Rotary International President, Stephanie Urchick (Pennsylvanie, USA) District 6330 Governor, Katherine Hahn (Rotary of Stratford, ON) Club President, Mariann Timmers (2024-25) Club Newsletter, Kitty Bucsko
District website: https://rotary6330.org/
District 6330 Governor 2024-25
Katherine Hahn
Rotary Club of Stratford
Focus on Adaptation
The Calendar below shows Rotary’s 2024-25 monthly themes.
ROTARY CALENDAR and THEMES
Month
Theme
July Maternal and Child Health
August
Membership and New Club Development
September Basic Education and Literacy
October Economic and Community Development
November The Rotary Foundation
December Disease Prevention and Treatment
January Vocational Service
February Peace and Conflict Prevention/Resolution
March Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene
April Environment
May
June
Youth Service
Rotary Fellowships
YOUTH SERVICE
Month of May
REGULAR MONTHLY MEETING
Wednesday,May7 at 7:00p.m. Eastern Time
HAPPY CHATS ONLINE – JOIN US!
Every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time
INSPIRATIONAL THOUGHTS FOR MAY
1. "The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow."
– Nelson Mandela
2. "Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."
– Ralph Waldo Emerson
3. "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams."
– Eleanor Roosevelt
4. "You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream."
– C.S. Lewis
5. "Youth is the gift of nature, but age is a work of art."
– Stanislaw Jerzy Lec
6. "The great challenge of youth is to take control of your own future."
– Anonymous
7. "The best way to predict the future is to create it."
– Abraham Lincoln
8. "There is no age limit to the impact one can make."
– Anonymous
9. "In youth, we learn; in age, we understand."
– Marie von Ebner-Eschenbach
10. "Young people need models, not critics."
– John Wooden
Growth Through Service
In May, nature reminds us that growth happens gradually, but steadily.
As Rotarians, our impact may not always be immediate, but through consistent service, compassion, and integrity, we contribute to meaningful change.
Let us nurture the seeds of peace, understanding, and cooperation, knowing that our efforts will bloom in the lives of those we touch. (Author unknown)
IMPORTANT ROTARY INFORMATION
2024-25 RI PRESIDENT
INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT, 2024-25
Stephanie Urchick
Pennsylvania, USA
RI President Stephanie urges all members to “grow the Magic of Rotary by adding new members to our Rotary family and providing wonderful experiences to those already involved.”
“Unlock the Magic of Rotary by unlocking the power of women and girls. Advance the Magic of Rotary by fundraising to help change the world.”
“Together, we can make every club and every district ‘simply irresistible.’”
RI PRESIDENT Stephanie Urchick
ROTARY INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT MAY 2025 MESSAGE
Rotary’s young people of action
No matter how long we’ve been with Rotary, we all benefit from the energy and fresh perspectives of our young leaders. It is my privilege to place this month’s presidential message in the capable hands of one young leader, Vitor Joventino. In his column, Vitor reminds us how teamwork and inclusivity can spark transformative change. As you read his message, I encourage you to reflect on its insights, share in his excitement, and embrace new opportunities to learn.
STEPHANIE A. URCHICK
PRESIDENT, ROTARY INTERNATIONAL 2024-25
I remember the exact moment when I realized the power of Rotary’s youth programs. It was a Saturday morning in Australia during my year as a Rotary Youth Exchange student. I stood among a group of young leaders at a Rotary Youth Leadership Awards event. The organizers challenged us to stand on a large tarp spread across the floor and, without stepping off, find a way to fold it in half.
At first, the task seemed simple. But as we moved, strategized, and adjusted, the reality set in – it required teamwork, agility, and constant communication.
Rotaractors and Rotarians guided us, but no one dictated how to succeed. The decisions were ours to make. And then something remarkable happened. Without being instucted, we collectively decided that no one would be left behind as our space on the tarp shrank.
One of our teammates was a person who uses a wheelchair, giving us an opportunity to adapt, ensuring that he was fully part of the experience. We shifted, lifted the tarp, and reconfigured our positions, using our time to think, plan, and act as a team. In the end, we successfully completed the challenge together.
As we celebrated our success, one participant said, “Society works the same way – challenges will come, but instead of leaving people behind, we must find ways to include everyone.” It was such a profound thought for someone so young, yet it perfectly captured the essence of our experience.
Interact empowers young people to create service projects with real and lasting impact. Youth Exchange builds global citizens who return home with broader perspectives and stronger leadership skills. RYLA develops young leaders equipped to inspire and mobilize others. All of this is The Magic of Rotary, emerging through the actions of youth. These programs are the heart of Rotary’s ability to grow and adapt in a changing world.
But the success of these programs depends on more than young leaders – it requires Rotary members who believe in their potential. I encourage you to sponsor an Interact club, host an exchange student, and support a RYLA participant. Your involvement does more than sustain these programs; it multiplies their impact and ensures that young leaders are not just beneficiaries of Rotary but active contriutors.
To those already supporting youth programs, thank you. Your mentorship and commitment make all the difference. And to those considering getting involved, now is the time! Because youth leadership isn’t just Rotary’s future, it’s Rotary’s present.
VITOR JOVENTINO, Rotaract Club of Penápolis, Brazil
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION TRUSTEE CHAIR
MAY 2025 - MESSAGE
Meet the Moment
There are moments in our journey to end polio when doubt and uncertainty may take hold, yet we must remain steadfast and, above all, hopeful as we keep our eyes on the goal. As Winston Churchill once said in a moment of crisis: “We cannot afford – we have no right – to look back. We must look forward.”
In Rotary, we always rise to meet the moment. No challenge is too great. In 1988, when we partnered with the World Health Organization to form the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, an estimated 350,000 polio cases occurred annually across 125 countries. Since then, the GPEI – which also includes UNICEF, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Gates Foundation, and Gavi, the Vaccine aliance – has worked tirelessly with governments worldwide. Together, we have reduced wild poliovirus cases by 99.9 per cent.
The journey has not been without challenges. Today, in Afghanistan, vaccinators are prohibited from conducting house-to-house immunization campaigns, while in Pakistan, conflict, terrorism, and migration hinder access to children in certain regions.
Earlier this year, the United States announced its intention to withdraw from the WHO, froze USAID funding, and restricted interactions with the CDC. These developments present obstacles for our polio eradication efforts and other Rotary global partnerships and programs.
Yet we rise to meet the moment, just as we have done before. We did so in India when we faced spikes in cases before the country was declared free of wild poliovirus in 2014. In Nigeria, we also encountered obstacles, but in 2020, WHO certified the country – and by extension, all 47 countries in the WHO Africa region – wild poliofree.
We are meeting the moment once again in 2025. Know that Rotary is working behind the scenes, collaborating with governments, international agencies, and partners to address challenges, manage disruptions, and explore alternative funding. As a nonpolitical organization, we remain focused on operational solutions while serving communities and protecting public health.
My wife, Gay, and I have witnessed firsthand the urgent need of the moment in India, Nigeria, and Pakistan, where we adminsistered vaccines to children. Looking into their eyes, I saw the future we are fighting for – and the responsibility we carry to finish the job.
The winds of change may shift, but with your help, Rotary’s commitment to eradicating polio will stand strong until our mission is complete.
MARK DANIEL MALONEY Foundation Trustee Chair, 2024-25
Dear Rotary members,
Over the past few months, while we visited Rotary clubs worldwide and witnessed inspiring projects that are making a tangible difference in their communities, many have approached us with concerns about the current political and economic volatility, and its potential impact on the work that we do.
We want to assure you that in times of uncertainty, one thing is certain - our mission and values remain unchanged. Rotary is a force for good in the world because we are deeply embedded in communities. We will continue to provide service to others, promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill, and peace.
The ideals of service, fellowship, and diversity have enabled us to transcend boundaries of all kinds. We bring people of all backgrounds together, foster collaboration, and make our communities stronger.
For 120 years Rotary has thrived through two World Wars, through the Cold War, and through multiple deadly pandemics. We have endured and strengthened because we adhere to our mission and to our values. In times like these, we are once again reminded of the strength of Rotary and the importance of supporting our organization.
As a founding partner of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, we've helped reduce polio cases by 99.9 percent since our first project to vaccinate children in the Philippines in 1979. Regardless of what lies ahead, we will stay the course and keep our commitment to the world's children by ending polio forever. At present, we're coordinating with our global partners to closely monitor and assess the fast-evolving situation, proactively working with many governments to sustain their financial support and seek alternative funding sources. Now more than ever, your financial support of PolioPlus is critical.
We will continue to support our Areas of Focus to forge solutions and fulfill long-term goals. Through our programs, grants, and people-to-people diplomacy, we address the underlying causes of conflicts, creating an environment conducive to peace. We work with our partners to engage in sustainable projects that tackle poverty, inequality, and lack of access to education in our own communities and those around the world. Rotary's recent peace conference in Istanbul, which attracted more than 1,000 Rotary members, peace builders, and scholars around the world is testimony to our commitment.
At this moment, it is ever more important that we channel our concerns and uncertainties into action and share that vision of hope with others.
Sincerely,
Stephanie A. Urchick President, Rotary International
Mark Daniel Maloney Chair, The Rotary Foundation
John Hewko General Secretary
ROTARY D6330 HAS CHOSEN OUR DISTRICT GOVERNORS FOR 2025-26 and 2026-27
Meet Governor-elect Jeffrey (DG 2025-26)
Jeffrey is the president of Sedgewick + Ferweda Architects, a boutique architecture firm based in Flint, Michigan, with a tight-knit team of six.
He brings a genuine enthusiasm and passion for design to his role, thriving on the unique challenges that specialized projects demand. Jeffrey’s creative expertise has shaped a wide variety of impactful designs across Flint and the Midwest. His firm’s guiding principle says it all: “Good Design, Good Clients, Great Architecture.”
As president since 2001, Jeffrey sets the direction and vision for the firm while supporting his team to bring out their very best. He considers it a true privilege to serve the studio and foster a collaborative environment. Jeffrey is licensed in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, and Minnesota.
Community involvement is a core value for Jeffrey and his team. He’s deeply engaged in Rotary as the Assistant District Governor for District 6330, Area 9 (2023-24), Past President of the Genesee Valley Rotary Club, Liaison to the Powers Catholic High School Interact Club, and Membership Chair.
Jeffrey is also a proud dad to four children—Morgan, Evan, Jack, and Paige—who share his love for the outdoors. Whether it’s fishing, hunting, golfing, or tubing, they make the most of family time together.
Beyond work and family, Jeffrey is active in his church community, serving on the Pastoral Council and Liturgy Commission. He’s also a Catechist, Lector, Eucharistic Minister, and choir member, dedicating his time and talents to his faith.
Jeffrey’s commitment to his craft, community, and family shines in everything he does, making him an inspiring leader and role model.
Governor Elect - Jeff Ferweda
Meet Governor-Nominee Lorna (DG 2026-27)
Lorna Gunning Fratschko is a “seasoned” and long-term member of Rotary, having joined the Rotary Club of London South on April 1, 1996. Lorna now resides at the Rotary Club of London-Hyde Park, having transferred in August of 2020.
She lives her life according to the 4-Way Test, is a multiple Paul Harris Fellow and has attended the Rotary Institute Levels 1 & 2.
Lorna was born in Belleville and grew up on a dairy farm just outside of Tweed with her parents, two brothers and two sisters. As any farmer knows, it was a lot of hard work AND service. Lorna’s family was devoted to Community Service which she has carried on into her life as a Rotarian.
Lorna is a lifelong learner and absolutely appreciates the learning and training opportunities offered by Rotary. Recently she has participated in the Visioning Facilitation workshop in Stratford, Ontario, as well as the Learning-to-Lead Conference in Toronto from September 27 – October 1, 2023. She is committed to the notion of having more club members serving on District committees so as to have access to District news, service/fellowship opportunities to bring to the attention of their clubs.
Lorna has recently taken on the role of Membership Chair, District 6330 and is grateful for RI President-Elect Stephanie Urchick’s focus on membership. She believes that “every club member is on the membership committee!”
Also, the membership committee is her favourite! Further, Stephanie is a fan of the classification principal that facilitates membership initiatives and pride in Rotary members for occupying a unique vocational position in one’s club. Lorna concurs with this approach and is looking forward to bringing “Membership Minutes” to her club at their bi-weekly meetings. She believes that Membership needs to be front of mind for clubs.
Lorna served as President for the Rotary Club of London South for the year 2017-2018 and is happy that the RCLS received their Club Citation for that year. She has served on numerous committees (all but Club Service!) during her Rotary tenure as well as many, many fund raisers. As Chair of the Community Services Committee at the Rotary Club of London-Hyde Park, their current focus is on food security in the NW London communities. This focus has resulted in a Hot Breakfast Program at a local public school, support of the food bank & food program at a local community resource centre, support of our May Court Club’s food program, and a successful district grant supporting the completion of a certified teaching kitchen at another local community resource centre.
Lorna & her husband, Erich Fratschko, member of the Rotary Club of London-Hyde Park, recently celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary. Their family of 3 daughters, 1 grandson and Junior the British Bulldog Puppy means that there are very few dull moments in this family. Lorna is a committed Rotarian who lives by the Rotary Motto of SERVICE ABOVE SELF. She considers the position of District Governor to be an honour and privilege – the next step in her Rotary Career – and Lorna is looking forward to serving District 6330 in this capacity.
Please join Lorna’s LinkedIn community at linkedin.com/in/lornagunningfratschko. Lorna is looking forward to meeting and working with Rotarians from across District 6330.
Governor-Nominee Lorna Gunning Fratschko
ROTARY’S MAY FOCUS – YOUTH SERVICE
Rotary Youth Exchange for D6330 BUILDING PEACE - ONE YOUNG PERSON AT A TIME
District 6330 is a member of the Central States Rotary Youth Exchange (CSRYE) organization, which is an incorporated joint program among 20 Rotary districts located in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, USA, and Ontario, Canada. For more details on CSRYE, please visit their website
VIDEOS BELOW
Click this link to view a short Youth Exchange video –
Click this link to view a second short Youth Exchange video –
Click this link to view a third short Youth Exchange video –
District 6330 is proud to participate in the Rotary Youth Exchange Program, which builds peace, one young person at a time. Students learn a new language, discover another culture, and truly become global citizens. Exchanges for students ages 15-18 are sponsored by Rotary clubs in more than 100 countries!
EXCHANGE STUDENTS UNLOCK THEIR TRUE POTENTIAL
See rotary6330.org for more information.
Exchange students can:
• Develop lifelong leadership skills
• Learn a new language and culture
• Build lasting friendships with young people from around the world
• Become global citizens
STUDENTS: INTERESTED IN GOING ON A ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE?
Candidates are ages 15-18 who are leaders in their schools and communities.
1. Talk to your parents/guardians and get their approval and support.
2. Click the button below to complete your Preliminary Application.
3. Connect with your local Rotary Club, if you haven't already
Rotary believes in developing the next generation of leaders. Our programs help younger leaders build leadership skills, expand education and learn the value of service.
TO LEARN MORE, CLICK THE BOXES BELOW.
ROTARY YOUTH EXCHANGE IS TURNING 50!
It has been 50 years since Rotary Youth Exchange became an official program of Rotary International!
This program connects cultures, inspires service, and creates friendships that last a lifetime. Use the video link below to show what it’s like to participate in Rotary Youth Exchange — for the students and their families, host families, and friends. Show it at Rotary events, school or community gatherings, and student activity fairs.
You can share this YouTube version of the video on your club’s website and social media channels.
Captions are available in your preferred language.
The application process for the next Programs of Scale grant has started. If your club or district is involved in an evidence-based program that is ready to scale over three to fie years, consider applying for the award which is valued at $2 million USD.
• Qualified districts, Rotary clubs, and Rotaract clubs are eligible.
• The first step is to submit a concept note by 1 August 2025.
The Programs of Scale materials have been updated for the 2026 competition and include details about the selection process and the rquirement that applicants hae cash contributions of at least $500,000 USD from exterbnal partners.
Learn more about the Programs of Scale application process and past recipients and finalists.
NEW GENERATIONS SERVICE EXCHANGE
The NGSE is a exchange program operated by Rotary International to provide 18 to 30 (but more likely over 21) year olds the opportunity to learn about their career/vocation in another country. There is no cost to host an inbound or sponsor an outbound.
As a host, the club provides a hosting family, has the participant engage in club projects and may be asked to help identify potential vocational placements that could be contacted.
The role of the business is to provide the young person the opportunity to learn about their vocation here in Canada. This can include shadowing someone in their role, completing tasks that are related to the vocation (i.e. a law student might review a client file or take notes in a deposition, an engineer might take measurements) that the host feels the participant is capable of.
The host business may also provide reading materials, have the participant sit in on meetings or give other opportunities linked toe career goals.
The young person pays for their own travel as well as liability insurance.
They have spending money and take care of their personal expenses.
As they are adults, they are allowed to drive if they have an international license and insurance. They are also allowed to drink alcohol or smoke, if it is consistent with the host expectations (i.e. if the host says no smoking in the home, there is no smoking)
As they are adults, they may go out to drink provided they follow host expectations (i.e. do not come home drunk).
Although marijuana is now legal, it is strongly recommended that the participants do not partake. In addition, the student has been reviewed by their sponsoring club so it is known that there are no behavioural or legal issues.
For more information check www.youngadultexchanges.org
Interested? Here is the Application Form https://www.web.youngadultexchanges.org/wpcontent/uploads/2019/01/6_NGSE_Application.pdf
If you want more information, please contact Rosanne Field email: rfield@hurontel.on.ca
NOTE: After July 24, New Generations Service Exchange will no longer be an official Rotary International program. That means that Rotary International will discontinue supporting this program in July 2024. But this doesn’t mean that service exchanges will end. We encourage districts to continue planning and hosting exchanges through their own New Generations Service Exchange programs. The main change is that Rotary International will no longer offer a directory of New Generations Service Exchange chairs. All past, current, and future NGSE participants are still considered Rotary International program alumni. RI alumni opportunities will remain accessible to them, and districts are encouraged to maintain engagement with NGSE alumni. (https://my.rotary.org/en/upcoming-changes-new-generations-service-exchange)
Starting in the 2024-25 Rotary year, clubs may appoint a Programs for Young Leaders Contact for their club. Click here.
ENJOY A VIDEO ABOUT ROTARY’S HISTORY
https://www.yountube.com/watch?v=mJ2T1G1WWTo&t=30s The Boys of 1905
Summary of new polioviruses this week, cases and positive environmental isolates:
• Afghanistan: one WPV1 case and one WPV1-positive environmental sample
• Ethiopia: three cVDPV2 cases
• Nigeria: one cVDPV2 case
Key facts
• Polio (poliomyelitis) mainly affects children under 5 years of age.
• One in 200 infections leads to irreversible paralysis. Among those paralysed, 5–10% die when their breathing muscles become immobilized.
• Cases due to wild poliovirus have decreased by over 99% since 1988, from an estimated 350 000 cases in more than 125 endemic countries, to two endemic countries.
• As long as a single child remains infected, children in all countries are at risk of contracting polio. Failure to eradicate polio from these last remaining strongholds could result in a global resurgence of the disease.
• In most countries, the global effort has expanded capacities to tackle other infectious diseases by building effective surveillance and immunization systems.
The strains of poliovirus that have been halted forever — meaning officially certified as eradicated -
• Wild Poliovirus Type 2 (WPV2): certified eradicated in 2015. (last detected in India, 1999)
• Wild Poliovirus Type 3 (WPV3): certified eradicated in 2019. (last detected in Nigeria in 2012)
Both were declared eradicated by the Global Commission for the Certification of Poliomyelitis Eradication (GCC) after extensive surveillance confirmed that no naturally occurring cases of these viruses existed anymore. Only Wild Poliovirus Type 1 (WPV1) remains in circulation today — primarily in Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The eradication of WPV2 and WPV3 are two of the greatest milestones in global public health!
`A BIT OF HISTORY –
ROTARY INTERNATIONAL LAUNCHES POLIOPLUS
the first and largest internationally coordinated private-sector support of a public health initiative, with an initial fundraising target of US$120 million.
Influential Rotary Milestones
1. Founding of Rotary (1905)
Paul Harris founded the first Rotary Club in Chicago to create a professional fellowship. Though initially local, this idea quickly evolved into service-driven clubs globally, laying the groundwork for organized humanitarian work.
2. "Service Above Self" becomes the Rotary motto (1911)
This crystallized Rotary’s mission — moving beyond networking to serving others, a defining moment that committed the organization fully to humanitarian ideals.
3. First International Club Established (1910-1912)
The chartering of clubs outside the U.S., starting with Canada and later Europe, truly made Rotary an international force, sowing the seeds for global humanitarian service.
4. Rotary and the United Nations (1945)
Rotary was deeply involved in the formation of the United Nations — 49 Rotarians helped draft the UN Charter. To this day, Rotary maintains a consultative status with the UN, influencing global peace initiatives.
5. Launch of the Rotary Foundation (1917)
Started by Arch Klumph, this fund began modestly but grew into a massive engine for funding scholarships, health projects, peace efforts, and more worldwide. It's now one of the largest humanitarian foundations globally.
6. PolioPlus Initiative (1985)
Rotary made a historic commitment to eradicate polio. Their work sparked one of the largest publicprivate partnerships in history (Global Polio Eradication Initiative with WHO, CDC, UNICEF, and others) — polio cases have since dropped by over 99%.\
7. Youth and Leadership Programs (1950s onward)
Programs like Rotary Youth Exchange (1958), RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards), and Interact/Rotaract Clubs helped develop young leaders globally, emphasizing service and cultural understanding.
8. Focus Areas for Service (2013)
Rotary officially adopted six (now seven) focus areas, like peacebuilding, water and sanitation, and maternal and child health, sharpening its impact and aligning with international development goals.
9. Peace Fellowships and Peace Centers (1999)
Rotary created Peace Centers at universities worldwide, offering graduate studies to train peace and conflict resolution leaders — a real, structural investment in global peacebuilding.
10. "End Polio Now" Campaign and Bill Gates Partnership (2007)
Rotary’s partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, including massive funding matches, turned polio eradication into a major international priority and showcased Rotary's influence in mobilizing global health initiatives.
Each of these milestones didn’t just affect Rotary — they shifted how the world approached international service: emphasizing collaboration, sustainability, leadership development, and the power of volunteer-driven action.
The “End Polio Now” slogan
The "End Polio Now" slogan and its associated red-and-yellow poster became a central part of Rotary International's polio eradication campaign in the early 2000s.
While the exact date of the poster's first appearance isn't definitively documented, the slogan gained significant prominence during a major public awareness campaign in February 2008. This campaign featured the projection of the "End Polio Now" message onto iconic landmarks worldwide, including the Palace of Westminster in London. Wikipedia
The "End Polio Now" initiative is part of Rotary's broader PolioPlus program, launched in 1985, which marked the first internationally coordinated private-sector effort to support public health initiatives. Rotary's commitment to eradicating polio has been unwavering, with significant milestones achieved over the years, including the launch of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative in 1988 in partnership with the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Wikipedia – Partners -
For more detailed information on Rotary's efforts to end polio, you can visit their official campaign website: endpolio.org.
Click here to read about the “plus” in PolioPlus!
THE POLIOPLUS SOCIETY
How can you take action? Donate to End Polio
Above - Polio survivor and Rotarian, John Nanni, talks about how polio has affected his life as a child and now as an adult. John shares his experience of speaking at a congressional meeting promoting continuing support for polio by our government.
It was six months before the Salk vaccine was widely tested - September of 1953 when I came down with polio. I was 10 months old. I was paralyzed from my neck down for a period of six months. My great aunt was a nun who spent most of her career working in hospitals and she could read a hospital chart. She saw that because I was in a polio ward that was overcrowded to begin with, she saw that I wasn't getting the care I needed.
She knew of Sister Kenny – a nurse from Australia who had developed a physical therapy program for paralyzed polio patients. The program would prohibit the muscles from dying off from inactivity. So my mom actually took me out of the hospital.
My grandmother took care of my older brother, and I would have all my muscles exercised for an hour. I was too young to remember but she said that I would scream in pain from the stretching the muscles. That was many hours a day over a six-month period.
Click here to watch the full interview.
SUPPORT THE ROTARY FOUNDATION
THE POLIOPLUS SOCIETY
Join the PolioPlus Society in District 6330.
Donations are matched annually 2-to-1 by the Gates Foundation up to US$50 million, generating a potential total of US$150 million toward polio eradication.
Raise awareness in your community by planning events or projects that support the fight against polio.
Visit endpolio.org to find the latest information and tools to help you share the story of our fight against polio and raise support.
Ending this disease forever remains our top humanitarian priority and needs our full commitment.
How can you take action? Donate to End Polio
INTERNATIONAL DATES TO NOTE (plus
May - Rotary’s Focus on Youth Service
Saturday, May 3
World Press Freedom Day
Watch a short video – Click here
Thursday, May 8
Times of Remembrance and Reconciliation for those who lost their lives during the Second World War
Saturday, May 10
World Migratory Bird Day
Monday, May 12
International Day of Plant Health
Thursday, May 15
International Day of Families
Friday, May 16
International Day of Living Together in Peace
Tuesday, May 20 World Bee Day
Wednesday, May 21
World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development
Thursday, May 22
International Day for Biological Diversity
Thursday, May 29
International Day of UN Peacekeepers
Do you need a make-up? missed meetings? To learn about other Rotary clubs?
The Passport Club members are encouraged to join local (and other) clubs to learn more about Rotary, get to know other Rotarians, gain a new perspective and appreciation for Rotary and Rotarians. Here is a list of online clubs where you can earn a make-up along with learning a whole lot more about Rotary! Why not visit them all?
• Rotary E-Club of Canada One – Rotary On Demand, Where you want, When you want!
• Rotary Club of One World
• Rotary E-Club of World Peace
Click here to attend this week’s posted meeting of E-Club of Canada One.
These meetings are posted online and available 24/7!
President for 2024-25 – Mariann Timmers
Club
OUR CLUB PROJECTS
HELPING MIGRANT WORKERS
The Passport Club of District 6330 is happy to be continuing our successful service project, Backpacks for Migrant Workers. More information to follow.
North Lambton Community Health Care created the Migrant Worker Project to support the 700 migrant workers working in Sarnia and Lambton County. Our club is working with the Project Coordinator, Andrea Jones-Peper, by providing backpacks for newly arriving workers.
We will continue through the 2024-25 year to fill the backpacks with items requested by workers, such as toiletries. The date of delivery is hoping to be the start of the season in the spring. We will continue to support these workers. Stay tuned! Consider what items you can individually add to these backpacks!
THE BACKPACK PROJECT
On April 4 Passport members Rick and Sue Storie, Bev Andersen, Marilyn Buttery, Nancy Powers, and Lynn Coates met and assembled 20 backpacks for migrant workers. Included in the backpacks were towels, soap, toothpaste, and toothbrushes, deodorant, safety glasses, and a handwritten welcome note.
Rotary Club of District 6330 Passport Supports Migrant Workers
And the article for The Bridge –
Recently, the Rotary Club of District 6330 Passport received a heartfelt thank-you from the Migrant Worker Project at North Lambton Community Health Centre. The club donated 20 backpacks, each carefully filled with toiletry items, towels, safety glasses, caps, and a handwritten welcome note on Rotary stationery.
This thoughtful project was made possible through generous donations totalling $2,268.65 from club members.
The welcome notes added a personal touch that made the recipients feel seen and appreciated. Many of the migrant workers arrive with very few personal belongings, so this simple gesture goes a long way in creating a sense of belonging and dignity. This is the kind of project that shows how small efforts make a big difference!
This initiative reflects the Passport Club’s ongoing commitment to community support, inclusivity, and practical service—key values of Rotary in action. Thank you to all who contributed!
And from the NLCHC-TeaMWork Migrant Worker Project – A thank you letter
Hi Bev,
On behalf of the NLCHC-TeaMWork Migrant Worker Project, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to you and the entire Rotary Club of D6330 Passport for your continued generosity and support of migrant workers in our community.
We truly appreciate how the Passport Club consistently considers the needs of our migrant workers, particularly with the backpack program.
On April 13, the NLCHC-TeaMWork Migrant Worker Project participated in St. Christopher Catholic Church's first Mass of the year for returning migrant workers. During the event, 10 backpacks were raffled off to new-toCanada migrant workers. We are excited to share that, of the remaining backpacks, we will be distributing 5 backpacks to the new migrant workers in the Thai community and 5 to the new Caribbean migrant workers. Please find attached a photo of the workers who received the backpacks on April 13.
Once again, thank you for your ongoing support. It is through partnerships like yours that we can make such a meaningful impact on the lives of migrant workers.
Sincerely,
Andrea Jones-Peper Project Coordinator- Migrant Worker Project
North Lambton Community Health Center
cell: 226-559-7464
Ph: 519-786-4545 Ext.224 aj-peper@nlchc.com
The North Lambton Community Health Centre is a non-profit, community-governed organization that provides primary health care, health promotion and community development services to Lambton County. We view health as a state of physical, mental, spiritual and social well-being.
Click here to read more about the Migrant Worker Services offered in North Lambton County.
CONTINUING SUCCESS – CUP OF KINDNESS
To some this is just a cup. To members of the Rotary Club of District 6330 Passport this is
A CUP OF KINDNESS.
In 2023 and 2024 members donated 16,395.00 personally and through an online fundraiser to Food Security programs in London, Sarnia, Strathroy, Centre Wellington, Thamesville, Glencoe, BrookeAlvinston, Watford and Anguilla.
We are people of action!
We also are continuing our successful club project – a Cup of Kindness. In 2024, our total amount collected/donated was $3644! We can accomplish that and more in 2025-26!
The club chose to make a substantial impact on reducing food insecurity with a project aimed at raising funds for Food Banks in our individual communities.
Each member “filled a Cup of Kindness" by filling a cup or two cups (or more) with coins, hopefully loonies and toonies, then donating the funds to their local food bank. Or you chose to make donations directly to those in need. Donations could be rewarded with a tax receipt. The results were tallied regularly. With the success of this project, we are planning to keep it going.
Some useful links – to local area Food Banks
London Food Bank
Strathroy
Sarnia – Inn of the Good Shepherd
Stratford
Remember our Happy Chats – get to know our club members!
Join the Happy Chats – get to know our club members!
Happy Chats are online every Wednesday.
Every Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. -ish – Join us!
Join your Rotary friends for an informal 30-minute get together.
Chat about “stuff” – and what’s important to you. Let’s get to know our members!
Plan to join our Zoom Meetings! Click here
Plan to join us!!
We’re not saying we solve all the world’s problems at our get-togethers... but we do laugh a lot trying.
Some people go to therapy. We meet for coffee and call it Rotary.
There’s nothing like a good laugh, a shared story, and a second helping of whatever’s on the table. Join us!
Come for the conversation, stay because we made it too awkward to leave!
Grant Management in D6330 -
Clubs must qualify first! The Rotary Foundation requires Clubs that want to participate in the District Grants program to qualify. To qualify, the club must:
• Be in good standing
• May not have any grant reporting that is overdue
• Have at least 2 members complete the District’s Qualification Training course and quiz
The Certification is valid for One Rotary Year only! Clubs must be re-certified for each Rotary Year.
Rotary Foundation Grants – There are two kinds of grants. -Global Grants and District Grants:
Global Grants
• Must be in (at least) one of Rotary's Areas Of Focus
• Must be International projects involving at least 2 clubs in 2 different countries. One of these clubs is the "host" club - the club where the project will take place. The other is the "international partner" - the club that provides funding and possibly some expertise to help implement the project.
• Must have a minimum budget of USD $30,000
• Club funds are supplemented by the District Designated Funds as, and if, available
• Funds donated to the project from District Designated Funds are supplemented by The Rotary Foundation (World Fund) to fund these grants.
District Grants
• May be local or international in scope.
• Are usually smaller in scale. There is no minimum budget requirement.
• Will usually involve active participation by Rotarians.
• District 6330 clubs may apply for more than one District Grant in a single Rotary year, but are limited to a maximum of USD $3,000 per year in District Grant funding.
• Projects must be started and completed within one Rotary year - July 1 to June 30 of the next year.
Ready to Apply for A Grant? Will it be a District or a Global Grant?
3 simple questions to help you decide:
• Is the project in one of the areas of focus? – No? Consider applying for a District Grant.
• Is the project between Clubs/Districts in separate countries? – No? Consider a District Grant.
• Is the total budget for the project less than USD $30,000? – No? Consider applying for a District Grant.
• If you answer YES to all the above, consider applying for a Global Grant.
Fundraising ideas – how to raise funds
For more information and ideas, click here.
CLUB EXCELLENCE AWARDS
The Club Excellence awards, formerly the Rotary Citation awards, recognize the hard work clubs do throughout the year.
Working to achieve the Club Excellence goals helps clubs engage their members, increase their impact, stay relevant in their communities, and run more efficiently. A welcoming and engaging club not only fosters a positive experience for its members, but also reflects the values of Rotary.
When clubs achieve these goals, they contribute to the overall health and culture of Rotary for generations to come.
Your Rotary, Rotaract, or Interact club can earn a Club Excellence Award for achieving goals that strengthen Rotary and your club.
Goals include increasing club membership, engaging members in sustainable service projects, giving to The Rotary Foundation, building awareness of Rotary in your community, and having an up-to-date strategic plan.
To achieve the Club Excellence Award:
1. Go to Rotary Club Central
2. Review the available goals
3. Set at least half of the available goals
4. Achieve those goals
5. Report achievement in Rotary Club Central by 30 June.
6. Pay club invoices in full upon receipt
To learn more, click here
Resources and reference
o Club Excellence Goals and Instructions for Rotary Clubs (PDF)
o Club Excellence Goals and Instructions for Rotaract Clubs (PDF)
o Club Excellence Goals and Instructions for Interact Clubs (PDF)
o Club Excellence Award Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
o How to create a My Rotary account (PDF)
o How to Update Interact Club Information (PDF)
CLUB OFFICERS 2024-25
President Mariann Timmers
Secretary and IPP
Treasurer
Membership Chair
Project Chair
Directors
Sue Storie
Lynn Coates
Deb Beaupré
Bev Andersen
Rick Storie
Kitty Bucsko
MEMBERSHIP LIST BELOW –CLUB MEMBERS LIST WITH EMAIL ADDRESSES
A.C. Alrey acalrey@gmail.com
Bev Andersen bandersen181@gmail.com
Deb Beaupré debmarjean@gmail.com
Terry Bennett terbenn@gmail.com
Sarah Bongers csbongers@icloud.com
Rich Bouchard rbouchard@racetoerase.com
Kitty Bucsko ladykitt@gmail.com
Marilyn Buttery marilyn@buttery.com
Lynn Coates lynn.coates.1@outlook.com
Brittany Elliott brittany.lyn.elliott@hotmail.com
Sue Elliott susan@sutherlandelliott.ca
Wendy Jennings wendy.jennings@bell.net
Heather Macdonald heathermac@BMTS.com
Jessica Morrow jessicaherbert2023@gmail.com
George Ottewell george.ottewell@gmail.com
Nancy Ottewell nottewell@gmail.com
Nancy Powers nancypowers607@hotmail.com
Rick Storie rick.storie@sympatico.ca
Sue Storie sue.storie@sympatico.ca
Lynne Ternosky lynneternosky@gmail.com
Mariann Timmers gtimmers@aol.com
John Wade john@askthedogguy.com
The Rotarian Minute is a creation of District 1700. Please send any comments or suggestons to laminute1700@gmail.com.
Our monthly meeting of Wednesday, April 2, 2025
Click here to view the meeting video.
FOR YOUR DINING PLEASURE
A few Plant-rich snacky-meals you might consider –(a bit of an Eco-Moment)
Here are some light, plant-rich, “snacky-meal” ideas that are gentle, fresh, and a little bit elegant perfect for those “I don’t want a full meal, but I’d like something nice” days.
Light & Snacky Plant-Rich Meal Ideas
All of these can be eaten on a small plate, or even “grazed” on over time.
1. Apple Chunks with Nut Butter or Seed Butter
• Your daily apple, dressed up! Try with a dollop of almond butter, peanut butter, or sunflower seed butter.
• Sprinkle with cinnamon or a few sunflower seeds for a little crunch.
2. Hummus Plate
• Hummus with veggie sticks (carrot, cucumber, red pepper, sugar snap peas).
• Add olives, a few cherry tomatoes, and a couple crackers if you like.
• You could swap hummus for guacamole, baba ghanoush, or white bean dip.
3. Avocado Toast (Mini Version)
• Half a slice of whole grain or sourdough bread, toasted.
• Top with mashed avocado, sprinkle of salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
• Add a few chili flakes or hemp hearts if you want to feel fancy.
� �
4. Nuts & Berries Bowl
• A little handful of almonds, walnuts, or cashews with a side of fresh blueberries or raspberries.
• Option to toss in a square of dark chocolate for fun.
5. Roasted Sweet Potato Rounds
• Slice a sweet potato into thick coins, roast them at 400°F for ~20 minutes.
• Top with a smear of hummus, guac, or tahini.
• They're great warm or at room temp—super satisfying, yet light. �
6. Steamed or Air-Fried Broccoli (or Asparagus!) with Dipping Sauce
• Think of it like a veggie finger food platter—warm or cold.
• Try dipping in a little vinaigrette, tahini-lemon sauce, or even a bit of mustard and maple syrup.
7. Mini Fruit Salad or “Fruit Sushi”
• Mix chopped fruit into a little bowl (like strawberries, banana, apple).
• You can drizzle with a touch of nut butter or sprinkle with cinnamon or coconut flakes for variety. � �
8. Tiny Cheese Plate (Optional if you're plant-rich, not vegan)
• A few thin slices of cheese with apple or pear, a couple nuts, and maybe a rice cracker or two.
• You can totally build a plant-rich plate around a little cheese if it still feels light and balanced.
AN ECO 24-MINUTE VIDEO
Take 24 minutes to enjoy this outstanding short Environment Documentary from Water Bear.
And if you have not yet viewed this film, it’s really a must-view! So, please take the time. Click here to view. *
Join Mairead Cahill, a nature impact leader and filmmaker, as she embarks on an adventure across sea, land and city to explore nature-based solutions in action across South West England.
She gets up close to meet the projects and people involved - from reintroduction of beavers, to restoration of rainforest and coastline, to floating pontoons in the city.
Through the journey she explores what it looks like to reconnect with nature in a way that supports our mental health and the health of our economy and climate.
French Rotaractor Benjamin Parent is pursuing a lifelong dream of cycling around the world. His goal is to raise money to plant trees and build awareness of the need to protect our planet. Parent is making the trip in stages, meeting with social entrepreneurs to learn about environmentally sustainable projects in order to share their successes.
By Benjamin Parent, Rotaract Club of Cannes Riviera, France —
It all started with a dream and a question. I had tucked away in my mind for years a dream of cycling around the world. A series of questions pushed me to take the leap and pursue my dream:
• What does sustainable development really mean?
• How can an organization combine financial viability with a positive impact on life?
• How can we support a new generation of entrepreneurs to build purpose-driven businesses while making a living doing it?
• And how can I personally contribute to a more positive impact on life?
I wanted to see things for myself and try to answer these questions. That’s how Trees on the Way was born.
It’s a trip around the world on bicycle where I will meet committed entrepreneurs and inspiring changemakers and discover best practices and solutions from these people who have devoted their energy to helping others.
To go further, the trip will also promote the planting of trees.
• Stage 1: Middle East – Cross Southern Europe and the Middle East, exploring local initiatives focused on ecological transition and resilience.
• Stage 2: Asia – Discover projects in India, Nepal, China, and Southeast Asia connected to regenerative economic models.
• Stage 3: The Americas – Dive into social and environmental innovation across the Americas, from Canada to South America.
Click here to learn more and find out more about his round-the-world journey.
Rotary started with the vision of one man – Paul Harris. The Chicago attorney formed the rotary Club of Chicago on 23 February 1905, so professionals with diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas and form meaningful lifelong friendships.
Oer time, Rotary’s reach and vision gradually extended to humanitarian service. Members have a long track record of addressing challenges in their communities and around the world.
Some useful links – to local area Food Banks
London Food Bank
Strathroy
Sarnia – Inn of the Good Shepherd
Stratford
ROTARY’S FOUR-WAY TEST
A Thoughtful Start to any day
� � � � What is the Rotary Four-Way Test?
It's a short ethical guide used by Rotarians worldwide to help evaluate decisions, both personal and professional.
It was created in 1932 by Herbert J. Taylor, who later became Rotary International President. Facing financial and moral crisis in his company, he developed this test as a litmus test for integrity and fair conduct.
The test asks four questions of the things we think, say or do:
• Is it the TRUTH?
• Is it FAIR to all concerned?
• Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
• Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
It may seem simple, but in a complex world, those questions are anything but easy — and that’s part of their power.
�
� � � Why Should We Consider It?
Because ethics matter — now more than ever.
The Four-Way Test:
• Brings clarity to grey areas.
• Encourages honesty and accountability, not just in public life but in our quiet decisions.
• Fosters trust — a commodity that seems scarce in many parts of today’s society.
• Helps cultivate respectful dialogue instead of divisiveness.
• Serves as a universal framework: it’s non-religious, non-political, and applicable across cultures and professions.
In a world of misinformation, polarization, and moral shortcuts, it gently but firmly asks: “Are we making the right choices for ourselves and for others?”
Click the 4-way test above and open the link to hear the Four-Way Test by RC of Saskatoon Nutana
� � What Does the Four-Way Test Mean in Today’s Context?
In a global landscape marked by challenges — climate change, inequality, misinformation, and conflict — the Four-Way Test is a compass. It reminds us:
• Truth is not just about facts, but integrity.
• Fairness challenges us to consider others, not just ourselves.
• Goodwill and friendship are the foundations of peace, community, and collaboration.
• Benefit to all concerned asks us to be stewards, not just beneficiaries.
In Rotary, it’s more than words. It shapes how Rotarians lead projects, build partnerships, and serve their communities — from clean water initiatives to polio eradication. But beyond Rotary, it’s an invitation to live more ethically and courageously.
� � Closing Thought
The Four-Way Test isn't about being perfect. It's about trying to do the right thing, every day, in big ways and small.
It invites us to pause, reflect, and then act — with conscience, compassion, and courage.
Whether you’re a Rotarian or not, those four questions can light a path through some of life’s murkiest terrain.
See our Passport Club Facebook page for more up-to-the-minute Passport news!
https://www.facebook.com/rotary6330passport/
THE ROTARY FOUNDATION
EREY – Every Rotarian Every Year
Our Every Rotarian, Every Year (EREY)
It’s an initiative that encourages all Rotary club members to contribute at least what they can afford every year
to help us reach our goal to support the Rotary Foundation financially every year.
Click here for a short video
A LITTLE HUMOUR
A bear, a moose, a fox, a wolf and a snail were playing cards around a table.
Suddenly, the bear let out a faint roar and said: “Guys, I’m hungry. Could someone go buy some chocolate, or whatever?”
The moose shook his head and nodded towards the fox, who irritatingly slammed his little paw on the table and muttered: “Why me? Why can’t the wolf do it?”
But the snail bravely interrupted the conversation, before it got out of hand: “Guys, guys! There’s no reason to fight. I’ll go.”
The bear smiled a little and handed the snail a few, rolled-up dollars from his pockets: “Thanks, man. I appreciate it. While you’re at it, buy something to drink, will ya?”
The snail winked, grabbed the money and briskly started to make his way out the door.
Half an hour went by...
An hour...
An hour and a half...
Almost two hours...
At last, the bear snapped, dropped his cards to the floor and yelled: “Hey, you know what? I think the little bastard took the money and just left!”
A small yet fierce scream then came from near the door:
“If you’re gonna start insulting me, I’m not leaving at all!”
And here is some fun trivia – See how you can manage these questions!
