Home Page | Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise

Kelowna & District Safety Council Receives Financial Support from the Club

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Mar 17, 2018

In its continuing endeavour to support the local organizations that truly make a difference for children and youth in the community, the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise presented the Kelowna & District Safety Council with a cheque in the amount of $1,000 on March 11, 2018. The donation will assist in funding educational opportunities for the students from School District 23. The educational program will be focused on learning how to be safer as a pedestrian or cyclist on the busy roads and streets within the Central Okanagan. In addition, the funding will help to offset the cost of safety programs for seniors. Huck Parfeniuk, club vice-president and Andy Griffin, president, presented a cheque to Sheila Campbell, who represented the Kelowna & District Safety Council.

L to R: Huck Parfeniuk, Sheila Campbell and Andy Griffin

The Kelowna District Safety Council is celebrating its 38th year of providing quality safety education. As a community-based, registered charity, their goal is to provide the means for a safe and satisfying environment for all citizens of the community. All revenues stay within the community and support safety programs such as our Rider & Driver Training, our Little Traveler’s Safety Village and safety training courses for children.

Persons with Diversabilities Receive Club Funding Assistance to Attend Conference

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Mar 17, 2018

The Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise will sponsor ten persons with diversabililties to attend the Annual Conference of Inclusion BC to be held in Kelowna from May 24-26, 2018. The donation of $1,000 will enable Pathways Abilities of Kelowna to send ten of their members to the conference which will provide the participants with a premier learning event on intellectual disability, inclusiveness and human rights.

Shelly DeCoste, a member of the Inclusion BC Provincial Board and a member of the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise, received the cheque for $1,000 during club’s regular meeting on March 02^nd.

L to R: Huck Parfeniuk (VP), Shelley DeCoste, Leslie Munro, and Andy Griffin (P)

Inclusion BC, a provincial federation, provides support, education and advocacy where and when it’s needed, breaking down barriers and building communities that include people of all abilities. As a federation, it works with partners to build community and to enhance the lives of children and youth with special needs, adults with developmental disabilities, and their families by supporting abilities, promoting actin and advancing rights, responsibilities and social justice.

Specifically, the organization provides individual advocacy and community referral support, advocates at a systems level for government change, publishes resources and host regional workshops and provincial conferences, supports family, self-advocacy and professional networks across the province, and promotes inclusion through public awareness initiatives and campaigns.

Inducted Member Brings His Passion for Social Justice to the Club

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Mar 08, 2018

Dean Reidt, a retired civil engineer, who from time to time contracts out on an ad hoc basis, was inducted into the membership of the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise on February 23^rd, the third member to be inducted since January 01. Dean was sponsored by Greig McPhee.

Dean brings to the club a passion for social justice, international humanitarian service and a response to community related issues, which is certainly the focus of Rotary and much desired by the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise. His involvement in leadership roles with his church, the Council of Churches and with a variety of community organizations will greatly enhance the leadership roles available within the club as well. Currently, Dean volunteers at the Central Okanagan Community Farms and at a local fruit rescue program.

Upon their retirement, Dean and his wife moved to Kelowna to take advantage of the wonderful climate and opportunities to pursue outdoor activities. From their new base, both Dean and his wife plan to take advantage of their love for travelling around the world.

Local Girl Guides Receive Funds for Camping Equipment

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Jan 30, 2018

Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise Vice President Huck Parfeniuk, along with club member Don Martin, presented the Sunvalley Orchards District of Girl Guides of Canada with a donation of $800 on January 26^th which will fund new camping equipment for their organization. Representatives Christy Phillips and Katey Kyle accepted the cheque on behalf of the unit.

The club is very appreciative of the 69 Girl Guides who volunteered over 200 hours at the KidZone during the 2017 Interior Savings Sunrise Rotary Ribfest held in September. It is anticipated that the Girl Guides will be back volunteering at the 2018 Ribfest to be held from August 24-26^th.

Note During the course of the club’s meeting on January 26^th, President Andy Griffin shared that the club had agreed to donate $500 to the Lake Country Food Bank for the purchase of a pallet jack.

Club Attracts Two Avid Community Support ers

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Feb 19, 2018

2018 welcomed two additional members to the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise bringing the club’s total membership to 90. Ken Millen was inducted into the club on January 26^th; while Christy Lehmberg was inducted on February 09.

Ken Millen, sponsored by Max Mosley, has supported the club for some time, the most recent support as an active facilitator of beverages for the 2017 Kelowna Ribfest. Ken is the General Manager and Director of Interior Beverages located in Kelowna, a business that provides extensive services for all major brands of beverage service equipment, including custom design and installation, staff training, maintenance programs for new equipment, service and repair on both new and existing equipment, and more.

Ken is a valued volunteer within the community where he has been involved with several community initiatives over the years including the Central Okanagan Community Food Bank, the Fat Cat Children’s Festival and a cause that is very close to his heart, the Canadian Cancer Society.

Christy Lehmberg, sponsored by Stu Lang, is currently a Financial Advisor with Valley First Credit Union in Kelowna, a position she has held for the past year. In fact, Christy’s career has been focused on banking and financial planning services since 2007 when she started working with Scotiabank. After seven years with Scotiabank, she worked as a Sales Representative for Great West Life Group, a position focused on sales of benefit packages. This role enabled her to come in contact with Sun Life where she served in management. After a year travelling, she landed back in banking with Valley First Credit Union.

Another Milestone Achieved by Two Club Members

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Jan 26, 2018

Both Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise members, Brad Klassen and Andy Griffin, were recognized for attaining an additional Paul Harris Fellow level at the club’s meeting on January 26^th. 2018-19 In-coming Foundation Director, Leslie Munro, presented each member with a pin recognizing their achievement.

Brad achieved a level of PHF+3; while Andy reached a PHF+4 level for their donations of an additional US$1000 in continuous support of the work of The Rotary Foundation.

Foundry Kelowna Appreciates Club Donation and Support

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Jan 25, 2018

Drawing from funding gained from the 2017 Interior Savings Sunrise Rotary Ribfest, the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise made a donation of $10,000 to Foundry Kelowna, a new program of Canadian Mental Health Association Kelowna. The donation was made on January 19, 2018 during the club’s tour of Foundry Kelowna.

L to R: Corrine Johnson (ISCU), Andy Griffine (RCKS), Shari Slattery (CMHA Kelowna) and Mark Gawliuk (CMHA Kelowna)

The cheque for $10,000 was presented to Shari Slattery, the Philanthropy Officer for Canadian Mental Health Kelowna, who was joined by Mike Gawliuk, the Director of Service Delivery and Program Innovation with CMHA Kelowna. Club president Andy Griffin made the presentation on behalf of the club, along with Corrine Johnson, Manager of Community Engagement from the Interior Savings Credit Union, the 2016 and 2017 title sponsor of the Ribfest.

The funds will be used to support the expansion of the Youth Navigation Program, in particular, the funding of direct staff wages and program supplies. The Foundry is a new integrated youth and family centre designed to provide critical mental health and substance use support for young people and their families. Easily accessible, Foundry is a welcoming space for young people, overcoming the barriers created by stigma that prevents many from seeking help. The program connects young people to the right services at the right time. Navigators assist in building social and life skills so vulnerable youth can thrive.

Semi-Annual Report of the Club's Foundation Committee

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Jan 12, 2018

The Foundation Committee of the Club is pleased to share that the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise is well on its way to achieve its goals for the 2017-18 Rotary Year.

At the end of December of 2017, half way through the current Rotary Year, the club had achieved well over one half of its commitment to the Rotary Foundation. In particular, 62 % of the goal to donate a total of US$14,500 to the Annual Fund, a total of US$8,965, had been achieved, thanks to the generosity of the club members who together had donated US$115 per capita. In addition, the club through its collection of tips at Sun Football games, had raised US$1,248 for the Foundation’s PolioPlus Fund, just US$252 short of its goal.

Another goal of the Foundation Committee was to increase the number of Sustaining Members, that is members who donate at least $US100 per year to the Annual Fund, to thirty (30). As of the end of December, the club had a total of twenty-two (22) members who at donated this amount and in some cases, much more.

To date, the club has increased its number of members who have become Major Gift and Endowment donors by one, for a total of25 club members who have reached this recognition since they had become Rotary International members with the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise. Ten members have achieved either a Major Gift level of one or two; and fifteen (15) members have been recognized as Bequest Society donors either at the one or two level.

Club members who are Major Donors (Level One) have donated between US$10,000 and US$24,999; while Major Donors (Level Two) have donated between US$25,000 and US$49,999. Bequest Society recognition is defined by level one (US$10,000 to US$24,999) or level two (US$25,000 to US$49,999) bequests to the Foundation.

The Foundation Committee of the club is chaired by Bob Fortier, with support of the committee’s membership of Tom Paterson, Linda Frandsen, Helmut Hubert, Susan McIntyre and Ed Kolybaba.

Happy New Year from the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise

Posted on Dec 29, 2017

Club Believes in the Work of NOW Canada in Kelowna

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Dec 22, 2017

Now Canada was the recent recipient of a donation of $1500 from the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise, continuing its support for the work of Now Canada. This donation will make a significant difference, particularly during the Christmas season, in the lives of the women, youth and children who call ‘NOW Canada’ home. Club President Andy Griffin and Vice-President Huck Parfeniuk presented Executive Director Liz Talbot from Now Canada with the donation on December 01, 2017.

Liz Talbot expressed that “For many (referring to the ‘NOW Canada’ home residents), just having food in their cupboards is a great, therefore we are pleased to be able to offer them a little more at this time of the year.” She added that “Due to the generosity of members in your club, children will wake up to presents on Christmas morning and moms will have a treat too – as well as there being food in the cupboard.”

Now Canada acknowledged the support of the Sunrise Rotary club in a letter of appreciation. She stated that “I know you have supported NOW Canada for many years, and NOW is truly grateful that you recognize the work we do in our community and that you trust us in distributing your generous donations so as many people as possible benefit from your thoughtfulness.”

Since 1998, NOW Canada has been providing front-line programs and services for women and youth who have experienced addictions, abuse, sexual exploitation and mental health challenges. Services are provided in a safe and welcoming environment, allowing participants to embark on the road to recovery with dignity. Their unique comprehensive continuum of care supports participants from the first moment they connect with our programs until they are confident and secure enough to transition to independence.

Club Focuses on Homeless During the Cold Winter Season

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Dec 21, 2017

Once again this year, the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise is partnering with ‘Inn From The Cold’ (IFTC) to provide food service for seven evenings over the winter season to the homeless within the community.

Club member Greig McPhee, who has been spearheading this initiative since its inception in 2012, has shared that club Rotarians will participate in providing meals by buying, preparing and serving on five occasions and in simply heating and serving pre-prepared meals for two other days, between December, 2017 and March, 2018. He adds that this is a great opportunity for our Rotarians to make a difference to the homelessness issue in our community this winter season.

Volunteering to serve a meal to the guests at IFTC, not only serves a worthy need but also, provides a 'hands-on' opportunity for the Kelowna Sunrise club members to contribute to the community. On average, 40 guests are served each evening.

Kelowna Sunrise Rotary has not only been providing and serving means on an annual basis since 2012. During this six year period, the club has purchased a new freezer and contributed to the renovations of their housing project here in Kelowna.

In their own words, the purpose of ‘Inn From The Cold’ Kelowna is to: “Provide overnight shelter for adults living on the street, offer an environment of respect, compassion and caring, and build relationships with individuals, agencies or groups to advocate for the needs of their guests.

McPhee expressed that “Serving others, who for whatever reason find themselves on the street, regularly reminds us how fortunate we are on our life journey and it (also meets) our Rotary motto of ‘Service Above Self.’” Simply stated, this an act of social justice.

Women at the Women’s Shelter Dinner in Kelowna enjoy a Christmas Dinner hosted by Kelowna Sunrise

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Dec 15, 2017

Every year, the Rotarians from Kelowna Sunrise strive to help lift the spirit of people in need throughout the Christmas season. They do this in a number of ways, including hosting their 7^th annual Women’s Shelter Dinner for women who have left everything behind and who live at the shelter. The event was held on December 11^th at a venue at First Baptist Church in Kelowna.

Coordinator for the Dinner, Anke Sedmak, shared that 45 Rotarians and spouses from the club volunteered to make the event possible, providing over 100 delectable home cooked gourmet meals, along with a take home meal for their children or themselves. “Overall, a very successful event and fun time for all volunteers and guests,” stated Anke.

Past-Rotarian Returns to Serve Through Rotary

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Dec 09, 2017

Kelowna Sunrise Rotary welcomed a long serving Rotarian to their membership during an induction ceremony conducted by Membership Chair Max Mosley at the club’s December 08^th meeting. Gary Bennett, sponsored by club member Al Strachan, after two years of absence from Rotary, decided that he missed serving the community and beyond through Rotary too much to not continue as an active Rotarian.

Gary was a member of the Rotary Club of Kelowna for 14 years from 2001 to 2015. During his service with the club, he served as the club’s president during the 2006-07 Rotary year, and in many other leadership roles, including the chair of the Fundraising Committee and the Scholarship and Bursary Committee. He also served in a variety of capacities on at least ten other committees. Gary was the principal force behind the founding of the Rotary Club of Kelowna’s Foundation, and served at the Foundation’s president for seven years. Gary was awarded the club’s ‘Hass Houssian Memorial Service Award’ in 2010.

Kelowna Sunrise Bell Ringers Make a Difference

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Dec 08, 2017

Every year, Kelowna Sunrise Rotarians, their family members, and friends of the Sunrise Rotary club take part in the Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign by ringing the bell at various locations throughout Kelowna.

Many volunteer, putting in many hours during the Christmas season to assist the Kelowna Salvation Army raise funds to enable the organization to provide local families with a joyous Christmas through their ‘Christmas Food and Toy Program’.

Kelowna Paddle Club Increases Support for Youth with the Assistance of the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Dec 08, 2017

The Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise recognizes the value of the Kelowna Paddle Centre efforts to promote an active, healthy lifestyle, love of sport and appreciation and respect for our waterways by providing affordable options for all members of the community, in a safe and welcoming environment.

Vice-President Huck Parfeniuk presenting a cheque for $2000 to the Kelowna Paddle Centre represented by Tamlyn Bohm (Manager) and Joey Hertz

In its commitment to support the Kelowna Paddle Centre, in particular the Youth Program offered by the organization, the club presented a cheque in the amount of $2000 on December 07^th to the organization to enable it to continue to expand its youth programs by purchasing additional equipment to accommodate intermediate youth. The youth will be trained on the proper techniques when experiencing kayaking, canoeing and stand up boards. The courses assist the participants to become self-reliant in the operation of these water sport apparatus, train them on water safety and methods used to assist others who may require help in distressful situations in the water. The overall aim of the youth camps is to provide fun, learn basic water safety, practice teamwork and to practice independence and self-reliance.

This is the second major donation made to the Kelowna Paddle Centre. A donation of $3500 was made in April of 2016, which enabled the Centre to expand their youth camps from four to seven weeks and from 100 to 170 youth.

2018 Kelowna Ribfest News!

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Dec 03, 2017

The 3^rd Annual Kelowna Ribfest will be on August 24-26, 2018, moving the dates of the event held for the past two years on the third weekend of September.

Bill Reynolds, 2018 Ribfest Chair, along with his committee, have commenced planning for the major event that provides the Okanagan and Kelowna, along with many tourists, with one of the best free family entertainment events each year.

Check out the Kelowna Ribfest website early in 2018 for information about the 3^rd Annual event.

Club Elects Officers for 2018-19

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Dec 02, 2017

The 2018-19 Officers for the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise were finalized following an election for the various open positions on November 24, 2017, at the club’s Annual Meeting, presided over by Past-President Pat McAllister.

Executive for 2018-19

2018-19 Directors

The Rotarians elected for the following positions will assume their duties on July 01, 2018.

Vice-President – Susan McIntyre

Directors:
International Service – Brenda Bell
Foundation – Leslie Munro
Membership – Melanie Hall-Szyszkiewicz
Fellowship – Doreen Welsh
Program – Tom Richie
Communications – Norm LeCavalier

The current president-elect Maribeth Friesen will automatically assume the position of president for 2018-19; 2017-18 president Andy Griffin will become the past-president; and Huck Parfeniuk, the current vice-president will move into the position of president-elect. Huck will also serve as the director of the Donations Committee, a role that the president-elect automatically takes on this position. The 2017-18 secretary Carole Farley and 2017-18 Treasurer Mike Crowley will continue in their respective positions in 2018-19.

Stuart Lang will continue as director of Youth Service; while Chris Murphy will maintain the position of director for Fundraising in 2018-19, as both of these Rotarians will be fulfilling their commitment of a two year term that they had accepted when they were first elected.

The position of director for the Vocational Committee for 2018-19 has yet to be filled.

Desperate Rohingya people from Myanmar Receive Humanitarian Aid

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Nov 27, 2017

The Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise will once again respond to the need for care and support for those in need who are experiencing a natural disaster in their lives. Through ShelterBox Canada, the club will provide shelter to the Rohingya people who have fled violence in Myanmar as they have travelled by foot to Bangladesh. In mid-November, the club agreed to donate $1200 (Cdn), to enable ShelterBox to end an additional box to Bangladesh, specifically designated to help alleviate the dire situation being experienced by the Rohingya people.

ShelterBox helps provide shelter and warmth to families who have lost their homes and possessions following a natural disaster, conflict or other humanitarian crisis. ShelterBox helps some of the world’s most vulnerable people. The gift of a ShelterBox will help the not-for-profit organization to provide them with the tools they need to survive and begin rebuilding their lives.

ShelterBox prepositions aid around the world so that their teams can respond immediately following a disaster. Donations allow them to be prepared to respond immediately whenever families need our help.

Club Supports the Local Salvation Army and its Humanitarian Service

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Nov 18, 2017

Salvation Army Okanagan continues to provide humanitarian serve for the citizens of the Okanagan, providing spiritual, physical, emotional and environmental care for individuals, families and the community. These needs are met through the Salvation Army’s community assistance care where its centre serves as a safe haven, “a place where people can find hope,” providing practical and supportive assistance, through its emergency services, often working alongside emergency first responders and other agencies, through programs designed to help people gain more effective life skills, through classes focused on developing community skills, and by annually giving families a blessing of hope during the Christmas season.

Each year, the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise in recognition, appreciation and support of the goals of the Salvation Army, makes a substantial donation to Salvation Army Okanagan. On November 16th, the Salvation Army was presented with a cheque for $1000 to assist it in meeting its goals, particularly throughout the Christmas season. The presentation was made during the Opening of the 2017 Salvation Army Christmas Kettle Campaign held at the Salvation Army Community Life Centre in Rutland on November 16^th.

From L to R: Foundation Chair Bob Fortier, President Andy Griffin, Patty Lou Bryant and Darryl Burry

Check out the video clip of the Opening and watch as the club presents its $1000 cheque at https://youtu.be/oilJzein0Vk.

Individual members of the club also donate financially by cash deposits in the Christmas Kettles and by personal cash donations through cheque or credit card. In addition, many of the club Rotarians make a point of annually ringing the Kettle bells at various sites throughout the Central Okanagan throughout the Christmas Kettle Campaign.

Club Continues to Serve as the Key Sponsor for Shoe Bank Canada

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Nov 25, 2017

The Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise continues to be a key sponsor of Shoe Bank Canada which was founded in 2015. As a key sponsor, the club has donated more than $10,000 each year to the not-for-profit organization to enable it to maintain a warehouse in Kelowna, which also serves as the organization’s distribution centre.

On November 23^rd, Shoe Bank Canada founder Jim Belshaw, was presented with a cheque at the regular meeting of the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise. Sonja Barker of the Interior Savings Credit Union was in attendance at the meeting for the presentation.

L to R: President Andy Griffin, Jim Belshaw, Sonja Barker, Heidi Miller and Brian Wrightson

For the past two years, funds generated from the club’s Kelowna Ribfest have been donated to Shoe Bank Canada to enable the Rotary club to maintain its yearly commitment of $10,000.. As a key sponsor of the Kelowna Ribfest, the Interior Savings Credit Union has requested that the Rotary club allocate $10,000 from the Ribfest profits each year.

Did Someone Call this a Golf Tournament?

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Sep 29, 2017

Forty-four Kelowna Sunrise Rotarians and their guests took to the links for a fun-packed scramble with no limit of outrageous rules and antics on Friday, September 29^th at Gallagher’s Canyon Golf & Country Club in East Kelowna. The 25^th Annual event was once again organized by club member Wayne Duchart who had guaranteed that the sun would shine brightly and that everyone would have a grand old time, no matter the caliber of their ability. It was soon evident by observers at the first tee off box that the caliber of play was certainly questionable.

Calmness prevailed over the canyon and golf course during the golf game, but one would find that hard to believe as apparently there were a record number of arrant golf balls that found their way into the trees that lined each of the fairways as few balls actually landed on green grass. One could understand this if hurricane winds had been experienced during the highly-competitive match.

While there were no winning teams out on the course, everyone had a fantastic day of fellowship and laughs, and yes, everyone took home a prize. Two golfers did take home an extra prize as club member and pro Angela Burnell won the hole-in-one competition on the putting green and club member Mike Crowley got closest to the body bag with his drive off the tee off box on the first fairway. Golfers were disqualified it they hit the bag and thus disturbed the remains within it.

The 25^th Annual Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise Golf Tournament will go down in history as one more golf tournament that will be remembered for some time, at least until the 26^th takes place in September of 2018.

“Service Above Self” Important for New Inductees

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Sep 29, 2017

Experiences associated with Rotary in the past can often have a great influence on non-members seeking membership with a Rotary club in their community. This was the case when Colleen McEwan, a mother of a recent Rotary Youth Exchange student and a host mother for a number of exchange students, including the club’s 2016-17 in-bound Rotary Youth Exchange student from Spain experienced first-hand the service that Rotary provides for youth. This was also the situation for Allison Kirkwood, who received a grant from Rotary to participate in a leadership conference in Montreal while she was a grade eleven student and while in Gulu, Uganda volunteering at a hospital where she attended weekly Rotary meetings with a local club, experienced the service an international club provided for those in need in their community.

That membership became a reality for both Allison and Colleen when club Membership Director Max Mosley inducted them into the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise at the club’s regular meeting on September 22^nd, followed by a round of applause and personal welcome greetings and hugs from all of the members of the club.

Serving the local community and those in need internationally and meeting like-minded people with similar values are important to Colleen McEwan and Allison Kirkwood. Colleen shares that “Rotary has a wonderful reputation for providing support here and abroad and is known for their ethics.” Likewise, Allison states that “I needed to round out my life with some volunteering and thought that Rotary would be an ideal way to do so while meeting great people.” Rotary’s motto of “service above self” was clearly on the minds of Colleen and Allison when they sought out membership with the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise.

Congratulations Raffle Winners

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Sep 18, 2017

Big showing for Ribfest

Posted by Alanna Kelly, Castanet News on Sep 18, 2017

Published with permission from Castanet News

Kelowna’s second annual Rotary Ribfest heated up this year with more people waiting to sink their teeth into some BBQ cooking.

Workers estimated upwards of 28,000 people in attendance for the weekend BBQ being held at City Park from Sept. 15 to 17.

“I am guessing we are somewhere between 25 to 28,000 people this year, it is far beyond expectations,” said Chair of Interior Savings Sunrise Rotary Ribfest Brian Wrightson.

“Some of the numbers we have been doing seem to be towards some (Calgary) Stampede days here,” said Matt Jenkins, Blazin BBQ Ribhouse.

Grill masters from across the country served up their best meat and local food trucks were also in attendance.

“The weekend in Kelowna has been crazy, not sure that we were ready for the second year, it has grown exponentially,” said Jenkins.

Live music played throughout the weekend and there was also a kid zone making for a family event.

Protestors made an appearance outside of the event with signs and an eight-month-old pig asking people to consider going meat-free.

This year’s event hopes to raise $35,000 to support Rotary’s work and their focus of this year.

“We are trying to raise money to put back in the community,” said Wrightson. “Our two major focuses this year is youth and the less privileged.”

Organizers fought to make this year free so that everyone can attend and enjoy the event.

“Even if they haven’t got the money to spend on food, they can sit in front of the main stage, hear the music, talk to their friends, that is what we are trying to create. An atmosphere where everyone is welcomed,” he said.

Check out: https://youtu.be/URSPEQ2epq4 for a glimpse of the successful fundraising event that was held from September 15-17th at City Park in Kelowna through a Castanet production. (editor)

Rotarians can change lives, and literally save lives….two club Rotarians do just that!

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Sep 14, 2017

Past-president (2016-17) Pat McAllister and Brad Klassen were both recognized for their contributions to The Rotary Foundation by Foundation Committee Director Bob Fortier at the September 08^th meeting of the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise.

Pat was presented with a Paul Harris Fellow certificate, lapel pin and medallion for attaining the first level of the Paul Harris Fellow Recognition Program for his total contributions of US$1000. Brad Klassen received a lapel pin indicating a PHF+2 level of achievement for contributing over US$3000 since he joined the club in 2014.

Director Bob Fortier shared that the donations from these two Rotarians, from other Rotarians within the club and from other Rotarians on every continent help to improve the lives of those in need around the world every minute of the day. He stressed that Rotarians continue to work to improve the living conditions and health of their fellow citizens through the various programs of The Rotary Foundation, particularly the Annual Programs Fund.

“What can you get for US$100 these days?” asked Fortier. “Perhaps a pair of shoes, or a nice dinner for two, actually not too much,” he answered. On the other hand he noted, “US$100 can provide a stove for a need family in rural Guatemala, and much more.”

The Rotary Foundation provides the opportunity for all Rotarians to provide a life-changing opportunity for those in need. “When you choose to support our Rotary Foundation, you are making a difference in two ways: you are changing lives and you are literally saving lives. What an amazing thing to be able to say!” expressed Fortier.

‘Bats for a Cause’ Raises Record Level of Funds for Medical Service for Children

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Sep 13, 2017

The active participation of Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise Rotarians in the Annual Bats for a Cause Tournament not only provides leadership, volunteers and sponsored teams for the event; but also enables the club to receive back a portion of the funds raised. These additional funds enable the club to do even more service within the community.

On September 09^th, Kelowna Sunrise club member Angela Burnell presented Andy Griffin, the president of the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise, with a cheque for $6,760 for the club’s overall leadership and support for the Bats for a Cause Tournament which took place on July 29-30, 2017 in Kelowna.

Angela Burnell has provided leadership and used her organizational skills to enable the Annual Bats for a Cause Tournament to continually grow and increase its financial contributions to the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation. Along with her core committee consisting of Laurel D’Andrea, Max Mosley and Sarah Mosley, and other non-Rotarians, and the Kelowna Sunrise Bats for a Cause Committee made up of club members Heidi and Huck Parfeniuk, she has been instrumental in establishing a Tournament which has become a major fundraising event in Kelowna.

A record high participation of 26 teams, including teams entered by club members Russ Grodzuik (Concost Consultants Inc.), Brad Klassen (Troika Developments) and Robin Durrant (Capri Insurance), enabled the tournament to raise $108,773 specifically for the BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, also a record level of financial contribution.

Since 1982, the BC Children's Hospital Foundation has worked with children, families, caregivers and hundreds of thousands of British Columbians to raise funds to support the BC Children's Hospital, Sunny Hill Health Centre for Children and the BC Children's Hospital Research Institute. BC Children’s Hospital is a leader in general and specialized pediatric services, and is the province’s foremost teaching and research facility for child health. It serves as a medical facility specializing in health care for patients from birth to age sixteen.

Okanagan Sun Football Beverage Service Tips Help to Eliminate Polio in the World

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Sep 10, 2017

For years, the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise has provided beverage service at the Okanagan Sun Football games, as a complementary service to the club and its organization. The volunteers from the club, usually eight at a time, man two stations in the Apple Bowl Park during the home games.

While the club does not receive any portion of the sales of the beer products, the club has in recent years accepted tips from the customers. These tips have assisted the club in achieving its financial goal for the PolioPlus program of The Rotary Foundation. Tips generally total $100 - $150 per game.

Club member Brian Fennell continues to organize the beer service program for the home games, seeking out club member volunteers and coordinating the service with the Okanagan Sun Football Club.

Welcome Chiara, the Club’s Rotary Youth Exchange Student from Austria

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Sep 09, 2017

Chiara Kohlhofer, the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise’s In-coming 2017-18 Rotary Youth Exchange Student from Austria arrived in Kelowna during the evening on Tuesday, August 29th. She was welcomed at the airport by Stuart Lang, Bill and Joanne Reynolds, Jery Urquhart, Linda Frandsen, Sue and John McIntyre, Maribeth and Gord Friesen, Martha Kennedy, and Colleen and Chuck McEwan, along with their family Kenna McEwan (2016-17 RYE out-bound student to Austria), and son Cole.

Chiara’s home is in Ried im Innkreis in the province of Oberosterreich in Austria, a small city of just over 11,600 habitants. The Rotary Club of Ried im Innkreis in District 1920, a club with 62 members, is her sponsor Rotary club.

Chiara will be hosted by three families while in Kelowna. She will certainly enjoy the support and care of Gord and Maribeth Friesen, followed by Colleen and Chuck McEwan and finally Sue and John McIntyre throughout the Rotary year of 2017-18. Linda Frandsen and Joanne Reynolds will serve as Chiara’s counsellors.

The club members were introduced to Chiara when she attended her first meeting with the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise on September 08^th. Following her introduction, Chiara expressed her appreciation to the club, for accepting her into their Rotary Family, and to those who came to the airport and for the great reception she received at the time.

Club Inducts Experienced Rotarians

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Sep 08, 2017

The Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise was pleased to induct three Rotarians, two of which had been members of previous clubs, and one returning after several years away from the club, within the past two weeks.

Patty Barrett

On Friday, September 01, Membership Director Max Mosley inducted Patty Garrett who transferred from the Rotary Club of Lake Country. Patty had been a member with the Lake Country club since 2012, where she served as the club’s Youth Exchange Officer, Chair of the Membership Committee and as their President for the 2014-15 Rotary year. Patty’s membership with Rotary goes back to 2005 when she began her Rotarian service with the Rotary Club of Vernon, where she also served as the Youth Exchange Officer for many years.

Patty works as a Health Care Administrator with Interior Health in Kelowna where she serves as the Director of Risk Management.

Patty is a Paul Harris Fellow and a Sustaining Member with The Rotary Foundation.

---------------------------------

Membership Director Max Mosley was back in stride with his usual antics as he inducted two other past Rotarians on Friday, September 08^th.

Alan Perry

Alan (Al) Perry first joined the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise in 2006 and continued as a member until the end of the Rotary year 2014-15 when his work schedule prevented him giving the time he felt he needed to as a serving Rotarian. Recently, Al decided that semi-retirement with the Alan R Perry Law Firm, enabled him to make a greater contribution to Rotary.

Membership Director Max Mosley, upon inducting Al on September 08^th, welcomed Al back into the membership of the club, and while doing so recalled Al’s contributions to the club, particularly his guidance and hard work in re-writing the club’s by-laws a year or two before he had stepped aside from the club in June of 2015.

Al is a Paul Harris Fellow.

John Pouliot

John Pouliot, a long term active member since 2000 with the Rotary Club of Westbank, until the club was disbanded at the end of June 2017, was inducted on September 08^th along with Alan Perry. Sunrise member Ed Kolybaba introduced John to the Kelowna Sunrise club and served as his sponsor. John held positions of officer and director of a number of committees over his tenure with the Westbank club and as the club’s president for the Rotary year 2002-03. His leadership and exceptional service earned him the Westbank club’s ‘Rotarian of the Year’ award in 2003-04.

John is a strong advocate for the Foundation and for International Service. He was an active member of the Westbank club’s International Committee, assisting in completing needs assessments for two projects in Ethiopia. He has recognized the outstanding work of the Foundation throughout the world, and has financially supported the programs of the Foundation as a Paul Harris Fellow +6 and as a Bequest Society contributor.

John moved from Montreal where he commenced his career in investment and where he took on the role of Investment Portfolio Manager for his family’s financial portfolio which he continues to this day. He enjoys travelling and annual family gatherings with his wife Mary, golfing and participating as a shareholder in a coop winery in West Kelowna.

Local Student off to France for an Experience of a Lifetime

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Aug 28, 2017

Jenelle Dougan, Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise’s sponsored Out-Bound Rotary Youth Exchange student, departed for her 2017-18 experience in France at 9:00 am on August 28^th, via Vancouver, Paris and Luxembourg. Jenelle will be hosted by the Rotary Club of Langres in the town of Langres.

When asked why she had applied for the Rotary Youth Exchange Program experience, Jenelle shared that she had longed for an experience of this type for some time now. For the past six years I have been interested in going on a cultural exchange somewhere across the world. When I was ten, I met a girl in my class whose family originated from Australia and had come for the year. I became very close with her and got to learn things about her culture and I taught her about my own. This was when I first became interested in a yearlong cultural exchange. After many years of volunteer work I chose to apply for the Rotary Youth Exchange program. Rotary international's views on volunteer work and making connections around the world, really correlated with mine as I truly do believe in "service above self”.

Jenelle is excited about her new adventure and is looking forward to the experiences that she will encounter as she spends almost a year in France. “I am so excited and thankful that I have been given the the opportunity to live and experience another culture first hand for ten months,” expressed Jenelle, She then added “What I am most excited about for my exchange in France is making friends and connections around the world; and yes I am also excited for the culture shock and learning French.”

Jenelle is expected to return home to the Okanagan in June of 2018.

Kelowna Sunrise Rotarians Recognize a Shared Responsibility to Address World Issues

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Aug 14, 2017

Kelowna Sunrise Rotarians, as do all Rotarians worldwide, believe that we have a shared responsibility to address our world’s most persistent issues. As a force for good which combines financial support, energy, passion and expertise, we work together on sustainable projects to benefit communities throughout the world in:

Providing clean water, sanitation, and hygiene,

Supporting education,

Fighting disease,

Saving mothers and children,

Growing local economies, and

Promoting peace.

These areas of focus help set Rotary’s global priorities, so that Rotarians can harness their collective strength to improve the health and livelihood of communities worldwide.

The people who make Rotary so effective, through their generosity and passion for positive change, come from all over the world and all walks of life. These Rotarians share a powerful common trait: they’re compelled by a desire to share their good fortune with others, simply because they can make a positive impact for someone whose life has not been easy.

This past week, two Kelowna Sunrise Rotarians were recognized for continuing to share their good fortune with those in need through their financial contributions to The Rotary Foundation’s Annual Fund. Following a presentation on the impact that the contributions of the club’s members have had on making a difference in the six areas of focus of The Rotary Foundation, Bob Fortier, the club’s Foundation Committee Chair, presented a Paul Harris Fellow (PHF) pin to Huck Parfeniuk and a PHF+7 pin to Ed Kolybaba in recognition of their recent contributions.

The Club’s First 2017-18 Inductee

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Aug 07, 2017

Mike DeVies became the first member to be inducted and welcomed into the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise in the new Rotary year, 2017-18. Mike was joined by his wife Michelle for the induction which took place on August 04^th.

While Mike had been a member of the Rotary Club of Kelowna Morningside since April of 2015, he felt that the Sunrise Rotary Club better reflected his personality and his aspirations. Over the past five weeks, Mike has joined the Sunrise Rotary club at their weekly meetings to confirm his feelings. As a person who is very interested and skilled in process and organization, Mike will surely be a great asset to the club.

Mike was born in South Africa and after serving five years in the army there, he left for a life in the United Kingdom where he worked on North Sea oil rigs, as a police officer, and as a vice-principal of the South Tyneside College. During his years in the UK, Mike attained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Sunderland University Business School in England.

In November of 2014, Mike and Michelle moved from the United Kingdom directly to Kelowna. As an internationally qualified “facilitator,” Mike accepted a position as business facilitator with the Okanagan Veterinary Hospital Group in Kelowna, with the responsibility of looking after six veterinary hospitals both in Canada and the United States. The hospital is a well-established, full-service small veterinary hospital providing comprehensive medical, surgical and dental care.

When not at work, Mike spends time with ‘Spider Pig’ – the world’s tubbiest cat, and dogs, Yogi and Fizz. Apparently, he also likes to be out and about in the beautiful Okanagan countryside as long as he does not have to walk up anything to get there.

Club Experiences Record Membership Growth in 2016-17

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Jul 01, 2017

There is definitely something that is attracting community members to the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise. The club has continued to experience membership growth for the last three Rotary years; but it is the Rotary year of 2016-17 that has brought local citizens to the club in droves. Over the past Rotary year, twelve new members have joined the club, establishing a record for the number of new members in a given year ever since the club was chartered back in 1986.

No doubt the culture and diversity within the club, the impact the club continues to have on the community, the focus directed at service, and the fellowship opportunities are factors that draw individuals to the Sunrise Rotary Club. Whatever the magnet that is drawing community members to join the club, it bids well for Kelowna and the greater world, as this growth will provide the club with even more human resources to reach out in service into the community and to provide increased financial support for community and worldwide humanitarian needs.

Just during the last two months of the past Rotary year, five new members came on board. And yes, there are three to four others who are seriously considering joining the club before the end of the summer in the current Rotary year, 2017-18.

The latest influx of new members included Susan McIntyre, Tom Richie and Norm LeCavalier who are all eager to commit themselves to the values of Rotary with the motto “Service Above Self.”

Special Tribute Made to Club Members for Their Support of The Rotary Foundation

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Jun 26, 2017

All of the members of the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise financially support The Rotary Foundation`s humanitarian service around the world in one way or the other through their donations to the Annual and PolioPlus Fund, and through bequeaths to the Endowment Fund of The Rotary Foundation. This continues to be an annual commitment that club members from the club make to make a difference for those in need around the world and right in the Okan

2016-17 Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise Foundation Committee Director Huck Parfeniuk, during the 2017 Installation Dinner and Program of the club on June 24^th, expressed how important it was that members of the club continue to support The Rotary Foundation because of the high standard of humanitarian service provided by focusing on highly successful and sustainable projects in the areas of peace and conflict prevention/resolution, disease prevention and treatment, water and sanitation, maternal and child health, basic education and literacy, and economic and community development.

The Installation Program provided an opportunity to honour those Rotarians who had achieved a higher level of recognition from The Rotary Foundation for their commitment and donations to the Annual Fund and Endowment Fund.

Major Donor Presentation…..

Robin Durrant was recognized for his achievement of a Major Donor, Level Two, which indicated that he had now made cumulative cash donations over US$25,000 to the Annual and PolioPlus Funds. The recognition was actually extended to Robin at the club’s July 07^th meeting, as he had not been able to attend the Installation Dinner and Program.

Bequest Society Presentation…..

Wendy and Tom Paterson were presented with lapel pins for their increased commitment to the Endowment Fund of The Rotary Foundation. In making a Bequest Society, Level Two bequest, they have made a decision via their estate plans to contribute an amount between US$25,000 and US$49,999 to the Endowment Fund.

In making the presentation to Wendy and Tom, club Foundation Committee member Ed Kolybaba expressed that “It is clear that people like Wendy and Tom make Rotary very effective through their generosity and for their passion for positive change in the world. They are among many who come from all over the world and from all walks of life.” Directing his words toward Tom and Wendy, he stated that “We are so grateful for individuals like the two of you. Thank you so much Tom and Wendy for the values you hold and for the personal actions you take that express these values!”

Kolybaba concluded his remarks by expressing that whether we support the work of the Foundation with annual donations to the Annual Fund, or through bequeaths in our wills as benefactors and Bequest Society members, we all share a common trait: “we are compelled by a desire to share our good fortune with others, simply because we can make a positive impact for someone whose life has not been so easy.”

Paul Harris Fellow Recognition…..

During the 2016-17 Rotary year, the following club Rotarians were recognized either for achieving a Paul Harris Fellow status or an additional Paul Harris Fellow level:

Joanne Reynolds (PHF)

Laurel D’Andrea (PHF+2)

Al Strachan (PHF+3)

Ed Kolybaba (PHF+6)

Helmut Hubert (PHF+8)

Additional Bequest Society Recognition…..

Two of the Rotarians from the club made a commitment during the 2016-17 Rotary year to bequeath between US$10,000 and US$24,999 through their estate plans, increasing the number of Rotarians within the club who have done so to this date to 12 members.

Barb Penner and Carole Farley were recognized for this generous commitment to the humanitarian service provided by The Rotary Foundation

Club Rotarians Recognized for their Outstanding Contributions to the Club at the 2017 Installation Dinner and Program

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Jun 26, 2017

A highlight of the Annual Installation Dinner and Program each year is the recognition of club Rotarians who have provided exceptional service for the club. Each year, the out-going president presents awards to these members to acknowledge their contributions.

This year, 2016-17 President Pat McAllister presented a number of awards as each president has done so in past years.

Three major club awards and one district award were presented during the evening.

Rotarian of the Year – Awarded to Brian Wrightson for his outstanding leadership with the first annual Kelowna Ribfest which took place in September of 2016. His leadership, focused on working collaboratively with a host of Committee chairs and their members, provided the community and the Okanagan with the first Ribfest ever held in Kelowna. The success of the event guaranteed that the event would certainly become a fixture and a highlight of the events scheduled within Kelowna for years to come.

The Dale Frandsen Award – Awarded to Martha Kennedy for her continuing leadership with the club’s Youth Program, particularly the Rotary Youth Exchange Program, a leadership role that has been extended within Rotary District 5060.

The Local Hero Award – Awarded to Stephen Buck, a local realtor and musician who has a passion for music and for helping others to gain an appreciation for music and in developing their instrument skills, particularly in the field of jazz. His volunteering in the music field continues to inspire individuals at all ages. In recognition for his voluntary service within the community, Stephen was presented with an Honourary Paul Harris Fellow.

District 5060 Friendship and Fellowship Award – Presented to Doreen Welsh for her leadership as the Director of the Fellowship Committee which organized a variety of fun activities throughout the year for club members and their guests. Doreen had been nominated by the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise for this District Award which was announced at the 2017 District Conference held in April.

31 Years and Going Strong

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Jun 26, 2017

The Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise held their 36^th Annual Installation Dinner and Program on June 28^th at the Kelowna Golf and Country Club. The club’s annual event, emceed by Immediate Past President (2015-16) Bill Reynolds, featured a celebration of the club’s successful 2016-17 Rotary year and recognition of Sunrise Rotarians who had provided leadership for the club and who had provided exceptional support for the Rotary Foundation and its work, and the installation of 2017-18 President Andy Griffin and his executive and the directors for the in-coming Rotary year.

Rotarians and guests at the evening event were entertained by Maddie Ertel on saxophone and through her vocals and by Alex Buck on keyboard, before leading the gathered with O`Canada. Maddie then sang a Grace before the crowd was guided to the buffet style delicious dinner, accompanied by wine and finishing off with a served dark chocolate cheese cake.

In his opening remarks, Bill Reynolds acknowledged the continued service of five charter members Bruce Brown, Paul Mulvihill, Andy Griffin, Wayne Duchart, and Jack Martin, along with club members Wayne Evans, Fred Lindsay, Graham Bell, Don Turri and Jerry Sedmak who were inducted into the newly chartered club within the following two years.

Past-President Bill then introduced Huck Parfeniuk, Director of the club`s Rotary Foundation Committee who expressed appreciation on behalf of the committee for the outstanding contributions made to the Rotary Foundation throughout the year by the club members, surpassing the goals set by the committee for the Rotary Year 2016-17, resulting in a grand total of US$21,193 directed to the Annual Fund, US$2,096 to the PolioPlus Fund and an additional $US1,746 in cash donations to the Endowment Fund. He also reported that the goal set for the additional members becoming benefactors and Bequest Society members had been surpassed.

Club Members Acknowledged for their Support of TRF

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Jun 04, 2017

Two Kelowna Sunrise Rotarians, Al Strachan and Laurel D`Andrea, were recently recognized for their continued support for The Rotary Foundation. Director Huck Parfeniuk presented lapel pins which identified the level that each of the members had reached in their financial contributions. Al received PHF+3 recognition on May 19^th; while Laurel was recognized for her support with a PHF+2 on June 02nd.

Paul Harris Fellow recognition is given in appreciation to anyone who contributes (or in whose name is contributed) US$1,000 or more cumulatively to the Annual Fund, PolioPlus, or an approved Foundation grant. When a person is recognised as a Paul Harris Fellow, they are presented with a Certificate signed by the Rotary International President and the Chairman of the Trustees of The Rotary Foundation, and a lapel pin.

Rotarians are also recognized for each additional US$1000 donation with another lapel pin which indicates each increased level of recognition, which was the case for both Al Strachan and Laurel D`Andrea.

The contribution to The Rotary Foundation can be made in one sum or by cumulative giving over a number of years. Individuals can make a personal contribution or the contribution can be from a club, a company or business.

Rotarians who receive a Paul Harris Fellow should continue to support the Foundation through their giving, as giving to the Foundation or being recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow is “not a destination, but only the beginning of continued support for the Foundation.” A personal contribution to The Rotary Foundation is a donation to Rotary’s own charity; and, therefore, every Rotarian’s own charity.

During the presentation, Director Huck explained that it is a fact that The Rotary Foundation (TRF) drives Rotary International (RI), and it is most likely why RI is in existence to this day. When RI describes the work it does throughout the world, it is almost in every case only possible by way of the funding and support of TRF.

District 5060 “Round Up,” Provides Unique Experience for Sunrise Rotary Club Members

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on May 31, 2017

Seven members of the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise participated in the first Rotary District 5060 “Round Up” on Saturday, May 27^th held in Summerland at the Summerland Secondary School, which was followed by BBQ and social at Saxon Winery in Summerland.

Pat McAllister, Jane Fletcher, Heidi Miller, Huck Parfeniuk, Carole Farley, Bob Fortier and Andy Griffin experienced a new way to actively engage in an “Open Space Technology” (OST) workshop, based on a concept which has numerous applications. OST is an approach to purpose-driven leadership focused on a specific and important purpose or task, always beginning without a formal agenda, beyond the overall purpose or theme.

OST served as a trial, whereby 32 participants from clubs across the district, including 6 as part of the Facilitation team who were also full participants experienced a unique process to determine and prioritize best practices for Rotary clubs and to establish what best practices, techniques and/or actions would help Rotary clubs to enjoy an even more successful 2017-18 Rotary year.

Eight of 16 topics were selected by the participants for two the two scheduled breakout sessions, which included topics on multi-club collaborations, programs and guest speakers, club demographics, social media, fund raising, membership attraction, mentorship and community service.

Honduras Humanitarian Project Continues to Make a Difference for over 450 Families

Posted by Linda Frandsen on May 23, 2017

Alternativos y Oportunidades (AyO) is an organization in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, whose board consists of Rotarians from four different clubs operating within a no-frills office near the poor markets. It manages ten programs which are supported from many different sources - Germany, Ireland, and Rotary clubs from Vancouver Island as well as two programs which involve multiple clubs from here, including the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise.

The best thing is that all of these projects convey the same message:
-commitment to give back as in being a Mother or Youth Leader, tutoring, etc
-importance of education at all ages and levels
-teaching economic development skills, rights of women and children and now anti-violence.

All of these programs are run by dedicated, competent staff who have developed teaching materials and manuals so that the volunteer community leaders can continue the programs.

The Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise has been involved with AyO since 1991 when Fred Lindsay first visited Honduras. This led to the approval of a Rotary Foundation Global Grant to work with the families of the four poorest markets and at risk children. Over the years, the club has supported the school scholarship program which is now run with HELP Honduras and many of the Sunrise Rotary club members continue to sponsor children.

In 2014-15 Greg McPhee lead a Global Grant called Early Childhood Stimulation to provide developmental and psychological screening, nutritional help, parenting skills, and socializing skills for 200 families with children 0-5 years old. The Rotary Club of Kelowna Ogopogo continued this work with 100 families in another small community which will run until Dec 2017.

Recently, club member Linda Frandsen was fortunate to visit this project, meet the students, mothers, and staff and can tell her club that the money is well spent and truly making a difference for the 450 families directly involved and many others indirectly.

“Service Above Self” Captures the Attention of New Inductees

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on May 12, 2017

The Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise continues to enjoy membership growth and the commitment and energy that new Rotarians bring to the club which ultimately increases service to our community and those in need around the world. Two recent inductees join this group of individuals who are fully prepared to adopt and practice Rotary’s motto “Service Above Self.”

On May 5^th, Cara Durfeld, a recently qualified realtor working with Remax, and on May 12^th, Ron Chandler, a self-employed Healthcare Leadership Development Consultant, were inducted into the club. Cara was introduced to the club by Rebecca White, a recent inductee herself; while Ron was convinced to join the club by the club’s leading recruitment agent, Jerry Sedmak.

Club Members Inspired at the 2017 District 5060 Conference

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on May 21, 2017

Club members from the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise enjoyed another outstanding District 5060 Conference in Kelowna from April 27 – 30, either as attendees/delegates or as volunteers. Approximately 40 club members served as volunteers and/or participated at various venues, including the social evening (welcome dinner) at the Laurel Packing House, home hosting, registration desk duties, tour participants, active hosts at the various club/organization display tables, presenters at the break-out sessions, and as fully paid conference attendees.

Club and district attendees at the conference particularly enjoyed the dynamic and inspirational presentations from a number of keynote speakers. Janice Taylor, the CEO and founder of Mazu, a youth engagement and content company with a mission focused at creating digital products for children that enable positive active both on and offline, shared her mission to help bring change to the world by encouraging positive social behaviour that reaches beyond barriers of race, religion, color or culture through the practice of simple values. Amanda Wirtz, a Chicago native, former RYE student, a past Cryptologic Analyst for Naval Intelligence in the US, and currently an active advocate for building hope and a future within the community and abroad through outreach humanitarian projects shared her personal story of hope as a means to inspire others to “Ask the Right Question.” Dr. Bob Scott, a medical practitioner and coroner; Nabil Oudeh, the president and founder of the Centre for Conflict Resolution International Ltd. and Dean Rohrs, a District 5050 leader and champion, offered additional words of wisdom and profound stories that maintained the focus of the conference attendees.

The conclusion of the conference on Sunday, April 30^th, featured a Rotary Youth Exchange program and entertainment by a young, outgoing RYE student local First Nation dancer.

Club Continues to Draw Dedicated Community Minded Members to its Membership

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on May 06, 2017

David Raye, a research financial analyst at University of British Columbia Okanagan, and Shauna George, a portfolio manager with Newport Private Wealth in Kelowna, were both inducted into the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise in April of 2017, bringing with them a wealth of energy, leadership ability and belief in serving their community. David was introduced to the Rotary club by club member Wayne Evans; while Shauna was recruited by club member Max Mosley. Both were inducted by the club`s ardently devoted and inspiring membership chair, Max Mosley.

David Raye, inducted on April 07, expressed that he has a great desire to contribute to the community and what better way to do so than through a vibrant club like the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise. Of course, having a father who was keen on Rotary and a great supporter of its efforts introduced David to the merits of serving through Rotary.

Shauna George, inducted two weeks later on April 21, learned through the club website all about the fantastic and fun club, which is clearly dedicated to service; and then through her subsequent visits to the club as a visitor discovered a club which was “full of funny altruistic types who want to change the world for the better,” according to club Membership Chair Mosley, who also stated that it “fit Shauna to a tee.”

Club Welcomes Experienced Rotarian into its Membership

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Apr 19, 2017

Marjolein Lloyd, a hard-working, very active and energetic Rotarian with 15 years as an RI member, recently a member of the Rotary Club of Westbank, was inducted as a member of the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise on March 31^st, 2017. Marjolein brings to the club leadership experience at both the district and club level which will be put to good use as the club continues to grow and flourish.

Marjolein held key positions of leadership with the Westbank club, including President for the 2009-10 Rotary year, and a number of directorships at the executive level. Her energy and tenaciousness were very instrumental in bringing about many activities and projects which directly benefited the community of West Kelowna, including a children’s water spray park in downtown West Kelowna.

Her leadership skills have benefited Rotarians right across District 5060 as she has served as a Visioning facilitator, District Membership chair, “Members Matters” trainer, Rotary Leadership Institute facilitator, District Conference Committee member in 2014-15, Area 4 Assistant District Governor, ShelterBox Canada Ambassador, and PETS facilitator.

Club Supports Opera Kelowna’s Goal to Develop Opera Singers

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Apr 26, 2017

Two local promising and aspiring opera singers received financial assistance from the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise toward their expenses as they continue their studies in opera. On April 21^st, a check in the amount of $2400 was presented to the Opera Kelowna Society to fund two scholarships for these two students, which will enable them to participate in the Society’s 2017 Summer Intensive Training Program. Donations Committee Director Maribeth Friesen, along with Brenda Bell, a long-time personal supporter of Opera Kelowna, made the presentation.

Brian Deparsia, a baritone singer originally from British Columbia who is presently attending McGill University in Montreal, and Kallie Clayton, a soprano singer who recently completed her Masters of Music in Opera at the University of British Columbia under the mentorship of J. Patrick Raftery, will each receive a scholarship of $1200.

Alexandra Babbel, the Artistic Director of Opera Kelowna Society, a society that was founded in 2012 and incorporated the following year, spoke about the Society’s contributions to the arts in the Okanagan and its vision and plans to continue to provide education, enlightment, enrichment and entertainment to the diverse audiences in Kelowna and the Okanagan.

Kellie Clayton ended the presentation with an outstanding, heart thumping demonstration of her skill as an opera singer by sharing her talent with a song from Puccini.

Financial Assistance Provided for Youth and Low Income Citizens

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Apr 14, 2017

Members of the Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise agreed to provide financial assistance to the Reach Out Youth Counseling and Family Services Society and to Kelowna Community Resources at their regular meeting on April 08, 2017 to enable both not-for-profit organizations to increase services to those in need within Kelowna.

The Reach Out Youth Counseling and Family Services Society will receive $6000 to enable it to expand its program to offer two additional days of timely resource support for youth between the ages of 16 and 25 in the areas of housing, education, employment and the navigation of government programs and services through a one-to-one support approach.

Starting in the spring of 2017, the expansion of programming will allow for 800 additional hours of direct support to youth in need, enabling an additional 40 youth to receive one-to-one support over the course of the year. Obviously, the community as a whole will benefit as this support enables youth to make a difference in positive ways within the community through increased graduation and secondary school training, increased employment, decreases in poverty, homelessness and couch surfing, increases in mental and emotional health and in their well-being. It is clear that early intervention and reduction in high risk behaviours, increased supports for youth, and early mental health screening and diagnosis has a significant impact on the local community and beyond.

Kelowna Community Resources (KCR), a socially responsive non-profit society and a registered charity providing services since 1983, specifically developing and operating a variety of community programs, services and supports for those in need and care will receive $3134 to provide free income tax services year round to low income individuals under the age of 55 who

qualify according to Canada Revenue Agency criteria. The funding will specifically be used to recruit and manage trained volunteers to provide this free service to those who are experiencing poverty in their lives.

Club Surpasses Goals for Funding for the Rotary Foundation

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Mar 15, 2017

Each year, including the current Rotary Year of 2016-17, the club increases its goal to raise funds for the Annual Fund of the Rotary Foundation. Each year, the club members step up and achieve and surpass this goal. This speaks highly of the generosity of the club’s members and their continuing commitment to assist those in need around the world through the work of the Foundation. It also clearly points out that the members of the club recognize that the Rotary Foundation’s fiscal management and the achievements it attains are the reasons why the Rotary Foundation is by far the most respected Foundation in the world.

With three and one-half months still to go within the 2016-17 Rotary Year, club members have surpassed the Annual Fund goal of US$14,000 by donating US$18,911, a per capita donation of US$282.25, shattering its previous record per capita high of US$223. Members have also donated an additional US$1494 to the Polio Fund, just shy of the goal of US$1500. With donations to the endowment fund of US$1746 the club members have already contributed a total of US$22,151 to the Rotary Foundation.

Since its charter as a club within Rotary International, the Rotary Club of Rotary Sunrise has donated US$308,339 to the various programs of the Foundation.

Planning for 2nd Annual RibFest Well Under Way

Posted by Ed Kolybaba on Feb 23, 2017

The Rotary Club of Kelowna Sunrise is pleased to announce that Interior Savings Credit Union will once again be the Title Sponsor for the 2017 2^nd Annual Kelowna Ribfest. The Ribfest will take place from September 15 – 17 at City Park.

Kelowna Ribfest 2017 planning is well on its way, with a number of major decisions having been made. The Steering Committee which began work soon after the 1^st Annual event, has been meeting regularly and conducting monthly Town Hall meetings to keep all members of the club well informed and to provide the members with the opportunity to provide feedback, and ideas and solutions to problems.

Steering Committee members under the guidance of Brian Wrightson, who is serving as chair for the second year , include Craig Garries (Marketing), Doreen Welsh (Food and Beverage), Chris Murphy (Logistics), Sean Misfeldt (Accounting and Administration), and Brad Klassen (Sponsorships/Revenue Generation).

View the recent video produced by KCS Productions to experience the highlights of the 2016 Kelowna Ribfest event held last September, by pasting the following URL in your browser: https://youtu.be/crJ0q0HiWZ0

Bulletin Subscribe

Welcome to the Kelowna Sunrise Rotary Club Site!

Service Above Self

Club Believes in the Work of NOW Canada in Kelowna

The 3^rd Annual Kelowna Ribfest will be on August 24-26, 2018, moving the dates of the event held for the past two years on the third weekend of September.

Bill Reynolds, 2018 Ribfest Chair, along with his committee, have commenced planning for the major event that provides the Okanagan and Kelowna, along with many tourists, with one of the best free family entertainment events each year.

Check out the Kelowna Ribfest website early in 2018 for information about the 3^rd Annual event.

Bulletin Subscribe

Welcome to the Kelowna Sunrise Rotary Club Site!

Service Above Self

Club Believes in the Work of NOW Canada in Kelowna

The 3rd Annual Kelowna Ribfest will be on August 24-26, 2018, moving the dates of the event held for the past two years on the third weekend of September.

Bill Reynolds, 2018 Ribfest Chair, along with his committee, have commenced planning for the major event that provides the Okanagan and Kelowna, along with many tourists, with one of the best free family entertainment events each year.

Check out the Kelowna Ribfest website early in 2018 for information about the 3rd Annual event.

The 3^rd Annual Kelowna Ribfest will be on August 24-26, 2018, moving the dates of the event held for the past two years on the third weekend of September.

Check out the Kelowna Ribfest website early in 2018 for information about the 3^rd Annual event.