President Brett led all in an exercise to spark discussion and get a snapshot of what initiatives or goals club members view as priorities for the upcoming year. This information will be used to help direct the board. Top priorities were
increasing awareness of club members and the community of the myriad of ways in which the club works to serve the community
growing membership numbers
continuing opportunities for fellowship
continue fundraising and give consideration to hosting a spring event.
Raising the club profile and public image and continuing with international projects were also ranked highly.
He encouraged all to set a goal of how they plan to serve the community; "Ask not what your community can do for you but ask what you can do for your community". As a club we have many opportunities to use our gifts, talents, time, and treasure to serve others.
The beginning of a new year offers opportunities to look at how far we have come and to plot the path for the future. How exciting to have the 2025-26 Rotary theme "Unite for Good", emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration to address challenges and create positive change.
Meeting Update
Brett Mauthe hosted his inaugural meeting as President and wielded the gavel with proper decorum for the occasion. It should be noted that we were called to order with the striking of the bell with a common knife, perhaps a reminder that we should not take ourselves too seriously.
Debbie Valyear began her duties as Sarge by fining $ 1 to those who had not yet read the Flash this week. She gently reminded all in attendance that it contains information about club events and reminders of pertinent information.
As President, Brett declared a different method of selecting the leader of our national anthem would be used today. As past president, Darcy Mykytyshyn would assume that role.
Laura Snape had the 50/50 ticket but did not select the winning card. She did a wonderful job with the 4 Way Test.
Happy/Sad and other Fun Things
Darcy Mykytyshyn: In telling the tale of son Nate's birthday, he reminded us all that the best laid plans can often good awry. However, the end result of his planning did result in a new boat living on his driveway. Anchors away!
Darcy also attended a recent meeting of the Rotary Club of Calgary where they celebrated 111 years of meeting at the Palliser Hotel. They meet every 2 weeks and have around 200 people in attendance.
Judith McIntyre: Encouraged all to watch The Amazing Race Canada on Tuesday nite and watch for a perky red hat among the dancers.
Lisa Mackay: Tourism Red Deer is excited to announce that the Amazing Race Canada Season 11 premiere was filmed in Red Deer, highlighting many of the top attractions in the area. Exciting for our region! You can watch it here: https://www.ctv.ca/shows/the-amazing-race-canada
Tourism Red Deer, the Red Deer & District Chamber, and Westerner Park have collaborated on a Westerner Days Attractions Pass. From July 7-20, you can collect points by checking in at the Westerner Days Parade, Pancake Breakfasts, Best Dressed Businesses, and select Westerner Days events. Then you can use these points to redeem for free entry into Westerner Days and other onsite deals. The Rotary Park Picnic in the Park on July 16 is also featured in this pass and will be promoted through the Tourism Red Deer and Westerner Days social media prior to the event.If you are interested in signing up for a pass, you can do so at the link: https://visitreddeer.com/westerner-days-attractions-pass/
Adele Poratto: Looking for 3 volunteers who excel at waving to ride on the trishaws that will be in the Westerner Parade. Contact her to schedule your audition for your waving prowness.
Bill Hull: We are saddened that Bill announced that he will not be at meetings next year after 45 years of Rotary membership. He shared best wishes as he concludes his Rotary journey that has provided him with treasured memories and friendships.
Membership News
President's Citation
Bill Hull is a worthy recipient of this honor. He has spent 45 years with Rotary serving as a cornerstone of his actions, both personally and professionally. Serving on countless committees, taking on the role of President 1995-96, and being a mentor and source of information and advice to many has meant that Bill has left his mark on this club. Bill shared that he joined Rotary for the purpose of making the world a better place, a goal he has most certainly accomplished in many ways. We heard the story of how Bill played a leading role in getting a water truck to Guatemala, helping to ensure that clean safe water was made available to tens of thousands of people. This was an example of the many ways in which Bill served his community, both at home and afar, a living example of Service Above Self. Thank you Bill for your many years of service. You will be missed but not forgotten!
Rising Star Award- New Rotarian
Annette Eby was presented this award in recognition of the contributions she has already made in less than 2 years of belonging to Rotary. She plays a leading role on the Black Tie Bingo committee, serves on the Social committee, chairs the Legacy Wetlands project, greets members as part of the Square committee, and organizes the Community BBQ after the parade. She has also accepted the role of President elect for the 2025-26 year. Annette's calm approach to leadership is appreciated. We thank her for all that she has done in service to her community. Congratulations.
Community & Project Updates
Is Your Social Calendar Looking Rather Packed Next Week?
Westerner Parade:
Please contact Aliesha Shuparsky if you are able to help assemble the parade float on Tuesday July 15 in the evening. She is also looking for volunteers who want to get their steps in by being in the parade on Wednesday, July 16 in the morning.
Community BBQ
Annette Eby is looking for those who can help with the Community BBQ (Wednesday July 16) that is held at Rotary Park after the parade. Volunteers are needed to help set up, distribute food, and clean up. Contact Annette if you are able to participate in this great community event.
Debriefing After the BBQ
We will be celebrating that we survived a very busy start to the week and all that we have accomplished by gathering at Troubled Monk for "refreshments" after the BBQ. Come for fellowship and conversation- stay a short time or a longer time. Bring your spouse or a friend or someone you think needs to get to know us better!
Casino
Gerry Winia is excited that so many volunteered to work the Casino on Monday July 14 and 15. Please remember to check your shift time and bring your ID. Money raised goes to support our community projects, both locally and internationally.
July 7/25
Please send all articles to: theflash@rotaryclubofreddeer.ca
Mark Your Calendar
Mon. July 14: Casino
Tues. July 15: Casino
Wed. July 16: Westerner Parade
Wed. July 16: Community BBQ after the Parade
Wed. July 16: Social at Troubled Monk after the BBQ