures in Citizenship programme that has been conceived and hosted by the Rotary Club of Ottawa for some 60 years. Heather was sponsored by the RC of Courtenay, Matt by our club and Quinna by the RC of Comox. The three decided to tell their sponsoring clubs about their adventure together. Using a PowerPoint show, the three told highlighted their experiences, making new friends from among the 200 students from every province and territory of Canada. A very worthwhile program indeed. |
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DG Comes To CallDG Michael Procter Is Kept Very Busy in Cumberland |
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Installation 2014-2015Rotary Club of Cumberland Centennial Board 2014-2015![]() LOOK OUT WORLD - HERE COMES LIZ AND HER CREW!!
On Tuesday, June 24, 2014 at the Cultural Center in Cumberland, Liz Phillipson (pictured here on the left) was installed as President of the Rotary Club of Cumberland Centennial 2014-2015. Pictured with Liz (from left to right front row) is Kim Sleno - Past President & Public Image; Judith McQuillan - Membership; Christine Dickinson - Administration; Margaret Keresztesi - Sergeant-at-Arms & Foundation. (Back row) John Jones - Treasurer & President Elect 2015-2016; Barb Giroday - Community Services. Missing from this picture is Keith Tatton - Finance; Charlie Sallis - International; Secretary - Sharon MacDonald.
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Rotarian's Supporting Literacy in CumberlandCommunity Service Director Barb Giroday &President Elect Liz PhillipsonFor the past two years Cumberland Rotarians have been promoting literacy in partnership with the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. Parents of young children in Cumberland have been encouraged to register their pre-school children in a program that provides a free, age-related book to each child each month until they are 5 years of age. The books arrive in the mail personally addressed to each child. More than 100 children are now registered in the program including thirty-three new children registered on Cumberland Market Day, Friday 16 May. The program has spread through word of mouth and through the efforts of Rotarians who volunteered to inform the public at their table on Dunsmuir Avenue on Market Day. Money raised from the club’s Extravaganza Italiana are used to fund the program.
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Cumberland Rotarians Present Cheque for $110,000Cheque Presented to Mayor BairdL-R: Club President Elect (2014-15) Liz Phillipson, Club President Kim Sleno presented a cheque for $110,000 to Cumberland Mayor Leslie Baird with support from Club Treasurer John Jones
The Rotary Club of Cumberland Centennial and the Village of Cumberland partnered to create a family-friendly, fun-filled playground in the Village Park for the community to enjoy. The playground was completed with the installation of modern, safe equipment and an universally accessible surface. One of the most popular features is a zip line. Funds provided by the Rotarians came from the proceeds of the Club’s popular annual Extravaganza Italiana and with support from the Province of BC that provided $50,000 through the Community Gaming Grant program and Tire Stewardship B.C. A cheque for $110,000 was presented by Rotary Club President Kim Sleno to Cumberland Mayor Leslie Baird on Friday, 9 May, as the club’s share of the cost of the new facility.
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Official Opening of Cumberland Playground![]() At 11:00 AM on a snowy Saturday, 22 February, our MLA Don McRae, Mayor Leslie Baird, Club President Kim Sleno, members of the community and the club gathered to witness the official cutting of a handmade ribbon created by the students at Cumberland Elementary School. To make this project a reality, the club partnered with the Village of Cumberland and contributed $110,000 to create an universally accessible playground complete with a zip line in the Village Park.
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Pancake Breakfast at Ecole Puntledge Park - 14 February 2014 On Friday morning, Valentine's Day, Club members, spouses and friends served more than 500 pancake breakfasts to the students and staff of Ecole Puntledge Elementary School in Courtenay who were having a winter Carnival complete with Bon Homme Carnaval. Click the link below to watch a short video of the event.
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Cumberland Rotarians Continue Support of Cumberland Marching BandOn Saturday, 5 October, Cumberland Rotary president Kim Sleno presented a cheque for $500 to Josie Patterson and Kelsey Barton, members of the Cumberland Marching Band. Band members served the food at the Rotary club’s 9th annual Extravaganza Italiana that evening. The Cumberland Marching Band is well recognized for its development of young musicians and Cumberland Rotarians have been strong supporters since the band was created.
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Cumberland Rotarians Support School’s Emergency Preparedness |
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MEXICO PROJECT |
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Cumberland Rotarians Provide Funds to Help Tea Farmers in India |
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Valley Humanitarian Honoured By Cumberland Rotarians |
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Cumberland Fire Department Providing Smoke Alarms With Rotarians Help |
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Cumberland Rotary Helps Out The Cumberland Motorcycle Roundup
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Cumberland Centennial Rotary - New MemberRotary Club of Cumberland Centennial Welcomes Newest Rotarian
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Village of Cumberland and Rotarians Partner to Refurbish PlaygroundThe equipment currently installed has reached the end of its useful life and will be replaced by new structures. The site will become universally accessible. The final cost of the project is awaiting proposals from suppliers so is not available at press time. Cumberland Rotary has committed to partnering with the Village using funds raised in the community through its various fundraising efforts. The club’s major fundraiser in 2013, the Extravaganza Italiana, will occur on Saturday, 5 October. Tickets at $35 per person for the ninth annual Extravaganza Italiana are now available from Rotarian John Challender at 250-339-4068 or johnpegc@shaw.ca
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Visit from AG Lana Eagle
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Extravaganza Italiana 2013![]() Our club will hold its Ninth Annual Extravaganza Italiana Dinner Auction, at the Cumberland Recreation Centre on Saturday, October 5, 2013. This event is our major fundraiser for 2013 – 2014. During our eight years of service to the community, businesses and individuals have generously donated goods and services for our auction.
Our club has grown to become a positive, well-recognized and respected force for good in the local and world communities. Since our Charter in June 2005 we have raised sufficient funds through our dinner auctions to provide a thermal imaging camera for the Cumberland Volunteer Fire Department; ten automated, electronic defibrillators to organizations in the Comox Valley; provided Cumberland with its first two transit shelters; donated $30,000 to the Comox Valley Hospice Society Building Fund; numerous local and International projects. Our major community project last year and this coming year will be to continue to raise funds for a new playground in the Village of Cumberland to replace the one in the Village Park. Our aim is to make the new playground one that is universally accessible to its users. We are well on our way to making this a reality and with a successful fundraising year, we will reach our goal.
Donors receive public recognition for support, unless they prefer to remain anonymous. If you would like to make a donation for the auction please email deblemire@shaw.ca.
If you are interested in attending our event please call John Challender at 250-339-4068 or
e-mail him at johnpegc@shaw.ca to reserve your tickets. Tickets are $35.00 each. Tables for 8 or 10 are available. Tickets can be delivered.
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Cumberland Rotarians Helping Out At Cruise 2013![]() Once again, Cumberland Centennial Rotarians will be helping out the Comox Valley Cruisers when they arrive in Cumberland at the end of their annual cruise. Saturday, July 27th 5:00 to 7:00 pm Cruise- in and dine at the A&W on Cliffe Ave., Courtenay Golden Oldies music in the parking lot – Overflow parking directly across the street at the Driftwood Mall 7:00 pm Cruisers leave the A&W for a cruise of the Comox Valley After cruise dessert in downtown Cumberland. Pictured here is Cumberland Rotarian Robb Flannery. For more information on Cruise 2013 visit http://comoxvalleyclassiccruisers.com/Cruise_Night_2013.html
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ROTAPLAST Receives Boost From Cumberland Rotarians![]() |
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Christine Dickinson Newest Paul Harris Fellow![]() At the Installation Dinner on 11 June, Christine Dickinson became the club's latest Paul Harris Fellow, honouring her service to humanity through Rotary. John Challender presented Christine with her pin, certificate and an engraved crystal.
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Club Installs Executive and Board for 2013-14![]() On 11 June, the executive and board for 2013-14 were installed. (L-R)Secretary John Challender, President Kim Sleno, President-Elect 2014-15 Liz Phillipson, Administration Director Christine Dickinson, Treasurer John Jones, Service Projects Director Barb Giroday and Membership Director Judythe McQuillan.
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Vancouver Island Society for Adaptive Snow Sports - VISASCathe Egan spoke to us about the work of the society. VISAS is the largest organization of its kind in Canada. Its cadre of 90 volunteers provide instruction in snow sports to 550 people with a wide variety of mental and physical challenges. She presented the following video to inform us of the work done by the organization: For more information see: www.visasweb.ca |
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Club Presents a Cheque to the Strathcona Symphony Orchestrra
(L - R) Pippa Williams, Deb Nolan and Michelle Morton |
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Rotarians Provide Entertainment Equipment to Seniors![]() |
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What is Rotary? |
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Club's Activities Featured on CTV |