Membership News
July Rotarian of the Month
We celebrate Debbie Valyear, a dedicated volunteer. Debbie gives of her time freely, being a frequent volunteer at many events. They included Rebels 50/50, Black Tie Bingo committee, Agri Trade, Christmas Concert, Beers for Belize. Debbie helped set up the float for the parade, worked the late shift at the casino, and then was found bright and early helping to set up for the Rotary Community Picnic. We thank you for your service and always appreciate you stepping in to help, regardless of the activity.
Rotary Spotlight
Adele Poratto became a member of Rotary in 2004 and has belonged to clubs in Lethbridge, Stettler, and Red Deer. She is a strong promoter of Rotary and has sponsored many new members. Adele was awarded a King Charles Coronation Medal due to her committed involvement in her community. She spearheaded Cycling Without Age, heads the Rotary Christmas Concert, has served Rotary in many positions. Adele was president during COVID and ensured that the club continued to play a role in the community.
Members were surprised to hear that Adele was somewhat of a tomboy in her earlier years and attended finishing school where she developed her interest in design and decorating. She is well known for her decorating expertise and event planning. Adele is a wedding officiant and funeral celebrant. She also teaches English as a Second Language online and has had some notable students.
As a Rotarian, Adele reminds all that we should strive to make a positive mark on our club and community. This can be with our actions or words as we work together to transform the communities in which we live. We thank Adele for all that she does in our club and community!
Community & Project Updates
Literacy Alive!
Today, Sept 8, we celebrate the beginning of Education and Literacy Month. Rotary International is recognizing the work of Dr. Lynne Paradis and all involved with Literacy Alive! and has chosen to highlight the project in a blog. How exciting for Red Deer to be recognized in this way.
https://rotaryserviceblog.org/2025/09/04/learning-to-lead-literacy-lessons-from-a-basic-education-and-literacy-project/
Blood Donor Socials
Lori Begg, Rotary Club of Central Alberta Blood Team captain, invites all to join the team as local clubs gather together to support Canadian Blood Services. Please see the recent email from Eric ????? for details on how to sign up. Gatherings are held the first Wednesday of the month at local restaurants with recent blood donors and financial donors receiving a free dessert. Club members who have attended report that it is a great way to meet others while supporting a great cause.
Please Join us Wednesday September 24, 5pm - 8pm at Cilantro & Chive in Red Deer. Shamus Neeson, Community Development Manager with Canadian Blood Services is coming to give a 30 minute presentation at this Blood Donor Challenge Social evening (This event will replace our October Social event). This will be a great time for members of all Rotary Clubs in Central Alberta to gather. The capacity is 40 people and we hope to fill the room. Please register here: https://rdrotarysunrise.ca/event/copy-of-rotary-blood-challenge-social---sept-3/ so they can plan with the restaurant.
There is also an invitation to all those who can donate blood will join me in giving blood this month* OR just come out and celebrate our initiative with a great bunch of people :) All clubs welcome! Join the movement :)
* Make sure you ask for a giver sticker after your donation and you will receive a free Creme Brulé courtesy of Cilantro & Chive!
Please: Drink a LOT of WATER and eat something before DONATING BLOOD & drink WATER and EAT after donating blood!
