Were you at the RCCD meeting January 13, 2026?
Doug McMillan
If you were not among the approximately 55 members and guests attending the Jan 13th meeting chaired by President Bill Hamilton, you have future opportunities for fellowship, interesting speakers and the lunch fare of the Palliser Hotel at future club meetings.
After O Canada (Michael Pierson on the piano), President Bill welcomed members and guests and thanked “Front of the House” volunteers (Trevor Axworthy, Bill Redmond, Bob Taylor and Iman Saad). Madeleine King and Franco Savoia contributed their “Happy Bucks” and Michael Broadhurst introduced those with birthdays (see elsewhere in this COG).
Madeleine introduced new Club Member Louise Redmond (see accompanying COG article).
1. Your Scribe Doug McMillan
2. President Bill welcoming Louise Redmond to Rotary
3. Tyson Schmidt asking for casino volunteers
Madeleine also spoke about the Commonwealth Day Service March 9, 2026 at Westminster Abbey in London indicating that there was one ticket available and that anyone interested should contact her by January 16th.
Tyson Schmidt indicated there were still volunteer positions to fill for Casino nights Feb 20 and 21, 2026 (further information elsewhere in this COG, in the District Bulletin or contact Tyson).
Ron Hymers introduced his U of C Rotaractor mentee, Hanna Paez, a first year accounting student who grew up in Olds.
Ron also mentioned the Heritage Park Rotary Veggie Plant Fundraiser for NSTEP. Please sign up for plants by Jan 31st; further information in this COG, from Ron or the NSTEP website.
President Bill presented Past President Craig Henderson with a certificate from Rotary District 5360 recognizing Craig’s support for the Polio Plus program over several years.
Guest Speaker Kai Fahrion, CEO Zeno Renewables, was introduced by President Bill. Kai is an Ironman and Marathon participant. He has worked with Zeno since 2025 and has won an Entrepreneur of the Year award. He views a solar panel on every roof as an important catalyst for needed change. In the last 10 years, he has facilitated over 5,000 projects and has a goal of solar panels on one million properties by 2040.
Current use of solar panels (95% made in China) on residential homes has a “payback” of seven years. Calgary customers remain on the grid contributing excess power when able and purchasing power when needed. Commercial opportunities are similar, reducing operating costs and their carbon footprint.
There were several questions relating to solar panel lifespan (currently about 25- 30 years), recycling (facilities improving) and opportunities to go completely off the grid (not possible in Calgary but could occur in some outlying regions).
President Bill thanked Kai for speaking indicating that a donation was being made in his name to Well Spring Alberta.
Joe Fras had the lucky ticket for the 50/50 draw but, alas, had to settle for chocolates when he did not draw the white ball from the bag.
The next meeting January 27, 2026 will feature Bryce Starlight speaking on Taza Park, Tsuut’ina Nation.
