Happy/Sad and other Fun Things
Gloria Beck: Returned from a well deserved mini vacation to Comox/Tofino area with her daughter where she relaxed and visited with former Rotarian Marilyn Mann.
Duane Evans: Spent Saturday at the District 5360 Leadership Seminar and is pleased to learn more about the exciting initiatives planned by DG Darcy Mykytyshyn. We are in good hands!
Ken Johnston: Loved his visit back to Newfoundland and the wonderful hospitality he encountered. Gas was a mere $2.06/litre making our current price of $1.50 look very affordable. Ken also shared that his parents had been among those who shared hospitality in 2001 during the days of 9/11.
Steve Chow: Gleefully reported that he had recently returned from a 3 week cruise.
Chris Warren: Shared the sad news of the passing of his father in law last week. Our condolences to the family on their loss.
Dagmar Knutson: Only 4 weeks to the 10Peaks student conference. Many volunteer opportunities are available- see her email. Proud mom moment as her son scored his first goal of the season while attending studies in Langley.
Adele Poratto: Looking forward (?) to having a MRI next week to look at possible hip surgery. Commented on the extreme waits that can be experienced while awaiting an appointment. Shared that October 3 is the date for a BBQ at Troubled Monk to celebrate the achievements of Cycling Without Age.
Leigh Sands: Shared the sad news of the passing of their diabetic cat, Lana. She will be missed. We always enjoyed hearing of updates of how she was doing.
Dick McDonnell: Reported that Diane is home with a wicked cold. Provided a bit of a history lesson- shared that RD Bennett, founding of the CBC, recommended in 1936 (ish) that 5000 watt stations be established in Winnipeg, Toronto, Montreal, and Red Deer. Curious minds want to know what happened to that Red Deer station!
Orlyn Kostenuk: Honey is now ready for purchase. Flavored honey will be available shortly. See him for details
Jerry Pasman: Remarked on a recent visit to the 911 memorial site in New York as being overwhelming in it solemnity.
Gerry Winia: Continuing to support the Terry Fox Foundation . He shared donation forms and can be contacted for additoinal ways to support this worthy cause.
Zainab Mohamoud: Apologized for missing a recent 50/50 shift.
Tony Judd: Commended Erin Peden on the recent Possibility Exchange event which charities and non profits were able to hilight their role in Red Deer. It was great to see so many Rotarians involved.
Courtney Ukrainetz, Executive Director, for Canadian Mental Health shared how they play a major role in addressing the education, housing, income, and support needs of our community for those experiencing difficulties with mental wellness. The focus is on proving a whole-person approach- offering hope. Mental wellbeing is affected by situations around safety, housing, relationships, and feeling of having a purpose in life. Early supports and community connections can reduce situations that could end in a crisis. 
Judith shared that Marion Nolberto, lead of Belize BRITe/RIBS literacy team, was recently awarded a 35 year Long Service Milestone Award. Marion, who many were fortunate to meet in 2025 at our meeting, has invested his career in helping children and teachers. He is well deserving of this award as he has played an integral role in the success of Literacy Alive!. 
