Erin Peden, Executive Director at Community Foundation of Central Alberta, provided information regarding the Rotary Career Opportunity Fund that provides graduating Red Deer high school students with a "hand up" to pursue further studies. Since 1997, 437 awards amounting to $737 000 have received support. Students are selected on the basis of financial need, evidence of leadership and motivation, and academic achievement.  Counsellors from local high schools provide additional information to help the committee with selections.  This year we were able to provide 10 students with $5 000 to be used to help ease the burden of  tuition costs. 
 
Erin referenced Jim Foster as he played an important role in the funds creation as he benefited from support from a family member to help him attend university. We heard from a former recipient who shared his story of being able to achieve his goal of becoming an engineer and now is looking at ways to "pay it forward" in his community.  Cindy Vissor, former counsellor at LTHS, reminded all of the impact that knowing that even one person believes in you can make.  The support provided to students is crucial as it provides them with an opportunity that would otherwise not be available to them.
" We are investing in people" said Erin and encouraged and thanked Rotary for the foresight to establish this fund as it has changed the lives of so many over the years.  Members were moved by the testimonials that were shared and the opportunity to discover more about the fund's impact. 

Meeting Update

Annette Eby, incoming president, chaired the meeting with Scott Robinson as Sarge.  Scott reminded us of the important events that took place on this date in the past. A $2 donation was requested by all that have not shared a happy/sad tale recently. 
 
Guests of Rotary
Cindy Visser: guest of Erin Peden
David Harrop: guest of Dick McDonnell
Suzanne Hermary: guest of Diane McDonnell
Jay Kern: guest of Dean Williams
Visiting Rotarians
Ray Miller: Red Deer Sunrise
 
Gloria Beck had the opportunity to win the 50/50 pot but  was unsuccessful.
 

Happy/Sad and other Fun Stuff

Orlyn Kostenuk: Greatest apologies for forgetting his Rebels 50/50 shift on Friday. Rediscovered his motorcycle and headed off to Elbow Lake in Kananaskis country on the weekend.
Grant Edmond: Celebrated 60th wedding anniversary with Carol.  Claims they met at recess when in Gd 7.
Gerry Winia: Shared that his 9th generation great grandfather came to North America on the Mayflower.  Celebrating that the 45th annual Terry Fox Run raised $43 000 for cancer research.  Gerry is still accepting donations. Great way to support our community.
Zainab Mohamoud: Shared news of her upcoming candicacy for city council.
Dick McDonnell: Tried to clone himself by accepting 2 spots to work at the recent Rebels game but was unsuccessful.  Thanks to those who were able to help out. Introduced David Harrop, former Rotarian, who was a strong supporter of International exchanges.
David Harrop: Gave thanks for his marriage of 44 years and the health professionals at the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute
Jerry Pasman: Shared that Bill Olson has recently visited his 102 year old mother. Invited the thrill seekers among members to come to watch the car racing this weekend at the Westerner.  Brave souls as passengers will be provided with a helmet and vomit bag!
Dagmar Knutson: Husband recently returned from visit to their son in Langley where he is attending university and playing hockey.   Shared info re the upcoming 10 Pks conference and the 10Peaks Innovation Xchange Breakfast.
This breakfast is a kick-off to the 5th annual #10PIX student conference on energy, our environment and climate, breakfast attendees will have the opportunity to celebrate students including an award winning robotics team from Lacombe Composite High School and the award winning robotics team from St. Joseph High School in Red Deer. Chris Kupchenko, President and COO of Enhance Energy will address the breakfast participants:  Energy and Environment: A Collaborative Path Forward for Central Alberta.  Tickets are $50/person, including GST.  Tickets can be found here:  https://www.10peaks.ca/breakfast2025
 
10Peaks_XChangeBreakfast_WebsiteGraphic_FINAL_Sept.2025.png
Judith McIntyre: Sent plea for owner of the email account d********y@gmail.com to be revealed.  Prayers were answered by Dwayne Holland Now we can resume posting on Instagram in the near future!
 

Membership News

Member Readings
1st reading has been made for Jay Kern. Jay is sponsored by Dean Williams.
 
Member Spotlight
We celebrate Garth Olson's contributions to his community and to Rotary.  A Rotarian since 1983, Garth has been an integral part of Rotary serving in a wide capacity such as Sarge, chair of the Black Tie Bingo and member recognition committees, adding his insights to the Centennial Committee, Youth conferences, Senior Christmas concert, numerous fundraisers, and always being willing to help where ever needed. Garth is a strong supporter of the Polio Plus campaign and reminds all of the impact that donations can make.  He is a major donor to the Rotary Foundation and has gifted 6 people with Paul Harris Fellowships who have played a major role in his life. 
Rotary has provided one way in which Garth has been able to give back to others. 
Garth has always been an active community member and taken advantage of opportunities to support others. Whether it be during his time farming, working in the oil and gas industry, or as a building material supplier or in real estate, Garth has continued to exemplify the 4 Way test i all that he does. 
 
We thank you Garth for your continued leadership and passion for serving others.  
 
 

Community & Project Updates

Black Tie Bingo Tickets Now Available!
 
The Rotary Club of Red Deer proudly presents the 30th Annual Black Tie Bingo, returning Thursday, October 30, 2025, at the Red Deer Resort & Casino. This signature gala blends elegance, philanthropy, and excitement, raising vital funds over three decades for charitable causes across Central Alberta. This year’s proceeds will support Camp Alexo through Youth HQ, helping ensure children and youth have access to meaningful outdoor experiences that inspire growth and lifelong memories. Guests can “Dress to Dazzle” for an evening of fine dining, thrilling bingo, lively auctions, and community spirit, with the Red Deer Royals once again serving as coat check and honour guard. Join us in celebrating 30 years of impact, generosity, and unforgettable moments.
 
 
Silent Auction items are also being sought from all members.  Please take some time and consider how you or someone you know, can contribute. Annette Eby, chairperson of BTBingo committee, has available  a form to record contributions.   
 
Community Grants
Vangi Willington shared thank you cards from students who participated in the Central Alberta Regional (Rotary)  Science Fair.  We supported the event with a $ 2 500 Community Grant to encourage science education and research skills. 
 
A cheque presentation was made to the Red Deer Art Council.  Suzanne Hermary accepted the cheque of $5000 to support a camp based music program.  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service Week
There is still time to sign up for a Service Week activity.  Our club has connected with the Red Deer Christmas Bureau and spots are still available for Thursday, Friday or Saturday (Sept 18-20) of this week.  Support is required to help with the annual Christmas Bureau garage sale.  An email with sign up details was sent out Sept 4 but you can also email Annette Eby at: incomingpresident@rotaryclubofreddeer.ca
to have the link resent. We will be restocking tables and assisting customers.  Spots are open on Thursday and Friday from 12-3 pm or 3-6 p.m.  Saturday slots are 9-12 and 12-3 p,m.  
 
There are spots available on Wednesday, Oct 1 from 10:30-3:30 pm  to help set up for the Aspire Evening of Decadent Desserts with Rotary Sunrise.  
 
 

Sept. 15/25

Please send all information to be included to: 
TheFlash@rotaryclubofreddeer.ca
 
 

Mark Your Calendar

Thursday, Friday, Saturday Sept 18-20.  Service Week Opportunity at Red Deer Christmas Bureau
Wednesday, Sept 24: Canada Blood Services Presentation. Cilantro and Chive.  5 p.m.
Thursday, October 30: Black Tie Bingo at Red Deer Resort and Casino.  5:30 p.m.-10:00 p.m
Wednesday Dec 3: Blood Services Drive. Location TBA. 5-8 p.m.
 
 
Upcoming Events
April 13th Club Meeting (Dress for Succss: Erin Forbes)
Apr. 13, 2026
11:45 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.
April 20th Club Meeting (ROAD SHOW: Red Deer RCMP Detachment)
Apr. 20, 2026
11:45 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.
April 27th Club Meeting (Business Meeting - Board Elections: Brent Mauthe))
Apr. 27, 2026
11:45 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.
View entire list
Birthdays & Anniversaries
Member Birthdays
Lisa Glowatski
April 4
 
Harold Barnes
April 8
 
Aliesha Shuparsky
April 9
 
Adèle Poratto
April 11
 
Brett Mauthe
April 12
 
James McPherson
April 13
 
Ken Johnston
April 15
 
David Allin
April 22
 
Join Date
Garth Olson
April 1, 1983
43 years
 
Aliesha Shuparsky
April 2, 2020
6 years
 
Executives & Directors
President
 
President Elect
 
Treasurer
 
Secretary
 
Community Engagement
 
Member Experience
 
Fundraising
 
Public Relations