Festival City Rotary Club Stratford, ON

Computer Literacy Survey Findings

2010-10-03T16:53:00.004-04:00

In early September, the Club Administration Committee conducted a survey to identify the level of computer literacy among club members. 23 Club members completed the survey. These are the findings:

48% consider themselves to have an intermediate knowledge level of computers.
26% consider themselves to have an advance level of computer knowledge.
17% consider themselves to be beginners.

All but one respondent said that they have high speed (broadband) Internet access.

91% of the respondents use their computer daily.

All respondents have email accounts.

83% of respondents have made purchases over the Internet

83% of respondents have visited the Club Blog, but only 44% have posted to the Blog.

48% use text messaging on their phones

43% have Facebook accounts and only 1 member has a Twitter account.

One member thinks that she "is a little bird - tweet, tweet, tweet."

YEX News

2010-09-22T20:36:00.002-04:00

Next Tuesday we will be interviewing for 2011 outbound exchange students. If you would like to help with interviews please call me at 271-0737. We will be interviewing 5 students.

Marina, our inbound from Brazil did a 4 hour shift at the pancake breakfast on Saturday. She is keen to be involved with Rotary projects. Good job Marina.

On Monday Marina had an appointment at the Health Unit to get a booster shot. Thankfully she survived.

Her next host family will be Jack and Donna West. We are so pleased that Jack is finally getting a "daughter." We are still searching for a third host family. I would love to host but as YEO I'm not allowed.

Also, for those who cannot host for any reason, please consider inviting Marina for a meal or a movie or other outings. She is keen to see a hockey game.

On October 22 all of the District 6330 YEX students will be in Stratford to go to the theatre. We still need some billets for 1 night. Please contact me if you can take 2 or more students.

Youth exchange

2010-08-31T03:13:00.004-04:00

Yesterday we picked up our new student from Brazil, Marina Bruschi. You can welcome her at our meeting Tuesday morning. Her English is great so be sure to have a chat. We went to the TD bank to set up her account and a nice young man who was helping her began to speak to her in Portuguese when he found out she is from Brazil. Turns out he was a Rotary Exchange student to Brazil in 1999 - 2000. Small world!

Tuesday Marina will be going to St. Mike's to make her course selections and to the Health Unit to see if she needs any additional immunizations.

We are looking for theatre tickets as she is an avid drama student/fan.

Kate is back

Kate Parkin is in town for the wedding of her host family sister. She is staying with the Rocks and will be here until Sept. 10. We are looking for theatre tickets for Kate also.

Tuesday we will hear from Phoenicia (rebound from France) and Audrey (rebound from Belguim). You won't want to miss this meeting.

Club Awards Online

2010-08-24T15:39:00.003-04:00

A number of Club awards and citations have been digitized and uploaded to the Club's Flickr account. They are available for viewing in the photostream on the right side of the blog page.

FC Rotary Club Hospital Donation

2010-08-23T22:11:00.004-04:00

On August 6 the new emergency, imaging and operating departments were officially opened by the Minister of Health. Our committment is sponsorship of the women's treatment room in the emergency department.

Tivoli Team

2010-08-23T21:45:00.004-04:00

Thanks to all who helped in any way with the Tivoli Boys.

It was a great community service effort. Especially thanks to

Jack who arranged the Goderich and Mitchell appearances, Linda and Margie who helped with

the lunch on Thursday, and all the host families.

Tivoli Boys Guard Band Hosted By Club Members

2010-08-23T16:26:00.003-04:00

A number club members had the opportunity to host young lads from the Tivoli Boys Guard Band from Denmark last week.

Carol Rock has provided the following photos of their appearance at the Mitchell Corn Festival.

Jack Joins a Boy Band

2010-08-23T16:19:00.008-04:00

Rotarian Jack West joined the Tivoli Boys Guard Band. Seen here in his beaver skin busby, Jack enchanted the crowd with his lyrical vuvzella playing, while enraging animals rights activists, all at the same time.

Lynn McInnis Will Return

2010-08-20T18:16:00.005-04:00

Club Member Lynn McInnis, seen here in her last known photo, is reported to be alive and well, and will return to the Festival City Rotary Club in September. So don't call the OPP Jean. Hurry back Lynn, some of us miss you.

Sleeping Children Around the World

2010-07-24T17:41:00.003-04:00

Festival City Rotary received a thank you letter and picture of the children that the Club sponsored through a past donation.

Langley Ukulele Ensemble

2010-07-20T19:47:00.005-04:00

The Festival City Rotary Club was visited by the Langley Ukulele Ensemble at its 20 July 2010 meeting. The Ensemble, which is appearing in Stratford Summer Music, played a number of tunes to the delight of the Club members, as well as Peter Moreton.

Members of the Ensemble are seen above as they pose with Mr. Rab-bit, club mascot.

Merger talks with the Great Unknown Festival City Rotary Club Marching Kazoo Band continue.

Law and Order - Stratford Style

2010-07-20T19:42:00.003-04:00

Deputy Chief of Police John Bates of the Stratford Police Services made a presentation to the Club about policing in the community.

Exchange Student Lucas Goes Home

2010-07-20T19:38:00.002-04:00

Rotarian Kevin Gormely wishes Lucas all the best as he returns home to Poland as this exchange year comes to an end. Good Luck Lucas! Try to find a better barber in Poland, OK?

2010-2011 Festival City Rotary Board

2010-07-11T14:00:00.005-04:00

President: Linda Jones

Past President: Kent Chisholm

President-Elect: David Moore

Vice President: Dianne Yundt

Treasurer: Etienne Leushuis

Secretary: David Harvie

Public Relations: Lynn Bowering

Club Adminstration: Jack West

Community Services: Ken Hansen

R.I. Foundation: Carol Rock

Regime Change

2010-07-06T21:15:00.005-04:00

Linda Jones ascended to the Presidency of the Festival City Rotary Club on 29 June 2010.

At her first Club Assembly, President Linda revealed the names of her junta members, vowed to expung the Club of all rabbits, and root out the mysterious but world famous Festival City Rotary Club Marching Kazoo Band.

Wait till she hears about the Club's secret Vuvuzela Precision Marching Band.

Congratulations President Linda!

Lynne Gets a Special Literacy Award

2010-06-10T10:14:00.004-04:00

Assistant District Governor Charles Hammond presents Club Member Lynne Ternosky with a Rotary International Literacy Award in recognition of her work on the Club's El Salvador Project.

Congratulations Lynne!

A Double Double PHF for Cheryl and Mark Moore

2010-06-10T10:08:00.003-04:00

Club President Kent Chisholm (r) confers Paul Harris Fellowship Awards on Mark and Cheryl Moore in recognition for their support for the Club's international activities and community projects.

Congratulations to Mark and Cheryl! Timbits for everyone! Hurrah!

Geraldine Ketchum Joins Rotary

2010-04-20T20:39:00.006-04:00

Geraldine Ketchum was inducted into the Festival City Rotary Club by President Kent Chisholm on 20 April 2010.

Welcome aboard Gerry. Ask the Membership Chair about her Rotary tattoo and how you can get one too!

Small but Mighty!

Nobody Comes to Visit

2010-04-20T20:14:00.009-04:00

Ms. Carlson and members of her class visited the Festival City Rotary Club on its April 20th meeting to present their Nobody Doll Project. The Nobody Doll was the impetus for a number of projects by the students.

Vanessa described her Conservation Project to the Club.

Jack described his involvement in saving gorillas through the World Wildlife Federation.

Connor spoke on his project involving raising funds for Leukemia research.

Sam described his project on recycling and raising funds for the Shriners' Hospital.

Patrick spoke about the plight of Child Soldiers and how we could help.

Cameron described his efforts to raise money for cancer research by putting on a concert.

Congratulations to Ms. Carlson's Class for a job well done!

Hudson Bay Company Bingo - 9 April 2010

2010-04-05T20:54:00.001-04:00

This bingo on Friday April 9, 2010 will be in honour of an event that led to Canada's sovereignty, for it was on this day in 1869 when the Hudsons Bay Company ceded its vast territory known as Rupert's Land to the Dominion of Canada. If this had not happened it is quite possible that Canada could have been called the Bay or Zellers. The majority shareholder and President of this corporation is now owned by billionaires Anita Zucker who is the widow of Jerry Zucker who was one of the top 400 richest people in America. Thats right the vast drainage area of the Hudsons Bay could have been owned by an American from South Carolina and called Zellers.

In honor of this event please wear furs or other Hudsons Bay apparel. Watch out for PETA protesters.

On a side note Hudson Bay explorer, surveyor and cartographer David Thompson was never properly compensated by HBC for his fine work and maps. He died penniless in Montreal in 1857.

Peter Moreton is NOT Elvis

2010-03-26T22:37:00.005-04:00

This recently unearthed photo provides documented proof that Peter Moreton is not Elvis. Etienne's search for Elvis continues. Rumours that Elvis is a member of the Festival City Rotary Club continue. Who could it be?

David Cramton Goes For a Bike Ride

2010-03-22T17:55:00.004-04:00

Club Member David Cramton, as part of the Bonita Bay Bicycle Club (BBBC), is riding across America. David will be posting updates of his (mis)adventures on his blog called Lee's Riders. A link to the blogsite is located on the right panel under Important Links.

Would someone in the Club send David a kilt to wear?

Etienne's Search for Elvis

2010-03-18T21:46:00.008-04:00

Etienne continues his search to find Elvis at Graceland.

Legend has it that Elvis was originally buried in Forest Hill Cemetery in Memphis. After someone attempted to steal his remains, his body was moved to the Meditation Garden at Graceland. Unfortunately the hearse carrying the body was hijacked by a gang of kilt wearing motorcycle riders, who found nothing but an empty coffin containing empty beer cans and donut boxes. Jack West and Kevin Gormley still deny any involvement in or knowledge of this attempted hijack to this day. The knowing smile on Etienne's face tells us that mystery of Elvis' whereabouts continues.

Elvis was a Rotarian. Long live the King!

If you know where Elvis is, just comment below.....

President Kent Escapes from a Tribe of Headhunters

2010-03-13T15:38:00.002-05:00

President Kent currently in New Zealand sends this short communique about his recent adventures:

just a quick email to let you know that we are having a great holiday

will be heading up to the tip of nz tomorrow and have covered all of the south island and the north.

attached is picture, i have been captured by the maurie warriers and they are threting to eat me

not to worry i have an escape plan

will be home shortly

thanks for all you do for rotary

kent.

Curling Teams Beats Noon Club

2010-03-02T18:45:00.003-05:00

Our Club's Curling Team once again triumphs over the Noon Club in the 2010 Stratford Service Bonspiel. Led by Bill Helmuth (R), the team of Etienne, Dianne and John stole shots, ends and games for their opponents to place 5th out of 8 teams. Congratuations to the team! Well done!

Rotary Fundraiser Valentine Dinner

2010-02-18T21:15:00.010-05:00

Pictures from the Club's Valentine Dinner Fundraiser, hosted by Kevin and Kim Gormley at the Old Rectory Bed & Breakfast.

Kevin working hard over the stove preparing the gourmet dinner.

Lucas, Kim and Dianne helped serve the meal.

Nothing Runs Like a Deere Bingo

2010-02-02T18:10:00.005-05:00

Hello Bingo Team

It was the mid to late 19th century when Canada and the United States expanded settlement and agriculture through the western plains.

Our Bingo honours the man who was born on February 7 in the year of 1804. A man who started his working life as a black smith who noticed that the cast iron plows did not do a very good job in the stiff clay soils. He came up with better plow blades made of polished steel which cut through the soil much more efficiently (the self-scouring plow). His implement was known as the "plow that broke the plains." John Deere was the founder of the largest farm and construction equipment manufacturer in the world.

This bingo honours the man who is responsible for spreading the green and yellow machines of steel throughout the world. Feel free to wear green and yellow accessories or clothing for the bingo. I am told that Carol Rock has a closet full of the stuff.

see you there

Jack

Name the Duck Book

2010-02-02T17:56:00.004-05:00

At this morning's meeting, Laura Pogson solicited possible book titles for the Club's Literacy Project. Please note that "Slow Death by Rubber Duck" has been taken.

Suggested titles mentioned at the meeting were:

Duck and Disorderly
Duck and Cover
"Platypus" is just another name for a furry duck.
The Duck who came to dinner and stayed as the main course.

Please use the comments feature to make your suggestions for the book's title.

XMAS Rotary Board Meeting Spy Photo

2010-01-05T10:37:00.005-05:00

Intercepted surveillance video of the XMAS Board Meeting of the Festival City Rotary Club.

Our intelliegence experts believe that alcohol may have been a factor.

XMAS Meeting 2009

2009-12-28T22:41:00.010-05:00

It was once again Silly XMAS Hat Time as the members of the Festival City Rotary Club celebrated all thing Rotary and festive.

Sgt-at-Arms John McNeil (L) and Bill Helmuth (C) chat with Noon Club Member Dr. Bob Martin (R).

Santa's favourite elfs, Wayne and Diane Yundt, get in the festive spirit without any alcohol.

Many festive hats were in evidence at the meeting.

Sgt-at-Arms John McNeil and Club President Kent Chisholm discuss how to fix the door prize draw so that Etienne doesn't win again. They failed miserably.

Club Choral and Glee Master Peter Moreton, led the Club in seasonal chants with Mr. Earl Clarke on piano.

Paul Harris Fellowship Presentations - Susan and Trevor Exnor

2009-12-28T22:37:00.005-05:00

On behalf of the Club, Lynn Ternosky (left) presented Susan (centre) and Trevor Exnor (right), with Paul Harris Fellowship Awards in recognition of their continuing support for local initiatives. The couple has allowed their restaurant to be used as a fundraising venue for many projects including the inaugural Rotary Dragon Boat festival, support for winter activities, African and Russian ventures, and our own El Salvador Children’s project.

Mariana Says Goodbye

2009-12-28T22:34:00.002-05:00

Mariana said goodbye to our Club and especially to her host families with whom she stayed this year. Mariana arrived on a snowy Feb 3, 2009 and is returning to Argentina shortly. Although it is always hard at the beginning of an exchange, Mariana said that she very quickly became comfortable in Stratford and did not become homesick. She made many friends, and had incredible experiences. Although she returns to her family she feels she is leaving behind three new families. Perhaps she will become homesick for Canada. - Vince Hill

New Members - Deb Stacey-Rivers and Brian Rivers

2009-12-28T22:27:00.004-05:00

Deb Stacey-Rivers (centre) and Brian Rivers (right) were inducted into the Festival City Rotary Club on December 22nd by President Kent Chisholm. Sponsor Jane Kirkpatrick introduced Deb and Brian, who she has known for many years. Deb’s classification is Retirement Community Activities Director and Brian is a Financial Advisor.

Welcome to the Cult Brian and Deb!

The Great Unknown Festival City Rotary Club Marching Kazoo Band

2009-12-15T20:23:00.008-05:00

The Great UnKnown Festival City Rotary Club Marching Kazoo Band made its first appearance at the Club's meeting this morning to critical acclaim and alarm. The Band is available for birthdays, weddings, and funerals. Barbara Young is the Band's Honourary Music Director.

In this picture, Soloist Lyn McInnes (centre) leads the Band in a rendition of "We Wish You A Merry Christmas". As usual, Lyn ruined the photo, by not wearing a paper bag over her head.

Basketeers

2009-11-24T17:52:00.008-05:00

Earlier this month, members of the Festival City Rotary Club created baskets in support of victims of domestic abuse. Baskets were provided for Optimism Place and the Emily Murphy Centre.

(L-R) Maxine Noel, Donna Hinz, Judith Sept and some hot chick, pose in front of all the collected baskets, while below Franklin Hinz (L) and a helper work hard to unload the hampers.

2009-11-15T21:51:00.003-05:00

The Festival City Rotary Club wishes to recognize Ken Hansen with a Paul Harris Fellowship for his service to the club.

As the program co-ordinator for the Club, Ken has consistently obtained a variety of interesting speakers for our morning meetings. He has been a strong support of club activities and currently chair the Club's Service Committee.

Congratulations Ken!

Peter Moreton Presented with a Paul Harris Fellowship

2009-11-15T21:41:00.005-05:00

Rotarian Peter Moreton (the bald guy with the ugly tie) was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship at the Club's November 10th meeting. Peter was joined by his wife Carol (far L), and Club Secretary Diane Yundt and Club President Kent Chisholm (far R).

Banner Exchange - Iquitos Amazonia, Peru.

2009-11-15T21:36:00.002-05:00

Jean Aitcheson (L) and Lyn McInnis (C) presented the President-Elect Linda Jones (R) with a banner from the Rotary Club of Iquitos Amazonia, Peru.

Laura Pogson Awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship

2009-11-15T21:30:00.005-05:00

Rotarian Laura Pogson (L) was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship at its weekly meeting on Oct 27. The award citation was as follows:

"The Festival City Rotary Club wishes to recognize Laura Pogson with a Paul Harris Fellowship for her service to the club, community and world. Laura was Club President from 2006-2007. She has been involved on a number of community committees that include: Stratford Perth County Community Foundation, Torch Relay Committee, Sister Cities Committee, and Divorce Care. On the international level, Laura has been active with First Steps, a Christian development organization fighting malnutrition in North Korea."

Club Secretary Diane Yundt (R) invested Laura on behalf of the club.

Congratulation Laura!

Who is Nobody?

2009-10-26T18:29:00.008-04:00

The Festival City Rotary Club of Stratford has funded the introduction of the Who Is Nobody? character education program for the Grade 6 Gifted Program taught by teacher Cindy Carlson at Stratford Central Public School.

It all began in October,2009, when a mysterious suitcase arrived at the classroom containing a blue rag doll void of features and gender.

Throughout this year long program, each student will implement a service learning project and then design a 3D object to pin on the Nobody doll which will give the doll its character. This project builds on everybody's unique strengths, nurturing their self-esteem and enhancing their academic performance. NOBODY will become a SOMEBODY!

The FCRCS can look forward to a visit from SOMEBODY and Ms. Carlson in the new year.

Visit www.whoisnobody.com for further information on this multiple award-winning program that is sponsored by several Rotary clubs throughout Ontario.

A Dispatch from Normandy

2009-10-26T18:12:00.006-04:00

Phoenicia is a Rotary Exchange Student from Stratford. This is her first report to the Club.

Bonjour :)

Monday (October 26) marks exactly two months for me here in France. I’m staying in Granville, Normandy. It’s a small city - about the size of Stratford - known mostly for it’s fish and beaches. The city is surrounded, on two sides by ocean. My house backs on to the beach. These particular beaches are known for their giant tides - the largest in Europe I believe - that at high tide completely cover all of the beaches and at low tide allow you to walk all the way out to the light house.

I am staying with the Carli family, the father is a Rotarian, my YEO and counsellor. They have three kids - Juliette (20), Cesar (18) and Edgar (16). Only Edgar lives with us the whole year, the other two are gone to university for business and medicine respectively. I have my own room here, I stay in Juliette’s room and am usually expected to wake myself up for school (however, my host mom still insists on coming to check to see if I am awake). I switch family’s around the end of December - Beginning of January.

The Rotary Club here is the Rotary Club of Granville, they are a completely male club and have mixed socials once a month (or so) where the Rotarians bring their wives. They meet every 15 days on Thursdays. There have been, at most, about 20 - 25 Rotarians at our meetings however, there are more members than that as they have a list of common absences. Even though I am a girl, I am still invited to all of the meetings, and therefore have been the only female there on many occasions. Since I have been here the club has not done much. We had a ‘Contact Club’ come and visit us from Cuxhaven, Germany, in early October (the weekend before Thanksgiving). The ‘Contact Club’ brought two girls, one girl on exchange from Thailand and the other a German girl - I believe the daughter of a Rotarian. Most of the Rotarians (from Germany) didn’t speak French so I ended up translating for most of the weekend. We have a pre-viewing of a new Christmas movie (starring Jim Carrey) that raises money for, I believe brain research in order to help ‘Maladies de Cerveau’ (brain diseases).

My host district doesn’t have very many ‘get togethers’ for the young students. We had a one day orientation meeting in September (from 11 - 4) where I met a few students but it was not nearly long enough. We then had a weekend last weekend (October 17 weekend) at Mont St. Michel for all of the students in (I think) the Northern half of France. There were over 150 most of which were from English speaking countries (excluding Mexico that had the largest group). It was from Saturday at 11 until Sunday at 4. We walked along thebay of Mt. St. Michel (tide was low) for four hours - for no reason - and then had a Rotary dinner where we all sang our anthems and then we had a dance from 12 - 2 (am). The next day we went to a visit at Mt. St. Michel from 10 -12 and then had lunch and then the students that had come from area’s such as Paris had to leave to get back. We have a weekend (starting this Thursday - 28 - where we are going to Parc Astérix - a popular amusement park in Paris, I am really excited.

I met many kids from Canada, including two girls from our district. I met a girl from Alberta, Nova Scotia and Quebec, and many from British Columbia and Ontario. We spoke English all weekend since that was the only language that everyone could speak well enough to communicate in all weekend.

School is going really well, I am in Seconde, which is the equivalent of a mixture of our 11 and 10. Mostly 11. All of the kids in my class are 14/15, which makes me the oldest at 16. Our schedule is different everyday and the same every week. Over the course of the week I have: Math, English, MPI, Geography/History, French, Physics/Chemistry, Biology, Gym, First, and Civics. I go from 8 - 6 everyday except Wednesdays when I only go until noon and every other Monday and Tuesday when I only go until four.

Life here is really good. I am having loads of fun and every day is a new adventure. I have yet to be truly homesick, I have only missed knowing precisely what is going on. My knowledge of French before I got here (thanks to French Immersion) has helped a lot. I didn’t get headaches like some other kids have reported. I understand most of my classes and I am getting alright grades (they are low for France by only a few marks but low for home by about 10 - 15%).

I haven’t done much traveling yet. I have only seen Granville and Lille (I went with my host mom when she went to drop my host sister off at school). I hope (and plan) to see Paris and the D-Day Beaches before I leave.

I hope everything is good at home. Thanks to everyone for making this happen. If anyone wants to contact me Carol can give you my email, I’d be happy to hear from anyone

À Plus tard,

Phoenicia

Theatre Brunch 2009

2009-10-25T21:30:00.006-04:00

Club President Kent Chisholm officially welcomed everyone to the Festival City Rotary Club's Annual Theatre Brunch on Sunday October 25th. This year's play was West Side Story.

The Brunch was once again catered by the Queen's Inn.

Carol Rock has seconds at the Dessert Table.

Our Guest Speaker was Dan Chameroy, who appeared as Lt. Schrank in the play.

Lyn ruins another good photograph by waving.

Just as in previous years, Peter Moreton demonstrates his innate inability to his polish shoes.

Ron Rogers Is Recognized with a Paul Harris Fellowship

2009-10-20T10:29:00.003-04:00

Ron Rogers is being recognized for his service to the Club and Foundation with a Paul Harris Fellowship. Ron is a charter member and a strong supporter of Club activities and projects. As the Club's and Foundation's Treasurer for many years, Ron's sage advice and financial knowledge has stood the Club in good stead throughout turbulent economic times.

Dazed and Confused Near Machu Picchu

2009-10-13T17:55:00.003-04:00

Dear Family and friends,

from 40 degrees in the jungle to sitting here with hot cocoa tea to help with altitude and a heavy sweater on, What a change in one day.

I got all the medical supplies returning to Stratford packed in 3 hockey bags and true to form, they were too heavy and )tell Walter= we had to repack. But the three that returned home took 6 pieces of luggage which was nice. We still have hockey bags with us.

Pastor Fran Schmidt, the Canadian Lutheran missionary met us at the airport and it was nice to connect with our ddear Katharine´s replacement. She took all three folks and Geneva Neal, the exchange student and was going to spend the day with them in Lima.

We came on to Cusco and it is good to be here once again. All our luggage arrived and the travel com`pany picked us up in a nuce bus that is ours for the stay. The hotel is very nice, quaint with all amemities, and we have it for half their regular price due to the mix up with our regular hotel. The man who made our travel arrangements is a Rotarian and I asked the lady with us to call him and ask when the meetings were so I could plan. Lo and behold, it was right then, so I changed and Erik came to pick me up. They welcomed me warmly, LYnn did not go and I presented our banner to them. They were very interested in what our club does and what the medical project was all about. They looked at eachh other and asked if we would come here to do the same thing. They have literacy and health projects and they run a discount drug store. I have invited them to the World international convention in Montreal.

Erik brought me back to the hotel and That bed was so welcome. It is cold here. There is a heater in the room. I could not gp to sleep as my feet were cold, so yes, Ken, I got up and put my socks on. The bed is so heavy with the covers and then I could not sleep cause by feet were too hot.

Breakfast is now with hot eggs, what a change. Today we go on the Sacred valley tour and maybe a dinner show tonight.

Thanks for all your good wishes. Will try to give you updates. Everyone is still well and so far, no altitude problems.

Love to you all,

Jean

Rotary Saturday Fiesta

2009-10-12T20:29:00.002-04:00

Dear Family and friends,

we did not do clinic yesterday but we pulled off a huge celebration with the Canadian and Peruvian participants in this project. In the morning we took the bus to the Belen market. Belen is the slum area of Iquitos and a very unique community as all the houses are either built on 15 foot stilts or on logs so they will float when the rainy season comes. The market runs every day. There is no refrigeration and no where to store a larderso the food must be fresh every day. Lots of things are sold in little tiny amounts. We saw amazing things. As it is a very poor area, they claim it is dangerous and indeed one of our members saw someone´s pocket being picked. However for $20.00 we had 3 policepeople and 6 other helpers stay with us and look out for us. I´m not sure it was neccessary but we all came back safe and in awe of how people survive in such a tough place.

After lunch we went to the supermarket, and yes there is at least one in this city of 400,000 people. We were there to buy supplies for the fiesta we were preparing for Rotary Iquitos Amazonas and the translators. For all the things that have been wonderful on this trip, the food is not one of them, due to the hotel not the culture in general , as the students had great lunches every day from a caterer for much less than we are paying. A dinner out would have cost a lot and we could not afford to take the students so home cooking it was. The student´s caterer did some of the meal, the hotel did some and we did some in the hotel kitchen which made us wonder why only one got sick! Dinner for 56 takes a while!

We moved the tables and hotel furniture and plants around to create ambiance, picked flowers from the extensive gardens here, made appetizer trays like cheese and crackers and fruit, (pretty basic stuff Susan), and welcoming drinks. For 11 soles (pronounced so-lays), about $4.00, we made an excellant marinated tomato salad that everyone loved. Those were the first tomatoes we had had and they are cheap everywhere so I´m not sure why. We also made Canadian Mashed potatoes with garlic, butter and milk and they were a huge hit. The hotel staff was scooping up the leftovers of that. The Rotarian ladies were extremely impressed that two of our men, Cal and DR. Bruce, made the potatoes, but all our men helped. The caterer made a beautiful cake to top off the celebration. What fun to make the translators ´Canadian´., with a Canada pin and a taste of maple syrup. They kept insisting that the Peruvian flag and Canadian one is the same with the red bars at the ends, with a different symbol in the middle. What great young people they are with lots of possibilities for them with their education and ability with languages.

The Rotarians sure enjoyed the evening. They cancelled their usual meeting the night before, in favour of our gathering. They announced the fact they had just received word that they have been accepted with matching grants to be able to build a Rotary well in Belen, and man, do they need it!!! Their partners are two Rotary clubs in USA on that project.. The World International Rotary convention is in Montreal in 2010, and we have invited the members who can come to that to also come to Stratford and area. That would be wonderful for them to see some of our beautiful country.

I was dead on my feet, but the Rotrians were still partying at 1230! Sleep is a wonderful reviver. Today some are taking a tour up the Amazon, but I will sort out supplies and hockey bags to return to Stratford, give the medical supplies to Rotary to be dispensed where needed, and get ready for the travel portion of our trip.

Thank you all for your interest and support, your love and prayers. We´ve had great weather, yes very hot, but only a little rain which makes it difficult to run a clinic with all the dirt it creates. We have been safe, healthy and extremely productive, and have forged a great friendship and working relationship. Rotary wants to know when we can come back!

Hasta la vista y amor, Jean

Update from Peru

2009-10-12T20:19:00.005-04:00

Dear Family, friends and Rotary friends,

this has been an amazing day. This was our last clinic day and for sure the busiest. Good job we get more efficient at setting up and taking down.

Today's clinic was in the poorest part of the city of Iquitos. We took our bus to Belen which is the slum area of Iquitos. All the houses are built on 15 foot stilts or are built on logs, as the whole community is the flood plain in Feb, Mar, and Apr. when all the rainy season water of the Amazon finally reaches Iquitos. We carried heavy hockey bags of medical supplies across crude wooden bridges with no railings, 20 feet above gorges running with raw sewage about to go into the river. Finally down the same crude steps to the river´s edge to a sort of ferry for the people and a boat for the supplies. The ferry just rams into the soft bank, loads and the pasengers and helpers push it away from the bank. The Itaya River is not wide and very fast moving, and same dirty water as everywhere. The houses along the river are on logs and they reach out into the river for their water to wash dishes and clothes, they bathe in it and swim in it. The outhouse for all these houses in at the end of a short dock with a crude shelter for privacy, and everything goes into the river.

We went down the river a piece and landed on the other side of the river. The San Francisco Government officials met us in Belen and took us to the school where the clinic was to be located. The school was a cememt block or brick type building built on cement Pilons about 20 feet high. We could see the marks on the pilons and all the structures for the high water marks. All the supplies had to be carried up what would amount to 3 flights of stairs. When we got there the place was packed with people and we knew it would be a busy day. But we had great facilities. They had cleaned all the classrooms, dental got one, pharmacy another, eye glasses another and one for Dr. Bruce Tomlinson and another for all the nursing assessments. The dentist used a teachers desk as his ´chair bed´, had another for his surgical instruments, children´s desks for supplies and suction and hotplate with pressure cooker sterilizer plugged into separate electrical outlets. Dr Jerry thought he had hit the jackpot. With 2 nurses, a translator and Ross Penton to keep the sterilizer going, Jerry extracted a whopping 65 teeth. He never keeps count but we had a pool going on his output.

We saw 340 patients today! That is a record, but everyone did their job and only had a short break for lunch. After lunch there had to be 100 patients in the mdical line alone. I went out with my stethoscope to triage the line. We had run out of a few medications and had Rotary buy more supplies. I was able to send a handful home without treatment, picked out the ones who were sick to go in first, but in the end, everyone was seen.

What a thrill to work under the Peruvian flag and 2 Canadian flags hanging from the rafters. At the end of the clinic, I presented the Mayor with a Peruvian flag, thanks to Rotary Lima, and a Canadian flag, with appreciation from the Government of Canada. Then it was pack up once more and make the trek back to the hotel. The pool and a beer sure is welcome when we get home about 6 pm or after. These are long days.

All the volunteers have ben amazing professionals and the Rotarians extremely helpful.

Must get my weary body in bed as it is 11pm. We have a busy day again tomorrow as we will host a dinner for the Rotarians and the translators.

Hugs to all,

Jean

An Update from Peru

2009-10-09T19:45:00.004-04:00

Dear folks,

this is just a short note to let you know we are all well. One of the volunteers had a 24 hour challenge with vomiting and Diarrhea (Inca revenge?), but a litre of IV fluid and some of our medication got him up and going again. A couple of people have constipation problems with all the rice we get to eat, so I have threatened them that if they do not soon get going, I'm going to give them some bed water!

It is hot, hot, hot, and feels so good knowing you are having cold, wet and windy.

We went down the Amazon yesterday to a village that has received a Rotary well. We loaded everyone and all the hockey bags of supplies into the bus and then three boats and off we went. The boat I was in must have hit something in the water (not difficult considering the water is very brown and there is all kinds of debris and flotsam in it). They could not get the motor started, so we sat in the boat and drifted down the Amazon for 45 minutes. Very interesting to see how fast we went and all the jumping fish and flying birds.

The clinic went very well. The team is amazing as I was stuck down river and they set the clinic up and were almost ready to go when I got there. This village is very productive with some help from Rotary. Rotary Chilliwack BC helped them get a rice mill in 2006 and we saw it running. Rotary has been very helpful to us as well, getting medications ans supplies we have run out of.

Must run and get breakfast as we are headed across the river to another village this am. Will write a more detailed report later. Hugs to you all. This is a great trip and a huge benefit to the health of the folks we treat and teach.

Jean

Wayne Young Receives a Paul Harris Fellowship

2009-10-08T21:38:00.003-04:00

Assistant District Charles Hammond presented Club Member Wayne Young with his second Paul Harris Fellowship. The citation reads as follows:

Wayne Young is being recognized by the Festival City Rotary Club for his services to the Club. Wayne is a second time Paul Harris Fellow and is a strong support of Club projects and Rotary International activities. Each Tuesday morning, Wayne is always the first to arrive and sets up the room. He is among the first to greet members on their arrival, manages the attendance, and announces the guests. His welcoming smile, handshake and laugh, brighten up those dark, cold and early Tuesday mornings for all Club members.

Congratulations Wayne!

Club Wins Membership Award

2009-10-08T21:35:00.003-04:00

Assistant District Governor Charles Hammond (L) presents Membership Chair Susan Allen (R) with a District Award for increasing club membership by 10% last year.

Rotary Exchange Students Come to Visit

2009-10-06T18:13:00.005-04:00

Rotarians Lois and David hosted Rotary Exchange Students (L-R) Kumi from Japan, Lena from Germany and Luiza from Brazil at their home during a Rotary Exchange Student District Meeting last weekend.

David describe their stay as "a very worthwhile experience hosting these fine young ladies."

Report From Peru

2009-10-04T21:44:00.005-04:00

Rotarians Lyn "Whereabout Unknown" McInnis (L) and Jean "Tiny Buns" Aitcheson (C) are seen here with Club President Kent Chisholm holding club banners which Lyn and Jean took with them to Peru.

Jeans first report follows:

Received by email 4 Oct 2009.

Dear fellow Festival City Stratford Rotarians,

It is with great pleasure that I send this report from Iquitos Peru regarding our medical project here, and ask that you share it to our club and area 3 as it also involves Goderich club.

After months of planning and months of work and preparation, finally we were off Wednesday mornng. All the hockey bags we packed were right on 50 lbs. Air Canada only cares about the bottom line. We had one piece, a dental suction machine in it´s own secure shipping case that wieghed 62 lbs. Even though some were under weight, they charged us $100.00!!!! What a rip off. Easy flight and all our luggage arrived in Lima.

Rotary club San Borja Sur (Lima) met us at the Airport with greetings from their club and gave us their precious charge, International Rotary exchange student, Geneva Neal, who was outbound from the Goderich club. She is an absolutely delightful young woman and a great ambassador for us. The club also gave us 3 Peruvian flags to fly along with our cherished Maple Leaf in the villages where we will work. We were able to check in for the flight in the morning and then most went to a hotel for some much needed rest. I met two of our group who came in separately and then promptly crashed on a 3 seat bench for a much needed sleep.

Lan Peru Airlines was most accommodating as they checked all our 42 50 lb hockey bags and did not charge us for the extra bags, as everyone was to have only 50 lbs in total. That saved us $360.00!!! 47 hockey bags, of 50 lbs was transported in 2 mini vans! Rotary Iquitos Amazonas met us at the airport with very warm greetings, and plans well laid out for our work and stay.

All is well with our accomodtion including the very much needed air conditioning. Meals are good, but constipation seems to be a problem with the rice we are eating. It is so hot here, it is like a constant sauna. The first day at clinic, we each drank 2 to 4 litres of water and still did not pee. Mind you, it was not an inviting place to do so, but the only one for the kids at the school. Yes, this is the summer we never had.

Friday we went to the first village, El Triunfo, where Dianne Yundt and others from Stratford had helped collect money for the Rotary well. What a joy to see the blue and yellow Rotary wheel on the water reservoir from the road. Unfortunately the well is not working at the moment because of an electrical problem and we are working to get that fixed. So the village is back drinking the very bad water they had before.

Lynne Ternosky, you are so wise. We had such a go back and forth regarding the electricity for the dental team, yes we could have it and no we could not was the last answer before we left. Thankfully, we brought all the equipment anyway and by buying the gas for the generator, we had electicity for the suction machine and the sterilizer. The Dentist has done much work in the military, and worked on identifying bodies after the air disaster off Peggy´s cove. He has been doing amazing work, including some restoration to front teeth of young people.

After the patients are registered, they all receive eduction in water related health issues, including hydration which is a major problem here. Most people only drink 2 or 3 glasses of water a day in this incredible heat. Everyone has chronic dehydration. Everyone gets a new toothbrush and practice using it. Then the children ages 5 to 14 get dental fluoride treatments on their teeth. Then they go to the dentist or eye clinic for reading glasses or to the medical clinic. The reading glasses which are the only ones we are giving out are a hot item You an imagine what a change it is to be able to see clearly. What a shame I could not recruit a Rotarian Optometrist to join the team as it is so important for literacy to be able to see distance vision clearly. Maybe next time. Joe Odumodu is the Pharmacist and a Rotarian from Woodstock. He had great space to work in with little childrens desks up on bricks to make it ergonaomically easier. He has help from a youth and a nurse and it takes all of them to keep up. We treat everyone for worms and parasites as they are all infected, especially with the 3 or 4 weeks without safe water from the Rotary well. All get vitamins to boost their immune system, as well as other medications needed.

Dr. Bruce Tomlinson has done a great job. He sees the patients that require special expertise and he has incised a huge absess, removed a lesion the size of a golf ball, suturered and dressed and given special examinations. One of the nures diagnosed Strep Throat in 3 members of a family that had had it for 6 months!!! With consultaion, proper antibiotics were given. We have seen scabies and worm infestation in little babies which is always difficult. We have to buy that treatment locally here as we never see that at home. Makes you wonder how they are able to survive at all until age 5.

Rotary has been invaluable here with knowing where to make the referrals etc. The President of the local Rotary club here is a Dentist. Dr. Jerry had a very difficlut extraction on a 17 year old girl who had her whole jaw bone infected from the tooth. She had been in excruciating pain for days when she came to us. He could not get it out despite lots of local anaesthetic. To top it off, she fainted severely and spent an hour on the floor, out of the straight chair we were using for the extracions. We started an IV, and stimulated her with painful stimuli to have he come around. After another half hour of cold cloths, a litre of iv fluid, we got her up to walk and eventueally walked her home where she sat in a chair and we removed the IV. She was the first patient of the day, where the dentist infiltrated the whole jaw with long acting freezing to make her comfortable. After clinic the next day, we took her to the clinic of the Rotary President where their staff and our staff completed the still difficlut extraction. What great working together to serve when needed.

Friday night, Rotarians, Lynn McInnis, Joe and I along with Geneva Neal, the exchange student and our very capale translator, Ross Penton from Stratford, the Dentist and his wife and another nurse went to the Rotary meeting. There was much good will and greetings, and the dentist indicated he would investigate becoming a member when he gets home to the Midhust area. With great pride, I presented them with our banner and received their very pretty one for our collection. They have arranged for 12 translators every day which is invaluable to our work, and they are very dedicated young people from the local university.

Tomorrow, we go to a different village, called 13 of October, for 3 days. We stopped in the village to see the set up on the way home on Saturday. We will work out of the local health clinic but as there is not enough space, the
Baptist across the hiway has offered us a house and the church to work from which will be great. Then we will work in two villages on the Amazon.

We are all well. all working extremely well together. This is a great project and I thank you all for helping make this happen.

Greetings to each of you.

In Rotarian service,

Jean Aitcheson

Carolyn Bart-Riedstra Presented with a Paul Harris Fellowship

2009-10-03T21:30:00.005-04:00

Rotarian Carolyn Bart-Riedstra was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship by her peers at the Club's meeting on September 29.

Carolyn's Citation reads as follows:

Carolyn Bart-Riedstra is being recognized by the Festival City Rotary Club for her services to the Community and Club with a Paul Harris Fellowship. Carolyn was the Club President from 2005-2006, a member of numerous committees and most importantly the driving force of the Club's Bingo committee. She is also being recognized for her service to the community as an archivist. As the Provincial Archives Advisor she has shared her expertise throughout Ontario in order to preserve our past.

Congratulations Carolyn!

Duke of York Bingo - Oct 2

2009-09-27T18:28:00.004-04:00

Friday, October 2 Bingo commemorates the Duke Of York. Work starts at 5:00 pm

1799 - Duke of York & Russians capture Alkmaar in Netherlands. He was searching for ancestors of Etienne Leushuis . The Duke had received reports that certain members of the Leushuis family were winning a lot of door prizes and martial law had to be imposed. All door prize draws and lotteries were suspended. The Leushuis Family was arrested.

The grand old Duke of York,
He had ten thousand men;
He marched them up to the top of the hill,
And he marched them down again.

And when they were up, they were up,
And when they were down, they were down,
And when they were only half-way up,
They were neither up nor down.

Posting by J. West.

Festival CIty Rotary Awards Vince Hill a Paul Harris Fellowship

2009-09-23T19:21:00.009-04:00

Club Secretary Diane Yundt (left) and Club President Kent Chisholm (right) presented Rotarian Vince Hill (centre) with a Paul Harris Fellowship on September 22.

The citation reads as follows:

The Rotary Club of Festival City wishes to recognize Vince Hill's many years of service to the Club as its Newsletter Editor. Each week without fail, Vince faithfully crafts a newsletter of the Club's doings that is both interesting, informative and fun. VInce Hill clearly exemplifies Rotary's motto: "Serve Above Self".

Congratulations Vince!

Carolyn Dingman Awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship

2009-09-15T09:01:00.005-04:00

At it's September 15th meeting, the Rotary Club of Festival City presented a second Paul Harris Fellowship to Rotarian Carolyn Dingman. Seen above is Club Secretary Diane Yundt (L), Carolyn Dingman (C), and David Harvie (R).

The citation reads as follows:

"Courage is not the mighty oak standing before the coming storm, but rather the delicate flower that blooms in the snow."

Courage is found in everyday things, in sometimes surprising , unsuspecting and quiet places. Carolyn Dingman is an example to the Club of such Courage.

The Festival City Rotary Club wishes to recognize Carol's leadership as Club President in 1998-1999, her involvement in all club activities and committees, as well as her work as Club Team Captain for the annual MS Walkathon, by awarding her a Paul Harris Fellowship.

Carolyn's membership in the Festival City Rotary Club humbles us, inspires us and ennobles us.

Congratulations Carolyn!

Jane Kirkpatrick Awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship

2009-09-01T12:32:00.007-04:00

At its September 1st meeting, the Festival City Rotary Club awarded Jane Kirkpatrick (R) with a Paul Harris Fellowship for her outstanding support of Rotary ideals and service to the Club. President Kent Chisholm (L) formally presented the award to Jane on behalf of the Club.

The citation reads as follows:

Jane Kirkpatrick is a Charter member of the Festival City Rotary Club. She has served in a number of roles: Club President from 1996-1997, RI Foundation Commttee Chair, the Club's Secretary for 5 terms, and a Board member of the Club's Foundation.

In all ways, Jane embodies Rotary International's motto: "Service Above Self".

This is Jane's second Paul Harris Fellowship awarded by the Club. Congratulations Jane!

Carol Rock and Lynne Ternosky Receive Paul Harris Fellowships

2009-08-25T10:17:00.008-04:00

On behalf of the members of the Festival City Rotary Club, District Governor Tanya Wolff (far left) and Assistant District Governor Charles Hammond (far right) presented Carol Rock (left of centre) and Lynne Ternosky with Paul Harris Fellowships.

Lynne's Citation reads as follows:

As the past chair and a current member of the International Committee, Lynne has identified and led the Club's international development projects. These have included a Community Needs Assessment Trip to El Salvador which led to the creation of a rural literacy project. This project sponsors a number of children to attend school by providing uniforms, shoes, school supplies, and a nutritional program. She has mastered the complexities of the matching grant processes and has promoted and advocated the project within our District giving the Club's project a District-wide focus and effort. She recently returned from El Salvador after leading a Youth Group visit. Lynne has been appointed the District's GSE Outbound Team Leader to Columbia in 2010.

Lynne Ternosky has demonstrated her vision to see, her faith to believe, and her courage to act.

Carol Rock's Citation reads as follows:

Carol Rock has many achievements within Rotary that have included Club President in 2002-2003, a term as Assistant District Governor, and Chair of the Club's Vocational Committee, to name just a few. She is presently involved in the Joint Rotary Youth Exchange Committee with the Noon Club and is Chair of the Club's Fundraising committee. She was instrumental in the creation of the Club's Foundation and has served on the Board of Trustees from its inception. Her international service has include a Community Needs Assessment Trip to El Salvador and active participation in the Club's International Committee.

In all things and in all ways, Carol Rock has exemplified what is best in our Club and in Rotary International.

Congratulations to both Carol and Lynne.

Susan Fox Joins Rotary

2009-08-25T10:09:00.005-04:00

District Governor Tanya Wolff inducted Susan Fox as a member of the Rotary Club of Festival City on 21 Aug 2009. Susan (centre) is seen here with Club President Kent Chisholm (far left), District Governor Tanya Wolff (left of centre), Sponsor Laura Pogson (right of centre) and Assistant District Governor Charles Hammond (far right).

Welcome onboard Susan!

District Governor Tanya Arrives at the Festival City Rotary Club

2009-08-25T09:48:00.009-04:00

District Governor Tanya "Ferrari" Wolff visited the Festival City Rotary Club on 21 August 2009. Despite the early hour, Governor Tanya delivered an impassioned and motivating speech to the Club around this year's theme: The Future of Rotary is in Your Hands.

Jack Gets a Paulie

2009-08-18T19:33:00.005-04:00

The Festival City Rotary Club was pleased to present Past President Jack West with a Paul Harris Fellowship at its last meeting. President Kent (L) and Club Secretary Diane Yundt (R) presented Jack (Centre) with the award citing his leadership, service to the Club, participation in all Club events, and his ability to make short pants look good.

Congratulations Jack!

Lyn Joins Rotary

2009-08-16T20:09:00.008-04:00

Lyn McInnis was formally inducted into the Rotary Club of Festival City (Stratford) on 11 August 2009. Seen here with her sponsor Lynne Ternosky (L) and with President Kent Chisholm (M), Lyn (R) received the Rotary pin without any reported bloodshed. Mr. Rab-bit, Club Mascot (the small white killer rabbit on the podium), presided over the induction ceremony with the grace, wit and charm that only a small furry rodent can bring. Congratulations Lyn!

In Memoriam - Frank Iacobellis 1948-2009

2009-08-04T22:01:00.008-04:00

Frank Iacobellis, a honourary member of the Festival City Rotary Club, passed away this weekend. Frank was a charter member and an active club member until his illness prevented his involvement. Club members are asked to post and share their memories of Frank on this blog. Frank was a model member who embodied the highest principles of Rotary International. He was a role model to everyone in the Club and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

This is Rotary

2009-07-31T23:32:00.002-04:00

Rotary is the vision to see, the faith to believe, and the courage to act.

Scotch Mist Raffle

2009-07-28T19:50:00.006-04:00

Get smashed!

Courtesy of the Stratford Rotary Club!

The Rotary Club of Stratford is holding a raffle for a prize 500ml bottle of blended 37 year old malts. The bottle is a memorial release by Famous Grouse for the anniversary of Robert Burns 250th anniversary. As a result, only 250 bottles were drawn and distributed to charities across the world - mostly Japan and China. Just how the Noon Club managed to get their paws on a bottle remains a mystery. Famous Grouse is connected with Highland Park and the Macallan so their two malts are in the blend. The bottle is valued at $800.00.

Tickets are $5 each or 3/$10 and can be obtained from Barrie Lees at lees7724@rogers.com.

Drink sensibly and know your limits.

- Another public service announcement from the Festival City Rotary Club.

Beach Blanket Bikini Bingo - 25 July 2009

2009-07-14T21:01:00.008-04:00

Hello Rotarians,

It took a French Engineer to design the Bikini and on July 25, 1946, it was released to the world at a Paris Fashion Show. He named it after Bikini Atoll which was the site of a U.S. Nuclear Weapons test earlier in that month. He thought that it would have the same impact around the world. Our Saturday evening July 25 Bingo is dedicated to this famous French Engineer Louis Reard. The fun starts at 5:00 p.m.

And for all the ladies out there, I am sure that the development of the Bikini led to the development of the Speedo.

Please contact Jack at west@cyg.net if you can help out.

Regards,

Past President Jack

Anti-Blue Heron Defense System - Update

2009-07-02T22:30:00.004-04:00

Word has spread throughout the forest among the woodland critters about Past-President-For-Life Jack's Anti-Blue Heron Defense System. A deer takes a moment to inspect the high-tech equipment and nibble on a few bushes.

President-for-Life Kent Chisholm

2009-07-02T22:19:00.004-04:00

Kent Chisholm was installed as the 15th Club President of the Festival City Rotary Club on June 30th, 2009. Seen here with his wife Diane (R), and Mr. Rab-bit (L), official club mascot, Kent promised a benevolent dictatorship, community involvement, good fellowship and good meals with carrots for all.

Jack Gets the Boot

2009-07-02T22:10:00.002-04:00

President Jack makes his final address to the Club as his year of office finishes.

Thanks for a great year Jack!

Standing Around, Doing Nothing

2009-06-27T15:48:00.004-04:00

Rotarians David Cramton, Kent Chisholm, Diane Yundt and John McNeil are pictured here standing in an open field. Maybe someone could comment on what exactly they think they are doing.

Shift Happens

2009-06-23T22:02:00.001-04:00

The following is a YouTube video shown by Bill Helmuth during his classification speech at the last Rotary Club meeting.

Blue Heron Anti-Air Defense System

2009-06-18T17:46:00.005-04:00

President Jack announced his revolutionary Blue Heron defense system to the world at last Tuesday's Festival City Rotary Club Meeting. Based on 4th generation warfare using anti-access, area-denial asymmetrical strategies, his system to protect his goldfish from blue herons includes a inflatable doll in a Hawanian shirt, a cat called Mr. Whiskers, a frog and rowboat with two turtles.

New Members - David Cramton and Lois Knepflar

2009-05-23T15:47:00.003-04:00

President Jack inducts David Cramton and Lois Knepflar into the Club as their sponsor Rotarian Laura Pogson and the club mascot look on. Welcome abroad!

Would You Eat this Man's Cooking?

2009-04-28T22:43:00.014-04:00

The Shaghetti Dinner Fundraiser held at the Black Angus Restaurant on April 6 was a great success. Proceeds from the event when towards helping children attend school in El Salvador.

Rotarian Diane looks for her diamond ring in the salad.

Rotarian John demonstrates his uncanny ability to sleep standing up.

Rotarian Lynne Helps out the Band

The Dingmans sit down to feast.

Rotarian Kent sells 50-50 tickets

Festival City Walkabout for MS

2009-04-28T22:24:00.005-04:00

Stalwart members of the Festival City Rotary Club MS Walkers, once again ventured out in the rugged terrain surrounding Lake Victoria in support of Multiple Sclerosis research on April 19th. Members of the intrepid crew were (L-R) Jennifer White, Jack White-Christman, Brad Braekevelt, Carolyn Dingman, Dianne Chisholm and Kent Chisholm. The team raised over $7,600 in the walkathon, with $700 from our club members.

Ten Things Every Rotary Exchange Student Should Know

2009-04-14T18:17:00.010-04:00

The Rotary Club of Festival City Stratford Welcomes Rotary Exchange Student Marianna Rolda from Argentina.

Ten Important Things to Know about Living in Stratford:

1. Don't eat yellow snow.
2. Don't lick metal poles in the winter.
3. Keep your stick on the ice.
4. Despite common misconceptions, penguins can't drive zambonis.
5. Ice cream has no bones.
6. It does get warmer.
7. Don't dis the swans.
8. Swans are tasty with ketchup.
9. See #7
10. The Festival City Rotary Club is the "Fun Club".

Sgt-At-Arms David Gets in Touch with his Feminine Side

2009-04-14T18:10:00.002-04:00

Club Welcomes Anna Sherwin

2009-04-14T18:06:00.006-04:00

Assistant District Governor Charlie Hammond (R) inducts Anna Sherwin (Centre) into the Festival Rotary Club of Stratford., as Laura Jean Pogson (L), her sponsor looks on.

The Club Welcomes Kevin Gormley

2009-03-03T21:34:00.004-05:00

The Club inducted Kevin Gormley at its Club Assembly on 3 March 2009. Kevin (R) is seen here with his sponsor, President-Elect Kent Chisholm (L).

I'd Rather Be Lucky Than Good

2009-02-28T18:03:00.006-05:00

The Fearless Festival City Rotary Club Curlers displayed their skill and awesome daring at the 10th Annual Service Club Bonspiel at the Stratford Country Club on Saturday February 28th, 2009. Led by Skip Etienne "Missed it by that Much" Leushuis, Thomas "The Little Engine that Did" Leushius, Diane "The Hammer" Yundt, and David "I'd Rather be Lucky Than Good" Harvie, the team had 7 perfect scores of zero and won one end. Mrs. Etienne and the Club Standard formed the Cheerleading Squad. The Team did exceptional well at the Door Prize Draw, with David winning twice. Approximately $200 was raised for the Stratford General Hospital.

All You Can Eat Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser - 6 April 2009

2009-02-12T21:41:00.008-05:00

The Rotary Club of Festival City Stratford and the Black Angus Restaurant located at 805 Downie Street present an "All You Can Eat Spaghetti Dinner" on Monday April 6, 2009. Proceeds from the dinner will go towards helping children attend school in El Salvador.

Tickets are available from any Festival City Rotary Club members for $15.00 a seat.

Photo Credit: Jack's Mother

The Rotary Foundation Future Vision Pilot

2009-01-27T19:46:00.007-05:00

In this Web video, Past RI Director and Future Vision Committee Member Mark Maloney explores what Rotarians need to know about the Future Vision Pilot, including the philosophy, grant structure, and need for pilot clubs and districts.

Watch the videos here.

Bill Gates Announces $255 Million Grant to Rotary to Fight Polio

2009-01-23T18:48:00.006-05:00

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has awarded US$255 million to Rotary International in the global effort to eradicate polio, bringing the total committed by Rotary and the Gates Foundation to $555 million.

Click here for the whole story.

Way to go Bill!

Festival City Rotary Club Invented Festive!

2009-01-07T20:20:00.007-05:00

Members of Festival City Rotary Club help Santa Claus get into the holiday spirit at their XMAS meeting.

Volunteers Needed

2008-12-16T21:18:00.004-05:00

Helping Children Start Their School Day Without Being Hungry

Children who eat breakfast are better able to focus, spend more time on tasks in the classroom, and earn better marks.

Romeo Public School plans to begin a Breakfast Program in January, two days per week. Students will drop in for a quick, simple, nutritious breakfast.

To make this possible we need you!

Support Required:

Minimum of 2 volunteers each day of operation.
A volunteer to purchase the food each week, keep track of the food being used and what needs to be ordered.

A criminal reference check is required. Training and support will be provided. If you can help, please contact:

Felicity at 519-275-3104 or fsutcliffe@fsph.ca

Noon Club Once Again Indebted to Festival City

2008-11-24T18:03:00.006-05:00

Rotarian Carolyn Dingman (the blonde) with another happy customer.

Hi President Jack,

It's a pleasure to send a note of appreciation from our club for your club's recent involvement and assistance at the subject event. This is another example of how our cooperation promotes the greater good. Early reports suggest this year's show was the best ever.

Thanks again, to Festival City Club.

Stan Malcolm. R. C. of Stratford

President Jack Builds Secret Government UFO Landing Pads

2008-11-03T20:25:00.003-05:00

Editor's Note: A secret government project will take President Jack away from the Club until Christmas. Our crack team of investigative journalists have discovered that Jack will be helping to build UFO landing pads for the coming invasion (just in time for XMAS). His letter to the Club is below. Just replace "wind turbines" with "UFO landing pads". It will make more sense that way.

Dear Rotarians

McNeil Surveying Ltd. has been engaged in the quality assurance role of the construction of 20 concrete and steel foundations for wind turbines in Kent County. This is one of my areas of expertise as I was involved with 38 of them in Bruce County last year. The concrete pours where I have to be present are scheduled for tuesdays and fridays till Christmas. We have 3 completed now with the 4th scheduled for next tuesday.

I will keep in close contact with Kent and Etienne to fill in for me when required. I do expect some cancellations due to technical problems and weather which would make me available for some meetings. At some point it may be that I will not be required on the actual concrete pours on tuesdays and only do testing after the foundations are in place. This would again open the tuesday mornings for me. It is a 200 km drive to site so we leave at 5:30 am and depending on the progress of the job, we are home around 6 or 7 in the evening. There are 8 morning meetings till Christmas. My best guess is that I may be absent for absent for 4 - 6 of these meetings.

The foundations weigh 1,035 metric tonnes. They tend to compress the earth underneath as the 405 cubic metres of concrete is poured. The connection point which is a steel cylinder weighing 15.5 tonnes balanced on jacks is maintained to a tolerance of 1.5mm of being perfectly level for connection to the future 80 meter shaft of the turbine. We have specialized equipment capable of measuring to one/tenth of a millimetre. Each turbine will generate 2 megawatts of electricity.

This will not affect the other areas of my rotary involvement, ie; board meetings, working Bingos and food vending next weekend.

I am hoping that this will not be too much of a problem as I know that we have a good team. Please feel free to contact me with any concerns or questions you may have.

kindest regards

Jack

New Member - Jean Aitcheson

2008-10-29T18:45:00.005-04:00

Past President Etienne welcomes new member Jean Aitcheson to the Club.

Playboy Tomas

2008-10-19T20:03:00.003-04:00

Rotary Exchange Student Tomas "Magnum" Almeida gets one more ride in the Club's Ferrari. Remember to watch out for those white speed bumps some people call swans!

New Member Recruitment

2008-09-05T18:51:00.011-04:00

Club President Jack asks a Hooters Girl to join the club. How many people have you propositioned lately?

Photo credit: Donna West

People Are Excited About Music Man

2008-09-04T21:04:00.006-04:00

Wherever I go, I am approached by excited people asking about our Rotary Brunch at the Queens Inn on Sunday, October 19. Brunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. but, of course, you must come half of an hour earlier to look at the items of the silent auction.

We will have an exciting speaker from the Theatre to give us an inside look at the comings and goings of the stage. Following the brunch and the auction, we will be going to the Avon Theatre for the play "Music Man".

Tickets are available at $115 for the brunch and the play till September 17 with proceeds going to Rotary Projects.

Please call President Jack West at 519-273-1005 or email me at west@cyg.net. If you would like tickets to this wonderful event.

A Note from Kelly and Sharon

2008-07-28T19:16:00.003-04:00

I have received a very nice card from our District Governor.

Jack

Dear Rotary Club of Festival City

We thoroughly enjoyed our Governor visit to your City and Rotary Club. Your involvement in the El Salvador Literacy Program truly demonstrates the committment of your Club to the goals of Rotary. Thank you for your generous donation to Polio Plus. It is the finest show of support you can give us. Your warm hospitality made us feel very welcome.

Make Dreams Real

Kelly and Sharon

P.S. The coffee is delicious

Festival City Donates $1,000 to RI Polio Fight

2008-07-22T19:48:00.006-04:00

Carolyn Dingman presents a cheque to District Governor Kelly Fotheringham on behalf of the Festival City Rotary Club in the amount of $1,000 to continue Rotary International's fight against polio.

Small but Mighty!

District Governor Visits Festival City Rotary Club (and Survives)

2008-07-22T19:25:00.003-04:00

District Governor Kelly Fotheringham and Mrs District Governor Sharon Fotheringham visited the Festival City Rotary Club at its last meeting. Kelly is shown here holding the mighty club standard, as Sharon holds Mr. Rab-bit, Club mascot.

District Governor Kelly brought greetings and a message from the new RI President D.K. Lee. He reminded us that over 30,000 children die each day from preventable causes. President Lee wants to give special consideration to preventing these fatalities. Rotarians might consider funding smoke detectors in homes, purchasing car seats, and providing literacy programs.

Governor Kelly also reminded the Club about the Bill and Melinda Gates donation of $100 million to RI to fight Polio. RI must match this amount within three years. So far RI has raised over $20 million. $80 million of the Gates donation has been spent. Polio occurs in only four places now; India, Pakistan, Nigeria and Afghanistan.

Also RI President Lee wants Rotarians to recruit more members. Ask associates, friends and neighbours to join Rotary. Also consider making a donation to the permanent fund or to annual givings. After holding donations for three years 50% of the donation comes back to the district for projects. Donations are used to fund Ambassadorial Scholarships, Group Study Exchanges and World Peace Fellowships.

District Governor Kelly reminded the Club what it means to be a Rotarian, as we hold the line against the darkness, and push back.

Small but Mighty!

(Shamelessly plagiarized from Vince Hill's Club Newsletter - 22 July 2008)

Rotary Baby Isabel Catherine Shantz-Walsh

2008-07-20T16:33:00.003-04:00

The Shantzs are proud to announce the arrival of Isabel Catherine Shantz-Walsh. She weighed in at a healthy 7 lbs 4 oz (3300 grams) and measured in at 50 cm long (19.75 inches) with a full head of brown hair.

The Return of Exchange Student David B

2008-07-08T20:37:00.006-04:00

(L to R) Rotary Exchange Student Tomas Almeeda (Brazil), former Exchange Student David Betancourt (Columbia), Outgoing Exchange Student Curtis McCord and Outgoing Exchange Student Frances Maranger pose for a picture.

CBR and Mr. Rab-bit Return

2008-07-08T20:22:00.007-04:00

After a long absence, the Club was happy to see the return of Rotarian Carolynn Bart-Riedstra and Mr. Rab-bit, Club Mascot.

Carolynn's surgery was successful and Mr. Rab-bit had a brief holiday frolicking with dust-bunnies under Barb's desk.

The hostage negotiations with the Noon Club have been canceled. Odd that they both turn up on the same day.

Welcome back CBR and Mr. R!

Rabbit-on-a-Stick

2008-07-08T20:07:00.006-04:00

Rotarian Diane Yundt holds the new Festival City Club Standard. Also known as the Battle Bunny Ensign, the Standard is said to strike terror into the hearts of men and small white poodles. A Noon Club member was heard to say "I'm afraid" while gazing on the terrible visage of the Standard.

The Club Standard will proudly march at the head of the Festival City Rotary Club Marching Kazoo and Bubble Pipe Band.

Small but Mighty!

A Dance for Humanity

2008-06-29T21:27:00.004-04:00

Peter Gets Luck with an Inflatable Toy!

2008-06-17T21:25:00.010-04:00

Peter Moreton beams with delight as he wins the meeting's door prize. The disappointment was evident on many Club member's faces as Peter claimed his new inflatable pink flamingo.

Be sure to come next week for another chance to win an even better door prize at the next meeting of the Festival City Rotary Club.

Manufacturer's Warning: Not to be used as a floatation device Peter!

The Word Lady Event - Canadian Word List

2008-05-20T20:33:00.003-04:00

Here is the entire list of all Canadian words with their possible meanings. Only one is correct. The key can be found at the bottom of the list. No cheating Ms. Moreton and Ms. West!

Agloo
a) A small igloo used as an outhouse.
b) An Eskimo greeting.
c) A breathing hole made by a seal through sea ice.
d) A type of glue made from seal liver.

Ballicatter
a) A noisy celebration or party.
b) The noise made during a cat fight.
c) Ridges of ice formed on and around shorelines.
d) A tomcat serenade.

Bangbelly
a) An illegal blow below the belt in boxing.
b) The soft, brown belly fur of a moose.
c) A boiled pudding of flour, molasses, soda and seal-fat.
d) A belly flop dive.

Beavertail
a) The rear portion of a large semi-aquatic rodent native to North America.
b) A flap of a diver’s wet-suit.
c) A deep-fried, flat pastry served in the Ottawa Valley.
d) A brand of wine from Pelee Island.

Bunnyhug
a) A rabbit skin scarf worn by the Voyaguers.
b) Something you do with your spouse.
c) A hooded sweatshirt with a front pouch.
d) A deadly attack directed to the throat made by a rabbit with big pointy teeth.

Callibogus
a) A prank telephone call.
b) The art of making Ukrainian Easter eggs with elaborate and intricate designs.
c) A beverage made from spruce beer, molasses and dark rum.
d) A type of lizard that lives in the Badlands of Alberta.

Cheechako
a) A form of lacrosse played in an enclosed area with chickens.
b) A dance among the Kwagiulth tribe in which the main dancer is inspired by the spirit of Elvis.
c) A newcomer, tenderfoot or greenhorn.
d) A variety of West Coast salmon.

Coady
a) Slang for a condom in the Maritimes.
b) A guy who lived beside Wayne Young.
c) A sweet sauce of boiled molasses, milk, sugar, vinegar, and cornstarch.
d) Charles Coady, a famous Newfoundland sports announcer.

Codswallop
a) The small edible piece of skin behind the jaw of a cod.
b) The Atlantic Ocean
c) Nonsense
d) A blow to the back of the head.

Digby Chicken
a) A psychotic poodle named Larry.
b) A whale steak.
c) A tiny smoked and salted herring.
d) A seagull prepared with Shake-&-Bake™.

Droke
a) A musical instrument with strings of graduated length stretched over a trapezoidal sounding board or box.
b) A variety of semi-soft cured cheese originally made by Benedictine monks in Quebec.
c) A grove of trees.
d) As in “Drink, drank, droke”.

Dutchmess
a) A heap of wooden shoes.
b) A gathering at which participants pound new wool to raise the nap, usually with signing, and dancing.
c) Salted cod and potatoes with bacon bits and onions.
d) Boiled tulip salad.

Frazil
a) Dry hair with split ends.
b) A small country in South America.
c) A fine individual ice crystal.
d) A spiral coating of maple syrup on pancakes.

Fricko
a) A member of the parrot family native to Newfoundland.
b) An aquatic bird native to the West Coast of Canada.
c) A type of stew containing potatoes, meat, fish or seafood.
d) A deep fried Mars™ chocolate bar.

Fungy
a) Having fungus like qualities.
b) Slang for underwear.
c) A deep-dish blueberry pie.
d) Spoilt beer.

Gooeyduck
a) A sticky lure decoy used in duck hunting.
b) The type of glue used on duct tape.
c) A large burrowing clam found in British Columbia.
d) The last stone thrown in a curling game.

Muckamuck
a) A bog or swamp.
b) The name of the Inuit tribe that create the mukluks.
c) An important yet overbearing person.
d) My boss.

Iceworm
a) A small worm found in North America glaciers and icefields
b) A mythical worm said to inhabit Northern ice.
c) A type of cocktail.
d) All of the above.

Lateer
a) A traditional Quebecois folk dance involving sheep.
b) A traditional Quebecois folk dance involving drinking copious amounts of beer.
c) Toffee made by applying hot maple syrup on snow.
d) The webbing of a snowshoe.

Molson Muscle
a) The group of arm muscles required to drink from a bottle of beer.
b) A sheaf of wheat.
c) A pot belly.
d) An energy drink.

Nanabozho
a) Zamboni driving penguins.
b) A troupe of clowns.
c) A trickster hero in Ojibwa myth.
d) A snowman.

Ookpik
a) The art of using porcupine quills to decorate clothing.
b) Yellow snow.
c) A little owl doll made of sealskin.
d) A malicious water spirit in Cree myth.

Oolichan
a) A type of Inuit singing using deep rhythmic sounds.
b) A variety of apple grown in the Okanagan Valley.
c) A small silvery fish that is a member of smelt family.
d) Cow tipping.

Piblokto
a) A folk hair restoration tonic. (See Peter Moreton for more information).
b) An inflated seal skin used in walrus hunting by the Inuit.
c) Winter madness
d) The name of Billy Bishop’s WWI plane.

Pingo
a) A baby penguin.
b) A hot dog covered in cornmeal batter, deep-fried or baked, and served on a stick.
c) A naturally occurring topographical formation found commonly in areas of permafrost.
d) Seal flipper pie.

Pipsissesewa
a) One hell of a booze-up.
b) Inuit for “Yellow snow” or “Don’t eat”.
c) An evergreen plant of the wintergreen family.
d) A hangover.

Shaganappi
a) The feeling when your underwear rides up.
b) Slang for a diaper in New Brunswick.
c) A tread, cord, or thong made of rawhide.
d) An Eskimo diaper

Shebang
a) A mechanical apple peeler.
b) A rocket powered toboggan.
c) A hut or shed.
d) A wild party.

Skookum
a) Big or strong.
b) Solid or indestructible.
c) Impressive or good.
d) All of the above

Snoose
a) A moose call.
b) A type of pastry strudel.
c) Chewing tobacco.
d) Smoked moose meat.

Solomon Grundy
a) One of the Fathers of Confederation.
b) An idle or ineffective person.
c) A dish of salted herring marinated in vinegar, spices, sugar and onions.
d) A bulbous plant of the genus Hippeastrum with snowy white or red flowers.

Soopollalie
a) A type of sucker found in Newfoundland.
b) A brand of wine from Pelee Island.
c) A thick drink made from crushed buffalo berries.
d) A really bad haircut.

Sprogs
a) A pond of frogs.
b) Frogsicles.
c) Boots or big feet.
d) Deep fried ice cream balls in batter.

Stubble jumper
a) A helicopter.
b) A combine harvester.
c) A prairie farmer.
d) A dull razor.

Toggy
a) A toque made for small dogs.
b) A toboggan made of birch bark.
c) A calf-length coat made of beaver or caribou skin.
d) A piece of bone used to fasten a garment.

Tullibee
a) A hat with netting using in apiculture (beekeeping).
b) A type of cart used by the pioneers on the prairies for harvesting wheat.
c) A small, delicately flavoured fish.
d) A colony of honey bees.

Windrow
a) Mischievous elf-like creatures in Cree mythology that create the Chinook wind.
b) The windshield of a ski-doo.
c) A ridge of snow, gravel, etc. heaped along the side of a road by a snowplow, grader, etc.
d) A type of fiddlehead fern.

Key: Always "C" unless there is an "All of the above" in choice "D".