I’m writing this week’s News & Notes from the Rotary Zone Institute, where Rotarians from 15 countries across Latin America and the Caribbean, Canada and much of the United States have come together.
It has been a fantastic opportunity to meet Rotarians from Zones 25A, 25B, 28, 29 and 32, exchange ideas and learn from some truly inspiring Rotary leaders. I’ve also had the chance to hear from (and personally meet as you can see above!) Rotary International President Yinka Babalola and President-elect Larry Lunsford, who will lead Rotary in 2027–28.
I’ll be coming home with plenty of new ideas and inspiration to share with the club!
The Carp Fair is only one week away, who is ready for some fooood and fun? Autumn is coming…
Here are this week’s News & Notes!
Jessica Zijlstra
Club Secretary
Mark Your Calendar
Upcoming Around Our District
Truth and Reconciliation Event in Stittsville
Wednesday, September 30 | 5:30–6:30 p.m.
W.J. Bell Rotary Peace Park 1751 Stittsville Main Street, Stittsville
Hosted by the Rotary Club of Ottawa-Stittsville in partnership with the Legacy of Hope Foundation, this community gathering will honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Join an evening of reflection, learning and community connection that encourages meaningful dialogue, greater understanding and continued action towards Reconciliation. Everyone is welcome.
Caribbean Night 2026
Saturday, October 3
Enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring five premium Caribbean rums, five authentic Caribbean hors d’oeuvres and five dances led by professional instructors.
Hosted by the Rotary Club of Montreal West & NDG and the Rotary Club of East Montreal, the event supports vulnerable youth in Montreal as they work towards graduation and a brighter future.
RLI is an interactive, full-day experience open to every Rotarian—not only current club leaders.
Participants will explore leadership, Rotary’s wider world, vocational service, The Rotary Foundation, member engagement and creating meaningful service projects. It is a great opportunity for newer and experienced members who want to become more involved.
You do not need to be a member to attend one of our meetings. If you are interested in meeting people, learning more about our community projects or finding a way to get involved, we would be happy to welcome you.
The Rotary Club of Kanata meets every second Wednesday morning at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 638, located at 70 Hines Road in Kanata.
Doors open: 7:00 a.m.
Meeting: 7:30–8:30 a.m.
Location: 70 Hines Road, Kanata
Come for breakfast, meet our members and see what Rotary is all about. There is no obligation to join.
End Polio Now
35 Days Until World Polio Day
Since 1988, Rotary and its partners have helped reduce polio cases by 99.9% and immunize more than three billion children. However, until polio is eradicated everywhere, children everywhere remain at risk.
As World Polio Day approaches on October 24, take a moment to think about your own connection to this historic effort. Do you remember receiving the polio vaccine? Do you know a survivor, healthcare professional or fellow Rotarian with a story to share?
Sharing these personal stories helps others understand why Rotary’s promise to end polio still matters.
Beyond Our Club
Rotary Fellowships
Rotary Fellowships are international groups for members who share a common interest, profession, identity or activity.
Several members of our club have joined fellowships focused on artificial intelligence, LGBT+ inclusion and beer. Fellowships offer another way to meet Rotarians outside our club and connect around shared interests.
There are groups covering a wide range of topics, including travel, photography, music, health, technology and many recreational activities.
Hello from Cancún!