Stories

On December 24th, we were pleased to donate $1,350 to Peace Wapiti School Division for a speech from Eva Olsen, Holocaust survivor.  Sheldon Rowe, PWSD Superintendent, accepted the cheque from Past President Holly Sorgen.

Once again, SCRC organized the annual Terry Fox Run on September 15th.   The 2013 event raised $9,300 for cancer research. Rotarian Amanda Reimer presented President Cedrick LeBlanc with a plaque recognizing our 30 years of commitment to the Terry Fox Run, which was one of the club's first community projects.

Past President Ken O'Shea and Dan Roode from the Salvation Army attended our September 11 meeting to talk about the Rotary Food Bank Drive happening on September 17.  This is the largest single day food drive in Canada and includes the City of Grande Prairie, the town of Sexsmith and the hamlet of Clairmont. The food bank drive is organized by SCRC and includes volunteers from all 4 Grande Prairie Rotary clubs, Rotaract, Interact, Lions, Elks, United Way and many other service clubs and businesses in the area.  

UPDATE from September 18 - Ken O'Shea advised the 2013 Rotary Food Bank Drive was another record breaker!  650 to 700 volunteers in 125 teams collected more than 160,000 items in a few short hours on September 17.  The items have an estimated value of $270,000. For the first time, we had more volunteer teams than area maps for them.  THe volunteers rolled up their sleeves to help unload vehicles at the Salvation Army.  Capt. Dan Roode was grateful for all of the help - he described their Food Bank operations as similar to operating a small grocery store.  Thanks to all who gave generously to this worthwhile initiative.  

Sahwatdeeka!  

Karaoke dance parties, new Thai fruit discoveries, traditional Thai outfits, friends, and markets OH MY! 

The 2013 Cash and Camping Lottery draw was held on July 5.  Lottery winners were posted in the July 8 Daily Herald Tribune and at cashandcamping.com. The lottery helped raise close to $340,000, which will go to various community organizations and local non-profit groups.

(L to R) - Dan Pearcy, Karen Scribner, Joan Nellis, Holly Sorgen, Naomi Ducklow, Angie Peters, Cheryl Budjak, Lisa Podmore, Todd DeHaan, Cedrick LeBlanc, Delayne Weeks and Chris Andersen.

See the lower left column for each of their new positions on the board.

Past President Pete Merlo accepts the Employment Partnership Award for our club for the participation of our members in providing employment for individuals with developmental disabilities.  Wendy and Aimee presented the award on behalf of District 5370.  The award is supported by Rotary International as a recognized program and bears the endorsement of RI past president Frank Devlyn.

The Regional Manager for the Grande Prairie YMCA was kind enough to offer us insight on their current and future programs being offered. One of their new programs for 2012 is the Virtual Y.

Virtual Y Overview
Childhood poverty is directly linked to high school non-completion and lack of secondary education. The Virtual Y is a program designed to break the cycle of poverty by increasing the level of high school completion. Based on the success of this program in other YMCA's around Canada and the USA, the YMCA knows that early intervention is key to succeeding in this venture. As such this program will be offered to children in Grande Prairie - grades 3-6, living in a neighbourhood that has limited access to resources, programs, and services. Working along with the Grande Prairie Public School District the first program site has been determined:  Hillside Community School to commence in the fall of 2012.

The Virtual Y will provide children the additional help and attention needed to succeed in academic studies and will incorporate physical activity; encouraging team work, good sportsmanship and problem solving, while improving overall health and the development of self-worth. Children will feel valued, safe and free to express their thoughts and feelings; promoting the development of positive relationships with adults and their peers.

 Expected Impact of the Virtual Y

Children

• Improved reading, writing, speaking and math skills
• Participating more in class, and higher levels of homework completion
• Learning new social skills
• Improved problem solving skills
• Taking responsibility for actions
• Making new friends and feeling more involved in the school community
• Getting more exercise, choosing and eating more healthy snacks

Parents

• Recognize the Virtual Y as a having a positive impact on their child for the reasons mentioned above
• Finding that their child is more comfortable in sharing thoughts

 Schools

• By design, the Virtual Y supports the broader school community, providing resources, supports and activities

 Community

• Children and families will learn advocacy, accountability, responsibility and pride for their community, taking ownership for what is, and the changes that are possible.

This program has a registration component but no fees - to insure that no child ever be turned away due to inability to pay. As such, the Grande Prairie YMCA is looking for community partners to assist with funding that will allow this program to become a reality.

For more information contact:

Adrian Smedstad
Regional Manager
Grande Prairie
O:780 539-9622

Swan City's Newest Inductees are; From Left to Right:
  Wade Greentree inducted by Tab Pollack; Delvin Kosik, David Little inducted by Ken Louden; Lisa Podmore inducted by Richard VanderZee; Chris Rhoads inducted by Dan Drake; Ryan Blais inducted by Eve Lepinski; Carol Ann MacDonald inducted by John Lenners; Bryan Turner inducted by Pete Merlo
Congradulations to all our new members. We wish them well on their Rotarian journey.

Sunrise at Lake Havasu is beautiful. Some of the youngsters there for spring break even stayed up to enjoy the moment before quieting down for the day. We ensured we said goodbye with our sirens and horns as we left the parking lot.

It was wonderful to have Dave and Elizabeth join us for breakfast and to send us off. And yes, Vivian, Murray and Tracey found the closest Starbucks and make it back for the morning meeting prior to departure. We took the scenic route out of Lake Havasu. Once we hit the road, we enjoyed miles and miles of desert and heat.

Once in a while a large farm or feedlot would appear out of nowhere, almost like a mirage. We even saw the by-invite only adult hotel, Lewis Prison. It was too hot for the boys in pink to show their stuff. And we hear it is too cold at home to show any pink as well.

We followed the I85, I93 then moved onto the I8 then onto the I10 around Tucson as we wanted to bypass Phoenix. It is great to say that all vehicles are working well in the heat. There were times we had to ensure we used our defensive driving skills as we concurred the miles.

The boys have learned the 4 magical words, oh, yes, right…… sorry. Murray was the first to truly note these wonderful words.
Henry is a tad worried about Fred as Fred is letting your hair down, or grow that is.

After traveling for 9 ½ hours and over 600 kms, we were happy to arrive at our hotel in Nogales. Tomorrow is unknown as we have no idea how long we will wait at the border crossing.

Jerry seems to be enjoying being the leader of the pack with Allan, but he is very quiet on the CB. Bob thought he would treat us to singing his favorite country song over the CB but he didn’t realize the other vehicles had turned down the volume.

As the convey taillight, Harm and Percy are catching all vehicles rear ends. The 1989 water tanker truck was donated by the Northern Sunrise County and is in great working order, it is ready to roll once we hand over the keys to the people in Mexico. This is Harm’s 7th trip, so he is teaching Percy everything he knows as this is Percy’s first.

The last few days have been very busy, here is the short version. Monday morning we enjoyed a wonderful breakfast with Rotarians from Mazatlan. It is very moving to hear how the work we do to bring the vehicles to their communities truly impacts so many and how grateful they are for our work. We are very grateful for the work of the many Rotarians in the area who contribute so much to ensure our efforts continue. We know the vehicles mean a lot, but truly we only see our side as we are only delivering, the work begins once the units are ready for use.

After breakfast we rallied the troops to divide the gear by truck and community need. It is hard to believe some Bombardos may have not used gear in the past. It was very exciting to see how much gear was packed into the vehicles.

Today was a very busy day. Bright and early we arrived at the trucks to start the parade. We ventured throughout the streets for a few hours with a police escort with sirens and lights going, and yes we did wake a few sleepyheads up, and it was worth it. The most heartfelt moments were when the wonderful people of Mazatlan came out of their homes to wave, blow kisses and to extend their appreciation for our work. Plus many Canadians came out and waved their Canadian flags, we do not need to say more…. we were all moved.

The arrival at the city hall square was filled with cheers, waves and wonderful welcoming smiles, we then meet with the mayor to officially hand off the keys to the vehicles. Wow, what an amazing turn out from the locals.
We are very proud to say, the official opening of Allan’s park followed. This was a moment that moved everyone. For the many who have been touched by Allan’s work, you will understand the significance of this tribune. This park joins many communities together to help build community.

We then enjoyed a great lunch with the Mayors wife, followed by great local dancing at the city square. We must say, Vivian and Tracey represented Canada well in the musical chair game… that is all we shall say tonight. The evening ended celebrating Pepesan’s birthday together as a whole family.

Great day today, everyone was able to sleep in and enjoy some down time prior to departure from Vegas…. So what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.

The girls found great blues brother’s hats to compliment Allan’s new chapeau. We followed interstate 95 out of Vegas to the east, truck #6 decided to go west my boy, but caught up after a slight detour. Then off through the desert, hills and heat of... Nevada. The roller coaster highway of California gave us a taste of the Mexico adventure we are yet to see. The Colorado River truly is beautiful as it sparkled and glimmered of turquoise blue. We then entered in Arizona as our goal was to reach Lake Havasu tonight. The air-conditioning in all the vehicles works fabulous as long as the tools are used to the right level, meaning…….all windows down. The heat feels great, and we understand it is only going to get hotter.

The 24 passenger school bus is driven by Rick and Bob came from the Calgary area. It is a 2006 so we hope there are many years left for use in Mexico. This is Rick’s 5th trip to the far south and Bob’s second trip. Sounds like county music is their favorite… well maybe only Ricks.

We were welcomed into Lake Havasu by Dave Chomik, what a wonderful sight! Dave and Elizabeth opened their home to our crew and shared a wonderful and delicious meal and their friendship. It was great to enjoy some laughs among friends tonight.

Tomorrow will be another long day as our goal is to reach Nogales, Arizona, an hour away from the border crossing into Mexico.

It was a cold morning in Beaver. After the unveiling of the special gifts from Ray (colour blind) Grenier, see group picture, we were on the road by 9 am. We are ready for some heat. Vehicles were washed and checked, with only the red fire truck needing power steering fluid as armrest strong steering was required.

We left Utah, then into Arizon via the Virgin River Gorge. What a view! The road... kept going down, down, down until we reached construction at the bottom. Once we arrived at the other side we entered into Nevada. Immediately the weather warmed up and golf courses appeared.

Henry and Fred are driving a 1981 fire truck purchased from Calling Lake. Minor repairs completed by Ken Sargent Pontiac Buick of Grande Prairie. It rides well, full of gear and ready to hand the keys over once we arrive in Mazatlan.

This is Henry's second trip to deliver a vehicle to Mazatlan, and Fred's first. Fred joined Rotary just over a year ago. It is exciting to have a Rotarian join us for this years adventure.

So why did the 12 Rotarians signup for this year trip? Each of us have a comment goal. We are fortunate to have the lives we lead, and we know that through the synergies of working together we can make a larger difference for others. As we travel together, we are not bankers, engineers or bus drivers, we are Rotarians. We laugh, tell jokes and tease each other with friendship, fellowship and support. This is one of the few international projects that our clubs can participation in via driving. Not only is there a huge impact for those who are on this years trip and for the many who participated in the past, the impact is felt by so many in Mexico that we may never meet.

Oh yes, we arrived into Vegas today.....

Day 3, on the road again. Yesterday we traveled 640 km, most was up hill thru the different Montana passes. Bright and early Vivian and Tracey ventured off and found Starbucks and made it back in time for 8 am departure. It was clear sailing as we concurred the Minita Pass, elevation of 6870 feet. We continue to stay in assigned order on Interstate 15. Due to the Red Fire Truck we stay at a cons...istent speed of 85-90 km/hour. CB radios, provided by Morad Communications out of Edson, are great as it improved communications with longer range. Early afternoon we crossed into Idaho where one of the trucks was redecorated, see picture.

Traveling thru Salk Lake City was a wild adventure as about 50 miles of the freeway is under construction. The biggest challenge was when some areas had extremely narrow lanes. With the roadway width narrow and still 4 and 5 lanes at times, there were close encounters of the semi kind.

After we left the crazy construction area, it was exciting to see the fields and sage brush showing a bit of green and warmer weather.

Our chief, Allan has th e daily routine well-structured and organized as keeping 12 Rotarians focused can be an adventure off its own. There has been discussion that cows may be magnetically orientated as Bob and Rick believe that there is a pattern that when cattle are feeding, they are facing north. Verification of this theory would be greatly appreciated.

Thank goodness for Mike’s in ability to smell as he missed the big feedlot.

The ambulance that Allan and Jerry are driving came from Alberta Health Services in Grande Prairie. As it is a 1999 and came from a good home, it is in great shape. Just what is needed for the people of Mexico.

Allan has been part of this adventure since the beginning 10 years ago. We appreciate his commitment to the delivery of the many vehicles to Mazatlan and the surrounding communities. Allan continues to demonstrate Service Above Self.
Over 830 km were travelled today in 11 ½ hours with only quick fuel and restroom stops. Vehicles and drivers did very well. We are settling in Beaver Utah for the evening, then Vegas here we come!

First day in Mazatlan. Some people picked up their spouses at the airport. Allan, Harm & Murray along with Pepesan visited the 3 local papers and the TV Station to talk about the project & history. Late tails of the trips were discussed with the spouses. In the evening it was a group supper following which a number of us went to visit Cindy from Twisted Mamma's, a fellow Albertan, who along with her family run a great bar in Mazatlan. We also meet a fellow Rotarian, Jim from Medicine Hat.

The activites for the groups start on Monday with the main event being the parade on Tuesday morning followed by a meeting with the Mayor at 10AM. At noon will be the grand opening of Allan's park. Other activitie notes will be posted alter.

Venturing out of the city proved to be easy as no one left with injuries. We travelled through approx. 30 kms of construction out of the city. Once the improvements are done, it will be a great road to drive on. Miles and miles of dessert were the main focal point for a long time, then green appeared. It was a wonderful sight driving thru the flowering trees and farms. Seeing the 100’s of acres... and miles of corn, tomatoes and other produce really brought it home to understand where some of our items come from. There were many farm hands working the fields by hand and with small very equipment compared to the equipment you see in our fields.

Everyone knew today would be one of the longest days of travel yet. Only stops were for fuel and to grab some lunch from one of the truck fuel stops about 30 kms north of Culiacan. Not long after that we were able to see water to the far west of the road once, you had to really focus to see it but it was such a welcoming sight.

Everyone seems a bit tired today as there is not is not too much chatter on the radio until we were about 200 kms out of Mazatlan. Then luckily the tanker truck (aka… California girls) heard the direction to make the turn for Mazatlan when asked to do…..we are not sure why, but they keep wanted to turn for California.
The day went really well with only a few very small items that required attention. During one fuel stop, Harm and Percy checked the tank truck differential fluid level, all was good so duct tape and the fixings were used to plug the hole, and Murray and Mike used their muscles to get the red fire trucks hood latch to catch. Mike then had to reattach the siren controller as it fell from the roof and he wanted to ensure he could play with it as he drove into Mazatlan.

Mike and Tracey are driving one of the green fire trucks. This unit was purchased for $2500 from the MD of Opportunity and in great working order. Thanks to the County of Grande Prairie for taking off the pump drive shaft as it was better for the truck to run the 5,000 kms without it attached to protect the bearings in the back of the pump. Mike is well seasoned as this is his 4th trip and Tracey’s first. As they travel south, Mike provides a fabulous play by play of what is up and coming, keeping Tracey well entertained.

What a great feeling driving into Mazatlan. We were greeted by local Rotarians and locals who are watching our vehicle’s at a local park. With exactly 5,000 kms traveled from northern Alberta to Mazatlan, we know our job is just about done. Throughout the next week, it will be an honour to hand over the keys of each unit. Sounds like a busy week is planned, we promise to keep you posted.

Only a 30 minute wait at the Sweetgrass US border for all to clear, Henry and Fred’s truck had a short wait while the bond and Henry and Fred were investigated. We enjoyed a great break and lunch in Great Falls. Harm and Percy, who are driving the tanker truck, found a leak so they had to pull all resources together to find something to use as a vent for the differential. The final fix it packa...ge included: marrette, paper towel, electrical tape and the all mighty duck tape, and yes Rotarians are resourceful….plus McIver (aka Rick) was on hand.

All vehicles did well thru the Missouri River Canyon, the view was amazing! Truly, the view throughout the day was terrific……sun, warm weather, clear roads and light traffic.

It is great to have the Edson “red fire truck” as part of this year’s team. The 1990 unit came from City of Vancouver last April and very little repairs were needed. Drivers for 2012 are Murray Heinrich and Vivian Williams, members of the Edson Rotary Club, advise it is an easy ride. This Club has 25 members and have participated in 7 trips and look forward to many more!

Tonight we are resting our heads in Dillon, Montana then tomorrow we are on route to Beaver Utah, I hear we need to shop for supplies before arriving.

After a really good rest, the team welcomed Pepesan and Memo from Mexico. After fuel, vehicle check, breakfast and yes the regular run to Starbucks, the team left for the border, thanks Tracey for treating the team! We are now all hooked on special coffees. Vivian, Tracey and Mike had picked up lunch fixings at Safeway prior to leaving. After decorating the trucks with Canadian flags, we were o...ff. Thank goodness Mike is such a Mr. Fix it, with tie straps, he can make anything work. Crossing the US station went well. It is truly an eye opener the difference from the US to the Mexico landscape. We are very blessed to have the life we have, and this was another reminder of this.

We arrived at the Mexican border around 9:30 am. Allan and Pepsan went ahead to help move the process along. Lunch was served off of the back of Mike and Tracey’s fire truck in the holding area of the Mexican compound. Slowly vehicles were released one by one. The official time for the last truck to make it out is 2:28 pm, only a 5 hour wait……not too bad at all. Next stop was to obtain visitor visa’s with the final paperwork completed for a 3 pm departure. The mandatory ice cream treats was appreciated as we waited for the last of the visa’s. Not too many miles completed yet, so it is now time to get back on the road, which happened by 3:30 local time. The process may not have gone so well without Allan and Pepsan’s knowledge and experience. Thank you to both for your dedication to get the convey into Mexico.

The roads immediately narrowed and close encounters of the semi/bus/car/truck were part of Mexican driving. It is nice to have the welcoming cuddles, but please give us a little more road room.

It is exciting to get the waves of hello and see the smiles of joy of the many people along the road. We feel humbled being able to bring these units to the communities. Miles and miles of desert are interrupted by a small community or very large produce farm, we believe it is produce.

After 15 hours of travel, we arrived into Obregon at 11 pm, had a wonderful dinner at a local restaurant then a few hours of sleep. We are packing with a goal to depart very soon as today will be another very long day. Watch for more details tomorrow, and keep the postive wishes coming our way. we are so close!

Great start, thank you to those who joined us this morning for our sendoff. Once the trucks got on the road, it has been clear sailing. The Edson team joined us outside of Edmonton. Allan Kuechle, our fearless guide, is leading the convoy in the ambulance with the school bus right behind, followed by the 3 fire trucks and tanker truck all in order of color. Other than the high gas bills, the vehicles run great! Weather and roads are perfect. We did discuss using the sirens and lights as we crawled along the DeerFoot during Friday afternoon rush hour. Tonight we rest our heads in Lethbridge and plan for another early start on Saturday. Thanks to all for the wonderful wishes!

When I visited Chile after the earthquake, I met with three rotary clubs in the most affected areas and they all agreed that one of the most important things that we could do to help the cities of Arauco, Curanilahue and  Canete  was to fundraise for an emergency vehicle that also will be a mobile dental clinic to help the rural areas around these cities.

I hope Canada is doing well, not to cold and snowy.  I just wanted to let you all know that France is going really great! It’s a much different country than I imagined, but turns out I love it here!! But gosh can a lot happen in three months!! I’ve been through so many new experiences in these first three months; it doesn’t really feel like it’s only been three months. In one perspective, the amount of new things I have done and learned, along with the amount of people I’ve met, doesn’t really seem like it could all fit into three months. And then again, with another perspective, I can’t believe it’s already been three months, and I’m still on the “slow moving” part of my exchange!  Although the amount of learning exchange students happen to go through is most days completely overwhelming, a bedtime where you can just stop thinking becomes the best part of the day, I really enjoy the type of learning I get to experience here!

I have been kept super busy so far! Thanks to French school I somehow really enjoy that goes from 8am to 5pm, there isn’t much time to do anything after school during the week. So I usually jam pack my Wednesdays (school half days) and my weekends with places to go and people to meet. I can’t say there’s been a single weekend where I haven’t gone somewhere or met somebody new!

School is very different and much harder here in France, but like I said, I’m really enjoying it! School days start at 8am and end after a long day at 5pm. France has this system where people are divided into a “class” of about 35 students per class, and since you and your “class” take every course together, every day, every year it was easier than I expected to make friends. And although I can’t actually participate too much with the course work still based upon the language barrier, and I still don’t have a good enough grasp on the language or culture to be myself, I like going to school to try to socialize anyways!

I’ve just changed host families for the first time last weekend, and I have to say, it’s kind of a roller costar of emotions being an exchange student. With sadness leaving your new family, but excitement get to meet new people who are just as excited to get to know you. Frustration with the language barrier, but hopeful because they have new strategies to help you learn. Stress and confusion losing your finally developed routine, but anticipation and a new perspective with new opportunities to do different things.  I kind of thought I had figured out this French culture, that is, until I moved. I’m so thankfully Rotary is an exchange program that encourages clubs to provide students with more than one family. It’s like I’ve moved to a completely different planet here. It’s funny because it actually gives you a much better perspective on the different between culture and family quirks!

Rotary has only had two weekends with the students so far, but they have been spectacular! There are about 40 exchange students in my tiny district, and somehow I ended up being the only Canadian. The events are so much fun and it’s crazy how many different languages end up being spoken around the dinner table! My Rotary club is really small, the classic European 20 old men club I suppose you could say. And although they can be really strict with my traveling rules, I do enjoy visiting with them at Rotary every Tuesday night. They’re so kind and so proud of the youth exchange program. I have been reminded numerous times that I’m the 18^th student the club has hosted and the 3^rd “English” speaking Canadian they’ve had. They’re always happy  to  visit and see how my exchange is going.

I’m sorry I have taken so long to update you all. I realized because I have such little free time, I need to learn to use it responsibly and get the things I need to do, done; which includes sending Susan my updates! I hope Canada is all doing good! Not too much snow! Apparently here it’s been a really warm winter (My backyard is still totally green) but it’s this wet humid climate I’m not used to which is making me look like a whimp to the French shivering in +10 and I describe to them “normal” winter conditions where I’m from. Miss you all! Pass around the hugs for me and have a great Christmas!!!

Bisous,

Melissa

Well the last vehicle for this years trip,  a fire tanker truck , has been obtained.  Thank you to Northern Sunrise County for donating it to our project.  We have been looking for a truck like this for many years.  Our club will be bringing 3 vehicles, Grande Prairie 1, Sunrise 1 & Edson 1.  All the drivers are lined up.  We plan to leave on Friday March 9.  Stay tuned for future updates.

Hi everyone! I have one more travel stint and then finally be back in the City for two and a half months. So far we have had a productive year with great events and good speakers. November and December are shaping up to be exciting and and our Cars for Christmas lottery is getting into full swing with a first prize of a beautiful Lots Car! I look forward to seeng you you all soon again and remain yours in Rotary,

 

Felix 

Bonjour Everyone!

My name is Melissa Thiessen and I am from the Grande Prairie Swan City Rotary Club who is currently in the south-west of France for my exchange! I've only been here two short weeks, but I have already visited the northern part of France including Paris, started my new school, and tried more sea food than you can imagine. I have a wonderful... first host family and am learning so many new things every single day..especially including the language!
I just want to thank my Rotary club for supporting me and sending my to this beautiful country, and Rotary International for making this experience possible!
I hope that many more Rotary clubs will join the youth exchange program so that more students may have the opportunity to experience what I get to everyday this year!

Mix 6 Teams with 6 Carts, blend in a number of sponsors, add a List of Groceries and a local Grocery Store and you get more than $2,600 in items for the Salvation Army Food Bank!

 

Thank you to Northside IGA, 104.7 Free FM, 96.3 Shine FM, Q99, Rock 97.7, Daily Herald Tribune, Louis Chabot, Ken O'Shea and all of the Interact Members from Peace Wapiti Academy and Sexsmith Secondary for their participation in this year's Media Scramble on September 8, 2011.  The event was held as a kick off to the Foodbank Drive happening on Tuesday, September 15, 2011 and pitted media personnel and their Interactors teams in a shopping challenge.  Teams were given grocery lists, 2 minutes to scout the store and then set off to gather all of the items on the list in the quickest and most accurate way possible. 

 

In the end the real winner was the Salvation Army Food Bank - with over $2600 worth of items being gathered and hauled off to their building.  What an awesome start to this year's Food Bank!

 

Get involved - contact Ken O'Shea to sign up to canvass next Tuesday starting at 5:00pm - D-Coy Armouries. Everyone is welcome!

 In August, Melissa Thiessen left for her youth exchange year in France!  Good luck Melissa!  We know will be a fabulous ambassador for our club and the youth exchange program!

Arbor Day Society representatives, along with Swan City Rotarians, Rotary House representatives and a representative from GP Smoky MLA, Mel Knight's, office were on hand Wednesday, July 27, 2011 for the unveiling of the Society's current Arbor Day Grove project. 

Society Chair, Bob Normandeau, provided a brief history of the Society with additional remarks from the Swan City Club, Rotary House and Mel Knight's representative.  Guests later joined Swan City Rotary at their regular meeting and a presentation was made about Arbor Day, the Society and several plaque presentations were made to local businesses and organizations that have made Arbor Day projects successful.

Tory Ross returned from his Youth Exchange experience in Germany.  He is pictured here with his family.

I’d like to thank the Rotary Club for putting up such a great opportunity to go to a camp that normally would have cost a lot of money and making it entirely possible to get in for free. I had an amazing time and met some great people. The instructors were great and taught the course very well giving us lots of practical experience and book knowledge as well! It was an awesome experience as the instructors timed us on getting our bunker gear on as well as made us pack a scott pack for a walk just to get used to wearing them. We also were able to go into a smoke house in full gear and do a full search in a completely dark smoke filled house. All in all it was a great learning curve and is a beneficial camp if you one day dream of being a fire fighter. It is a great way to be introduced to that type of world. So once again I would like to thank the Rotary Club for giving us the experience of a lifetime. It is one I will never forget! Thank you!   Alex La Rochelle

New Member, Bill MacLennan, was inducted to Swan City Rotary on Wednesday, May 11, 2011.  On hand to assist with the induction were President Dan Drake, Doug Bain  and Proposer Frank Wright.

Rotarians and volunteers met at the Rotary Campground in the early morning of Saturday, May 7, ready to clean up the City.  Thank you to the Grande Prarie Rotary Club for cooking a wonderful breakfast. 

 At 8:30am, volunteers were on their way on busses to pick up students at City schools and were then on to garbage pick up duty at various locations throughout the City or to their posts at garbage bins placed in different areas. 

 Busses returned everyone to the Campground at noon and lunch was served - again thanks to GP Rotary! 

This year more than several tons of garbage was collected, leaving the City spick and span!

The following note was sent to Outbound Youth Exchange Chair - Susan Mackenzie:

Dear Susan
Wow I can not believe it's May already! It's incredible how fast time flies. I hope you are well and are enjoying the good weather. I have been very busy lately but I am having a great time. I just got back from my three week Germany tour, which was absolutely amazing. It was so much traveling around Germany with the exchange students and being able to see so many different things. Everyday we would travel to a new town or city and explored what they had to offer. We visited Hamburg, Dresden, Frankfurt, Bremen, Koeln, and many other smaller cities as well. We also went to Strasbourg in France. In my opinion Hamburg was the prettiest place we visited. We stayed there for three nights and the city and the harbour were absolutely breathtaking. My Germany tour was one of the best experiences I've had here and I will definitely miss traveling with my friends.

On May 5, 2011, Swan City Rotarians joined up with local Sustainable Resource Development Foresters to talk about trees with grade 1 classes throughout the Grande Prairie region.  Everyone met at the SRD shop at 7:30am to sort trees, meet their partners and enjoy a wonderful breakfast prepared by SRD and sponsored by Swan City Rotary.

At 9am,  the volunteers made presentations to hundreds of grade ones, talking trees, how to plant them, and why they are important.  Each student also received a white spruce seedling to plant when they returned home.

At 10am, Rotarians and SRD representatives met at Maude Clifford School to plan and dedicate a tree to that school.  Again a presentation was made about the importance of trees and the students were involved in helping plant the tree they were given. 

As Cars for Christmas 2010 lottery partners, Swan City Rotarians are being asked to assist with ticket sales during the month of December.  The ticket sales schedule is now available for download and can be found in the downloads section on your right at #16.

The Swan City Rotary Club will be hosting a fundraiser at the Shark Club on Thursday, October 28th at 6pm. This is a fellowship event with including dinner and silent auction. Cost is only $25 per person. All money raised will be used toward funding a mobile medical clinics in affected areas of Chile affected by the earthquakes earlier this year.

About a year and a half ago, I asked my mother how she felt about youth exchange. I said that I was interested on going on a youth exchange sometime in the future and I told her that she should keep that thought in the back of her mind. I didn't how I was going to achieve this dream but I knew that youth exchange was something that I was very interested in. Now, a year and a half later, my dream has come true.

Swan City Rotary Club Youth Exchange Student, Emilia, was out with her host mother Jessie, and host sister Katrina & brother Peder gathering food for the local food bank drive. Thanks, Emilia, for getting involved!

On Tuesday, September 14, 2010, over 625 volunteers and 125 vehicles participated in the anual Food Bank Drive. This type of participation was esential as twice this year, the Salvation Army Food Bank has ran out of staple foods, seeing a 40% increase of usage year over year from 2009. The evening drive resulted in the gathering of 102,000 food items, valued at approximately $172,000. The food will be put to good use as it is anticipated that demand for Christmas Hampers will be up from 600 to 800 this year, a 61% jump from 2009. Thank you to all of the volunteers who made this event such a success!

The 2010-2011 Bingo Schedule is now posted in the Downloads section.

Swan City Rotarian and Youth Exchange Leader, Susan Mckenzie, along with his family and friends, was on hand at the Grande Prairie airport to see Tory Ross, Swan City Rotary's Youth Exchange Student off to his year in Germany. Tory dropped by the club the week prior to tell the members a bit about himself and his wish list for what he wants to see, experience and learn in his new country. Good luck Tory and we hope to hear from you soon!

Over the past few years as a Swan City Rotarian, I have had the pleasure of attending several District Conventions and training sessions. I have travelled to Chile to visit our projects and now I have been to a Rotary International Convention. Each time, it excites me to see the leadership and passion that comes from Rotarians.

June 23, 2010 saw three more cheque presentations made to local organizations, including Girl Guides $900.00, GPPSD Education Foundation $4,000.00, and Grande Prairie Safety City $100,000.00, completing a commitment made several years ago. Congratulations to this partners; we hope they can do great things with the much needed funds.

Swan City Rotary, along with Servus Credit Union, sponsors the Grande Prairie Composite High School's Attendance Incentive Program – Miss School/Miss Out. Winners of $50.00 each for having perfect attendance for the month of May 2010 are: L-R Lyndon Lipinski, Ariana Joseph, Calla Scott

Swan City Rotarians gathered at the Quality Hotel to thank the 2009 Board for all of their hard work and dedication over teh past year and to honour 2009 Swan City Rotary President Eve Lepinski for the stellar job she has done as well. The 2010 Board was also welcomed while 2010 Swan City Rotary President, Dan Drake, took the opportunity to speak to the club, outlining his vision for his year as President and where he would like to take the club over the coming 12 months.

Swan City Rotary Club volunteers hosted a Seniors Tea and Cards afternoon on Saturday, June 12, 2010.

On May 12, 2010, Sargent at Arms, Bill Given, presented several Rotarians with Hat Trick awards. Hat Tricks awards are given to members who complete three things - induction, classification speech, and participation on a committee. Pictured here: President Eve Lepinski with Winnie Beck, Glenda Farnden, Cedric Leblanc, Amanda Reimer, Cara-Lee Sorenson, Chris Gonnet and Ron Wong.

Two new members were officially inducted to the Swan City Rotary club on May 12, 2010. President Eve Lepinski and sponsors, Kelly Montgomery and Cara-Lee Sorenson are pictured here with new members, Richard Vanderzee and Jessie Shirley!

Swan City Rotary Exchange Student, Rikki, graduated from Peace Wapiti Academy on Saturday, May 8, 2010. Congratulations to Rikki and all of her Swan City Rotary families!

On May 6, 2010, Swan City Rotarians joined Alberta Sustainable Resource Development staff, staff from local forest products companies and Bertie the Beaver to pack Lodgepole Pine and White Spruce seedlings, take part in a delicious breakfast provided by SRD and then took off to the schools to make presentations about trees to grade 1 classes. The students loved receiving the trees and many had excellent stories to share about trees and why they are so good. Thank you to all of the volunteers who assisted in making this day wonderful!

Swan City Rotary, along with Servus Credit Union, sponsors the Grande Prairie Composite High School's Attendance Incentive Program – Miss School/Miss Out. Winners of $50.00 each for having perfect attendance for the month of April 2010 are: L-R Swan City Rotary, along with Servus Credit Union, sponsors the Grande Prairie Composite High School's Attendance Incentive Program – Miss School/Miss Out. Winners of $50.00 each for having perfect attendance for the month of April2010 are: L-R: Chelsea Perron, Kyle Kelso, and Travis Tomshak

When airlines passengers step out of their plane and into the airport arrival / luggage area - the doors will open and the first thing they see will be a 3 x 6 foot "Rotary Welcomes You" sign . This sign also reminds people that Grande Prairie really is a "Rotary City". Special thanks to LSM for assistance with the sign construction. Also thanks to the GP Airport for allowing this to happen. The sign indicates where the 4 clubs meet - and even the fact we will host the 2012 District Conference.

Saturday, May 1, 2010 saw several hundred Rotarians, volunteers and students hit the town for Greenathon 2010. The group gathered at the Rotary Campground for breakfast provided by the Grande Prairie Rotary Club then rode bussses to pick up students at individual schools and then headed out to their assigned routes. After almost two hours of picking up refuse, the volunteers were bussed back to the campground and had a wonderful barbecue lunch. Thank you so much to all of the volunteers!

Swan City Rotary, along with Servus Credit Union, sponsors the Grande Prairie Composite High School's Attendance Incentive Program – Miss School/Miss Out. Winners of $50.00 each for having perfect attendance for the month of March 2010 are: L-R Hayden Skolly, Jenna Pearse, Gia Olichney

Margaret Bell, Executive Director of the Grande Prairie Heart and Stroke Foundation, gave a short presentation to the club on March 31. During the presentation, Ms. Bell presented some alarming statistics and also spoke of a new kit available through the Foundation, called CPR Anytime - Famiy and Friends Kit. For $40, the kit teaches to the core skills of CPR to adults and children in 22 minutes using their own personal kit. The kit contains everything needed to learn basic CPR, and skills can be learned anywhere, from the comfort of a family home to a large community group setting. Check out http://www.heartandstroke.ab.ca for more information.

Swan City Rotary, along with Servus Credit Union, sponsors the Grande Prairie Composite High School's Attendance Incentive Program – Miss School/Miss Out. Winners of $50.00 each for having perfect attendance for the month of February 2010 are: L-R Brent McMahon, Shannon Berg, Michelle Tagarino

The Swan City Rotary Club was successful in applying to the Community Initiatives Program for $25,000.00 in matching funds to purchase and ship much needed wheelchairs to Chile. Thank you to the team who put the application together.

Chris Andersen and several other Swan City Rotarians are off to Ethiopia on Sunday, April 4, 2010. To follow their travels and activities, check out their Blog at www.africanrotarytrip.blogspot.com.

Members are reminded that our Annual General Meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 10, 2015.  Agenda items include: review of the July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014 financial statements and election of Board members for July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016.  See you there!

This is notice of a special meeting to be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2015 at 12:15 pm. The purpose of the meeting will be to review and approve changes to the Bylaws of the Rotary Club of Grande Prairie "Swan City", Alberta, as recommended by the Board. Current bylaws and proposed changes have been emailed to members for their review.

Just a reminder our meeting December 3 will be UPSTAIRS at the Paradise Inn.  We will be getting into the Christmas spirit with our annual Spouses Luncheon.  There is no need to sign up ahead of time.

We are now seeking applications for partner groups for the 2015 Cash and Camping lottery. Guidelines and forms are located on under "Download" on the bottom right of this page, and click on "2015 Cash and Camping Lottery partner application package". The deadline for applications is November 26th.

A few Pictures and Smiles from a Great Community Event.

Love to all.

The Committee.

Information Nights for interested parents and students are: October 1 at 7:00 pm in the Collins Recital Hall room L106 at GPRC, and October 9 at 7:00 pm in the Rotary room at the Public Library.  Application and school reference deadline is October 24.  

For more information, check out the website http://youthexchangeinfo.com/.  The website has a link in the menu bar to ,"cool video". It's a great informational tool that answers a lot of questions for students.

 

Stephan Pernal from Agriculture Canada's Beaverlodge Research Station gave us a interesting look at the status of Canada's bees.   Bees are a $200 million industry in Canada and are key to to pollinating our food and feed crops.  Bee deaths is a worldwide issue in developed areas.  Stephan is part of a global initiative working on bee mortality and is conducting applied research with GPRC's National Bee Diagnostic Centre.  Stephan was thanked for his August 27th presentation by Rotarian Wayne Ayling.

Chris Andersen presents a cheque for $4,995 to the South Peace Family Literacy Association (SPFLA).  The funds will be used for facilitators to attend training in Edmonton and to travel throughout the South Peace area.  Accepting the cheque was Tanis Harms, Coordinator of SPFLA and Patricia Fair, Executive Director of South Peace Rural Community Learning.

Rotarian Chris Andersen presented HIV North board member Amanda Ferguson with a cheque for $1500 at our August 27th meeting.  The funds will be used to help sponsor a community round dance, in conjunction with the Grande Prairie Aboriginal Circle of Services.  The round dance will be held on November 8 on the GPRC campus.

Community Foundation of NW Alberta CEO Tracey Vavrek (who is also our Asst. DG) provided an update on Swan City Rotary's "Service Above Self" Fund.  The fund was created in 2006 to help post-secondary students who have demonstrated passion to give back to their community through volunteer work.  The fund annually provides three scholarships of $1200 each.  The application deadline for 2014 awards is September 30, 2014.  For more information see their website at www.buildingtomorrowtoday.com.  

The fight to end polio will receive an additional US$43.6 million boost from Rotary in support of polio immunization activities, surveillance and research to be carried out by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, which aims to end the disease worldwide by 2018.

For more information, go to www.endpolio.org

Welcome to new Members inducted at our August 6 meeting!  From left to right: President Naomi Ducklow, Bea Boutcher (sponsor), Diane Borman (inductee), Dan Pearcy (sponsor), Chris King (inductee), Jerry Napier (sponsor), Todd Loewen (inductee) and Past President Doug Bain. 

Congratulations to Robyn for receiving her Hat Trick from Past President Doug Bain - participating in an induction ceremony, a fireside, and giving her classification talk.  This was Robyn's last meeting before she returns to Australia for a year to see family.  We will miss you Robyn!

Congratulations to Paul Harris plus one recipient - Bill Shumard.

Congratulations to Angie Peters - recipient of a Paul Harris plus six award.

Kelly Montgomery was presented a Paul Harris plus 3 for service above self by providing snow clearing in advance of our meetings last winter.  Thanks Kelly.

Congratulations to Percy Britton - recipient of Paul Harris plus 3 award!

Congratulations to Paul Harris plus one recipient Ken Ness

Congratulations to the champions of the President's Changeover Golf Tournament: Eve Tollenaar, Len Tollenaar, Cheryl Budjak and Serge Martin.

Congratulations to our new President Naomi Ducklow!  Past President Cedrick LeBlanc presented Naomi with her President pin at the July 3 changeover meeting.

 

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2014-15 2014-15 Board (from L to R): Holly Sorgen (Past President), Joan Nellis (Club Service), Cheryl Budjak (President Elect), Bea Boutcher (Allocations), Lisa Podmore (Vocational Service), Angie Peters (International Service), Todd DeHaan (Club Membership), Dan Boorse (Sergeant At Arms), and Naomi Ducklow (President).

Absent: Dave Cook (Community Service), Jeff Finkle (Lottery), Karen Scribner (Secretary), Mary Ann Smith (New Generations) and Delayne Weeks (Treasurer).

Past President Holly Sorgen presented Cedrick LeBlanc with his Past President plaque and pin at the July changeover meeting.

Cedrick is leaving the club due to a work transfer to Edmonon.  Thanks for your service to the club Cedrick, we will miss you!

pin.

Allocations committee member, Dave Nuth, presents a cheque for $4025 to Joe Sask with the Wolverines Wheelchair Sports Association.  The money will be used for the associations new sit ski equipment for use at Nitehawk Ski Hill.

Past President Allan Kuechle presented Paul Harris plus 2 pins to Karen Scribner and Past President Felix Seiler.  A Paul Harris plus 2 award indicates a Rotarian's contribution of $3,000 to the Rotary Foundation. 

On behalf of the Peace Wapiti Academy Interact Students I would like to thank you and your Rotary Club for the support and guidance you gave us this year! Attached please find a picture of the Club at our year end meeting! We wish you all a great summer!

 

Beth Zazula

School Counsellor/Off Campus Programs Coordinator Peace Wapiti Academy

 

Sexsmith Seniors Center $850.00

West Smoky Eagle Boosters $1000

Reading University $2000

First time for a Wednesday Rotary Luncheon at the Cash & Camping Tent!

 

Tegwyn Curtis and Nicole Chrenek gave an excellent presentation on June 12th at our Rotary Luncheon.

Mighty Peace Day is Grande Prairie’s vision for inspiring more youth to contribute to worthy causes and will mimic all of the other We Day’s across the country. Supported by Free The Children and We Day, Grande Prairie will be the first ever city, with a population of 250,000 or less, to host a Free The Children sanctioned event of this magnitude.

Please go to http://mightypeaceday.ca/ to find out more.

David Little (top) and David Nuth Gave their Rotary Friends some insight into their vocations as well as some humorous life stories.

In some of the most densely populated slums of Bangladesh the Munro's have begun to seed change.

The change has come in the form of teaching. Teaching mothers basic english, math and social skills that would never have happened for the poor. G.E.M.'s book titled "South Asian Adventures with the Active Poor" tells of the gruesome hardships and living conditions of a beautiful people suppressed from education by the elite for the sake of wealth and identity. He also talks about the victories and heart warming moments of women who have all but given up on life find a reason to live AND go on to teach their family and friends.   

Technical Search & Rescue received $4995.00 ! See more below...

View of the Main Entrance to the Regional Hospital. The facility is budgeted at 621 Million and has future expansion plans to accomidate population growth in our region into 2025!

Although they may not be ready to compete for the Gold, these awesome Rotarians made it out to Jasper to represent Swan City and just plain have some fun. From Left to Right; Doug Bain, John Simpson, Percy Britton and Ken Sutherland.

Maybe a little, but then you have to...

Take your turn teaching the class!

Oh well, looks like it was worth it.

Go to Morgan's page to see more fun pics!

While we are here freezing our butts off in -36 degree weather can you believe Morgan is getting so used to the weather there that she had to wear a sweater at 20 above... Ya I know what your thinking, Haha

So if you want to read more about Morgan's awesome adventures, go to the exchange student link and read on.

I've also changed up the order of her new posts and decided to move them to the top so don't be confused.

 

$4999.00 to the Glen Leslie Church

$1000.00 to the Cool Aid Society

$1000.00 to the ACFA

$4817.40 to the Disabled Transport Society

$1350.00 to the Peace Wapiti School #76

Date: Dec.7/12  Time: 6pm cocktails - 7pm supper

Place: Evergreen Tec Center

Cost is $50 per person. $5 / person will be donated to the Salvation Army Xmas Hamper

It's going to be a great time, but it's important to let Chantale know that your coming and who's coming with you.

Please contact Chantale @ info@consideritdoneconsulting.com 

Eileen received this Paul Harris in honor of her late husband and our Rotarian friend Ken Langstaff.
This Paul Harris was done in Eileen's name. You are missed Ken and we are always here for you Eileen.

What an amazing Woman. Kathrine Switzer did what may never have the guts to do, She acted on her belief and changed the world.
We were privileged to get a taste of her story and those who went to the college to hear her speak that evening were moved.
Kathrine continues to run and change lives all around the world. For the first time in history every country was represented by a women in the Olympics.
e some time to read about her yourself. Who knows you might be inspired to make some changes in the world too.
          

Hey Mom & Dad! Can I keep him!?
 Go to Morgan's page on the "Outbound Exchange Students" section of our site to see more pictures of Morgan's adventures.

Mike and Laura Lee Hoehn, Morgan's parents, had an emotional send off for their daughter. Even though they're happy for the life experiences
they know Morgan will have... That distance thing really pulls on the heart and leaves an uncomfortable lump in the throat... isn't that how you put it Mike?
It'll go by quick guys... right?

Go to Morgan's page in the outbound exchange section to see her update!

Morgan shows us where she'll be partying, I mean learning all about the Thai culture.


Ok, so these pictures show the balance of work & play.
We will miss her, but can't wait for her updates that she'll be posting in the "Exchange Students" section
located at the top LH of this page.

Angie Peters presented Lindy & Makhoos a check for 3000.00 for the Elder's Caring Shelter.


Allan Kuechle presented Ashley Rupertus a check for 2900.00 for the GP Peewee Football club.

Peter Burletoff presented Laureen Harcourt & Sharli a check for 2500.00 for the GP SPCA

Cedric LeBlanc presented Rhonda & Linda Side a check for 4000.00 for the Grade 3 Reading University.

Eve Tollenaar presented Terry & Mitchell Boyd a check for 2375.00 for the Wapiti Kayakers.

The new members forming the After 5 Club

Hi Susan and club!

How are you doing? Enjoying the nice weather? Along with everyone in the club! How's Grande Prairie? The French always get excited when they hear that my city has a french name! Yesterday was exactly one month until I'm coming home. How crazy is that?! I remember them always telling us over and over again in spring orientation how fast time was going to fly by the last few months, and apparently I did not understand how really fast the word "fast" was capable of going! It's insane!!! Lately, memories from all throughout my year keep popping my head as if they happened just yesterday! Everythings all just a blur of crystal clear moments that have made my year what it is. Now I'm facing my last week of school! I'm done the 13th, so next Wednesday! I really can't decide how I feel about that! Part of me is really happy and proud of myself for making it through the year! Learning all the new crazy french rules, going from not understanding a word the teachers were saying to taking normal high school classes, and meeting so many different personalities and making friends that I know will impact me for the rest of my life! But then on the other hand, I am so shocked and sad that the year is already over! There's so many more things I wish I could do here! I just can't believe how this once terrifying school full of strange faces and attitudes has found itself a large part of my heart now! I feel like I know this school so much better than I know my own school in Canada! 

For the last week of school we've been doing some cool activities! Monday was the carnival which is pretty much just Halloween in spring. Everybody went to school in costumes and we had a contest for the best one! The french got really into it too, there were some impressive costumes! Then this Friday night is our high school ball. It's like a graduation party for all the grade 12 students, except all the students in the school are invited to attend and it's much less flashy than grad in Canada. Just normal dresses for everyone! It's kind of sad to me because this is all they get for grad. No big cap and gown ceremony, no grand march with their escorts, no big dry or safe grad party. But then I realized that my grad with all my friends in Canada just passed, and even though I saw all the photo's  and heard all their stories, I don't wish I was there instead of here. Although I still am excited to get the dress and partake in the ceremonies, it's suddenly just not important anymore. I can't imagine having decided to stay just for that instead of going on my exchange! I feel that my perspective on what's important in life has completely changed here!

Right now I'm busy enjoying the last month of my exchange. Not by doing the most traveling or trying as many new things as I possibly can fit in, but just by embracing my life as an average French girl. Going to the beach, shopping, and the movie theater with my friends. Playing wii with my host brother, helping my host mom with the cooking. Normal everyday things that have made my fall in love with my life in France. My main goal of going on an exchange! I wanted to go a learn how to live a normal life in a new culture, and I have succeeded!!! 

Lately I've been spending every single weekend at a Rotarian's house since I moved to my 3rd host family. Last weekend I got to go house boating on the Bassin for 3 days! Even though I learned I tend to get a little sea sick, it was such a cool experience and one of my goals on my wish list!! This weekend on Saturday my club is having a sort of relay competition to raise money for cancer that I get to take part in! And next weekend I'll get to go canoeing on the bassin!! Should be fun!

In case anyone didn't know, I'm coming home July 5th! So I will see you all in one months time! Crazy! I hope all's going well with Muge and the new outbound!

Gros bisous de la France!

Melissa

The Swan City Rotary Club is now accepting applications for the 2012 Cars for Christmas Lottery. The applications can now be downloaded. Please call 780-532-0506 with any questions.

Terry Scerbak, founder of the Reel Shorts Film Festival, presented the event to our club with a sneak preview of one of the films.  Club member, Matt Zakresky, also presented Terry with a $1200 to sponsor this year's event.

The festival runs from May 2nd until the 6th and will be held at the Grande Prairie Live Theatre.  The event brings together people from all over the region and youth from participating schools to view a variety of short films.  The festival also provides an opportunity for local film makers and screenwriters to attend workshops to help develop their skills.

The festival will have 22 showings of different themed films (over 100 films in total), with prices at either $5 or $10 per showing, or $50 to see all the shows.  It's an extremely entertaining and worthwhile event. A complete schedule for the film festival is available on www.realshorts.ca.

This week marked the opening and dedication of the Allan Kuechle Park in Mazatlan, Mexico.
Here are two of the photo's taken at this special event.  I'm sure there will be many more when the crew returns from the trip!
Congratulations Allan! 

Visit the following blog as well for daily updates:
www.offexploring.com/rotaryedson

Brian's presentation on February 8th shed some light the economic conditions of the Peace Region.
In case you missed it, please go to the download section on the right and click "Grande Prairie Economic Hightlights".   

Brian is the City of Grande Prairie's Economic Development Officer.
If you have any questions you can reach him at (780)538-0475

Message to Superintendents:

It's that time again. Excellence in Education!!!
This year we will only be loading the information to this website and we ask that you send them out to all your Principals.
Please go the the right hand column under "Downloads", click on the 2 files listed under "Excellence in Education".

Should you have any questions please contact Naomi Ducklow or Bernd Manz.

 Cedrick LeBlanc presented the check for 2500.00 to Tenille for Big Hearts for Big Kids. Great Job Tenille!!

 Viki Townson presented the check for 500.00 to the Hythe & District Food Bank Holly Sorgen accepted it on their behalf. 

 Dave Martel presented the check for 4500.00 to Leah Holler on behalf of Community Futures for the Youth Entrepreneurship Camp. 

Bob Normandeau presented the check for 4995.00 to Sadia Kahn for the Grande Prairie Council for Lifelong Learning for the English Literacy Program. 

 Allan Kuechle presented the check to 750.00 to the Robert Zahara School Advisory Council for the Feed the Children program.

Sheldon Rowe accepted a check for 1350.00 for the Peace Wapiti School Division. The funds will be used towards the Dr. Eva Olsson travel trip #2. 

Hi everyone:

I hope everyone had a relaxing and joyful Christmas Season and a good slide into 2012. The New Year will bring some exciting speakers to our meetings, starting with John Simpson with an update on the new Multiplex facility in the County.

I look forward to my second half as your President and assure all of you that I will keep my travel schedule to a minimum of absences. This year will be another busy one for our board of Directors and Committee Chairs. The 2012 District Conference will be a highlight for all Grande Prairie Rotarians and we hope to see as many of you at the event as possible. Please make sure to visit the Conference website at www.kevsconference.com/ and have a look or register. In the upcoming months many of you will be asked to volunteer during the conference and we will keep you posted as the year goes on.

My thanks go to our board members for all their work and commitment to our club and to Naomi that keeps it all together for us and a big thank you to all our members for all the work, volunteerism and commitment that you provide during the entire year.

Thanks again and I look forward to serving you in 2012.

Yours in Rotary,

Felix 

Hi everyone! I have one more travel stint and then finally be back in the City for two and a half months. So far we have had a productive year with great events and good speakers. November and December are shaping up to be exciting and and our Cars for Christmas lottery is getting into full swing with a first prize of a beautiful Lotus Car! I look forward to seeng you you all soon again and remain yours in Rotary,

Felix

 Brent Oilund and Tracy Vavrek gave us a brief overview of this National Initiative called Vital Signs. Grande Prairie is one of 22 communities across Canada that has released reports this year. It started in Toronto 10 years ago. Vital Signs takes the pulse of the community by combining statistics and public opinion to track trends and look some of the realities in our community and region. April Weavell, project manager, shed some light on some disturbing stats such as Grande Prairie having the highest rate of obesity in all 22 Canadian Vital Signs communities.

Prior to this presentation Tracy re-iterated the comments of Donna Koch of Alberta Health Services; "We work more hours today than ever before, we sleep fewer hours than before. Some of our Parents and most of our Grand Parents were paid to be physically active, today we pay to be physically active..."

 Ryan Blais presented Debbie Smith with our Swan City Rotary banner. Debbie came all the way from the Peterborough Kawartha Club District 7010.

Debbie's husband Morgan is the President of the Kawartha Club. http://www.clubrunner.ca/cprg/home/homea.asp?cid=220  

  Steven Shavers presented a nice cheque to the representatives from the YMCA.

From left to right; Susan Murphy, Dora Merton, and Debbie Backs. 

 Dave Martel presented a cheque to Accredited Supportive Living Services for their future brain injury Library.

Accepting on their behalf was  Kyla Ouellette, Muta Okoro, and Lloyd Fisher (president elect of Rotaract)

Philanthropy - the love of humanity, caring for, nourishing, developing or enhancing humanity.

If we look in the mirror and see the needs of others I believe we're on the path to "philanthropy".  Jim and Mary-Helen Boccioletti were presented with a plaque by Chris Anderson and Delayne Weeks on Wednesday September 28th. Jim and his wife Mary-Helen have graciously provided years of physical, mental and financial support to many wonderful causes and in doing so exemplify "service above self". If you look closely at their picture you might say they don't appear overly excited, but you also have to understand that Jim and Mary-Helen do what they do for the "love of humanity" and like many philanthropists... It's not so much about the recognition as it is the envolvement. It's one small step and a choice... Treat others as you want to be treated.

The Swan City Rotary Club with the help of District Governor Harry Buddle proudly presented the 2011 Cash & Camping Lottery Partners with their cheques.  Over $250,000 will be going back into the community!!

Representatives from the P.A.R.T.Y program were on hand April 13, 2011 to receive a cheque for $2,500.00 as awarded by Rotarian, Brent Oilund.

ON April 13, 2011, Terry Scerbak, with the Reel Shorts Film Festival, was on hand to pick up a cheque for $1,000.00 from Rotarian, Leo Lauzon.

Note from Gerry Marcotte - I thought you might want to know that just yesterday I mailed a cheque in to Laura for 1,066.73 which is for funds raised by Emilia (Swan City club) & Aleksander (Gr. Pr. club) here in Grande Prairie. I believe the Gr. Pr. club previously sent in a cheque on their behalf also for about 300.00. So I am quite pleased that they met and exceeded the targeted goal set by the district.

43 club members and guests enjoyed an evening of fellowship at the 3rd Annual Merv Crouse Memorial Poker Tournament. This event held at the Grande Prairie Golf & Country Club is a memorial to Rotarian Merv Crouse, a valued member of the community and our Rotary family.

On March 23, 2011, the Swan City Rotary Club officially handed out the proceeds of the 2010 Cars for Christmas Lottery.   Our efforts generated over a quarter of a million dollars, which will be shared amongst the twelve local partner groups. The lottery would not have been a success without the continued support of our sponsors, local media and our various prize suppliers. It takes a community to run this lottery and everyone has shown us just how much they support this community. Do not miss the launch of the 2011 Cash and Camping Lottery on April 7^th, 2011

President Dan off to Mexico at 6:00 AM Today (See Photo Journal for more pics)

Past President Allan Kuechle presents a cheque for $1000 to Tenille for the Big Hearts for Big Kids fundraiser for Sunrise House.

Past President Drew Lamont presents a cheque for $4950 to the Grande Prairie Boys Choir.

Past President Eve Lepinski presents a cheque for $4950 to Mack Erno with the Teepee Creek Stampede Association for the grandstand additions and improvements.

Past President Drew Lamont presents cheque for $2000 to Lionel Jones with the GP Storm. The dollars will help pay for the high school drug awareness program.

Ken Loudon presents cheque for $900 to GP Legal Guidance.

Cheque presentations were made to several community groups on March 2, 2011. Pictured here: Past President Allan Kuechle presented a cheque for $300 to the Encana GP Music Festival.

Swan City Rotary welcomed six new members on February 16, 2011. Pictured here: Allan Ingram and his sponsor Lori Pollock, Dalen Lindquist and his sponsor Bob Normandeau, Dan Boorse and his sponsor Dave Martel, Ron Prochner and sponsor Arlene Miller and Adrian Smedstad and Chris Hingst with proposer Ken Loudon.

Wayne Drysdale, MLA for Grande Prairie - Wapiti, spoke at the February 2, 2011 Swan City Rotary Meeting. He brought an update from the legislature and spoke at length about the future vision of the provincial government and its plan to continue with fiscal responsibility and accountability.

Swan City Rotary, along with Community Futures Grande Prairie & Region, sponsors the Grande Prairie Composite High School's Attendance Incentive Program – Miss School/Miss Out. Winners of $50.00 each for having perfect attendance for the month of December 2010 are: L-R: Kailey Piepgrass, Alia Fraser, Rachel Waldroff

Dwayne Noskey, was the lucky winner of the Swan City Rotary Cars for Christmas lottery. His ticket was chosen at the draw held at the Centre 2000 on December 30. Mr. Noskey is now the proud owner of a Porche Boxster and Lincoln MKZ.

Ana Beatriz, Sunrise Rotary Youth Exchange Student, circulated information about an upcoming fundraiser the Second Street Theatre is hosting as a fundraiser for Shelterboc. "Waste Land", an award-winning documentary about the artist Vik Muniz and the power of art tranforming reality in the world's largest landfill located in Brazil, is coming to Grande Prairie on Sunday, Janury 30 at 7pm. Half of the money raised from ticket sales will go toward the Shelter Box Project. Tickets are $10 or $5 for students. Further information about the movie or Shelter Box can be found at www.wastelandmovie.com and www.shelterbox.org

Swan City Rotary hosted its Annual General Meeting on December 16, 2010 and took an opportunity to present the organization's financial statements and introduce the 2011 - 2012 Board of Directors. Back Row, L-R: Community Service: Bill Jacobson International Service: Chris Andersen Club Service II: Amanda Reimer Lotteries: Cedrick Leblanc Past President - Dan Drake President - Felix Seiler Secretary - Richard Vanderzee Vocational Service - Bob Hall Front Row, L - R: President Elect: Holly Sorgen Allocations - Delayne Weeks Sargent-At-Arms: Cheryl Budjak Treasurer: Lori Pollock Club Service I: Angie Peters

The Greeter Schedule for January - March 2011 has been posted under Downloads to the right.

Swan City Rotary, along with Community Futures Grande Prairie & Region, sponsors the Grande Prairie Composite High School's Attendance Incentive Program – Miss School/Miss Out. Winners of $50.00 each for having perfect attendance for the month of November 2010 are: L-R: Jennifer Nordhagen, Carrie Amero, Kerrie Nelson

Swan City Rotary, along with Community Futures Grande Prairie & Region, sponsors the Grande Prairie Composite High School's Attendance Incentive Program – Miss School/Miss Out. Winners of $50.00 each for having perfect attendance for the month of October 2010 are: L-R:Christian Phillips, Jaelene Grant and Sam West

Swan City Rotary, along with Community Futures Grande Prairie & Region, sponsors the Grande Prairie Composite High School's Attendance Incentive Program – Miss School/Miss Out. Winners of $50.00 each for having perfect attendance for the month of September 2010 are: L-R: Alexander Miles, Braydon Hannan and Katie Dueck. Congratulations!

"School has been good so far. The German is a little hard though and I can't keep up in most classes. However I am doing very well in gym, computers, and physics. I have many good friends already and I hang out with them on breaks and at lunch on Wednesday, the only day I have afternoon classes. I went to a party with my friends a couple weeks ago which was really fun. I have also joined a volleyball club here in my town Siegenburg and I hope to join the volleyball, basketball, and badminton clubs in my next town Mainburg when I move in two weeks. I am having a little difficulty carrying a conversation with them because of my German skills but I hope things will get better as my German improves.

I started my trip to the south of Chile with my nephew Alex on Saturday March the 26th. He was driving a van and I was driving a car. It was 8:00 am and the sun was just rising over the Andes Mountains. The van was loaded with 320 litres of water, 160 Kgs of flour, 6 boxes of fresh grapes, pasta, dried beans, kettles, plates, thermal blankets, tents etc. We entered the highway and it felt like we were entering a war zone. The further we drove south we could see the incredible effects of the earthquake. The bridges and overpasses were totally destroyed. Big parts of the highway were missing and kilometer long cracks were running down the highway. It was like someone had grabbed a chocolate bar and broken it . When we were traveling between Curico and Talca, my telephone started to ring and it was my nephew in the other vehicle and he was struck by the images he was seeing. He said he was thankful for the opportunity to share this with me because it is very difficult to imagine the power of nature and the enormous consequences it can cause.

We made it to Mazatlan. We left Hermosillo at 8:30 AM. The last leg of drive to Mazatlan would be just one of our longest days. We arrived in Mazatlan at approximately 1 AM. It was a very long day filled with excitement. We had small delay when one of the fire trucks starting overheating. We, also, had a flat tire to fix, which delayed our arrival by 1 hour. Before arriving in Mazatlan,we dropped off one of the fire trucks to a local community. Being able to see the excitement in their face,when they received the fire truck and tried on the fire fighter equipment, made the entire trip worth it. Our official duties start on Monday morning when we have breakfast with the local rotary Club. We have lunch with the mayor of Mazatlan at the Aquarium.

We left Las Vegas shortly after lunch. It would be a very short day, as we were invited for supper by Dave Chomik  in Lake Havasu. The hospitality was amazing! Thanks Dave & Elizabeth!

The Swan City Rotary Club in Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada has been working on international projects throughout Chile since 2002. They have successfully partnered with the Rotary Club of Arauco and Rotary Club of Lota in Chile, as well as Alberta's Wildrose Foundation and Rotary International to improve the standard of living in Chile. Projects include the funding of a vocational school and upgrading of a senior's facility in Arauco, Chile, just 45 minutes from the epicentre of the earthquake. On February 28, 2010, an 8.8 magnitued earthquake hit the country leaving hundreds deald and over 1.5 Million people displaced. The Club is helping to collect funds to assist in the rebuilding of damaged and lost infrastructure in Chile as well as assisting the victims of the disaster. Miguel Lopez, Swan City Member, is heading the drive and kicked off the campaign on Monday at 5:00pm with a Press Release at Centre 2000. A website has been created to assist wtih collecting donations and an account has been set up at TD Bank - account # 8836 5239064. To donate, visit the TD Bank or go to www.swancityrotary.com/chile.

We started our 4th day by attending a Rotary Lunch meeting in St. George, Utah. It is club with approximately 73 members. The oldest member being 98 years old.

Our 2nd day started from Lethbridge. We slowly headed towards the border. Surprisingly, our crossing only took 1 hour. In previous years things were a lot slower.

The latest Highway to Mexico crew set off around 6:15AM. Cheered on by many fellow Rotarians for an early morning start with good weather. See right side bar under "2010 Hi-Way to Mexico", Photo Journal for more pictures. Also you can follow along on Face Book, "Highway to Mexico".

Amanda and Alexis Rothlisberger, accompanied by their parents Wayne and Theresa, visited Swan City Rotary on Wednesday, February 24, 2010, bringing with them a message of Service Above of Self. The grade 5 and grade 3 students of Maude Cliffort School heard about the earthquake in Haiti and wanted to do something to help. They heard about the Shelterbox initiative on the radio and followed up online and with Chris Andersen, International Service, for more information. In a matter of 5 short days, one school week, the two young ladies raised $1000, enough to purchase 1 shelterbox which they can now track to its final destination. The girls pulled together a fundraiser called "Hearts for Haiti" and sold heart shaped lollipops and chocolate candies in their schools and leveraged the rest from family and friends. This act showed those in attendance that it is never too early to follow the tenets of Service above Self and challenged those in the room to think of how they also help the larger world. GRade 5 student Amanda, age 10, and her sister Alexis, age 8,

The 2009-2010 Bingo Schedule and the 2010 Cash and Camping Rotary Ticket Sales Schedules have now been posted in the downloads section to your right, numbers 5 & 16 respectively.

Swan City Rotary, along with Servus Credit Union, sponsors the Grande Prairie Composite High School's Attendance Incentive Program – Miss School/Miss Out. Winners of $50.00 each for having perfect attendance for the month of January 2010 are: L-R Laressa Wiebe, Paul Otterholm, Christian Phillips

Swan City Rotary, along with Servus Credit Union, sponsors the Grande Prairie Composite High School's Attendance Incentive Program – Miss School/Miss Out. Winners of $50.00 each for having perfect attendance for the month of December 2009 are: L-R Clayton Kelly-Dirksen, Faiza Abdi Weli, Brittany Fraser

Swan City Rotary, along with Servus Credit Union, sponsors the Grande Prairie Composite High School's Attendance Incentive Program – Miss School/Miss Out. Winners of $50.00 each for having perfect attendance for the month of November 2009 are: L-R Taylor Chateau, Mary Solomon and Dorian Massier

It a regular meeting Swan City Rotariarn and Assistant Treasurer, Melodie Sample presented a cheque for $4,500.00 to the Alexander Forbes Recreational Society for the purpose of purchasing playground equipment for their ECS students.

The new greeter schedule for January to March 2010 has been in the downloads section on the right.

And his Rotary Exchange Elfs :-) Exchange Students from the Grande Prairie Rotary Clubs had fun riding in a Fire Truck bound for Mazatlan and participating in the annual Santa Claus Parade. Ho Ho Ho!

Swan City Rotary, along with Servus Credit Union, sponsors the Grande Prairie Composite High School's Attendance Incentive Program – Miss School/Miss Out. Winners of $50.00 each for having perfect attendance for the month of October 2009 are: L-R Tiffany Hutt, Shanoah Jones, Joseph Psikla

We would like to thank the Town of High Level for donating a fire truck to our Highway to Mexico Project.  Ric Conrad is seen here accepting the keys from Mayor Peter Ernst and Fire Chief Rodney Schmidt.  Ric said the truck drove very well on the trip back to Grande Prairie.

As part of the Swan City Rotary Miss School Miss Out initiative, three Grande Prairie Composite High School students, Micheal Siggelkow, Jarett Tomshak, and Nicole VanderVoort were recognized for perfect attendance in September 2009. Thank you also to Servus Credit Union, the program co-sponsor.

October 7, 2009 also saw a number of Paul Harris awards given out by PResident Eve and International Service Chair, Chris Andersen. Congratulations to Kelly Boyd, Holly Sorgen, Angie Peters and Delayne Weeks. Paul Harris Awards are handed out when a Rotarian reaches $1000 in contributions to the Rotary Foundation.

Two new Swan City Rotary members were inducted on October 7, 2009. Sponsor, Miguel Lopez, welcomed DJ Golden to the club, while sponsor, Dan Drake, welcomed Cheryl Budjak. Incidentally, both new members are Oilers Fans:-)

Several Hat Trick Awards were handed out on October 7. Congratulations to Bill Given, Dawn Marie Crouse, Lori Pollock, Bea Boutcher, Karen Scribner, Jim Smith, and Angie Peters, all of whom received the Hat Trick Award for completing three things: induction, classification speech and involvement in one committee. Good job!

Janice Chomik, Chair for the Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce, presented the Chamber update to the Swan City Rotary Club on September 30, 2009. Janice spoke about the many activities the Chamber is part of and the crucial role it plays in the community.

Rikke Aasbjerg, our new inbound exchange student, visited the club and spoke about her time in Canada, so far. She also distributed a wishlist of things she hopes to experience during her time in the country. Welcome Rikke!

Swan City Rotary hosted a Poker Fun Night at the Great Northern Casino on Thursday, October 15. It was an extremely successful night. Everyone had a great time and the venue was perfect for this type of event. Here is a slate of the winners for the tournament: 1. Chris Murray - Rotaract - Sony PS3 2. Tab Pollock - SCRC - Bar Fridge 3. Jason Lainchbury - Guest - Plug in Cooler 4. Geri Conrad - Guest - Jacuzzi Suite @ Service Plus5. Joel Park - GPRC - Shoe Polisher 6. Mike O'Connor - SCRC - $50 Casino + Golf Shirt 7. Cheryl Budjak - SCRC - Brunch for 2 at Quality Hotel 8. Drew Lamont - SCRC - Rotary Wine Case + Wine

The Rotary Club of Slave Lake along with the Town of Slave Lake just donated a 1980 IHC Fire Truck for the Highway to Mexico Project. This truck will meet many needs in Mazatlan. Thank you from the Swan City Rotary Club.

The County of Birch Hills recently donated two 1981 Chev Fire Trucks for the Highway to Mexico Project. These will form part of the convey which will be leaving in March 2010 for Mazatlan. Swan City Rotary thanks the County for their great gifts,

The Food Bank Drive was a heart warming success and shows the generosity of the People of Grande Prairie and Sexsmith, and the fact that all we have to do is provide people with the opportunity to show their generous Spirit. Thank you, too, for your strong support. The Facts, as of Wednesday morning and keep in mind that all donations for the rest of this week will be credited to the Rotary Food Bank Drive, are: 2008:53,000 items At $1.89 avg cost per item = $100,170 value 2009: 81,500 items, an 89.2% increase At $1.89 avg cost per item = $154,035 + $273 cash I think that YOU; and the people of Grande Prairie and Sexsmith, and all Rotarians need to feel good about this project, and I firmly believe that these numbers will continue to grow as we provide the opportunity for people to give and to have Corporate Teams and Community Groups to participate. Thank you again. Ken O'Shea

New PHoto Journals have beem posted for the Terry Fox Run, Food Bank Drive Kick Off, Food Bank Drive, Board Retreat and Cash & Camping. Check them out by scrolling down and looking to the right of your screen!

All of the Swan City Rotary Cash & Camping Lottery partners were on hand on Wednesday, September 16, 2009 for the cheque presentations. This year's recipients included the Beaverlodge Daycare, KidSport, the Grande Prairie Burn Society, the Wolverines Wheelchair Foundation, Grande Prairie & District YMCA, Suicide Prevention, Grande Prairie Heritage Building Society, HIV North Society & GP Gymniks.

The annual Swan City Rotary Board Retreat was held at Nitehawk Ski Hill on Thursday, September 17, 2009. All Board member were asked to first make a report on their progress to date and to then present on their plans for the year. The day long activity was a wonderful opportunity for Board members to get to know one another better and to further focus the direction the club is taking this year, combined with short interludes of excellent team building activities.

Another successful Food Bank Drive was put on by the Rotary Clubs of Grande Prairie! As a beautiful night kept everyone's spirits up, many volunteers combed Grande Prairie & Sexsmith to help fill the Salvation Army's food shelves.

MC'd by Felix Seiler, this year's run was another success. Over $2700 was raised and 180+ people ran, walked or biked to help raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society. Another great volunteer commitment from the Club!

The Annual Food Bank Drive Kicked-Off with a great event "The Interact Shopping Spree". Shown in the picture is the group "The Sleepers" sponsored and led by Past President Ken "Mr Hefner" O'Shea. See more photos in the Photo Journal on the right hand nav bar. Five sponsored teams of Interacters raced their way around Northside IGA Thursday September 10th, filling up a van full of food for the Salvation Army.

A Drag Wars 2009 Photo Journal has been set up. to add your pictures or to check out pictures that have already been posted, scroll down and you will find all Swan City Rotary photo journals posted on the right.

The weather was great; the crowds were plentiful and the volunteers were awesome! Drag Wars 2009 was an excellent event this year. Swan City Rotary teamed up with the North Peace Bracket Racing Association and Pat's Ato to host this year's event. Held at the Grande Prairie Regional Airport, the three day event from August 21-23, featured several high powered showcases including King of the Street, the Ducati Urban Freestyle Team, the Prairie Gold Canola Bio-Diesel Jet Truck, the Her-O-Cane Jet Dragster, Solver Fox Jet Truck, the Under the Sun Mechanical Big Rig Shootout, Anger Management and the Wheelie Fun Wheel Stander combined with time trials for local drivers too.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009 Taken from Mariah's Blog: http://mariahintaiwan.blogspot.com/ All Girls Catholic High School!! Okay so the weekend before my first day of School I was sent off to an all weekend orientation, it took two hours on a train (which by the way was my first time ever on a train). I didn't expect there to be so many exchange students at orientation, but there was around 38 other students, (over half of them were from the United States).

Taken from Mariah's Blog: http://mariahintaiwan.blogspot.com/ Sunday, August 23, 2009 Taaaiiiiwwwaaan!! Hello from TAIWAN!! I have now been in Taiwan for 2 days, and have eaten enough food for 4 days, don't think that the Taiwanese are skinny because they don't eat. The lunches that I have had are more like suppers they have at least 10 dishes, and me being the foreigner I have to try everything… twice.

Noemi Klarer was taken to Grande Cache on July 18th to experience a portion of the Canadian Death Race trail. Rotarians Ken Loudon, Dan Wong, Dan Drake and Cheryl Budjak as well as Karen Pascut, David Miller and Amber Miller all completed the 27km trek up 2 mountain peaks.

Swan City Rotarians welcomed two guests from Chile to the Changeover meeting on June 3.  They brought greetings from their Rotary club in Chile and also presented President Drew with a hand woven club banner.

Several Swan City Rotarians recevied recognition of 100% attendance at the Changeover event on June 3, 2009.  Congratulations to all who attained this award and to those who have done so year after year!

Swan City Rotarians met on the greens of the Grande Prairie Golf & Country Club to mark the changeover from President Drew to President Eve.  As always, the event was quite successful with all teams reporting a fun experience.

Swan City Rotary club said farewell to 2008/09 President Drew Lamont and his Board and hello to 2009/10 President Eve Lepinski at the Changeover meeting on July 3, 2009.  The event, held at the Quality Inn, was a celebration of the many successes the club has experienced over the past year and served to mark a great year for President Drew and his Board.  All Board members took the oppportunity to report on their actitivities over the past year and a special gift was bestowed upon President Drew in thanks for a job well done!

"I just got back from this week. While we were there we visited some of the past Rotary Exchange students who were billeted by our Club. They are all doing great and credit their experiences with our club as having a major influence on their lives. I have a message from Gladys Rinasse an exchange student from who was with our club in 2003/04. Gladys has graduated from University, majoring in languages and is now working for an investment firm in . She is doing great and wanted me to share this picture and simple message to our Club. Please pass on to our membership. "

Dave Cook

Gerry Mazer, past Swan City Rotarian, was presented with a Paul Harris Fellow award for his contributions to Rotary.  Marg, his wife, says that Gerry was very happy with his award.

On June 13^th, the Swan City Rotary Club container team organized a work bee to load and document the current supplies into a container certified for international travel.   

 

The Sexsmith Sabres boys and girls football teams provided lots of volunteers and the amount of work accomplished was absolutely amazing! 

 

 

Holly Sorgen, Club Secretary, presented the Grande Spirit Foundation with a cheque for $1500.00 on May 13, 2009.

On May 27, 2009 Felix Seiler with the Grande Prairie Ski Patrol was on hand to receive a cheque for $3,350.00 from Club Treasurer, Dan Drake.

This event saw over 20,000 international Rotarians from over 150 countries congregate to the city of Birmingham, England. Birmingham was host of the Rotary International Convention in 1984 and was said to be extremely run down and the crime rate was through the roof. 25 years later, the city has cleaned up its act and is now an international tourist destination and home to over 1 million residents. They were chosen to host Rotary's 100th International Convention and everyone will agree that they did an excellent job.

Man, it feels weird trying to form sentences in English now.  Anyways, here goes:

Ahh, Brazil.  It feels like my home country now.  I know my way around the city quite well (which is no small feat in a city of five million), my accent is finally disappearing, and it feels like I've known my friends and family here my entire life.  It finally happened to me: I'm not ready to go home!  I know, though, that soon my exchange will come to an end (I'll be back in Grande Prairie on July 15th) and when I do come back to Brazil, I will never be on student exchange again.  That said, I'm appreciating every moment I have left, keeping my schedule as full as possible. 

Members of the Swan City Rotary Club and their spouses traveled to Chile to put the finishing touches on two projects. They also took some time to follow up on past projects in the same region of Chile. The new projects took place in central Chile and were in cooperation with the Rotary Club of Lota and the Rotary Club of Arauco.

Satdurday morning started with a hosted breakfast in our hotel.

Friday was a day off for all of us..

A parade of the city with the units

On Wednesday we toured schools and had lunch at the Aquario

Met with Pepi's Club at 8:00

Our day started off with breakfast hosted by the Rotaract Club in a near-by hotel.

After our late arrival on Saturday night, we were all looking forward to sleeping in on Sunday...

Off to to Mazatlan

Crossed into Mexico

Las Vegas Country Club Rotary Club

Saint Patrick's Day

Sunrise Fire Truck is Hot (and loud)It's Greg's new Harley!

Left Lethbridge to not so speedy entrance into USA

Just a quick update this time, for my favourite Rotary club!
The last few months, I feel like I'm getting into the "sweet spot" of exchange.  I feel like I'm at home in Recife.  I have a diverse group of friends, built of people that I know I can trust.  I'm still adjusting to my new host family.  They're very busy working and studying, so I'm glad that I've attained some independence here:  things that were once difficult like calling people to go out and working the public transport system have become my way of life.

Rotarians off to Mexico!

The following email was received by Drew Lamont:

"My family and I went on February 11, 2009 to Mazatlan, Mexico.  We were taking our grandchildren to the Aquarium and we were so proud to be from Grande Prairie, AlbertaCanada when we come across the bus that your organization donated.  Pictures attached.

 

Swan City Rotary's exchange student, Catherine Hilgers, was recently accepted to Montreal's McGill University Faculty of Science.  Congratulations, Catherine!

On Wednesday, February 11, 2009, Swan City Rotary was recognized for its contributions to providing employment opportuniites for Persons with Disabilities.  Club President, Drew Lamont, was on hand to received the Frank Declyn Employment Partnership Award on behalf of the club.  Several Swan City Members were also recognized for their involvement in the program.

Hello everybody!
   Well, it's been another amazing couple months of exchange.  I passed Christmas here in Recife with my family.  Brazilians do most of their celebrating on Christmas Eve, where we eat (and eat, and eat..) until midnight, then open our presents with the entire extended family.  Specific to my host family, applause is required every time someone opens a present.  Christmas wasn't so much about the presents here, though, as it was about spending time with family.  I liked that it was less commercial than it tends to be in Canada.  
   

As sent to the Rotary Club of Grande Prairie:

I have just returned from a month long rotary sponsored trip to the northeast of Brasil and found this a perfect time to catch up. Basically this trip started in Rio De Janeiro and we (more than 40 exchange students) went up the Brasilian coast until the city of Fortaleza for 27 days. It was a great chance to see more of Brasil and now I can proudly say that I have been to 17 of 27 Brasilian states. Just in case any of you were wondering put the jellyfish on your list of animals that you never want to get stung by. I will personally tell you that after four hours of pain you learn fast that those little guys pack a punch. As well as my jellyfish encounter I had a chance to surf, ride the highest waterslide in the world, learned a little more about samba, danced capoeira, and did a tour in Roçinha, Rio´s most famous favela. Now I am safely back in Unaí with a months worth of dirty clothes and it lookes like I will get to know the waithful washboard a little better in the next few days.

Almost twenty Swan City Rotarians and their guests gathered together at Better Than Freds on January 17 to show off their Pool prowess.  Victors for the the evening were Shannon Preus and Carmen Haakstad.  All in all, though, a good time was had by all!

Past President (Rotary Club of Grande Prairie) Kevin Hilgers will be stepping into the role of Assistant Governor effective July 1, 2009.  Incoming District Governor Terry Drader made it official.  The role of the AG is to represent the District when needed, to advise when and where needed, and - like the District itself - assist clubs to attain their goals.  The local AG covers the Grande Prairie clubs, (Including Rotaract, Interact) and Grande Cache. Generally the role is a 3 year term.   There are 13 AG's in District 5370, which stretches from Yellowknife to Wetaskiwin,  North Battleford to Ft Nelson, and points in between.  There are about 60 clubs in the district - with 2500 members.    Submitted by Joanne Ballance, Rotary Club of Grande Prairie

Swan Citry Rotary has the pleasure of hosting the 2008 Peace Country Idol, Renee Golemba, on Wednesday, Janaury 28, 2009.  Renee wowed the crowd, playing a four song set followed by a fifth song in reponse to the encore call.  Her "Pregnany Blues" and 'Divorce Song' had club members smiling and nodding.  Renee also took an opportunity to play the song that won her the title of Peace Country Idol.

Representatives from the Wolverine Wheelchair Sports Association were on hand on Wednesday, January 28, 2009 to receive a cheque for $2600.00 from Swan City Rotary.  The money will be used for the purchase of a custom built wheelchair for the player pictured here.

The January 21, 2009 meeting of the Swan City Rotary Club saw the induction of six new Rotarians to the Club.  Welcome to Angie Peters, Bea Boutcher, Sharon Laverick, Paul Daba, Brad Jones and Dawn-Marie Crouse!  The new inductions bring the club membership to 115 strong.

Darwin Eckstrom, Dean of Fairview NAIT, was in on January 14, 2009 to tell Swan City Rotary more about the future plans of the post-secondary institution, how it will blend with the new Grande Prairie Regional College plan and the types of programs and services that will become available.

Classification Talks continued with Frank Wright telling his story at the January 7, 2009 Rotary luncheon.  Thank you, Frank, for your humourous speech!

Holy toys!! Batman. The Big Toy Box was an overwhelming success this year. We had a large donation of toys, which found they way to us from Shoppers Drug Mart doing a change over. This along with the generosity of Grande Prairie residents and businesses who donated tons of toys and $19000.00 cash.

Swan City Rotary hosted its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, December 17, presenting the financial statements for the 2007-2008 fiscal year and electing its new board for the 2009 - 2010 term which will commence July 1, 2009.

There are still two openings on the board, including Club Service II and Community Service.  Interested members are asked to speak Ken Loudon or any member of the nominations committee.

The Spouses Luncheon on December 10 also served as the backdrop to a rare occurence - a cheque presention TO the club.  The 100+ guests welcomed a representative from the GPRC Marketing class who told the club about the huge success of the Peace Country Idol project completed in November.  It was so successful that a cheque for $11,436.97 was presented to Chris Andersen for Swan City Rotary's Ethiopia project of which the Club was proud to be the recipient.

Swan City Rotary hosted its annual Spouses Christmas Luncheon on December 10.  The crowd was treated to a served lunch and the merry sounds of the "Past Presidents "Choir" led by Past President, Ken Loudon.  The live auction led by Past President Mike O'Connor raised over $1,000.00.

On December 5, Swan City Rotary Club members and guests joined the other Rotary Clubs at the Grande Prairie Inn to celebrate the holiday season.  There was an excellent turn out with over 300 attending.  Members and guests were treated to a turkey dinner, the "12 days of Rotary", excellent fellowship and a wonderful silent auction.  Thank you to all of the event organizers including Cindy Suik, the Swan City representative on the organizing committee.

Noemi Klarer, Swan City Rotary Club's Exchange Student, took some time to orient the club with her country, community and favourite pasttimes.  Her Powerpoint was both educational and informative and was an excellent snapshot of her home life.

Swan City Rotary generosity continued with two more cheque presentations on November 26, 2008.  A cheque for $4950 was awarded to the Forbes Homestead and a cheque for $1000 was awarded to the Lake Saskatoon Preschool.

Another round of Paul Harris Awards were given out near the end of November 2008, with a few special ones of consequence, including Paul Harris awards to Dan Pearcy, Grant Taylor, Dennis Grant and Stewart Wilson and Honorary Paul Harris awards to Karen Pascut and Dawn Marie Crouse.

Swan City Rotary hosted its Children's Christmas Party on Sunday, December 7, 2008.  The day was filled with lots of bowling, food and laughter.

   Here on the other hemisphere things are so amazing, I don't even know where to start.  I went on my first Rotary trip for exchange students at the beginning of the month.  It was ten days in the Pantanal, a huge wetlands area covering much of central/southern Brasil.  Every day we had so many activities: horse riding, trekking through the forest, seeing waterfalls, wetlands safaris... We got up at 6:00 am every day, and barely slept at all. It was definitely one of the best trips I've ever taken, and the most tiring.  I know that everyone says this, but the best part was being with the other exchange students, the only other people who have experienced the exact same things I have, felt the same things.  Our whole group became very close, very quickly.  And now, if I want to go to Taiwan, or Austria, or the Czech Republic, I have someone to stay with and show me around.  What an experience!

Rotary International District 5370 is inviting service oriented teachers and Professional Development (PD) leadersto apply for an exciting international program in Belize.  PD facilitators (24) will travel to and work in Belize for 2 weeks during the summer months of 2009 and 2010.  This opportunity involves a two year commitment to coach and guide a cohort of teachers in one of eight district centers in Belize .  The Belizean teachers have been selected by the Belize Ministry of Education and will be expected to facilitate professional development with their own colleagues in Belize in the areas of Language Arts, Mathematics and Science (Elementary/Junior High level).

Delayne Weeks presented a $1600.00 cheque to the Sexsmith Sabres on October 8.  The cheque will help to purchase equipment, team trips, etc.  Thank you to the Sabres for their contribution to the recent Food Bank drive that occurred concurrently in both the City of Grande Prairie and the Town of Sexsmith.

President Drew presented the Grande Prairie Gymniks with a cheque representing their share of the Cash and Camping Mega Lottery proceeds at the October 8, 2008 meeting.

I've started regular school now.  It's really interesting, learning about tourism from the other perspective.  I've always been the tourist, but now that I'm actually living in a foreign, touristic country I see things differently.  School has been good for making more Brasilian friends as well.  Today I went to a "churrasco," a traditional barbeque party.  Delicious!  It's not Alberta beef, but it'll have to do.  At least we have sun, sand, and tropical weather here to make up for it.  This week I went to visit a neighbouring city with my host sister, staying at my aunt's house.  It's really nice how close Brasilians are with their extended families.  There, I saw traditional artesans at work on pottery specific to that region, and did a little shopping.  Not a bad way to pass a couple days! 

Peace Wapiti Academy recognized Swan City Rotary Club President, Drew Lamont, with an award at their awards ceremony held Thursday, October 9, 2008.  President Drew will speak more about the award at the regular Wednesday, October 15, 2008 meeting.

On Sunday, October 5, 2008, several Swan City Rotarians took our Exchange Student, Noemi, to Dunvegan.

The following are some comments received from our Interact friends on their foodbank drive experience:

 

Ken & Friends,

I must commend you on your fantastic organizational effort and success with the food bank drive.  500 volunteers, 100 teams, fifty two thousand plus food items valued at over $100,000, and food till next spring. Truly amazing!  Thank you for letting us participate.

The Rotary-delivered Fire Trucks have come in handy for the community of Mazatlan.  Pictures here: Firefighters fighting a cruise ship fire with equipment and trucks supplied from Rotary.

Several Swan City Rotarians, lottery organizers and volunteers joined president Drew  Lamont and Past President Ken Loudon for the kick off of the Cars for Christmas Mega Lottery at the Prairie Mall on October 3, 2008.

The 2008 Food Bank Drive continues to grow as it did in previous years under the Fine leadership of Past Chairman Ken Sutherland.

 

This year's Chair person, Ken O'Shea, was pleased to follow in Sutherland's foot steps starting out the year with a tremendous event held a Peace Wapiti Academy hosted by the Grande Prairie Interact Club, under the direction of Louis Chabot.  That event brought in an amount in excess of 3000 food items, representing about 8 items for every kid in the school.  Amazing! And many of the Interact Members also helped out later at the Food Bank Drive!

2008-09 Districit Governor, Ross Tyson, visited Grande Prairie September 24 through 26, 2008.  After meeting with several club Executives, DG Tyson, presented at a s special quad club plus Interact dinner meeting.

October 1, 2008 was a busy meeting for cheque presentations to our Cash & Camping mega lottery partners.      

The annual Terry Fox Run was held at Muskoseepi Park on Sunday, September 14, 2008.  This year's goal was to raise participation and awareness in the event.  We met with great success.  In total there were 153 attendees - 128 participants and 25 volunteers.  To date, our great community has raised $8,484.50 towards this noble cause.  Final numbers will not be available from the Foundation until early 2009.  Factored into the Grande Prairie numbers will be the School Run Day and Terry Fox Works Day.

 

Olà Rotarians!
I'm still loving my exchange. It's hard to believe that I've been here for a month already!  I've been able to go to one Rotary meeting here so far.  Rotary in Brasil is very different from in Canada.  My club here meets at 8:00 at night.  They don't have a meal, they just get straight to business.  And the club doesn't do a lot of fundraising. Their main focus is going to the favelas (the rough shantytowns on the outskirts of Recife) and doing what they can to help, with food, clothing, education, etc.  This is a big problem here.
I'm keeping busy, taking piano and portuguese second language classes.  In two weeks, I'll start school.  The school I'm going to is like a cross between high school and college.  I'm going to take tourism.  With this program I can travel around the province as part of my curriculum.  I look forward to starting: I'm going to be the first exchange student ever to go to this school.
I had student orientation two weeks ago at a beautiful beach town near my city.  There, I met the other 45 exchange students from my district.  It was really fun to meet all these people from different nationalities, and to learn about the trips I'm going to take later in my year.  I can't wait to visit the Amazon!

Thanks again to Rotary for everything.  This is the chance of a lifetime!
If anyone wants to email me, again, it's gocatherine@hotmail.com

Catherine Hilgers

Ken Loudon presented Relay for Life with a cheque for $1000.00

Drew Lamont, Swan City Rotary President, awarded Bridget Hennigar with a Honorary Paul Harris in recognition of the time and effort she puts in to Swan City Rotary accounting and year end financial statements.  Thank you Bridget!

Those who were not in attendance at the changeover meeting were awarded their perfect attendance pins on July 9.

President Drew awarded another set of Paul Harris Awards.  Thank you to the recipients for their ongoing support of the Rotary Foundation!

Everything is going great in Recife!  My host family is wonderful, very warm and accomodating.  They have taken me to the beach, to a concert, shopping, all in my first three days!  This evening we are going to my first soccer game (Go Nautico!)  I will, of course, be supporting my host familys favourite team.  They told me I could leave otherwise (theyre kidding, I think.)  My portuguese is getting a lot better.  I probably know about 80 words now.  Thanks again to the Rotary club for this opportunity.  If anyone wants to email me, my address is gocatherine@hotmail.com

Tchau! (Goodbye for now!)
Catherine

I'm leaving for Brazil Wednesday August 6th at 9:30 am, arriving August 7th at noon.
Thanks to the Rotary Club for this opportunity :)  I promise to keep the club updated during my exchange year.  Thank you again for making this a reality.  It's been my dream for years.  Here's a picture of myself and my parents at Spring Orientation.

Tchau! (Bye for now!)

President Drew Lamont performs his first official duty of announcing the winners for the Cash & Camping Super Lottery. The attached picture shows him congratulating the first prize winner (Amanda & Colin Boivin).

Despite the chilly weather, Swan City Rotarian has a great time participating in Guess Who's Coming to Dinner on Saturday, June 14, 2008.

5 new Rotary members were present on June 11 to be a part of the induction ceremonies.  Welcome to Darcy, Amanda, Glenda, Frank, and Bill!

The Cash & Camping Early Bird draw winner, Ross Froom, was awarded a cheque for $20,000.00 on Wednesday, May 21, 2008.  It must be true - the early bird really does catch the worm :-)

On Wednesday, May 21, 2008, several area teachers were given Swan City Rotary Excellence in Education Awards.  Thank you teachers for all of your hardwork and dedication over the past year!

To see more pictures of the Awards recipients go to http://good-times.webshots.com/album/563643291UCUavw.

President, Ken Loudon presents Darren Foley with a cheque for $2500 for the Charity Hockey Tournament.

Harm Gerritts, Swan City Rotary Lottery Committee, awarded the GP Gymniks with a cheque for $139,691.60.

At the April 23 Swan City Rotary meeting, members opened their wallets, with a little help from the Sargeant of Arms, to help fight malaria.  $856.75 was rasied via fines and few generous members.  Later in the day, the group working Bingo put forward an additional $160, bringing the grand total to $1,016.75. 

The money will be sent to the Red Cross Malaria Bites campaign and will be used to purchase and distribute mosquito nets that have been sprayed with insect repellant.  To find out more about the Malaria campaign, visit www.MalariaBites.net.

Pictured above: President Ken Loudon presenting cheque Red Cross.

President Ken Loudon presents cheque for $2,500.00 to the Beaverlodge Junior Forest Wardens.

President Ken Loudon and numerous other Swan City Rotary members were on hand to open the Cash and Camping lottery 2008.  View prizes and purchase tickets at the Coverall located in Gateway.

This morning we had a group breakfast hosted by the Rotoract Club of Mazatlan. This was our last get together with our hosts for the week. We exchanged banners from our clubs and each of us received recognition certificates from the local clubs. Then it was time to say good bye to all of our hosts. We were overwhelmed by the hospitality of the area Rotarians over the week. They just couldn't say enough "Mucho Gracias."

Our last full day in Mazatlan saw us travelling to a handicapped school for children with physical disabilities. We didn't have a presentation this year, but this school has received a bus and a van in the past from us. They showed us their facility and how they have been progressing. We were able to purchase some table cloths from them, as this is one of their sources of income.

Today was a very busy day. We started at 1000 hrs. by picking up the fire truck that was parked at the Aquarium and proceeding to one of the 3 fire stations in Mazatlan. We were greeted by a great number of volunteer firefighters and their leaders.

Past President Dan Wong and Assistant Treasurer, Melody Sample present the Sexsmith Secondary Travel Club with a cheque for $800.00.

Swan City Rotary President, Ken Loudon, has chosen his

Presidential project for his 2007-2008 tenure. His project

will help to fill a much needed gap in seniors housing and

care, a gap that will only continue to widen in the coming

years.

Day 11 Today we left the hotel at 0930 with all of our vehicles for a parade through the streets of Mazatlan. We had the vehicles decorated with Canadian flags and used the lights and sirens from the ambulances and fire truck.

Day 10 Today we went to Pepisan's regular Rotary Club meeting for breakfast. His club has about 24 members, but today we outnumbered them. We were able to bring greetings from all 4 Alberta Clubs and we received numerous "thank you's" from the local groups.

Day 9 Today we met for breakfast with Rotarians from the 3 Mazatlan Clubs and the Rotoract club and then went on a city tour with one of the buses that was delivered to the Aquarium last year. It's great to see some of the prior year's vehicles, still in great shape and being used very well. We were able to get some great vantage spots of the city and beach area and we all took a lot of photos.

Day 8 Today was a free day without any planned activity. We need to rest a bit. We also were able to clean out the vehicles and fix the flat on the ambulance and then just to walk around the tourist areas of Mazatlan. Some of the group spent the afternoon on the beach, some of us went golfing and some went shopping.

Day 7 Today our plan was to leave at 0800 hrs for the trip of approximately 1000 kms. to Mazatlan. After breakfast we had to refuel and were on our way. Before the end of the day we had passed through 8 toll booths, 3 more fuelling stops, 1 roadside fuel stop for the fire truck, and 1 lunch stop.

The mayor of Mazatlan (Presidente Municipal) Licenciado Jorge Abel Lopez Sanchez, his wife, Senora Perla Sarmiento de Lopez and 3 directors visit the Heritage Discovery Centre at Centre 2000.

NO PHOTO TODAY! Read on to see why... Up a little bit earlier today to depart Nogales at 0800 for the Mexico border just 2 or 3 kms. away. Some paperwork needed to be completed at the U.S. customs office and then off to the Mexico Customs, where we met our Mexico contact, Pepisan, at 0930.

Today our plan was to depart Lake Havasu City at 0830 hrs, as the drive to Nogales wouldn't be too onerous. When we were loading luggage into our vehicles we were surprised to see our long lost ambulance in the parking lot as well. No one in the group had been contacted by Mike or Glen and we didn't know when they arrived, so we weren't sure if we should wake them.

Up and on our way at 0830 from Beaver, Utah we found ourselves weaving through some canyons and mountainous areas and viewing some gorgeous scenery. Beaver is 6600 ft above sea level and by the time we got to Mesquite,

Early rising on this day too and we were off through the mountain passes at 0730 hrs. This day was very uneventful compared to the last 2 days; just lots of stopping for fuel and food. Even Ray didn`t cause any problems today. We encountered some snow conditions and some fog on the route, but nothing that a northern Albertan can't handle.

We were up early for breakfast and to get to the first order of business; arranging repairs for our 2 ambulances. Ken & Bev's couldn't be repaired as it was at least 1 day to order the part, so it was decided to proceed on. Let's hope the duct tape holds.

This year's journey started as always at 0530 hrs at the downtown Tim Horton's. Thanks to all the local Rotarians and friends that showed up on this -25 degrees Sunday morning to wish us well. Doug and Harm were driving a small bus, Ken and Drew a big bus, Ken and Bev an ambulance. Ray and Garry were also driving a small bus and Mike and Glen were with an ambulance.

Grande Prairie Rotarians with the buses at City Hall on Saturday March 1st. Harm Gerrits, Doug Bain, Ken Langstaff, Drew Lamont and Ken and Bev Loudon from the Swan City Club with Ray Grenier and Gary Hessler from the G.P. Club and Mike O'Sullivan and Glen Tissingtom from the Sunrise Club.

On February 6, 2008, Swan City Rotary celebrated the addition of six new members via a member induction ceremony led by member Gerry Mazer. 

Mario Pare, Lori Pollock, Karen Scribner, Jim Smith, and Sheldon Hannah were presented by their proposers and given copies of the four way test, Rotary principles as well as their Rotary memerbship certificates and pins.  Darren Kjemhus, who was unable to attend, will be inducted by President Ken later this month.

Welcome to our new members!

The opportunity to develop an education program and a museum project simultaneously is a unique one, and palaeontologist Paul McNeil is all smiles at the prospect. McNeil has been hired by Grande Prairie Regional College, and in addition to his duties in course development and instruction will have an integral role in the development of the River of Death and Discovery Dinosaur Centre project at the Pipestone Creek bonebed. Funding for this initiative includes $35,000 donated by Swan City Rotary Club, and presented at their luncheon of January 23. The donation is eligible for the Access to the Future Matching Grants program, resulting in a total of $70,000 for the palaeontology initiative. GPRC President Don Gnatiuk, accompanied by Jim Smith, chair of the GPRC Foundation, and Paul McNeil as well as several College faculty, were present to express thanks to Swan City Rotary Club.

Swan City Rotary President, Ken Loudon, is presented with a cheque for more than $8,000.00 by the MArketing students at Grande Prairie Regional College.  This year, the students chose the Rotary Ethiopia project as their charity of choice.  Thank you GPRC Marketing students!

Tracey Vavrek, CEO Community Foundation, Andy Beal and President Ken Loudon, present Symon P'fau with the Service Above Self Endowment for $1750.00.